ON THE PULSE with IMA en On the Pulse with IMA gives HR leaders clarity and confidence to navigate the rapidly evolving employee benefits landscape by staying ahead of what’s next before it hits their desk. Each episode features IMA experts and industry innovators who translate data, trends, and emerging ideas into clear, actionable strategies that help employers make meaningful decisions for their people.  https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/2d353198-f7a8-11f0-9244-2b5a2ccf7e36/image/86cf6fb9858c7e6e84f083a13d63331a.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress ON THE PULSE with IMA no episodic Real Conversations in Employee Benefits IMA / tentwentytwo On the Pulse with IMA gives HR leaders clarity and confidence to navigate the rapidly evolving employee benefits landscape by staying ahead of what’s next before it hits their desk. Each episode features IMA experts and industry innovators who translate data, trends, and emerging ideas into clear, actionable strategies that help employers make meaningful decisions for their people.  On the Pulse with IMA gives HR leaders clarity and confidence to navigate the rapidly evolving employee benefits landscape by staying ahead of what’s next before it hits their desk.

Each episode features IMA experts and industry innovators who translate data, trends, and emerging ideas into clear, actionable strategies that help employers make meaningful decisions for their people. 

]]> IMA / tentwentytwo jeff@tentwentytwo.com Taking Control of Healthcare Costs: Insights from Andrew Agress If rising healthcare costs, renewal increases, and pharmacy spend feel impossible to control, this episode shows how employers can explore smarter funding strategies, stronger partnerships, and more transparent solutions. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including healthcare cost management, alternative funding, pharmacy strategy, and workforce wellbeing. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Andrew Agress, Executive Vice President of Employee Benefits at IMA Financial Group, to discuss how employers can respond to rising healthcare costs with greater control, transparency, and confidence. Andrew explains why traditional fully insured and HMO models are becoming harder for some employers to justify, how self-funded and level-funded strategies are opening new possibilities for mid-market organizations, and why pharmacy transparency remains one of the biggest opportunities for savings. They also explore the importance of trusted relationships, HR communities, aggregation and harmonization for private equity and shared-ownership structures, and the role of a broker partner who brings proactive education instead of simply reacting to renewals. Whether you are facing renewal pressure, looking for better data, or wondering if alternative funding is right for your organization, Andrew offers a practical starting point for taking back control of healthcare costs. Guest Bio: Andrew Agress is Executive Vice President of Employee Benefits at IMA Financial Group. Based in Southern California, Andrew has spent more than two decades working with HR leaders and executives to navigate healthcare complexity, carrier negotiations, benefits strategy, and cost control. He also leads and supports HR executive communities through the National Human Resources Association and invite-only roundtables, helping leaders connect, share resources, and solve challenges together. His work focuses on helping employers evaluate smarter funding models, improve access to care, build stronger benefits strategies, and support employees and families when they need care most. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to rising healthcare costs and smarter ways for employers to take control. 01:20 - 02:50: Show intro, Andrew’s Southern California base, and life as a sports dad. 02:50 - 04:55: Andrew’s career path from recruiting to employee benefits. 04:55 - 07:40: Early lessons, culture fit, and the support that shaped his career at IMA. 07:40 - 10:35: Andrew’s current role, client strategy, HR communities, and COVID-era support. 10:35 - 15:00: What client support looks like beyond the traditional broker relationship. 15:00 - 17:55: The value of HR roundtables, community, and trusted relationships. 17:55 - 20:25: The current healthcare market, cost pressure, access challenges, and employer frustration. 20:25 - 22:05: Pharmacy transparency, IMARx, and alternative solutions for cost control. 22:05 - 25:55: Fully insured vs. self-funded models, loss ratios, and HMO renewal pressure. 25:55 - 29:15: Client example: moving from fully insured to self-funded, reference-based pricing, and direct provider negotiations. 29:15 - 32:40: Aggregation and harmonization for private equity firms and shared-ownership structures. 32:40 - 35:25: The future of alternative funding, level funding, captives, consortiums, and data access. 35:25 - 38:10: The first step employers should take when evaluating funding options. 38:10 - 42:30: What keeps Andrew motivated: community, impact, innovation, and trusted client relationships. 42:30 - 45:55: Future optimism around transparency, equitable pricing, and employer control. 45:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including healthcare cost management, alternative funding, pharmacy strategy, and workforce wellbeing. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Sat, 30 May 2026 13:49:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If rising healthcare costs, renewal increases, and pharmacy spend feel impossible to control, this episode shows how employers can explore smarter funding strategies, stronger partnerships, and more transparent solutions. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including healthcare cost management, alternative funding, pharmacy strategy, and workforce wellbeing. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Andrew Agress, Executive Vice President of Employee Benefits at IMA Financial Group, to discuss how employers can respond to rising healthcare costs with greater control, transparency, and confidence. Andrew explains why traditional fully insured and HMO models are becoming harder for some employers to justify, how self-funded and level-funded strategies are opening new possibilities for mid-market organizations, and why pharmacy transparency remains one of the biggest opportunities for savings. They also explore the importance of trusted relationships, HR communities, aggregation and harmonization for private equity and shared-ownership structures, and the role of a broker partner who brings proactive education instead of simply reacting to renewals. Whether you are facing renewal pressure, looking for better data, or wondering if alternative funding is right for your organization, Andrew offers a practical starting point for taking back control of healthcare costs. Guest Bio: Andrew Agress is Executive Vice President of Employee Benefits at IMA Financial Group. Based in Southern California, Andrew has spent more than two decades working with HR leaders and executives to navigate healthcare complexity, carrier negotiations, benefits strategy, and cost control. He also leads and supports HR executive communities through the National Human Resources Association and invite-only roundtables, helping leaders connect, share resources, and solve challenges together. His work focuses on helping employers evaluate smarter funding models, improve access to care, build stronger benefits strategies, and support employees and families when they need care most. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to rising healthcare costs and smarter ways for employers to take control. 01:20 - 02:50: Show intro, Andrew’s Southern California base, and life as a sports dad. 02:50 - 04:55: Andrew’s career path from recruiting to employee benefits. 04:55 - 07:40: Early lessons, culture fit, and the support that shaped his career at IMA. 07:40 - 10:35: Andrew’s current role, client strategy, HR communities, and COVID-era support. 10:35 - 15:00: What client support looks like beyond the traditional broker relationship. 15:00 - 17:55: The value of HR roundtables, community, and trusted relationships. 17:55 - 20:25: The current healthcare market, cost pressure, access challenges, and employer frustration. 20:25 - 22:05: Pharmacy transparency, IMARx, and alternative solutions for cost control. 22:05 - 25:55: Fully insured vs. self-funded models, loss ratios, and HMO renewal pressure. 25:55 - 29:15: Client example: moving from fully insured to self-funded, reference-based pricing, and direct provider negotiations. 29:15 - 32:40: Aggregation and harmonization for private equity firms and shared-ownership structures. 32:40 - 35:25: The future of alternative funding, level funding, captives, consortiums, and data access. 35:25 - 38:10: The first step employers should take when evaluating funding options. 38:10 - 42:30: What keeps Andrew motivated: community, impact, innovation, and trusted client relationships. 42:30 - 45:55: Future optimism around transparency, equitable pricing, and employer control. 45:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including healthcare cost management, alternative funding, pharmacy strategy, and workforce wellbeing. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If rising healthcare costs, renewal increases, and pharmacy spend feel impossible to control, this episode shows how employers can explore smarter funding strategies, stronger partnerships, and more transparent solutions.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including healthcare cost management, alternative funding, pharmacy strategy, and workforce wellbeing. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Andrew Agress, Executive Vice President of Employee Benefits at IMA Financial Group, to discuss how employers can respond to rising healthcare costs with greater control, transparency, and confidence. Andrew explains why traditional fully insured and HMO models are becoming harder for some employers to justify, how self-funded and level-funded strategies are opening new possibilities for mid-market organizations, and why pharmacy transparency remains one of the biggest opportunities for savings. They also explore the importance of trusted relationships, HR communities, aggregation and harmonization for private equity and shared-ownership structures, and the role of a broker partner who brings proactive education instead of simply reacting to renewals. Whether you are facing renewal pressure, looking for better data, or wondering if alternative funding is right for your organization, Andrew offers a practical starting point for taking back control of healthcare costs.

