The ShiftShapers Podcast

We bring compliance specialist Carol Taylor back to unpack why employers keep getting blindsided by benefit plan obligations like RXDC reporting, PBM disclosures, and fiduciary duties under ERISA. We map the real-world risks, the paperwork traps that cause rejected filings, and the simple audit habits that keep penalties from stacking up. • RXDC reporting basics and why it exists • why employers still miss RXDC years later • where legal responsibility lands even when vendors file • practical steps for HIOS access and employer uploads • CAA 2026 expansion of PBM disclosure and rebate rules • what PBM transparency can reveal about pricing and compensation • ERISA fiduciary exposure for employers and individual decision-makers • how advisors draw boundaries to avoid functional fiduciary status • renewed ACA employer mandate enforcement around 1094 and 1095 filings • why a mental health parity enforcement pause does not remove MAPEA duties • ongoing No Surprises Act IDR problems and cost impacts • using a compliance audit checklist and reviewing E&O coverage limits 

We talk with Mark Gaunya about why employer health insurance often feels like a casino where the house wins and how employers can flip the odds with transparency, ownership, and smarter plan design. We break down how captive risk sharing works, what it takes to implement, and the real financial and employee-experience wins that come from getting off the less bad renewal hamster wheel. • Why the US healthcare system “works” as designed for rulemakers, not end users • How the less bad renewal cycle traps employers without claims data and transparency • Why Mark wrote Captivated Health and how case studies teach faster than jargon • Captive insurance versus traditional self-funding, including stop loss and risk layers • The four pillars of Captivated Health: members first, consumerism, wellbeing culture, self-governance • How employers can control the SPD, stop loss contract, and TPA agreement • outcomes from captive ownership: lower trend, pharmacy control, surplus, and rebate distributions • Practical stories: bundled maternity pricing plus shared savings, adding LASIK through plan design • The leadership mindset shift from system decision to self-decision • What implementation really looks like for HR and finance without adding headcount If you're an employer and you're struggling with these kinds of issues, and most of you are,  or if you're a broker and you have clients who are struggling with these issues, please get the book, "Captivated Health. Take Control. Gain Transparency. Leverage Confidence." CLICK HERE

We challenge the old wellness playbook and show how coaching, claims integration, and clinical guardrails turn behavior change into measurable cost control. GLP-1s, chronic condition priorities, and realistic timelines come together in a system that bends trajectories instead of chasing fads.• why awareness and incentives fail without habit formation• building coaching into chronic care to shift daily decisions• measuring ROI with leading indicators and claims trends• onboarding with claims to target high-impact conditions• integrating point solutions into a coordinated system• using GLP-1s with coaching, guardrails, and taper plans• setting realistic timelines for years two and three• how AI and claims integration guide next-best actionsFor more information or to schedule a demo of the Benepower Advantage, go to Benepower.comThey absolutely can either call me or they can email me at arutkowski at navigatewell.com

Medicare is full of fine print, fast-changing rules, and enough junk mail to fill a suitcase. So what actually separates the agents who barely survive from the ones who become the trusted name in their community? We sit down with Paige Phillips, founder of the Paige Phillips Insurance Agency and author of Medicare Playbook for Agents, to get practical about what works when the stakes are someone’s healthcare and finances.We talk about the unglamorous details that build a thriving Medicare book of business: relationship-building, client education, and the discipline of doing a true needs analysis. Paige shares why “getting the plan right” means checking doctors and prescriptions down to the dosage, and why the best agents think long-term through retention, renewals, and referrals instead of chasing AEP like a short-term payout. We also dig into year-round touchpoints that keep clients connected, from birthday outreach to thoughtful follow-up after major health events, and how a simple “call me first” mindset protects seniors from confusing ads and sales calls.On the regulatory side, we cover Medicare compliance, CMS oversight, and why cutting corners is the fastest way to lose trust. Paige breaks down IRMAA (the income-related monthly adjustment amount), the two-year lookback, and how to set expectations so clients aren’t blindsided by a premium surcharge. We close by looking forward at technology and AI, and what the next generation of retirees may demand from the Medicare enrollment process.Subscribe for more conversations on the shifts shaping benefits and insurance, then share this with an agent who cares about doing it right and leave us a review with your biggest Medicare question.

Healthcare stays expensive because the system hides prices and quality from the people paying for care, especially employers. We talk with Katie Talento about how CAA 2026 transparency and Department of Labor fiduciary rules could expose PBM practices, reshape contracting, and give plan sponsors real leverage if enforcement follows.• Why invisible prices and invisible quality break the healthcare market • How incentives and lobbying protect opacity across hospitals, PBMs, insurers and drugmakers • Why Washington lacks ERISA and employer-plan expertise • What CAA 2026 changes for PBM disclosures and fiduciary responsibility • How “check the box” compliance can fail without enforcement • How employers can use machine readable files plus claims data for network analysis • Why cash-pay and direct contracting get blocked by network contract provisions • What near-term reforms could bend the cost curve, including stronger HSA and ICHRA modelsYou can find me at katytolento.com

Surprise billing for patients is largely gone, so why are so many self-funded employer health plans still getting hammered by out-of-network costs? We sit down with Scott Bennett, Chief Provider Relations Officer at the PHIA Group, to unpack what the No Surprises Act is doing in the real world and why federal arbitration is starting to look less like a safety valve and more like a payment engine.Scott walks us through the mechanics that matter: QPA as the median contracted rate, the short open negotiation window, and the IDR process where an arbitrator picks one of two numbers. Then we dig into the headline signals from PHIA’s national NSA report analyzing more than 1.25 million federal IDR disputes across 23,000-plus providers. When offers land five to six times above QPA and initiating parties win around 80% of the time, it creates a powerful incentive to file early and file often. For employer-sponsored health plans, especially self-funded groups like school districts and public safety employers, that can translate into budget shocks, higher renewals, and rising stop-loss pressure even when members never see a bill.We also explore why a small cluster of providers can drive a disproportionate share of disputes, what hotspots in certain states may be telling us about market power and network penetration, and how brokers and benefits advisors can protect clients with better data, tighter timelines, and a real IDR strategy instead of a reactive scramble. If you advise plan sponsors, this is a must-listen on NSA compliance, healthcare cost containment, fiduciary responsibility, and the evolving economics of out-of-network reimbursement.If this helped you, subscribe, share it with a colleague, and leave a review so more plan sponsors and advisors can find the conversation. What IDR pattern are you seeing in your own claims data?

Employers keep paying for the symptoms of obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome while the root causes go untouched. We unpack why many wellness models fail, how insulin resistance hides for years, and what chronic disease reversal can look like when a physician-led metabolic health team measures the right signals and tapers meds safely. • metabolic syndrome as a dominant driver of employer healthcare costs • why low-fat guidance and ultra-processed food worsen hunger and outcomes • fasting insulin and CGMs as earlier and more actionable markers than glucose alone • nutritional ketosis versus diabetic ketoacidosis and why the terms get conflated • GLP-1 medication costs plus the idea of a structured GLP-1 off-ramp • reported outcomes including weight loss and guaranteed improvements in A1C and blood pressure • deprescribing as a safety requirement when health improves quickly • ROI logic for self-funded plans including claims reduction and lower pharmacy spend Call my cell phone, 262-255-9545. [email protected]

We explore how employers can manage healthcare like any other cost by shifting from insurer-built, passive plans to employer-built, actively managed designs. Carl Schuessler, Jr. shares candid tactics on data, precision testing, and honest change management that help advisors become true risk partners.• defining a health plan mission that aligns to EBITDA and predictability• focusing on data hot spots such as MSK, imaging, pharmacy, and facilities• using billing audits and cost containment partners to reduce leakage• when and how to apply precision tests as costs drop• overcoming fear of self-funding with worst-case clarity and reserves• building crawl-walk-run-fly ramps with navigation, pharmacy, and bundles• unbundling components to align incentives and improve outcomes• elevating advisors to CFO-level strategic partnersAs a benefits advisor, you need more than a platform. You need a partner that makes you indispensable and impossible to replace. That’s BenePower. For more information or to schedule a demo of Benepower, go to BenePower.com

We dig into who truly makes claim decisions in self-funded plans and why that matters when ethics and compliance collide. Adam Russo shares how fiduciary prudence, transparent compensation, and NSA arbitration are reshaping risk, trust, and costs.• plan sponsors as final decision makers on claims• plan documents lagging laws and mandates• compliance versus ethics as distinct obligations• transparent compensation, performance fees, and caps• fiduciary prudence in subrogation and settlements• NSA and IDR process failures driving higher spend• negotiation strategy, data, and calibrated offers• governance, documentation, and audit-ready processesFor more information or to schedule a demo of Benepower, go to BenePower.com

We dig into why growth stalls when roles blur and the founder stays the bottleneck. Forrest Durer shows how clear seats, weekly scorecards, and steady leadership cadence create accountability and make scaling calm and repeatable.• common founder-led bottlenecks and warning signs• seats defined by 5–7 responsibilities not titles• building a simple pyramid with an integrator or COO• activity-based KPIs and weekly scorecards• busy work versus productive work• weekly one-to-ones and leadership cadence• documenting processes for onboarding and quality• writing and using vision and core values daily• letting go at the 80% standard to free the founder• when and how to use fractional leaders

We revisit how employers can control healthcare spend while expanding employee choice through ICRAs, with Chad Schneider of Thatch sharing what works, what breaks, and what’s next. We dig into change management, decision tools, dynamic contributions, and the broker’s evolving role.• Why ICRAs surged after 2020 and boomed in 2024• Carrier expansion and a stronger individual market• The real barrier being change management and fintech• Decision support that mirrors travel-style shopping• Dynamic contributions that create equity across markets• Carve-out classes to manage renewals and strategy• Common misconceptions among brokers and employers• Data, APIs, and real-time enrollment tracking• Emerging perks, localized networks, and future trendsPlease feel free to go to our website, which is thatch.com, reach out to me on LinkedIn. I’d love to chat with you, and we can happily go through our process, quoting, show you all the cool bells and whistles, and we’d love to be able to engage further.