Guest Bio: Andrew Agress is Executive Vice President of Employee Benefits at IMA Financial Group. Based in Southern California, Andrew has spent more than two decades working with HR leaders and executives to navigate healthcare complexity, carrier negotiations, benefits strategy, and cost control. He also leads and supports HR executive communities through the National Human Resources Association and invite-only roundtables, helping leaders connect, share resources, and solve challenges together. His work focuses on helping employers evaluate smarter funding models, improve access to care, build stronger benefits strategies, and support employees and families when they need care most.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

  • 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to rising healthcare costs and smarter ways for employers to take control.
  • 01:20 - 02:50: Show intro, Andrew’s Southern California base, and life as a sports dad.
  • 02:50 - 04:55: Andrew’s career path from recruiting to employee benefits.
  • 04:55 - 07:40: Early lessons, culture fit, and the support that shaped his career at IMA.
  • 07:40 - 10:35: Andrew’s current role, client strategy, HR communities, and COVID-era support.
  • 10:35 - 15:00: What client support looks like beyond the traditional broker relationship.
  • 15:00 - 17:55: The value of HR roundtables, community, and trusted relationships.
  • 17:55 - 20:25: The current healthcare market, cost pressure, access challenges, and employer frustration.
  • 20:25 - 22:05: Pharmacy transparency, IMARx, and alternative solutions for cost control.
  • 22:05 - 25:55: Fully insured vs. self-funded models, loss ratios, and HMO renewal pressure.
  • 25:55 - 29:15: Client example: moving from fully insured to self-funded, reference-based pricing, and direct provider negotiations.
  • 29:15 - 32:40: Aggregation and harmonization for private equity firms and shared-ownership structures.
  • 32:40 - 35:25: The future of alternative funding, level funding, captives, consortiums, and data access.
  • 35:25 - 38:10: The first step employers should take when evaluating funding options.
  • 38:10 - 42:30: What keeps Andrew motivated: community, impact, innovation, and trusted client relationships.
  • 42:30 - 45:55: Future optimism around transparency, equitable pricing, and employer control.
  • 45:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including healthcare cost management, alternative funding, pharmacy strategy, and workforce wellbeing. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2883 Why Employees Stay: Leadership Communication Insights from Gary Butterworth If your organization is trying to improve retention with more perks, surveys, or exit interviews, this episode shows why the real opportunity may be the conversations leaders are not having. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including workforce wellbeing, employee engagement, retention, and leadership communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Gary Butterworth, a communication expert, speaker, trainer, and former broadcaster, to discuss why employee retention often comes down to the quality of the relationship between a leader and their people. Gary explains why perks and surveys are not enough, how one-on-one conversations build trust, and why stay interviews can reveal what exit interviews often miss. They explore the difference between efficiency and effectiveness, the role of active listening, how leaders can create space for honest dialogue, and why Gary prefers to call stay interviews “bespoke career-centered conversations.” From practical questions leaders can ask to advice for handling unexpected responses, this conversation offers a clear reminder that employees are more likely to stay when they feel seen, heard, supported, and able to grow. Guest Bio: Gary Butterworth is a communication expert, speaker, trainer, former broadcaster, and longtime Toastmasters participant. His career has included radio, television weathercasting, teaching, training, and leadership communication. Known for his energy, humor, and practical approach to interpersonal skills, Gary helps leaders strengthen workplace relationships through better listening, more meaningful conversations, and communication practices that build trust and engagement. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:05: Introduction to retention, leadership communication, and why employees leave. 01:05 - 01:34: Show intro and welcome. 01:34 - 03:32: Gary shares his career journey from radio and TV to speaking, training, and Toastmasters. 03:32 - 05:51: How broadcasting, listening, and interpersonal skills shaped Gary’s communication approach. 05:51 - 08:31: Why retention is less about perks and more about leader-employee relationships. 08:31 - 11:11: Why surveys are not enough and why one-on-one conversations are more effective. 11:11 - 14:56: Stay interviews versus exit interviews, and how trust influences whether employees stay. 14:56 - 19:49: How employees can approach stay conversations and why leaders must build credibility over time. 19:49 - 23:27: Gary’s “bespoke career-centered conversation” approach and why it should be separate from performance reviews. 23:27 - 26:29: The communication skills leaders need: active listening, follow-up questions, note-taking, and curiosity. 26:29 - 29:30: How hesitant leaders can prepare through role-playing and practice. 29:30 - 34:45: Sample stay interview questions and how leaders can listen for meaning, motivation, and growth opportunities. 34:45 - 38:27: How leaders should respond when employees share unexpected or difficult feedback. 38:27 - 43:00: The future of leader-employee relationships, emotional intelligence, AI, and creating meaning at work. 43:00 - 45:38: Why communication may separate organizations that retain talent from those that struggle. 45:38 - 47:29: Gary’s final takeaway: meet one-on-one, grow your people, and build trust consistently. 47:29 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including workforce wellbeing, employee engagement, retention, and leadership communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Sat, 30 May 2026 13:47:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If your organization is trying to improve retention with more perks, surveys, or exit interviews, this episode shows why the real opportunity may be the conversations leaders are not having. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including workforce wellbeing, employee engagement, retention, and leadership communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Gary Butterworth, a communication expert, speaker, trainer, and former broadcaster, to discuss why employee retention often comes down to the quality of the relationship between a leader and their people. Gary explains why perks and surveys are not enough, how one-on-one conversations build trust, and why stay interviews can reveal what exit interviews often miss. They explore the difference between efficiency and effectiveness, the role of active listening, how leaders can create space for honest dialogue, and why Gary prefers to call stay interviews “bespoke career-centered conversations.” From practical questions leaders can ask to advice for handling unexpected responses, this conversation offers a clear reminder that employees are more likely to stay when they feel seen, heard, supported, and able to grow. Guest Bio: Gary Butterworth is a communication expert, speaker, trainer, former broadcaster, and longtime Toastmasters participant. His career has included radio, television weathercasting, teaching, training, and leadership communication. Known for his energy, humor, and practical approach to interpersonal skills, Gary helps leaders strengthen workplace relationships through better listening, more meaningful conversations, and communication practices that build trust and engagement. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:05: Introduction to retention, leadership communication, and why employees leave. 01:05 - 01:34: Show intro and welcome. 01:34 - 03:32: Gary shares his career journey from radio and TV to speaking, training, and Toastmasters. 03:32 - 05:51: How broadcasting, listening, and interpersonal skills shaped Gary’s communication approach. 05:51 - 08:31: Why retention is less about perks and more about leader-employee relationships. 08:31 - 11:11: Why surveys are not enough and why one-on-one conversations are more effective. 11:11 - 14:56: Stay interviews versus exit interviews, and how trust influences whether employees stay. 14:56 - 19:49: How employees can approach stay conversations and why leaders must build credibility over time. 19:49 - 23:27: Gary’s “bespoke career-centered conversation” approach and why it should be separate from performance reviews. 23:27 - 26:29: The communication skills leaders need: active listening, follow-up questions, note-taking, and curiosity. 26:29 - 29:30: How hesitant leaders can prepare through role-playing and practice. 29:30 - 34:45: Sample stay interview questions and how leaders can listen for meaning, motivation, and growth opportunities. 34:45 - 38:27: How leaders should respond when employees share unexpected or difficult feedback. 38:27 - 43:00: The future of leader-employee relationships, emotional intelligence, AI, and creating meaning at work. 43:00 - 45:38: Why communication may separate organizations that retain talent from those that struggle. 45:38 - 47:29: Gary’s final takeaway: meet one-on-one, grow your people, and build trust consistently. 47:29 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including workforce wellbeing, employee engagement, retention, and leadership communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If your organization is trying to improve retention with more perks, surveys, or exit interviews, this episode shows why the real opportunity may be the conversations leaders are not having.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including workforce wellbeing, employee engagement, retention, and leadership communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Gary Butterworth, a communication expert, speaker, trainer, and former broadcaster, to discuss why employee retention often comes down to the quality of the relationship between a leader and their people. Gary explains why perks and surveys are not enough, how one-on-one conversations build trust, and why stay interviews can reveal what exit interviews often miss. They explore the difference between efficiency and effectiveness, the role of active listening, how leaders can create space for honest dialogue, and why Gary prefers to call stay interviews “bespoke career-centered conversations.” From practical questions leaders can ask to advice for handling unexpected responses, this conversation offers a clear reminder that employees are more likely to stay when they feel seen, heard, supported, and able to grow.

Guest Bio: Gary Butterworth is a communication expert, speaker, trainer, former broadcaster, and longtime Toastmasters participant. His career has included radio, television weathercasting, teaching, training, and leadership communication. Known for his energy, humor, and practical approach to interpersonal skills, Gary helps leaders strengthen workplace relationships through better listening, more meaningful conversations, and communication practices that build trust and engagement.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

  • 00:00 - 01:05: Introduction to retention, leadership communication, and why employees leave.
  • 01:05 - 01:34: Show intro and welcome.
  • 01:34 - 03:32: Gary shares his career journey from radio and TV to speaking, training, and Toastmasters.
  • 03:32 - 05:51: How broadcasting, listening, and interpersonal skills shaped Gary’s communication approach.
  • 05:51 - 08:31: Why retention is less about perks and more about leader-employee relationships.
  • 08:31 - 11:11: Why surveys are not enough and why one-on-one conversations are more effective.
  • 11:11 - 14:56: Stay interviews versus exit interviews, and how trust influences whether employees stay.
  • 14:56 - 19:49: How employees can approach stay conversations and why leaders must build credibility over time.
  • 19:49 - 23:27: Gary’s “bespoke career-centered conversation” approach and why it should be separate from performance reviews.
  • 23:27 - 26:29: The communication skills leaders need: active listening, follow-up questions, note-taking, and curiosity.
  • 26:29 - 29:30: How hesitant leaders can prepare through role-playing and practice.
  • 29:30 - 34:45: Sample stay interview questions and how leaders can listen for meaning, motivation, and growth opportunities.
  • 34:45 - 38:27: How leaders should respond when employees share unexpected or difficult feedback.
  • 38:27 - 43:00: The future of leader-employee relationships, emotional intelligence, AI, and creating meaning at work.
  • 43:00 - 45:38: Why communication may separate organizations that retain talent from those that struggle.
  • 45:38 - 47:29: Gary’s final takeaway: meet one-on-one, grow your people, and build trust consistently.
  • 47:29 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including workforce wellbeing, employee engagement, retention, and leadership communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2974 Finding the Hidden Costs in Pharmacy Benefits: Insights from Matt Collier If pharmacy benefits feel like one of the least transparent parts of your health plan strategy, this episode shows how employers can look beyond the spreadsheet, ask better questions, and uncover real opportunities for savings. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including pharmacy strategy, healthcare cost management, transparency, and smarter plan design. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Matt Collier of IMA Financial Group to explore why pharmacy benefits have become one of the fastest-growing and most complex areas of healthcare spend. Matt explains why many employers lack visibility into their PBM contracts, how spreadsheet comparisons can miss important contract details, and why words, exclusions, rebate structures, audit rights, and pricing guarantees all matter. They discuss IMA Pharmacy Consulting, the importance of transparency and accountability, the role of regulation, and why employers should begin evaluating their pharmacy strategy now instead of waiting for new rules to take effect. Matt also breaks down specialty drug costs, GLP-1 coverage considerations, biosimilars, prior authorization, step therapy, IMARx, and the difference between a lowest net cost strategy and a rebate-driven approach. Whether you are reviewing your PBM contract, preparing for an RFP, or simply trying to understand where pharmacy spend is going, this episode offers a practical roadmap for taking a more proactive approach. Guest Bio: Matt Collier is a pharmacy benefits specialist at IMA Financial Group. Based in Denver, Matt has been with IMA for 19 years and has worked across financial analysis, self-funding, PBM strategy, and pharmacy consulting. His work focuses on helping employers better understand pharmacy benefit contracts, evaluate PBM arrangements, identify hidden cost drivers, and build more transparent, accountable pharmacy strategies. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 00:55: Introduction to pharmacy benefits as a fast-growing and complex area of healthcare spend. 00:55 - 01:25: Show intro and welcome. 01:25 - 02:41: Matt introduces himself, his Denver base, family life, and 19-year career at IMA. 02:41 - 03:48: How Matt moved into pharmacy benefits and helped build IMA’s pharmacy consulting capabilities. 03:48 - 05:23: What IMA Pharmacy Consulting is and why IMA built this internal expertise. 05:23 - 06:36: Common gaps employers face with PBM contracts, hidden fees, AWP discounts, and contract language. 06:36 - 09:27: Simplifying pharmacy complexity through analogies like the detailed horse, snorkeling, scuba diving, and the iceberg. 09:27 - 10:37: Why employers are asking more questions about PBMs, GLP-1s, rebates, and pharmacy strategy. 10:37 - 13:10: Why many employers still lack transparency and control in pharmacy benefits. 13:10 - 14:39: Why spreadsheet comparisons are only the surface of PBM evaluation. 14:39 - 16:03: How regulation is changing the PBM landscape and why consultants need to act now. 16:03 - 17:09: What employers can do today to begin evaluating their current pharmacy arrangement. 17:09 - 19:44: How IMA engages with clients from first review through procurement, implementation, and ongoing monitoring. 19:44 - 22:13: Where savings opportunities often appear, including contract terms, exclusions, benchmarks, GLP-1s, step therapy, prior authorization, and biosimilars. 22:13 - 23:43: Strategies for specialty drugs, specialty carve-outs, clinical programs, IMARx, and lowest net cost management. 23:43 - 25:26: Why GLP-1s are in a league of their own and how employers can think through coverage decisions. 25:26 - 27:42: Lowest net cost versus rebate-driven strategies and why higher rebates do not always mean lower total cost. 27:42 - 29:11: When employers should consider running a PBM RFP or procurement process. 29:11 - 30:48: Where pharmacy benefits are headed and why transparency, visibility, and cost management will remain critical. 30:48 - 32:40: Matt’s advice for employers: demand transparency, ask better questions, and review contracts proactively. 