We revisit how PPOs got built on discounts and show why total value beats sticker price. Scott Smith joins us to explain nationally curated high-performance networks that rank providers on effectiveness, appropriateness, and cost, and how that changes renewals, member experience, and fiduciary risk.• why traditional PPO discounts miss total cost of care• how consolidation and narrow networks increase abrasion• claims-based scoring at the provider NPI level• quality metrics that matter: effectiveness, appropriateness, cost• member tools: stars, plain-language summaries, mobile access• plan design that waives cost sharing for high-quality choices• PEPM pricing without shared savings games• national footprint for TPAs and large employers• faster ROI and improved MLR through reduced waste• roadmap to a true BUCA alternative

We explore how reducing variation in cost, outcomes, and experience creates real value, and why deep provider metrics and real-time member support outperform box-checking credentialing. Kate Grohal shares a playbook for aligning incentives without repeating the mistakes that soured HMOs.• defining quality as reducing variation across cost, outcomes, experience• Kate’s path from patient escort to quality leader• why NCQA alone falls short for measuring provider performance• additional metrics: infection rates, readmissions, team engagement, co-management• building value-based networks that screen out low-performing providers• real-time care navigation via nurses, MAs, and app-based prompts• behavior change through waived cost-sharing and premium reductions• the downside of PEPM fees and paying for non-performance• differentiating value-based care from old-school HMO denial tactics• employers moving from back seat to driver’s seat• tech adoption gaps and the next five-year horizonVisit BenaPower.ai or email [email protected] to schedule a demoFor more information, visit HatcherMedia.net — that’s H A T C H E R Media.net

We revisit the rising problem of the “functionally uninsured” and ask how to restore real access for employees who delay care because of confusion and cost. Paymedix CEO Tom Policelli shares how a super EOB, upfront provider payment, and 0% financing change behavior and bend trend.• confusion outranking cost as the top barrier to care• hospitals pushing prepayment and the access wall it creates• income-tier patterns driving ER and inpatient overuse• super EOB mechanics and single monthly reconciliation• provider payment upfront and revenue-cycle relief• employer savings of two to three trend points annually• advisor positioning and retention benefits• partnerships with EXO Health to improve network economics• TempoPay for pharmacy access and first-dollar fills• risk management via broad pooling and automatic eligibility• national expansion through aligned partners and TPAs• a third path beyond prepay or bill-and-pray collections“Go to PayMedix.com.”

Pharmacy benefits shouldn’t feel like a black box. We sit down with Susan Thomas, Chief Commercial Officer at Lucy Rx, to unpack why drug costs keep rising and what it takes to build a benefit that serves patients and plans—not middlemen. Susan started as an oncology nurse and moved into PBM leadership, and that dual lens shows up in everything we cover: from the real-world stress of waiting days for an oral chemo to the hidden economics of rebate chains and vertically integrated networks.We dig into the two biggest levers for change. First, formulary autonomy: instead of being locked to a single, opaque GPO, a marketplace approach lets employers compare multiple rebate contracts, see drug-level net cost, and choose the best path for categories like Humira biosimilars or GLP-1s. That shift enables utilization management that protects value without opening the floodgates. Second, network independence: when PBMs own specialty and mail, steering is inevitable. By contracting with integrated health systems for specialty and modern mail partners for home delivery, plans can speed therapy, reduce waste from 30-day auto-ships, and improve member experience at a lower overall cost.We also talk fiduciary duty, policy momentum, and technology. Employers need verifiable net-cost math—not averages—to defend decisions in a post–J&J lawsuit world. Washington’s scrutiny is rising, and incumbents are signaling changes, but structural misalignments remain. On the tech front, AI-driven reporting and specialty navigation are already here, while precision medicine and pharmacogenomics promise to target high-cost drugs to the patients who will benefit most. The question is whether the industry will embrace smaller, smarter populations when volume shrinks and outcomes improve.If you care about cutting pharmacy spend without compromising care, this conversation is a practical roadmap: ask for drug-level net cost, insist on formulary choice across GPOs, require independent specialty and mail, and set utilization criteria that put patients first. Subscribe, share this episode with a colleague who manages pharmacy benefits, and leave a review with the one PBM metric you wish you’d had sooner.

What if benefits work leaped from horse‑and‑buggy speed to highway pace? We sit down with Julian Lago, co‑founder and CEO of BenePower, to explore how AI is already compressing days of quoting, enrollment, and service into minutes—and what that means for brokers, HR leaders, and members who need clear answers right now.We dig into the practical side of agentic AI and retrieval‑augmented generation: how specialized models fetch plan rules, accumulators, and pending claims to answer real‑world questions like “what’s left on my deductible?” with accuracy. Julian explains why virtual care is no longer just telemedicine, how ambient documentation can free clinicians to focus on patients, and why unified front‑door experiences beat a jumble of point solutions. Along the way, we talk about emotion AI that detects stress, switches languages seamlessly, and brings empathy to urgent moments—like getting an ID card to a parent driving to urgent care—without losing speed or precision.For employers, the conversation moves from tools to outcomes: steering to high‑value care, reducing surprise bills, and designing plans people actually use. For advisors, it’s a playbook for differentiation—showing clients how to use data, automation, and hyper‑personalization to improve health and lower costs while keeping a human in the loop for sensitive decisions. We also address the hard edges: privacy, HIPAA alignment, model hallucinations, and emerging state regulations that set boundaries around clinical advice.If you’re ready to trade legacy friction for clear, measurable gains, this episode lays out where to start, what to watch, and how to scale. Subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review telling us which workflow you want AI to fix first.

Change can energize or paralyze—so we chose energize. We sat down with Eric Silverman, founder of Voluntary Disruption and a four-time guest, to unpack what’s actually moving the needle in enhanced benefits today. The surprise? Products haven’t radically shifted, but execution has. Simple, high-interest options like pet insurance, ID protection, legal plans, and life paired with long-term care continue to win attention. The real breakthroughs are how teams communicate, guide choices, and run enrollment with less friction and more trust.We dig into decision support tools and their mid-market roadblocks, then map how AI can personalize choices with Amazon-like clarity. Think smart nudges that connect plan design to real life: a high-deductible plan paired with accident coverage, or young families steered toward urgent care-friendly options. We also trace a major distribution shift—from carrier direct to advisor-led strategies—where brokers step up to own the full package: medical, pharmacy, disability, life, and voluntary. That move isn’t just good practice; it’s how you reduce risk across absenteeism, presenteeism, and unexpected costs.Communication is where results jump. Text-first outreach beats inbox fatigue. Short, captioned videos from HR leaders outperform generic vendor clips. Family-focused messaging, including the emergency contact, turns open enrollment into a shared decision. We share a practical playbook: launch midweek, keep enrollment windows short, host content on a 24/7 microsite with searchable chapters, and go off the January 1 cycle to escape fourth-quarter chaos. Virtual, self-service enrollment replaces one-on-one sales pressure and leaves a clean digital trail that cuts buyer’s remorse and HR headaches.If you advise employers—or lead HR—and want better participation without arm twisting, this conversation gives you the modern blueprint. Subscribe, share with a colleague who needs a smarter enrollment strategy, and leave a review with your top takeaway so we can dive deeper next time.

What if the clinic your team actually uses is the one parked outside the office? We sit down with Chris Yarn, CEO of Walk On Clinic, to unpack why on-site and mobile primary care crush near-site options on utilization, trust, and measurable savings—often with fewer clinic days. The story begins with a simple truth: convenience wins. When clinicians are visible and familiar, employees engage more, follow through on care, and keep the relationship going virtually with the same people they see in person.We break down a standout case: a near-site clinic three days a week just over a mile away versus a mobile clinic two days a week on-site. After ten months and 800 employees, 515 chose on-site, only 15 went near-site. That utilization shift powers tangible outcomes: lower urgent care and ER visits, time savings measured against payroll, and pharmacy strategies that can offset clinic costs. Chris explains how zero-dollar ghost claims at Medicare rates create conservative ROI models, and how plan-aligned referrals remove the “we don’t take your insurance” friction that derails self-funded plans.You’ll hear a practical framework for choosing the right model: headcount thresholds, geographic routing for distributed workforces, and which plan designs benefit most. We also explore how a broker’s mindset shaped Walk On Clinic’s approach—quarterbacking imaging, specialty, and pharmacy decisions so plan assets get used. Along the way, Chris shares lessons on branding and visibility, from creative content to educating the market on why hybrid care—on-site plus virtual continuity—outperforms stand-alone telemedicine.If you’re a benefits leader, broker, or operator hunting for real-world ROI and a better member experience, this conversation is a playbook for turning primary care into the true front door of the plan. Subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review with your biggest question about building on-site access at scale.