32:40 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including pharmacy strategy, healthcare cost management, transparency, and smarter plan design. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Sat, 30 May 2026 13:45:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If pharmacy benefits feel like one of the least transparent parts of your health plan strategy, this episode shows how employers can look beyond the spreadsheet, ask better questions, and uncover real opportunities for savings. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including pharmacy strategy, healthcare cost management, transparency, and smarter plan design. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Matt Collier of IMA Financial Group to explore why pharmacy benefits have become one of the fastest-growing and most complex areas of healthcare spend. Matt explains why many employers lack visibility into their PBM contracts, how spreadsheet comparisons can miss important contract details, and why words, exclusions, rebate structures, audit rights, and pricing guarantees all matter. They discuss IMA Pharmacy Consulting, the importance of transparency and accountability, the role of regulation, and why employers should begin evaluating their pharmacy strategy now instead of waiting for new rules to take effect. Matt also breaks down specialty drug costs, GLP-1 coverage considerations, biosimilars, prior authorization, step therapy, IMARx, and the difference between a lowest net cost strategy and a rebate-driven approach. Whether you are reviewing your PBM contract, preparing for an RFP, or simply trying to understand where pharmacy spend is going, this episode offers a practical roadmap for taking a more proactive approach. Guest Bio: Matt Collier is a pharmacy benefits specialist at IMA Financial Group. Based in Denver, Matt has been with IMA for 19 years and has worked across financial analysis, self-funding, PBM strategy, and pharmacy consulting. His work focuses on helping employers better understand pharmacy benefit contracts, evaluate PBM arrangements, identify hidden cost drivers, and build more transparent, accountable pharmacy strategies. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 00:55: Introduction to pharmacy benefits as a fast-growing and complex area of healthcare spend. 00:55 - 01:25: Show intro and welcome. 01:25 - 02:41: Matt introduces himself, his Denver base, family life, and 19-year career at IMA. 02:41 - 03:48: How Matt moved into pharmacy benefits and helped build IMA’s pharmacy consulting capabilities. 03:48 - 05:23: What IMA Pharmacy Consulting is and why IMA built this internal expertise. 05:23 - 06:36: Common gaps employers face with PBM contracts, hidden fees, AWP discounts, and contract language. 06:36 - 09:27: Simplifying pharmacy complexity through analogies like the detailed horse, snorkeling, scuba diving, and the iceberg. 09:27 - 10:37: Why employers are asking more questions about PBMs, GLP-1s, rebates, and pharmacy strategy. 10:37 - 13:10: Why many employers still lack transparency and control in pharmacy benefits. 13:10 - 14:39: Why spreadsheet comparisons are only the surface of PBM evaluation. 14:39 - 16:03: How regulation is changing the PBM landscape and why consultants need to act now. 16:03 - 17:09: What employers can do today to begin evaluating their current pharmacy arrangement. 17:09 - 19:44: How IMA engages with clients from first review through procurement, implementation, and ongoing monitoring. 19:44 - 22:13: Where savings opportunities often appear, including contract terms, exclusions, benchmarks, GLP-1s, step therapy, prior authorization, and biosimilars. 22:13 - 23:43: Strategies for specialty drugs, specialty carve-outs, clinical programs, IMARx, and lowest net cost management. 23:43 - 25:26: Why GLP-1s are in a league of their own and how employers can think through coverage decisions. 25:26 - 27:42: Lowest net cost versus rebate-driven strategies and why higher rebates do not always mean lower total cost. 27:42 - 29:11: When employers should consider running a PBM RFP or procurement process. 29:11 - 30:48: Where pharmacy benefits are headed and why transparency, visibility, and cost management will remain critical. 30:48 - 32:40: Matt’s advice for employers: demand transparency, ask better questions, and review contracts proactively. 32:40 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including pharmacy strategy, healthcare cost management, transparency, and smarter plan design. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If pharmacy benefits feel like one of the least transparent parts of your health plan strategy, this episode shows how employers can look beyond the spreadsheet, ask better questions, and uncover real opportunities for savings.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including pharmacy strategy, healthcare cost management, transparency, and smarter plan design. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Matt Collier of IMA Financial Group to explore why pharmacy benefits have become one of the fastest-growing and most complex areas of healthcare spend. Matt explains why many employers lack visibility into their PBM contracts, how spreadsheet comparisons can miss important contract details, and why words, exclusions, rebate structures, audit rights, and pricing guarantees all matter. They discuss IMA Pharmacy Consulting, the importance of transparency and accountability, the role of regulation, and why employers should begin evaluating their pharmacy strategy now instead of waiting for new rules to take effect. Matt also breaks down specialty drug costs, GLP-1 coverage considerations, biosimilars, prior authorization, step therapy, IMARx, and the difference between a lowest net cost strategy and a rebate-driven approach. Whether you are reviewing your PBM contract, preparing for an RFP, or simply trying to understand where pharmacy spend is going, this episode offers a practical roadmap for taking a more proactive approach.

Guest Bio: Matt Collier is a pharmacy benefits specialist at IMA Financial Group. Based in Denver, Matt has been with IMA for 19 years and has worked across financial analysis, self-funding, PBM strategy, and pharmacy consulting. His work focuses on helping employers better understand pharmacy benefit contracts, evaluate PBM arrangements, identify hidden cost drivers, and build more transparent, accountable pharmacy strategies.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