We explore what executive coaching really is, how it helps leaders make better decisions and show up with presence, and why advisors can use it to grow their practice and help clients cut costs and claims. We share signals that coaching is needed, how to introduce it without awkwardness, and how to build strong referral partnerships.• Clear definition of executive coaching and who benefits• Common leadership traps and the “business affair” pattern• Executive presence as a practical skill set• Turning vague goals into measurable outcomes• How advisors spot coaching cues in client orgs• Scripts for raising coaching without judgment• Building trusted referral partnerships with coaches• Why AI and hybrid work raise the stakes

Healthcare costs keep climbing while employees want plans that actually fit their doctors, budgets, and lives. We tackle that tension head-on with Chad Schneider, head of broker channel at Thatch, and unpack how ICHRAs—individual coverage HRAs—let employers lock in predictable budgets while giving every employee real choice on the individual market.We start by demystifying ICHRAs and why 2024 became the breakout year: broader carrier participation, stronger individual risk pools, and better technology. Chad breaks down the biggest barriers leaders worry about—change management, compliance, billing across multiple carriers and states—and shares how infrastructure-first platforms handle the messy “money movement” behind the scenes. From clean decision support that feels like booking travel to licensed, state-specific experts for complex cases, we show how employees can navigate dozens of plans with clarity and confidence.Then we get tactical. You’ll hear how to design contribution strategies that create equity across age and geography, using dynamic benchmarks instead of blunt flat-dollar allowances. We explore the 11 ICHRA classes for smart carve-outs, the role of voluntary and high-impact perks, and how newer carriers are pushing legacy players to improve networks and benefits. On data, we explain what you can measure without claims visibility—engagement, satisfaction, enrollment completion—and how emerging APIs make application tracking and digital ID cards standard rather than speculative.Looking ahead three to five years, Chad forecasts tighter integrations, more transparent pricing, and perks once reserved for large groups becoming available to small employers. The result is a practical blueprint: cap volatility, expand choice, and elevate the broker’s role from renewal jockey to program architect. If you’re ready to rethink the benefits playbook and give your team plans that fit their lives, this conversation lays out the steps and the pitfalls to avoid.Enjoyed the conversation? Follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more leaders discover smarter benefits strategies.

Costs are spiking, access is shrinking, and members are stuck on hold while scans get delayed—yet the fix might be hiding in plain sight. We sit down with Dr. Cristin Dickerson, CEO of Green Imaging, to unpack how independent imaging, transparent bundles, and human-led AI can lower trend, reduce friction, and actually make benefits plans feel usable. From private equity acquisitions that quietly triple rates to the national radiologist shortage sparked by years of “AI will replace you” hype, we trace the real-world forces shaping price, quality, and time-to-care.Cristin shares a playbook advisors and employers can put to work now: build redundancy so a single tech outage doesn’t stall care, keep the front end human while automating the back office, and route members to independent centers with clear, all-in pricing. You’ll hear how a large Texas municipality sought savings but discovered a bigger win—restored access that gave employees back hours and eliminated surprise bills. We delve into what price transparency rules overlook, why hospital quotes are often incomplete, and how direct-pay bundles circumvent games that leave members vulnerable.We also get practical on tech. Forget AI that “reads the study” in isolation; the real gains come from tools that structure reports so radiologists never take their eyes off images, and from analytics that turn one CT into population health insights like bone density, coronary calcium, and cardiac chamber sizing. Add a clinician portal that lets DPCs and primary care search by code and price, submit narrative orders, and reach a radiologist by phone, and virtual care starts to work the way it should—fast, connected, and accountable.If you advise employers or run a health plan, this is a roadmap to cut waste without compromising care: utilize data maps and claims rebundling to model savings, favor DPC-centric designs for a simpler member experience, and help independent centers remain independent with fair, direct contracts. Subscribe, share with a colleague who battles imaging chaos, and tell us: where are your members getting stuck, and what would a clear path to a scan change look like for your team?

Leadership bottlenecks can silently strangle even the most promising companies. When decisions, initiatives, and progress all funnel through one person—typically the founder or CEO—growth becomes impossible. Charlie Rhea knows this pattern all too well.As an implementer of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), Charlie has witnessed the remarkable transformation that occurs when leadership teams embrace a different way of operating. The framework he teaches provides three critical benefits that most organizations desperately need: crystal-clear vision, disciplined execution (what EOS calls "traction"), and team health built on vulnerability-based trust.What makes EOS particularly effective is its practical simplicity. Rather than offering vague leadership principles, it delivers concrete tools like the Accountability Chart—an organizational structure that flips conventional thinking by designing around functions first, then placing people second. This approach systematically eliminates bottlenecks by distributing accountability throughout the leadership team.The most surprising element Charlie emphasizes is the often-overlooked importance of team health. Drawing from Patrick Lencioni's work, EOS focuses on creating vulnerability-based trust—the willingness to have difficult conversations for the greater good of the company. As Charlie notes, "Culture eats strategy for breakfast," and no amount of brilliant planning can overcome a dysfunctional leadership team."The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" - Patrick Lencioni"Traction" - Gino Wickman

High-deductible health plans have created "functionally uninsured" people who have insurance cards but can't access care due to high out-of-pocket costs, creating barriers to necessary healthcare and driving up long-term expenses. We discuss a solution with Tom Policelli of Paymedix.• Consumer confusion about benefits is the #1 issue, with affordability a close second• 45% of insured people avoided necessary care last year due to cost concerns • Nearly 30% of hospitals now require payment before scheduling services• 25% of commercially insured people have no available credit• Healthcare utilization by lower-income tiers mimics Medicaid patterns - delaying care until emergencies• PayMedix's "Super EOB" consolidates billing and offers 0% interest financing• Employers using PayMedix save 2-3% annually on healthcare trend• Unlike consumer credit companies, PayMedix uses an insurance mindset to spread risk• PayMedix maintains 95% employer retention versus the 30% industry average• TempoPay acquisition provides a card-based solution for pharmacy costs• Partnerships with companies like XO Health are expanding PayMedix's reach nationwideVisit paymedix.com to learn more about implementing these solutions.This episode is sponsored by Benepower, the platform of choice for a modern benefits experience. Benepower is an AI-powered benefits platform offering access to top products and services, enabling consultants and employers to create customized plans, optimize usage, and measure effectiveness. www.benepower.com

A 75-year legacy built on survival, relationships and faith continues to drive innovation at Conner Insurance, where CEO Ben Conner and his team focus on providing sound counsel during life's most significant moments.• Founded in 1949 by WWII veteran Henry Clay Conner Jr., whose 30 months surviving in Philippine jungles shaped core values of seriousness, relationships, and entrepreneurial spirit• Second-generation leadership of four Conner brothers emphasized shepherding the next generation into leadership roles while maintaining family values• Mission evolved from "selling policies" to walking alongside clients during critical life moments including medical diagnoses, accidents, and positive transitions• Over 80% of clients experience flat or reduced healthcare expenses through innovative supply chain management, especially in pharmacy benefits• Team members know individual patients by name, working to source medications affordably for both employers and employees• Documentary "It's Not Personal, It's Just Healthcare" educates about systemic problems in healthcare delivery• Challenges traditional strategies like high-deductible health plans that create false "consumerism" while making healthcare inaccessible• Remains independent despite private equity consolidation in insurance industry, focusing on talent development and embracing technologies like AIVisit connerins.com to watch the full documentary "It's Not Personal, It's Just Healthcare" and learn more about their approach."It's Not Personal, It's Just Healthcare""The Ideal Team Player" - Patrick Lencioni🤖 Sponsored by BenePowerBenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com

Jessica DeAngelo, Chief Hiking Officer at Hike to Become, shares how unplugging in nature revolutionizes business thinking and helps executives rediscover clarity and creativity away from digital distractions.• Former global sales director who transformed her life by committing to daily hiking after feeling overwhelmed by corporate demands and new motherhood• Created the Hike 31 Challenge based on four principles: Hike or walk, In nature, Keep tech off, Every day• Takes executive teams on guided hiking experiences that create space for connection and independent thought• Incorporates forest bathing exercises that allow business leaders time alone with their thoughts• Clients report experiencing clarity on complex problems, rediscovering joy, and generating breakthrough business ideas• Companies see ROI through faster decision-making, innovative approaches, and reduced executive burnout• New book "The Wild Advantage" explores how reconnecting with nature helps executives think more creatively in the age of AIText HIKE to 33777 to join the Hike 31 Challenge or visit Jessica DeAngelo.com to learn more about bringing this transformative experience to your team.This episode is sponsored by Benepower, the platform of choice for a modern benefits experience. Benepower is an AI-powered benefits platform offering access to top products and services, enabling consultants and employers to create customized plans, optimize usage, and measure effectiveness. www.benepower.com

Paid leave has transformed from a nice-to-have into a powerful retention and engagement tool for employers seeking to attract and keep top talent. Seth Turner of AbsintheSoft shares insights on how properly structured leave programs can create positive employee experiences that drive loyalty and productivity.• 86% of employees look for paid leave when job hunting, and 42% won't apply without it• Well-designed leave programs should address diverse workforce needs across life stages• Employees who feel supported during leave are more likely to return engaged and become brand ambassadors• The regulatory landscape is growing increasingly complex with 13 states now mandating paid family leave• Technology helps streamline administration, maintain compliance, and improve employee experience• Utilization rates vary by industry, ranging from 10-40% of employees taking leave annually• Effective programs consider both compliance requirements and strategic business objectives• Modern systems use AI and mobile communications to simplify processes for all stakeholdersTo learn more about managing paid leave effectively, visit absensesoft.com or contact Seth directly at [email protected]🤖 Sponsored by BenePowerBenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com

We explore the concept of time as our most precious resource with Andrew Hartman, founder of TimeBoss, who shares a framework for achieving results without overwhelm and burnout.• Andrew's journey began when work stress caused him to lose his sense of smell for six months• 77% of knowledge workers experienced burnout in the past year, up from 75% pre-COVID• The "always on" work culture has eliminated boundaries between professional and personal life• Most people treat time like credit instead of cash, creating debt for their future selves• Setting a work hour constraint (Andrew uses 50 hours) forces better prioritization• Weekly planning meetings help identify the 20% of tasks that yield 80% of results• Implementing strategic time management can reclaim 4-10 hours per week• "Comeback time" after interruptions can take up to 23 minutes of productivity• Creating "commitment plans" and finding "vacation shields" allows for true rest• Working at your "highest sustainable pace" enables sustained peak performanceThis episode is sponsored by Benepower, the platform of choice for a modern benefits experience. Benepower is an AI-powered benefits platform offering access to top products and services, enabling consultants and employers to create customized plans, optimize usage, and measure effectiveness. www.benepower.com

Recorded live at the Ascend Conference in Salt Lake City, David A. Saltzman sits down with Hans Kullberg, CEO and Founder of Avocado Health. Together, they explore how Avocado Health is solving one of the biggest challenges facing employers and employees alike: helping working parents get the right answers, right when they need them.Hans shares how his own journey as a father of five inspired him to build a text-first platform that provides parents with evidence-based guidance on everything from toddler sleep issues to adolescent anxiety—without the endless rabbit holes of Dr. Google.The discussion covers the massive productivity costs of presenteeism, why text messaging is the most effective format for support, and how AI plus human advocates deliver empathetic, on-demand solutions that reduce stress for families and cut costs for employers.🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode 📌 Working Parents = Productivity Costs 60% of employees are parents, and presenteeism costs employers $8,000 per worker annually.📌 Texting Beats Dr. Google Avocado Health uses SMS to deliver expert pediatric, developmental, and behavioral guidance instantly.📌 AI + Human = Empathy at Scale 97% of questions can be answered by AI, with human advocates stepping in for complex cases.📌 Reducing Claims and ER Visits Quick triage and trusted guidance prevent unnecessary urgent care and hospital costs.📌 Boosting Benefits Utilization The platform helps employees discover and use existing employer-sponsored resources.⏱️ In This Episode 00:00 Live from Ascend: Introducing Hans Kullberg 02:00 From fatherhood to founding Avocado Health 04:00 The scope of challenges working parents face 07:00 Presenteeism, absenteeism, and attrition explained 10:00 Why text messaging is the most accessible solution 14:00 AI + human empathy in care delivery 18:00 Real-life RSV case study: avoiding hospitalization 22:00 Connecting employees to existing plan benefits 26:00 Employee onboarding and education via SMS 30:00 Serving rural and underserved populations 34:00 The future: languages, Medicaid, municipalities 38:00 Building scalable, accessible support for all parents

Recorded at the Ascend Conference in Salt Lake City, David A. Saltzman talks with Lorenzo Amaya, Vice President of Business Development at Integrated Source One. They explore the nationwide physician shortage, the challenges of quality care and timely access, and how innovative solutions like on-site, near-site, and mobile clinics are changing healthcare delivery for employers and employees alike.Lorenzo shares his journey from banking to telemedicine, and how Integrated Source One works to remove friction from care — making it more affordable, proactive, and accessible no matter where employees are. The conversation dives into proactive healthcare strategies, the role of virtual primary care, and meeting patients where they are with flexible delivery models.🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 The Physician Shortage Is Real Patients are waiting months for appointments, creating a bottleneck in care.📌 Quality and Access Go Hand in Hand Lorenzo explains why true care solutions must address both simultaneously.📌 Virtual Care Is Here to Stay From chronic condition management to urgent needs, telehealth is becoming the norm.📌 On-Site, Near-Site, and Mobile Clinics Reduce Friction Flexible care delivery can keep employees healthier and out of the ER.📌 Proactive Care Saves Costs Continuous access and preventive screenings stop expensive, episodic events before they happen.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 Live from Ascend: Introducing Lorenzo Amaya 02:00 From banking to telemedicine and healthcare innovation 04:30 The scope and causes of the physician shortage 07:30 Quality of care and reimbursement challenges 10:00 The telehealth boom post-COVID 13:00 Generational comfort with virtual healthcare 16:00 Streamlining access for better patient experiences 19:00 On-site, near-site, and mobile clinics explained 23:00 Cost and feasibility considerations for employers 26:00 Serving underserved and rural areas 29:00 Proactive care vs. urgent care 33:00 Employer adoption and employee education 37:00 Reducing ER visits and plan costs 40:00 Frictionless care for better outcomes

Recorded live at the Ascend Conference in Salt Lake City, this episode of ShiftShapers features John Troutman, Vice President of Business Development at Mind Club America. Host David A. Saltzman and John discuss the “mutual mystification” surrounding mental health solutions—and how employers and advisors can start cutting through the noise with real access, real engagement, and real outcomes.From personal burnout to a professional mission, John shares how his experience as a former pastor helped shape his drive to help a million people get the mental health support they need. The conversation unpacks access issues, poor utilization reporting, stigma, and the vital importance of employer-led engagement.🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Access Delays Are Still the Norm Even with growing awareness, many plans make employees wait 3–5 months for help. Mind Club offers care within 2 business days.📌 Engagement Starts at the Top Mental health solutions are most effective when leadership participates first and normalizes use among employees.📌 Mental Health Month ≠ Mental Health Action Awareness isn’t enough. Employers must embrace solutions that proactively support emotional well-being year-round.📌 Most Utilization Reports Are Useless John explains why vague or absent reporting leaves employers in the dark about what they’re actually paying for.📌 Proactive Care Beats Reactive Cleanup Mind Club encourages regular mental fitness with assessments, gamification, and behavioral nudges before crisis hits.⏱️ In This Episode 00:00 Live from Ascend: Introducing John Troutman 02:00 Burnout, personal healing, and a mission to help a million people 05:30 What is “mutual mystification” in mental health? 08:00 The real-world problems with EAPs and plan access 10:30 Access in two days—not months 12:00 Predictive vs. reactive mental health models 15:00 How Mind Club’s app keeps users engaged 17:30 Messaging employees: Start with leadership 20:00 Why reporting and data transparency matter 23:00 How to start the mental health conversation with skeptical employers 27:00 What employers want: happier, healthier teams 30:00 Looking ahead: personalization, AI, and robust networks 34:00 Mind Club’s flexibility across funding models 36:00 Final thoughts on solving the mental health crisis

In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman sits down with Reuven Shelef, CEO of Out of the Box Consulting and creator of the Untangling Complex Challenges methodology. Reuven shares why our brains default to negativity when faced with uncertainty—and how to move from emotional reactivity to clarity and action.With a blend of logic and emotional insight, Reuven helps leaders and teams understand how to recognize internal blockers, reframe stress, and break through stuck patterns—professionally and personally.More from Reuven Shelef: https://ReuvenShelef.com/🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at http://BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Negativity Comes First—By Design Our brains are wired for survival, not solutions. Recognizing this helps us shift toward creative thinking.📌 You’re Not Powerless Reuven explains how we can reclaim control—even when external systems and policies feel overwhelming.📌 The Story Is the Stress Often, it’s not the facts that hurt us—it’s the story we tell ourselves about those facts.📌 Getting Unstuck Starts With Awareness A simple process of brain dumping and categorization reveals surprising root causes—and new options.📌 Leaders Must Create Space Inviting authentic conversation and emotional safety at work can unlock powerful transformation.⏱️ In This Episode 00:00 Why people get stuck under pressure 02:00 Childhood conditioning and survival wiring 04:30 Different brains, different blockers 07:00 Logical vs. emotional approaches to problem solving 10:30 What we can control (and what we can't) 13:00 The danger of unchecked internal stories 15:30 Reuven’s tools: fact vs. meaning, brain dumps, and mapping 18:00 Spotting hidden challenges 20:30 Leading with empathy and creating psychological safety