  • 00:00 - 00:55: Introduction to pharmacy benefits as a fast-growing and complex area of healthcare spend.
  • 00:55 - 01:25: Show intro and welcome.
  • 01:25 - 02:41: Matt introduces himself, his Denver base, family life, and 19-year career at IMA.
  • 02:41 - 03:48: How Matt moved into pharmacy benefits and helped build IMA’s pharmacy consulting capabilities.
  • 03:48 - 05:23: What IMA Pharmacy Consulting is and why IMA built this internal expertise.
  • 05:23 - 06:36: Common gaps employers face with PBM contracts, hidden fees, AWP discounts, and contract language.
  • 06:36 - 09:27: Simplifying pharmacy complexity through analogies like the detailed horse, snorkeling, scuba diving, and the iceberg.
  • 09:27 - 10:37: Why employers are asking more questions about PBMs, GLP-1s, rebates, and pharmacy strategy.
  • 10:37 - 13:10: Why many employers still lack transparency and control in pharmacy benefits.
  • 13:10 - 14:39: Why spreadsheet comparisons are only the surface of PBM evaluation.
  • 14:39 - 16:03: How regulation is changing the PBM landscape and why consultants need to act now.
  • 16:03 - 17:09: What employers can do today to begin evaluating their current pharmacy arrangement.
  • 17:09 - 19:44: How IMA engages with clients from first review through procurement, implementation, and ongoing monitoring.
  • 19:44 - 22:13: Where savings opportunities often appear, including contract terms, exclusions, benchmarks, GLP-1s, step therapy, prior authorization, and biosimilars.
  • 22:13 - 23:43: Strategies for specialty drugs, specialty carve-outs, clinical programs, IMARx, and lowest net cost management.
  • 23:43 - 25:26: Why GLP-1s are in a league of their own and how employers can think through coverage decisions.
  • 25:26 - 27:42: Lowest net cost versus rebate-driven strategies and why higher rebates do not always mean lower total cost.
  • 27:42 - 29:11: When employers should consider running a PBM RFP or procurement process.
  • 29:11 - 30:48: Where pharmacy benefits are headed and why transparency, visibility, and cost management will remain critical.
  • 30:48 - 32:40: Matt’s advice for employers: demand transparency, ask better questions, and review contracts proactively.
  • 32:40 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including pharmacy strategy, healthcare cost management, transparency, and smarter plan design. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2085 Making Benefits Personal with AI: Insights from Pauline Roteta If employees are spending only minutes choosing benefits that can shape their financial lives for an entire year, this episode explores how AI can help make benefits more personal, more useful, and easier to understand. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including AI, personalization, employee engagement, and benefits communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Pauline Roteta, CEO and Co-Founder of Pasito, to discuss how AI is changing the employee benefits experience. Pauline shares how her background in finance, including her time at BlackRock and her work as a CFA and CFP, shaped her view of benefits as a critical part of an employee’s financial life. They explore why employees spend so little time choosing benefits, why one-time open enrollment communication falls short, and how personalized, year-round support can help people better understand and use the programs available to them. Pauline also explains the difference between generic AI and vertical, purpose-built AI, how AI agents can reduce manual work for employers, brokers, and carriers, and why benefits will always remain a deeply human business. Whether you are evaluating AI tools, looking to improve benefits engagement, or trying to help employees see the full value of their benefits package, Pauline offers a practical look at where the industry is headed next. Guest Bio: Pauline Roteta is the CEO and Co-Founder of Pasito, an AI-native benefits workspace designed to help employers, brokers, carriers, and employees improve the way benefits are built, delivered, and experienced. Before founding Pasito, Pauline worked at BlackRock as a Senior Investor and Portfolio Manager. She is a CFA and Certified Financial Planner, bringing a financial planning lens to health, wealth, and total rewards strategy. Her work focuses on using AI to simplify complex benefits workflows, personalize employee support, and help organizations deliver a better year-round benefits experience. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:01: Introduction to the 18-minute benefits decision problem and the promise of AI. 01:01 - 01:31: Show intro and welcome. 01:31 - 03:22: Pauline’s background at BlackRock, becoming a CFP, and the path to Pasito. 03:22 - 05:11: What Pasito does and how its AI-native benefits workspace works. 05:11 - 07:20: How Pasito evolved from decision support to a broader AI benefits workbench. 07:20 - 10:15: Surprises from the market, unified systems, and stronger employee engagement. 10:15 - 14:21: Why employees spend so little time choosing benefits and why that matters. 14:21 - 18:18: Moving from one-time open enrollment to personalized, year-round benefits support. 18:18 - 20:36: Pauline’s vision for AI as foundational infrastructure in employee benefits. 20:36 - 23:39: What people misunderstand about AI, hallucination risk, vertical AI, and agentic AI. 23:39 - 28:22: How Pauline’s finance background shapes her view of benefits, total rewards, and employee decision-making. 28:22 - 32:30: Long-term value, ROI, engagement, and how AI can help HR teams understand what employees need. 32:30 - 35:12: How brokers and consultants can use AI to reduce manual work and focus on higher-value client support. 35:12 - 38:41: Practical first steps for consultants who want to understand and apply AI. 38:41 - 43:15: How to evaluate AI partners, start with a use case, and manage change effectively. 43:15 - 47:35: What great could look like five years from now as AI reshapes benefits administration and employee experience. 47:35 - 48:26: Final reflections on AI, benefits, and the need for a part two. 48:26 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including AI, personalization, employee engagement, and benefits communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Sat, 30 May 2026 13:43:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If employees are spending only minutes choosing benefits that can shape their financial lives for an entire year, this episode explores how AI can help make benefits more personal, more useful, and easier to understand. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including AI, personalization, employee engagement, and benefits communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Pauline Roteta, CEO and Co-Founder of Pasito, to discuss how AI is changing the employee benefits experience. Pauline shares how her background in finance, including her time at BlackRock and her work as a CFA and CFP, shaped her view of benefits as a critical part of an employee’s financial life. They explore why employees spend so little time choosing benefits, why one-time open enrollment communication falls short, and how personalized, year-round support can help people better understand and use the programs available to them. Pauline also explains the difference between generic AI and vertical, purpose-built AI, how AI agents can reduce manual work for employers, brokers, and carriers, and why benefits will always remain a deeply human business. Whether you are evaluating AI tools, looking to improve benefits engagement, or trying to help employees see the full value of their benefits package, Pauline offers a practical look at where the industry is headed next. Guest Bio: Pauline Roteta is the CEO and Co-Founder of Pasito, an AI-native benefits workspace designed to help employers, brokers, carriers, and employees improve the way benefits are built, delivered, and experienced. Before founding Pasito, Pauline worked at BlackRock as a Senior Investor and Portfolio Manager. She is a CFA and Certified Financial Planner, bringing a financial planning lens to health, wealth, and total rewards strategy. Her work focuses on using AI to simplify complex benefits workflows, personalize employee support, and help organizations deliver a better year-round benefits experience. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:01: Introduction to the 18-minute benefits decision problem and the promise of AI. 01:01 - 01:31: Show intro and welcome. 01:31 - 03:22: Pauline’s background at BlackRock, becoming a CFP, and the path to Pasito. 03:22 - 05:11: What Pasito does and how its AI-native benefits workspace works. 05:11 - 07:20: How Pasito evolved from decision support to a broader AI benefits workbench. 07:20 - 10:15: Surprises from the market, unified systems, and stronger employee engagement. 10:15 - 14:21: Why employees spend so little time choosing benefits and why that matters. 14:21 - 18:18: Moving from one-time open enrollment to personalized, year-round benefits support. 18:18 - 20:36: Pauline’s vision for AI as foundational infrastructure in employee benefits. 20:36 - 23:39: What people misunderstand about AI, hallucination risk, vertical AI, and agentic AI. 23:39 - 28:22: How Pauline’s finance background shapes her view of benefits, total rewards, and employee decision-making. 28:22 - 32:30: Long-term value, ROI, engagement, and how AI can help HR teams understand what employees need. 32:30 - 35:12: How brokers and consultants can use AI to reduce manual work and focus on higher-value client support. 35:12 - 38:41: Practical first steps for consultants who want to understand and apply AI. 38:41 - 43:15: How to evaluate AI partners, start with a use case, and manage change effectively. 43:15 - 47:35: What great could look like five years from now as AI reshapes benefits administration and employee experience. 47:35 - 48:26: Final reflections on AI, benefits, and the need for a part two. 48:26 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including AI, personalization, employee engagement, and benefits communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If employees are spending only minutes choosing benefits that can shape their financial lives for an entire year, this episode explores how AI can help make benefits more personal, more useful, and easier to understand.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including AI, personalization, employee engagement, and benefits communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Pauline Roteta, CEO and Co-Founder of Pasito, to discuss how AI is changing the employee benefits experience. Pauline shares how her background in finance, including her time at BlackRock and her work as a CFA and CFP, shaped her view of benefits as a critical part of an employee’s financial life. They explore why employees spend so little time choosing benefits, why one-time open enrollment communication falls short, and how personalized, year-round support can help people better understand and use the programs available to them. Pauline also explains the difference between generic AI and vertical, purpose-built AI, how AI agents can reduce manual work for employers, brokers, and carriers, and why benefits will always remain a deeply human business. Whether you are evaluating AI tools, looking to improve benefits engagement, or trying to help employees see the full value of their benefits package, Pauline offers a practical look at where the industry is headed next.