In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman talks with Ramesh Kumar, CEO and co-founder of zakipoint health. Ramesh shares how a personal mission to help his father navigate healthcare led to a professional pursuit: transforming overwhelming claims data into actionable insights for employers, advisors, and members.The conversation explores the evolution of predictive modeling, the growing importance of fiduciary responsibility in plan design, and how AI-powered platforms are helping advisors simplify benefit decisions and improve outcomes. Ramesh offers real-world examples of how data can shape plan strategy, change behavior, and improve care—before costs spiral out of control.🤖 Sponsored by BenePowerBenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders.🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Claims Data Is the Starting Line—Not the FinishTPAs can’t block it. Advisors must request it. With the right tools, data can reveal inefficiencies and drive smarter decisions.📌 Predictive Modeling Meets PersonalizationRamesh explains how modern AI doesn’t just stratify risk—it tailors messages and care nudges to drive better action at the member level.📌 Fiduciary Awareness Is on the RiseHigh-profile lawsuits and rebate opacity are forcing plan sponsors to demand better data—and use it.📌 AI Is Rewriting the Navigation ExperienceAgentic AI will soon act as your members’ personal guide—making healthcare access faster, smarter, and more human (even if it’s not human).📌 Member Engagement Must Be ProactiveYou can’t educate after the ER visit. The future belongs to platforms that reach members before the bill comes.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 Introduction to Ramesh and zakipoint health02:00 From personal mission to industry disruption04:00 The problem with too much (bad) data06:00 Turning claims into strategy: risks, costs, gaps08:30 How fiduciary pressure is reshaping advisor roles10:00 Making healthcare navigation member-centric14:00 Predictive modeling and behavioral segmentation16:30 Agentic AI and rethinking healthcare workflows19:00 AI in mental health, coaching, and chronic care20:45 What's next for advisors and tools22:00 Ramesh’s 5-year vision: frictionless healthcare access

In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman welcomes Sally Pace, CEO of Connect Healthcare Collaboration and co-founder of The Granite List—a platform built to help benefits advisors compare point solutions with clarity and confidence.Sally shares how her background in storytelling and communication led to the creation of employee engagement strategies that bridge the gap between tech and human connection. From clinical and benefits advocacy to empowering advisors with transparency tools, Sally emphasizes how trust, education, and personalization are reshaping the future of benefits.👉 Learn more or create a free profile at: www.thegranitelist.com🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Don’t Wait for Enrollment to Start Educating Sally explains why the most effective strategies involve consistent, year-round communication—not just an annual packet.📌 Real Advocacy Requires Real People Benefits are confusing. Using high-touch, concierge-style advocates helps employees actually use what’s offered.📌 Data Is Powerful, But Not Enough AI can identify needs—but human guidance drives understanding and usage. Together, they make an unstoppable team.📌 Fiduciary Pressure Is Rising With plan sponsors increasingly held accountable for engagement, education is no longer optional—it’s essential.📌 The Granite List Gives Advisors a Clearer View Point solutions are overwhelming. The Granite List brings organization, community insight, and streamlined comparison to the marketplace.⏱️ In This Episode 00:00 Introduction to Sally and her background 02:11 Lessons from HGTV and marketing communication 04:00 Building human-centered engagement tools 06:00 The staggering underutilization of benefits 08:40 Why AI needs a human touch to work 10:50 Making enrollment an opportunity, not a hurdle 12:30 Advisors and the fiduciary conversation 16:00 Birth of The Granite List platform 18:00 Helping advisors and consultants vet point solutions 20:00 Transparency and personalization in benefit design

 In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman welcomes Dave Chase, co-founder of Health Rosetta, a movement that has become a national force in transforming employer-sponsored healthcare.Dave shares the deeply personal story that drove him to create Health Rosetta and the powerful framework that emerged—one focused on transparency, outcomes, and economic sustainability.The conversation explores how Health Rosetta empowers benefit advisors and employers to break free from the traditional health plan model, the crucial role of data access, and the open-source tools now available through Nautilus Health Institute. Dave also unveils the evolution of RosettaFest from an internal network event into the premier gathering for high-performance health plan innovators across the country.👉 Join RosettaFest 2025 in Denver: https://rosettafest.org/ 👉 Explore open-source tools from Nautilus Health: https://www.nautilushealth.org/🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 A Personal Tragedy Sparked a Movement A system failure that devastated a friend’s life inspired Dave Chase to create a new framework for health plans.📌 It All Starts with the Health Plan Contract Perverse incentives and system dysfunction stem from opaque, outdated plan contracts—Health Rosetta sets a new standard.📌 Training a New Class of Benefit Professionals Health Rosetta focuses on empowering benefit advisors with the tools and standards to drive measurable change.📌 The TPA, PBM, and Hospital Contracts Matter Most Dave breaks down the three most critical contracts and how employers can renegotiate smarter, data-driven deals.📌 Nautilus Health Is Open-Sourcing the Playbook With $4M+ of legal, contracting, and tech investment, Health Rosetta is giving away the tools others would keep locked up.📌 Unfettered Data Access Is a Game Changer Claims transparency isn’t optional anymore—especially under the Consolidated Appropriations Act.📌 RosettaFest Is the Epicenter for Innovation Once closed-door, RosettaFest now brings together employers, advisors, clinicians, and tech innovators for radical collaboration.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 Introduction to Health Rosetta01:02 Founding Story and Inspiration02:11 Building the Framework and Ecosystem08:28 Challenges and Pushbacks16:08 New Developments and Future Plans26:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman speaks with Joanna Conti, founder and chairman of the nonprofit Conquer Addiction. Joanna’s journey began when her own daughter faced life-threatening alcoholism, prompting a years-long search for effective treatment—and an urgent realization: no one was measuring long-term success.Joanna shares the results of her groundbreaking research following over 100,000 addiction patients, and exposes the massive gaps in transparency, accountability, and outcomes in today’s treatment centers. She also unveils how employers and families can now access verified recovery data to choose truly effective care—and how a new bundled care model is reshaping the rehab industry.Conquer Addiction Website: https://conquer-addiction.org🤖 Sponsored by BenePowerBenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Most Treatment Centers Don’t Track OutcomesJoanna explains why fewer than 1% of rehabs conduct post-treatment follow-ups—and how Conquer Addiction is changing that.📌 Verified Success Rates Vary WidelyWhile the average recovery rate is 36%, Joanna’s research shows some centers achieve 50%+ and others less than 15%.📌 Aligning Incentives with AccountabilityNew bundled-rate models require rehabs to offer relapse support—creating better outcomes and real transparency.📌 Employers Bear the CostSubstance use disorders can cost employers $25,000 per year per employee—before treatment even begins.📌 A National Claims-Based Registry Is ComingJoanna’s team is building a predictive model using de-identified claims data to rank treatment center effectiveness nationwide.📌 Hope and ProgressJoanna’s personal story ends with hope: her daughter is thriving after 13 years in recovery—and now four kids of her own.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 Introduction to Treatment Duration and Outcomes13:59 Accessing Treatment Center Data14:31 Challenges in the Treatment Industry14:51 Aligning Incentives for Better Outcomes16:32 Financial Struggles of Treatment Centers16:58 Using Data to Identify Effective Treatment Centers17:56 The Role of Compliance and Legislation18:35 Developing a National Claims Registry19:28 Predictive Modeling for Treatment Effectiveness20:40 Sharing Data with Rehabs and Payers21:42 Future Goals and Conclusion

Why Reducing Variation = Better Outcomes In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman welcomes Kate Grohall, co-founder and Vice President of Value-Based Solutions at Holista. Kate shares her powerful journey from working with patients in a teaching hospital to building a transformative platform focused on reducing variation in care, cost, and outcomes.She unpacks how Holista restores trust in the provider-patient relationship, leverages real-time communication tools to improve outcomes, and helps employers drive change by demanding value—not volume.🤖 Sponsored by BenePowerBenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Quality = Reducing VariationKate defines healthcare quality as reducing unpredictability across cost, outcomes, and patient experience.📌 C Still Equals MDMost consumers can't distinguish between top- and bottom-tier physicians. Holista’s proprietary vetting process closes that gap.📌 Restoring the Provider-Patient RelationshipHolista rebuilds what’s been lost by re-emphasizing relationships and collaboration across care teams.📌 Real-Time Care Prevents CrisisThrough a patient app and nurse engagement, Holista helps patients avoid unnecessary ER visits and complications.📌 Incentives That Actually Change BehaviorForgiving copays and reducing premiums for high-value care choices gives patients immediate financial benefits.📌 Employers Take the WheelEmployers are stepping out of the back seat and demanding better results—and Holista helps them drive smart, sustainable change.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 Introduction to Better Health Outcomes00:47 Kate Grohall’s Journey into Healthcare03:12 Understanding Quality in Healthcare05:19 Challenges in Reducing Variation06:50 Provider and Patient Experience08:57 Quality Metrics Beyond Standards13:13 Real-Time Communication in Healthcare14:41 Changing Behavior and Incentives21:31 Future of Healthcare and Technology22:56 Employers Taking the Driver's Seat24:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Why Are We Paying More for Worse Health? | ShiftShapersIn this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman welcomes Helene M. Epstein—writer, speaker, and patient advocate behind the Substack series Patient No More. Helene dives deep into America’s epidemic of medical errors, misdiagnoses, and system failures. She breaks down why even the most advanced technology and training haven’t improved patient safety, how profit-driven healthcare puts patients at risk, and—most importantly—what individuals can do to protect themselves and their families. From shocking statistics about misdiagnosis to the hidden realities of rural hospital closures, Helene provides practical advice and hope for patients who are ready to become their own advocates.🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Medical Harm Is Underreported and Overlooked One in four hospital patients is harmed—and most of those incidents aren’t even recorded. Medical error remains a massive, hidden problem.📌 Diagnostic Error Is Common—and Dangerous 5–25% of U.S. adults are misdiagnosed each year. The most common errors? Testing failures, insurance barriers, and lack of communication between patients and providers.📌 The System Is Built for Billing, Not Healing EMRs, insurance company rules, and corporate healthcare ownership have prioritized profits and paperwork over patients—leaving safety and transparency behind.📌 Rural and Marginalized Patients Are at Greater Risk Access to care is shrinking as hospitals close pediatric and maternal units, especially in rural and underserved communities.📌 Patient Advocacy Is Rising Helene shares why empowered patients—armed with information, organized records, and second opinions—are the best defense against medical error.📌 Practical Steps: Protect Yourself Keep copies of your records, use health portals, seek second opinions, and research providers before major procedures. Being “patient no more” means taking an active role in your own care.More from Helene M. EpsteinPatient No More is a free Substack by patient advocate Helene M. Epstein, offering practical advice to help you avoid misdiagnosis and medical error. Read her ongoing guide to surviving American healthcare at https://helenemepstein.substack.com/⏱️ In This Episode00:00 – Why Does U.S. Healthcare Cost So Much and Deliver So Little?\01:00 – What Counts as Medical Error and Harm?03:00 – The Impact on America’s Workforce04:30 – Corporatization and the Decline of Access07:45 – The Prevalence of Diagnostic Errors10:00 – The Role of Insurance in Delaying Proper Treatment12:00 – Medication Errors, Pharmacy Mistakes, and Communication Gaps15:00 – Why Electronic Medical Records Don’t Fix the Problem18:30 – Patient Advocacy, “Patient No More,” and Surviving American Healthcare21:00 – Misdiagnosis in Women, Children, and Marginalized Groups24:30 – The Future of Patient Safety and System Reform

Rethinking PPOs: How High-Performance Networks Deliver Value | ShiftShapersIn this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman sits down with Scott Smith, founder and CEO of Logro Network, to discuss a revolution in health plan design: the nationally curated high-performance network. Scott unpacks the origins of PPOs, why the old “discount everything” approach is broken, and how a focus on total value—cost, quality, and outcomes—can transform employer health plans. You’ll learn how Logro Network uses massive data sets and provider scoring to give members more choice and better information, all while helping plans rein in costs and fulfill their fiduciary duty.🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Why PPOs Are Stuck in the Past Traditional networks focused only on unit cost, not total value—leaving members and plans exposed to higher downstream costs and mediocre quality.📌 Volume and Discounts Aren’t Enough Providers are leaving old PPOs as deep discounts become unsustainable. The cheapest care isn’t always the best, and a “race to the bottom” can cost more in the long run.📌 High-Performance Networks = Data-Driven Choice Logro Network’s national footprint scores providers on cost, quality, and appropriateness using over 50 billion claims—empowering members to pick the best care for their needs.📌 Quality ≠ High Cost Surprisingly, the best providers are often not the most expensive. High-quality care can lower total cost of care through fewer complications and better outcomes.📌 Member Experience Is Central With transparent, easy-to-read provider profiles (using AI to simplify 300+ metrics!) and broad network access, members get more control, less disruption, and the right information to make informed decisions.📌 A Win for Employers and Brokers Plans using high-performance networks can see immediate cost reductions, better renewal rates, and lower medical loss ratios—while meeting growing fiduciary expectations.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 Introduction to High Performance Networks00:47 Guest Introduction: Scott Smith01:30 The Evolution of Networks04:22 Challenges of Traditional Networks07:09 Introduction to High Performance Networks09:55 Building a High Performance Network14:04 Member and Plan Benefits21:02 National Coverage and Future Plans

In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with David Contorno, president and founder of ePowered Benefits, we go beyond the strategies and structures of health plan design—diving into the real-life struggles that are shaping smarter, more compassionate solutions.Host David A. Saltzman and David Contorno discuss the realities of scaling direct primary care, creative ways to bridge care gaps, and the challenges of educating employers and advisors about fiduciary responsibility. But the heart of this episode is personal: David shares how his own battles with chronic pain and mental health have transformed his perspective—and the way he builds health plans.The conversation uncovers the hidden crisis of mental health in the workforce, the need for more accessible and innovative care models, and the legacy that disruption can leave when leaders dare to do things differently.If you missed Part 1, catch it now for the story of smart plan solutions and shifting structures.  🎧 Listen to Part 1  now: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2045524/episodes/17232879 📺 Watch Part 1  on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rYP7-z8WD0A🔑 Key Takeaways from This EpisodeDirect Primary Care & Beyond: How scaling DPC and innovative provider relationships are breaking down care deserts.Cash Pay Pathways: Why starting with cash pay—and embedding it into employer plans—can dramatically change access and cost.Fiduciary Responsibility: Why ignoring smarter plan options is a risk for employers, and what needs to change for true accountability.Educating for Change: How complexity and legacy promises are barriers, and what it really takes to shift mindsets.The Mental Health Undercurrent: David’s raw account of dealing with chronic pain, mental health stigma, and his personal journey toward healing—including non-traditional therapies like virtual support and psychedelic treatment.A Legacy of Empathy: Why the next wave of health plan design must address the whole person—physically and mentally—and how employer-sponsored plans can help lead the way.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:54 Scaling Direct Primary Care (DPC)01:33 Challenges and Solutions in DPC03:19 Employer and Provider Perspectives07:50 Cash Pay and Reference-Based Pricing17:47 Mental Health and Innovative Solutions25:56 Closing Thoughts and Personal Reflections

What does “smart” health plan design look like in an industry packed with legacy thinking and rising costs? In Part 1 of a special two-part ShiftShapers interview, host David A. Saltzman welcomes back David Contorno, president and founder of ePower Benefits—and one of the industry’s most well-known disruptors.David pulls back the curtain on his journey from traditional insurance to innovative plan design, explaining why “business as usual” can’t fix the healthcare system. He discusses creative strategies like reference-based pricing, direct provider contracting, and the evolution of self-funded health plans. Through stories, data, and first-hand insights, David lays out the “shifting structures” that are changing how employers, brokers, and providers think about benefits.🔜 Don’t miss Part 2 next week! We’ll dive even deeper as David shares the personal struggles that reshaped his perspective on plan design, including lessons from his own healthcare journey.🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This EpisodeThe Origin Story of a Disruptor: David shares how starting in insurance as a teen led to a lifetime of challenging the status quo.Why Health Insurance Is Failing: Hear David’s epiphany about how current health plans fall short of protecting people from catastrophic loss.Reference-Based Pricing & Beyond: Understand the pros, cons, and evolution of “blunt instrument” cost-saving strategies.Direct Provider Contracting: Learn how building new provider relationships can drive savings and better outcomes.Fiduciary Responsibility for Employers: Discover why doing what’s always been done is now a liability, not a strategy.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:59 David Conno's Background and Early Career03:03 The Epiphany: Realizing the Flaws in Health Insurance09:35 The Power and Challenges of Reference-Based Pricing18:23 The Cash Pay Experience and Personal Health Journey28:03 Innovative Solutions: Direct Primary Care31:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Understanding Trump's Executive Order on Drug Pricing | ShiftShapersIn this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman welcomes Tiffany Ryder, emergency medicine PA, host of Healthcare Liberty Lab, and writer at Red Flag Hero on Substack. Tiffany breaks down President Trump’s executive order on drug pricing and what it could mean for patients, providers, and pharmaceutical companies.She explores key issues like most favored nation pricing, transparency in drug costs, and the role of PBMs and middlemen. Drawing from her frontline experience and policy knowledge, Tiffany explains how these changes may impact everything from consumer behavior to research and development in the pharmaceutical world.🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Trump’s Executive Order Is Not What It Seems Initial reactions framed it as a price control, but deeper analysis reveals an effort to create competitive pricing similar to standard market structures—challenging the global imbalance of U.S. drug costs.📌 The U.S. Pays More—And It’s Unsustainable Americans make up only 4% of the world’s population but generate 75% of pharma’s profits. Tiffany explores how this executive order could shift the burden globally rather than stifling innovation.📌 Transparency Could Empower Consumers One of the most promising aspects of the order is a potential direct-to-consumer model and increased pricing transparency. It may spark a shift in consumer behavior, giving patients tools to understand what drugs should actually cost.📌 PBMs and Middlemen Drive Up Costs Tiffany highlights how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and other intermediaries inflate costs, create confusion, and block consumers from accessing the best value for their medication.📌 Generational Shift in Patient Trust Is Happening Today’s younger patients are skeptical of the healthcare system but often feel powerless. Tiffany argues that consumer apathy is a major barrier—but rising costs could force change from the ground up.📌 Clinicians and Patients Both Hold the Key Tiffany believes change can start with both groups opting out of the broken system. Asking more questions, rejecting rushed visits, and demanding accountability are small acts that can fuel major reform.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 – Introduction to Trump's Executive Order on Drug Pricing 01:08 – Meet Tiffany Ryder: From Rural Louisiana to Healthcare Advocate 03:55 – Key Takeaways from the Executive Order 06:40 – Impact of Most Favored Nation Pricing 09:56 – Challenges and Potential Outcomes 15:23 – The Role of Transparency in Healthcare 24:36 – Generational Shifts in Patient Attitudes 27:06 – Future of Healthcare: Incremental Changes or a Major Overhaul? 29:45 – Conclusion and Farewell