Guest Bio: Pauline Roteta is the CEO and Co-Founder of Pasito, an AI-native benefits workspace designed to help employers, brokers, carriers, and employees improve the way benefits are built, delivered, and experienced. Before founding Pasito, Pauline worked at BlackRock as a Senior Investor and Portfolio Manager. She is a CFA and Certified Financial Planner, bringing a financial planning lens to health, wealth, and total rewards strategy. Her work focuses on using AI to simplify complex benefits workflows, personalize employee support, and help organizations deliver a better year-round benefits experience.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

  • 00:00 - 01:01: Introduction to the 18-minute benefits decision problem and the promise of AI.
  • 01:01 - 01:31: Show intro and welcome.
  • 01:31 - 03:22: Pauline’s background at BlackRock, becoming a CFP, and the path to Pasito.
  • 03:22 - 05:11: What Pasito does and how its AI-native benefits workspace works.
  • 05:11 - 07:20: How Pasito evolved from decision support to a broader AI benefits workbench.
  • 07:20 - 10:15: Surprises from the market, unified systems, and stronger employee engagement.
  • 10:15 - 14:21: Why employees spend so little time choosing benefits and why that matters.
  • 14:21 - 18:18: Moving from one-time open enrollment to personalized, year-round benefits support.
  • 18:18 - 20:36: Pauline’s vision for AI as foundational infrastructure in employee benefits.
  • 20:36 - 23:39: What people misunderstand about AI, hallucination risk, vertical AI, and agentic AI.
  • 23:39 - 28:22: How Pauline’s finance background shapes her view of benefits, total rewards, and employee decision-making.
  • 28:22 - 32:30: Long-term value, ROI, engagement, and how AI can help HR teams understand what employees need.
  • 32:30 - 35:12: How brokers and consultants can use AI to reduce manual work and focus on higher-value client support.
  • 35:12 - 38:41: Practical first steps for consultants who want to understand and apply AI.
  • 38:41 - 43:15: How to evaluate AI partners, start with a use case, and manage change effectively.
  • 43:15 - 47:35: What great could look like five years from now as AI reshapes benefits administration and employee experience.
  • 47:35 - 48:26: Final reflections on AI, benefits, and the need for a part two.
  • 48:26 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including AI, personalization, employee engagement, and benefits communication. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 3036 Navigating Medicare with Confidence: Insights from Leigh Bennett and Catherine White If Medicare feels overwhelming, confusing, or full of costly deadlines, this episode breaks down the basics and shows how the right guidance can turn a stressful healthcare transition into a confident decision. Resources Mentioned: Medicare.gov – Visit the official Medicare website to compare plans, review costs, understand enrollment periods, and access reliable Medicare information. State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP – Connect with state-based Medicare counselors for additional education and support. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Leigh Bennett and Catherine White of IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services team to make Medicare feel less intimidating and more manageable. Leigh and Catherine explain the different parts of Medicare, including Parts A, B, C, and D, and walk through the major decisions individuals face when approaching age 65 or transitioning later at retirement. They discuss common misconceptions around Social Security, employer coverage, COBRA, HSAs, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage plans, and late enrollment penalties. They also explain why timing matters, how Medicare coordinates with employer-sponsored coverage, and why COBRA can create a false sense of security for Medicare-eligible individuals. Whether you are approaching Medicare yourself, helping a parent or spouse through the process, or supporting employees preparing for retirement, this episode offers practical guidance, reassurance, and a clearer path forward. Guest Bio: Leigh Bennett is part of IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services team and has spent more than a decade helping individuals navigate the transition to Medicare. Based in Dallas, Leigh began her career in communications, media, and professional development before moving into employee benefits and Medicare advisory work. She founded IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services business after seeing how much individuals needed clear, compassionate guidance during one of the most important healthcare transitions of their lives. Guest Bio: Catherine White is part of IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services team. Based in Dallas, Catherine brings a background in psychology and health policy to her work helping individuals understand Medicare, compare plan options, avoid coverage gaps, and feel more confident in their healthcare decisions. Her work focuses on making a complex and often emotional process easier to understand through education, structure, and ongoing support. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:05: Introduction to Medicare, common concerns, and the value of trusted guidance. 01:05 - 01:35: Show intro and welcome. 01:35 - 03:14: Leigh and Catherine introduce themselves, their Dallas connection, and personal background. 03:14 - 05:45: Leigh shares her path from communications and employee benefits to Medicare advisory services. 05:45 - 07:19: Catherine explains her psychology and health policy background and how she joined IMA. 07:19 - 10:27: Breaking down the parts of Medicare: Part A, Part B, Part C, Medicare supplements, and Part D. 10:27 - 12:11: Why Medicare feels confusing and how advisors help people understand insurance basics. 12:11 - 13:34: The long-term impact of choosing between Medicare Advantage and Medicare supplement options. 13:34 - 16:28: When to contact a Medicare advisor and how the initial enrollment period works. 16:28 - 18:32: What happens if someone waits too long and when Medicare enrollment may or may not be required. 18:32 - 20:15: Transitioning to Medicare after working past 65 and why timing matters before retirement. 20:15 - 23:19: Common misinformation, Medicare.gov, COBRA misconceptions, and avoiding gaps in coverage. 23:19 - 26:12: How a Medicare advisor simplifies choices, compares plans, and provides year-round support. 26:12 - 29:49: Key questions around employer coverage, high-deductible health plans, HSAs, Part A, and Part B. 29:49 - 31:07: Misunderstandings around working past 65 and coordinating Medicare with employer coverage. 31:07 - 34:34: COBRA, Medicare coordination, dependent coverage, secondary payer issues, and late enrollment risk. 34:34 - 37:36: The difference guidance makes and why transparency matters in Medicare advisory work. 37:36 - 38:54: Client feedback, referrals, annual enrollment support, and ongoing relationships. 38:54 - 40:24: Reliable resources, including Medicare.gov and SHIP counselors. 40:24 - 41:44: Leigh’s advice for approaching Medicare with confidence instead of fear. 41:44 - 44:47: What Leigh and Catherine find most rewarding about helping people through the transition. 44:47 - 45:33: Final reflections on making Medicare less scary through education and preparation. 45:33 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): Medicare.gov – Visit the official Medicare website to compare plans, review costs, understand enrollment periods, and access reliable Medicare information. State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP – Connect with state-based Medicare counselors for additional education and support. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Sat, 30 May 2026 13:42:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If Medicare feels overwhelming, confusing, or full of costly deadlines, this episode breaks down the basics and shows how the right guidance can turn a stressful healthcare transition into a confident decision. Resources Mentioned: Medicare.gov – Visit the official Medicare website to compare plans, review costs, understand enrollment periods, and access reliable Medicare information. State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP – Connect with state-based Medicare counselors for additional education and support. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Leigh Bennett and Catherine White of IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services team to make Medicare feel less intimidating and more manageable. Leigh and Catherine explain the different parts of Medicare, including Parts A, B, C, and D, and walk through the major decisions individuals face when approaching age 65 or transitioning later at retirement. They discuss common misconceptions around Social Security, employer coverage, COBRA, HSAs, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage plans, and late enrollment penalties. They also explain why timing matters, how Medicare coordinates with employer-sponsored coverage, and why COBRA can create a false sense of security for Medicare-eligible individuals. Whether you are approaching Medicare yourself, helping a parent or spouse through the process, or supporting employees preparing for retirement, this episode offers practical guidance, reassurance, and a clearer path forward. Guest Bio: Leigh Bennett is part of IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services team and has spent more than a decade helping individuals navigate the transition to Medicare. Based in Dallas, Leigh began her career in communications, media, and professional development before moving into employee benefits and Medicare advisory work. She founded IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services business after seeing how much individuals needed clear, compassionate guidance during one of the most important healthcare transitions of their lives. Guest Bio: Catherine White is part of IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services team. Based in Dallas, Catherine brings a background in psychology and health policy to her work helping individuals understand Medicare, compare plan options, avoid coverage gaps, and feel more confident in their healthcare decisions. Her work focuses on making a complex and often emotional process easier to understand through education, structure, and ongoing support. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:05: Introduction to Medicare, common concerns, and the value of trusted guidance. 01:05 - 01:35: Show intro and welcome. 01:35 - 03:14: Leigh and Catherine introduce themselves, their Dallas connection, and personal background. 03:14 - 05:45: Leigh shares her path from communications and employee benefits to Medicare advisory services. 05:45 - 07:19: Catherine explains her psychology and health policy background and how she joined IMA. 07:19 - 10:27: Breaking down the parts of Medicare: Part A, Part B, Part C, Medicare supplements, and Part D. 10:27 - 12:11: Why Medicare feels confusing and how advisors help people understand insurance basics. 12:11 - 13:34: The long-term impact of choosing between Medicare Advantage and Medicare supplement options. 13:34 - 16:28: When to contact a Medicare advisor and how the initial enrollment period works. 16:28 - 18:32: What happens if someone waits too long and when Medicare enrollment may or may not be required. 18:32 - 20:15: Transitioning to Medicare after working past 65 and why timing matters before retirement. 20:15 - 23:19: Common misinformation, Medicare.gov, COBRA misconceptions, and avoiding gaps in coverage. 23:19 - 26:12: How a Medicare advisor simplifies choices, compares plans, and provides year-round support. 26:12 - 29:49: Key questions around employer coverage, high-deductible health plans, HSAs, Part A, and Part B. 29:49 - 31:07: Misunderstandings around working past 65 and coordinating Medicare with employer coverage. 31:07 - 34:34: COBRA, Medicare coordination, dependent coverage, secondary payer issues, and late enrollment risk. 34:34 - 37:36: The difference guidance makes and why transparency matters in Medicare advisory work. 37:36 - 38:54: Client feedback, referrals, annual enrollment support, and ongoing relationships. 38:54 - 40:24: Reliable resources, including Medicare.gov and SHIP counselors. 40:24 - 41:44: Leigh’s advice for approaching Medicare with confidence instead of fear. 41:44 - 44:47: What Leigh and Catherine find most rewarding about helping people through the transition. 44:47 - 45:33: Final reflections on making Medicare less scary through education and preparation. 45:33 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): Medicare.gov – Visit the official Medicare website to compare plans, review costs, understand enrollment periods, and access reliable Medicare information. State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP – Connect with state-based Medicare counselors for additional education and support. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If Medicare feels overwhelming, confusing, or full of costly deadlines, this episode breaks down the basics and shows how the right guidance can turn a stressful healthcare transition into a confident decision.