🎧 Replay Episode: Rethinking Healthcare Costs with Direct Pay ModelsAs healthcare expenses continue to rise and insurance premiums stretch beyond affordability, more Americans are exploring alternatives. In this replay episode, we're revisiting a powerful conversation with Dr. Jawad Arshad, CEO of WoW Health Solutions, on how direct pay models could reshape ambulatory care.Dr. Arshad breaks down the benefits, challenges, and potential of a direct pay approach — offering insights into a future where patients and providers interact more freely, transparently, and affordably.Whether you're a healthcare professional, policymaker, or patient, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at how the healthcare system could work better.🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com

In this REPLAY episode of ShiftShapers, host David interviews Paula Muto, a practicing surgeon and founder of Uber Docs. Paula shares her perspective on the inefficiencies in the current healthcare system, comparing buying health insurance to renting an apartment, and advocates for a direct pay model to improve the situation. She explains how Uber Docs facilitates transparent, direct transactions between patients and physicians, ultimately aiming to lower overall healthcare costs by empowering consumers. Key topics include the significant portion of healthcare costs dedicated to management rather than medical care, and how technology and consumer behaviors can drive positive changes in the healthcare landscape.00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest and Topic01:03 Paula Muto's Background and Inspiration02:19 The Flaws in the Current Healthcare System13:47 The Direct Pay Model Explained15:55 How Uber Docs is Revolutionizing Healthcare20:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman sits down with David Blair, founder and CEO of LucyRx, to explore a growing crisis in American healthcare: pharmacy deserts. As rural and underserved communities lose access to local pharmacies, millions are left without a vital link in the healthcare chain. David unpacks the economic and systemic challenges driving pharmacy closures and shares how LucyRx is stepping in to reshape the future of pharmacy care.From the SPARC (Sustaining Pharmacy Access & Rural Care) program to the push for federal regulation, David outlines what it takes to restore pharmacy access, reduce costs, and deliver more integrated care. This conversation also highlights the importance of aligning pharmacy locations with care providers—a proven strategy for improving outcomes and affordability.📌 Related Resources:AMA: Physician Shortage is a National Emergency https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-president-sounds-alarm-national-physician-shortage?utm_source=chatgpt.comHCSC: Linking Medical and Pharmacy Benefits Improves Care https://www.hcsc.com/newsroom/category/affordability/connecting-medical-pharmacy-benefits-improve-care-lower-costs?utm_source=chatgpt.com🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Pharmacy Deserts Are a Healthcare Emergency Millions live without convenient access to a pharmacy, leading to delays in care and worsening health outcomes. David Blair explains how this silent crisis is affecting rural and underserved populations.📌 SPARC: A Scalable Solution for Pharmacy Access LucyRx’s SPARC program brings pharmacy services back into communities through a hybrid of innovation, advocacy, and strategic partnerships.📌 Federal Regulations Could Reverse the Trend David advocates for smarter, centralized policy to address industry-wide economic challenges and ensure that pharmacies remain viable in low-density areas.📌 Integrated Care Saves Money—and Lives Blair highlights how co-locating care and pharmacy services leads to better health outcomes and significantly reduced costs.📌 The Future of Pharmacy Is Local + Digital The industry is evolving toward community-based pharmacy care that is supported by modern tech infrastructure and national reform.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 – Introduction to Rural Pharmacy Challenges 00:09 – Meet David Blair of LucyRx 01:07 – The Role of Pharmacists in Healthcare 01:48 – Understanding Pharmacy Deserts 02:41 – The Impact of Pharmacy Closures 05:31 – LucyRx's SPARC Program 07:18 – Advocating for Federal Regulations 09:58 – Economic Challenges for Pharmacies 17:05 – Integrated Specialty Care Network 20:58 – Future of the Pharmacy Industry 22:47 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman welcomes compliance expert Carol Taylor, JM, of BenefitMall, for a deep dive into the rapidly evolving world of employer compliance. From court rulings and legislative penalties to HIPAA security updates and AI-driven benefit denials, Carol offers critical insights for anyone navigating today’s tangled regulatory landscape.She unpacks the latest on ERISA preemption battles, mental health parity lawsuits, and the real-world impact of complex compliance rules on small agencies and employers. With rising penalties and tech-driven claim denials making headlines, Carol arms listeners with strategies to stay compliant—and stay out of court.🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode📌 Penalties Are Rising—And Enforcement Is Too Missing a CHIP notice or 5500 filing? That could cost thousands per day. Carol outlines the latest penalty increases and why the IRS is stepping up enforcement.📌 HIPAA Security Changes Are Coming From encryption rules to breach simulations, the proposed HIPAA security updates raise the bar—especially for small agencies who now face enterprise-level expectations.📌 Compliance Risks from AI-Powered Claim Denials Carol explains how AI is being used inappropriately by some carriers—and why plan sponsors need to examine how these tools align with ERISA.📌 ERISA, MIA, and Legal Landmines With court cases mounting over PBM regulation and mental health parity, Carol breaks down what’s at stake and how employers can avoid becoming the next headline.📌 Future-Proofing Your Compliance Strategy From updated plan docs to tighter internal protocols, Carol shares best practices that can help advisors and agencies stay ahead of evolving rules.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 – Introduction to Compliance Challenges 02:01 – Legislative Updates and Penalties 09:25 – HIPAA Security Rule Changes 18:11 – Court Cases and Legal Battles 23:20 – Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act 27:00 – Future of Compliance and Final Thoughts

In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman sits down with Neal Shah, co-founder of Counterforce Health, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the fight against denied health insurance claims.Shah shares his personal journey from finance into healthcare advocacy, shaped by firsthand experiences navigating the broken healthcare system for his family. That path ultimately led to the creation of Counterforce Health—a free AI-powered platform that’s helping patients and small clinics appeal insurance claim denials with unprecedented efficiency.With millions of claims denied each year—and most never appealed—Shah explains why automation is the key to leveling the playing field and giving patients back their voice. He also introduces Maxwell, Counterforce’s next-gen AI assistant, and previews the platform’s expanding capabilities for tackling insurers head-on.🤖 Sponsored by BenePower BenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This EpisodeWhy 450 Million Claims Get Denied—and Go Unchallenged Despite the high success rate of appeals, fewer than 2% of denied claims are contested. Shah explains how complexity, red tape, and lack of awareness keep patients and providers from fighting back.From Wall Street to Healthcare Warrior Shah’s journey from finance to elder care—and ultimately to launching a mission-driven tech company—reveals how personal pain points can inspire powerful innovation.How Counterforce Health Uses AI to Automate Appeals The platform generates detailed appeal letters using legal precedents, medical journals, and historical data—empowering users to overturn denials without legal or medical expertise.A 70% Win Rate That’s Beating the Odds While national appeal success rates hover around 40–50%, Counterforce Health is seeing over 70% success—thanks to smart automation and a deep understanding of insurer tactics.Introducing “Maxwell”: AI That Talks Back to Insurers Neal reveals a sneak peek at Maxwell, an AI-powered voice assistant designed to handle phone calls with insurance companies—reducing workload and stress for patients, caregivers, and providers. 🎥 Watch the Maxwell demo: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qckxAYx10cMvA_rL_vfSHxCktF19a9Qa/view⏱️ In This Episode 00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Denied Claims 00:59 Meet Neal Shah: A Journey from Finance to Healthcare 03:22 The Birth of Counterforce Health 06:44 Understanding the Health Insurance Crisis 11:58 Counterforce Health: How It Works 14:42 The Role of AI in Fighting Denied Claims 22:42 Future Prospects and Final Thoughts