Resources Mentioned:

  • Medicare.gov – Visit the official Medicare website to compare plans, review costs, understand enrollment periods, and access reliable Medicare information.
  • State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP – Connect with state-based Medicare counselors for additional education and support.
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Leigh Bennett and Catherine White of IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services team to make Medicare feel less intimidating and more manageable. Leigh and Catherine explain the different parts of Medicare, including Parts A, B, C, and D, and walk through the major decisions individuals face when approaching age 65 or transitioning later at retirement. They discuss common misconceptions around Social Security, employer coverage, COBRA, HSAs, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage plans, and late enrollment penalties. They also explain why timing matters, how Medicare coordinates with employer-sponsored coverage, and why COBRA can create a false sense of security for Medicare-eligible individuals. Whether you are approaching Medicare yourself, helping a parent or spouse through the process, or supporting employees preparing for retirement, this episode offers practical guidance, reassurance, and a clearer path forward.

Guest Bio: Leigh Bennett is part of IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services team and has spent more than a decade helping individuals navigate the transition to Medicare. Based in Dallas, Leigh began her career in communications, media, and professional development before moving into employee benefits and Medicare advisory work. She founded IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services business after seeing how much individuals needed clear, compassionate guidance during one of the most important healthcare transitions of their lives.

Guest Bio: Catherine White is part of IMA’s Medicare Advisory Services team. Based in Dallas, Catherine brings a background in psychology and health policy to her work helping individuals understand Medicare, compare plan options, avoid coverage gaps, and feel more confident in their healthcare decisions. Her work focuses on making a complex and often emotional process easier to understand through education, structure, and ongoing support.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

  • 00:00 - 01:05: Introduction to Medicare, common concerns, and the value of trusted guidance.
  • 01:05 - 01:35: Show intro and welcome.
  • 01:35 - 03:14: Leigh and Catherine introduce themselves, their Dallas connection, and personal background.
  • 03:14 - 05:45: Leigh shares her path from communications and employee benefits to Medicare advisory services.
  • 05:45 - 07:19: Catherine explains her psychology and health policy background and how she joined IMA.
  • 07:19 - 10:27: Breaking down the parts of Medicare: Part A, Part B, Part C, Medicare supplements, and Part D.
  • 10:27 - 12:11: Why Medicare feels confusing and how advisors help people understand insurance basics.
  • 12:11 - 13:34: The long-term impact of choosing between Medicare Advantage and Medicare supplement options.
  • 13:34 - 16:28: When to contact a Medicare advisor and how the initial enrollment period works.
  • 16:28 - 18:32: What happens if someone waits too long and when Medicare enrollment may or may not be required.
  • 18:32 - 20:15: Transitioning to Medicare after working past 65 and why timing matters before retirement.
  • 20:15 - 23:19: Common misinformation, Medicare.gov, COBRA misconceptions, and avoiding gaps in coverage.
  • 23:19 - 26:12: How a Medicare advisor simplifies choices, compares plans, and provides year-round support.
  • 26:12 - 29:49: Key questions around employer coverage, high-deductible health plans, HSAs, Part A, and Part B.
  • 29:49 - 31:07: Misunderstandings around working past 65 and coordinating Medicare with employer coverage.
  • 31:07 - 34:34: COBRA, Medicare coordination, dependent coverage, secondary payer issues, and late enrollment risk.
  • 34:34 - 37:36: The difference guidance makes and why transparency matters in Medicare advisory work.
  • 37:36 - 38:54: Client feedback, referrals, annual enrollment support, and ongoing relationships.
  • 38:54 - 40:24: Reliable resources, including Medicare.gov and SHIP counselors.
  • 40:24 - 41:44: Leigh’s advice for approaching Medicare with confidence instead of fear.
  • 41:44 - 44:47: What Leigh and Catherine find most rewarding about helping people through the transition.
  • 44:47 - 45:33: Final reflections on making Medicare less scary through education and preparation.
  • 45:33 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