In this episode of ShiftShapers, host David A. Saltzman sits down with Vinay Patel, PharmD, founder of MakoRX, to expose why prescription pricing remains so confusing—and what can be done to fix it.Patel breaks down how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), vertical integration, and opaque pricing structures are driving up costs for patients—while limiting access and undermining local pharmacies. From subscription pharmacy programs to cash-pay and compounding models, Patel shares bold, practical solutions for bringing real transparency back into the healthcare system.🤖 Sponsored by BenePowerBenePower is an AI-powered platform helping advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly. By integrating best-in-class point solutions and eliminating inefficiencies, BenePower reduces costs, improves member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at BenePower.com🔑 Key Takeaways from This EpisodeThe Truth About Prescription Pricing Patel explains how PBMs and vertically integrated systems distort drug pricing—making it difficult for patients to know what they’re really paying and why.The Power of Local Pharmacies Community pharmacies often serve as the most frequent healthcare touchpoint for patients. Their role in building trust, offering consultations, and providing accessible services is critical to public health.How MakoRX’s Subscription Pharmacy Program Brings Real Cost Transparency Patel details a model offering 300 commonly prescribed medications for a flat monthly fee—providing predictable costs and supporting a national network of independent pharmacies.Breaking Up Healthcare Oligopolies To fix what’s broken, Patel supports breaking up vertically integrated giants, allowing regional players to compete on quality, service, and fair pricing.The Role of Compounding and Cash-Pay Pharmacies With growing demand for affordability, Patel highlights how compounding and cash-pay pharmacies are offering lower-cost alternatives and bypassing insurance constraints.A Vision for Integrated, Transparent Care Patel explores a future where technology enables collaboration between pharmacists and medical providers—creating a more coordinated, transparent, and patient-focused care model.⏱️ In This Episode00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:54 Vinay Patel's Career Journey 04:28 Challenges in the Healthcare System 05:49 Political Perspectives on Healthcare Reform 14:17 The Role and Importance of Community Pharmacies 20:02 Subscription Pharmacy Programs 25:30 Future Trends in Pharmacy and Healthcare 27:20 Conclusion and Farewell

Part 2 of our deep dive into  Disability Insurance (DI) on the ShiftShapers Podcast goes beyond the basics—diving into strategic implementation, evolving underwriting standards, and revenue-generating opportunities for advisors.In this episode, host David Saltzman continues the conversation with Don Schamay, Regional Director of Executive Benefits at The Principal, to explore how disability insurance can be a transformative tool for both clients and advisors. Don shares his insights on how DI is becoming more accessible and relevant across demographics—from young professionals starting their financial journey to high-income executives looking to protect complex compensation packages. He explains how advisors can offer real value by aligning DI solutions with life stages, business needs, and long-term financial goals.Whether you’re an advisor looking to enhance your client relationships or a business owner considering executive benefits, this episode is packed with actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies.✅ Key Takeaways from the Episode:Young Professionals and DI DI isn’t just for high earners—young professionals stand to gain the most by locking in coverage early, when they’re healthy and premiums are lowest. Don shares how DI can be a cornerstone of early-stage financial planning.Business & Executive Solutions Business owners and C-suite professionals have unique income protection needs. Learn how DI solutions can be customized to protect not only personal income but also business continuity and executive benefits.Underwriting Improvements Traditional DI policies were often viewed as complex and hard to secure, but times have changed. With faster, more flexible underwriting options, advisors can now help clients get covered more efficiently than ever before.Revenue Potential for Advisors DI is more than a risk management tool—it’s a practice-building opportunity. By positioning themselves as income protection strategists, advisors can deepen trust, retain clients, and grow revenue.Advisor Education and Client Communication Don emphasizes the advisor’s role as an educator—helping clients truly understand the risks of income loss and the powerful ways DI can protect what they’ve worked so hard to build.⏳ Episode Timestamps:📌 00:00 – Introduction to Disability Insurance 👩‍⚕️ 01:03 – Understanding the Needs of Young Professionals 🏢 04:52 – Business Solutions for Disability Insurance 💼 09:07 – Executive Benefit Solutions Explained 📝 13:14 – The Underwriting Process and Its Evolution 💰 15:17 – Revenue Opportunities for Advisors 🎓 18:27 – Learning Resources and Final Thoughts📢 This Episode is Sponsored by BenePowerBenePower is an AI-powered platform that helps advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly by integrating the best point solutions, eliminating inefficiencies, and improving collaboration. It streamlines plan creation, reduces costs, enhances member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. 🔗 Learn more at Benepower.com

Welcome to Part One of our deep dive into Disability Insurance (DI) on the ShiftShapers Podcast! In this two-part series. In this episode, host David Saltzman converses with Don Schamay, Regional Director of Executive Benefits at The Principal, about the often-overlooked importance of disability insurance in a comprehensive health insurance strategy. Don shares his journey from military service to a seasoned expert in disability insurance, emphasizing the critical need for both individual and group disability insurance to protect one's income. The discussion covers the prevalence of disability, how group and individual disability insurances differ, and the significance of educating clients about income protection and insurance options.Key Takeaways from the Episode:✅ Importance of DI – Disability insurance (DI) is an often-overlooked but crucial component of a comprehensive health insurance strategy. It provides financial protection if one is unable to work due to illness or injury.✅ Group vs. Individual DI – Group disability insurance often covers basic salary and is a cost-effective, foundational benefit for businesses. Individual DI can supplement group coverage by filling in gaps and covering additional forms of income.✅ Coverage and Income Protection – Properly structured DI ensures that individuals have a safety net that covers up to 80% of their income, considering both salary and other compensations like bonuses and K1 distributions.✅ Market Trends – The DI market has become more competitive and robust, improving the quality and affordability of coverage. Newer carriers have entered the marketplace, stabilizing and enhancing the options available.✅ Advisor’s Role – Advisors must educate clients on the significance of DI, ensuring that they understand the risks and the options for mitigating them. This includes both group and individual solutions tailored to the client's specific needs.Episode Timestamps:⏳ 00:00 Introduction to Disability Insurance 🛡️ 00:48 Don Schamay's Journey into Disability Insurance 💡 02:47 The Importance of Disability Insurance Today 📊 05:57 Understanding Disability Income Protection 🔍 06:57 Group vs. Individual Disability Insurance 📈 11:41 Coordinating Group and Individual Coverage 🎯 17:44 Advisors' Role in Disability Insurance 📉 20:44 Market Stability and Competition📢 This Episode is Sponsored by BenePowerBenePower is an AI-powered platform that helps advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly by integrating the best point solutions, eliminating inefficiencies, and improving collaboration. It streamlines plan creation, reduces costs, enhances member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders.🔗 Learn more at Benepower.com.Resources & Links:🌐 Council for Disability Income Awareness: https://thecdia.org/

In this episode of ShiftShapers, Host David Saltzman  interviews Dave Toeben, president of Insight Insurance Services, about how insurance professionals can enhance their business through business continuation planning. Dave shares his journey from focusing on group health insurance to specializing in buy-sell agreements, key person, and deferred compensation plans. They discuss the importance of reviewing buy-sell agreements, including recent legal changes such as the Conley case, and explore collaborative opportunities for health insurance advisors to expand their services and solidify client relationships.This Episode is Sponsored by BenepowerBenePower is an AI-powered platform that helps advisors build high-impact, self-insured health plans quickly and seamlessly by integrating the best point solutions, eliminating inefficiencies, and improving collaboration. It streamlines plan creation, reduces costs, enhances member outcomes, and positions advisors as industry leaders. Learn more at Benepower.com.Reach out to Dave Toeben at [email protected] or 615-636-1105Scaling Your Insurance Practice: Insights from Business Continuation PlanningShift Beyond Group Health Insurance: Business continuation planning, buy-sell agreements, and key person insurance are essential for scaling a business beyond group health insurance.Importance of Buy-Sell Agreement Review: Regularly reviewing and updating buy-sell agreements is crucial to avoid unintended liabilities and ensure smooth business transitions in case of catastrophe.Disability Insurance Parallel: Often overlooked, disability insurance can be as crucial, if not more so, than life insurance in buy-sell agreements, providing necessary funds if a business owner becomes disabled.Partner Collaboration Opportunities: Health insurance advisors can partner with specialists in business continuation planning to offer comprehensive services without needing to master every aspect themselves.Educational and Revenue Potential: By engaging in business continuation planning, health insurance advisors can not only solidify client relationships but also significantly boost their revenue streams.In This Episode00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:45 Dave Toeben's Career Journey01:13 Transition to Business Continuation Planning02:30 Understanding Business Continuation Planning03:55 Importance of Disability Insurance06:18 Opportunities for Health Insurance Advisors08:27 The Connolly Case and Its Implications10:25 Partnering and Mentorship in Business Continuation18:05 Choosing the Right Carriers20:50 Conclusion and Contact Information