  • Medicare.gov – Visit the official Medicare website to compare plans, review costs, understand enrollment periods, and access reliable Medicare information.
  • State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP – Connect with state-based Medicare counselors for additional education and support.
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2859 Turning Wellbeing into a Competitive Advantage: Insights from Debra Wein If your organization is investing in employee wellbeing programs but still seeing rising costs, low engagement, and no measurable results, this episode shows exactly how to move from check-the-box perks to a strategic, outcomes-driven approach that delivers real business impact. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellbeing strategies, mental health integration, and workforce performance. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Debra Wein, CEO and Founder of Wellness Workdays and a registered dietitian with more than 25 years in the health and wellness space, to unpack why many wellbeing programs fail to deliver results. Debra explains the true cost of doing nothing, the pitfalls of treating wellbeing as a checklist or perk, and the four-step process every organization needs: assess the population, set a clear strategy, implement targeted interventions, and evaluate outcomes. They dive into building an integrated approach that connects physical, mental, and financial wellbeing, the power of behavioral health coaching, red flags to watch for when evaluating vendors, and a real-world client example showing how focusing on mental health led to improved lifestyle choices, better biometrics, and measurable ROI. Whether you’re struggling with low participation, burnout, or justifying investment to leadership, Debra’s insights provide a practical roadmap to turn wellbeing into a true competitive advantage. Guest Bio: Debra Wein is the CEO and Founder of Wellness Workdays, a registered dietitian, and a nationally recognized expert in employee wellbeing with more than 25 years of experience helping organizations design strategic, outcomes-based programs. A long-time vegetarian and advocate for healthy living, she has guided employers across industries to move beyond fragmented perks to integrated strategies that improve workforce health, productivity, and bottom-line results. She is also the author of the upcoming book The Wellness Multiplier. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to wellbeing challenges and the cost of doing nothing. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Debra introduces herself, her role, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on background and healthy living. 04:10 - 06:00: Debra’s evolution from nutrition to full-spectrum wellbeing. 06:00 - 07:00: Why wellbeing has shifted from “nice to have” to “need to have.” 07:00 - 08:30: The cost of treating wellbeing as a checklist or perk. 08:30 - 10:50: What organizations miss and where costs show up. 10:50 - 13:15: Wellbeing as a competitive advantage and key metrics to track. 13:15 - 15:55: Leading vs. lagging indicators and the importance of outcomes. 15:55 - 19:25: Building an integrated wellbeing strategy (physical, mental, financial). 19:25 - 21:25: Common pitfalls and the four-step process most employers skip. 21:25 - 22:30: Red flags when evaluating wellness programs or vendors. 22:30 - 24:00: Real-world client example: mental health focus driving lifestyle and biometric improvements. 24:00 - 26:00: ROI and value-on-investment calculations. 26:00 - 28:30: How to get leadership buy-in and resonate with different roles. 28:30 - 29:45: Trends HR leaders are prioritizing in 2026. 29:45 - 31:55: What separates successful programs and the shift toward outcomes. 31:55 - 33:30: Debra’s upcoming book The Wellness Multiplier. 33:30 - 34:40: One key shift every employer should make. 34:40 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellbeing strategies, mental health integration, and workforce performance. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Tue, 21 Apr 2026 19:00:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If your organization is investing in employee wellbeing programs but still seeing rising costs, low engagement, and no measurable results, this episode shows exactly how to move from check-the-box perks to a strategic, outcomes-driven approach that delivers real business impact. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellbeing strategies, mental health integration, and workforce performance. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Debra Wein, CEO and Founder of Wellness Workdays and a registered dietitian with more than 25 years in the health and wellness space, to unpack why many wellbeing programs fail to deliver results. Debra explains the true cost of doing nothing, the pitfalls of treating wellbeing as a checklist or perk, and the four-step process every organization needs: assess the population, set a clear strategy, implement targeted interventions, and evaluate outcomes. They dive into building an integrated approach that connects physical, mental, and financial wellbeing, the power of behavioral health coaching, red flags to watch for when evaluating vendors, and a real-world client example showing how focusing on mental health led to improved lifestyle choices, better biometrics, and measurable ROI. Whether you’re struggling with low participation, burnout, or justifying investment to leadership, Debra’s insights provide a practical roadmap to turn wellbeing into a true competitive advantage. Guest Bio: Debra Wein is the CEO and Founder of Wellness Workdays, a registered dietitian, and a nationally recognized expert in employee wellbeing with more than 25 years of experience helping organizations design strategic, outcomes-based programs. A long-time vegetarian and advocate for healthy living, she has guided employers across industries to move beyond fragmented perks to integrated strategies that improve workforce health, productivity, and bottom-line results. She is also the author of the upcoming book The Wellness Multiplier. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to wellbeing challenges and the cost of doing nothing. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Debra introduces herself, her role, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on background and healthy living. 04:10 - 06:00: Debra’s evolution from nutrition to full-spectrum wellbeing. 06:00 - 07:00: Why wellbeing has shifted from “nice to have” to “need to have.” 07:00 - 08:30: The cost of treating wellbeing as a checklist or perk. 08:30 - 10:50: What organizations miss and where costs show up. 10:50 - 13:15: Wellbeing as a competitive advantage and key metrics to track. 13:15 - 15:55: Leading vs. lagging indicators and the importance of outcomes. 15:55 - 19:25: Building an integrated wellbeing strategy (physical, mental, financial). 19:25 - 21:25: Common pitfalls and the four-step process most employers skip. 21:25 - 22:30: Red flags when evaluating wellness programs or vendors. 22:30 - 24:00: Real-world client example: mental health focus driving lifestyle and biometric improvements. 24:00 - 26:00: ROI and value-on-investment calculations. 26:00 - 28:30: How to get leadership buy-in and resonate with different roles. 28:30 - 29:45: Trends HR leaders are prioritizing in 2026. 29:45 - 31:55: What separates successful programs and the shift toward outcomes. 31:55 - 33:30: Debra’s upcoming book The Wellness Multiplier. 33:30 - 34:40: One key shift every employer should make. 34:40 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellbeing strategies, mental health integration, and workforce performance. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If your organization is investing in employee wellbeing programs but still seeing rising costs, low engagement, and no measurable results, this episode shows exactly how to move from check-the-box perks to a strategic, outcomes-driven approach that delivers real business impact.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellbeing strategies, mental health integration, and workforce performance.
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Debra Wein, CEO and Founder of Wellness Workdays and a registered dietitian with more than 25 years in the health and wellness space, to unpack why many wellbeing programs fail to deliver results. Debra explains the true cost of doing nothing, the pitfalls of treating wellbeing as a checklist or perk, and the four-step process every organization needs: assess the population, set a clear strategy, implement targeted interventions, and evaluate outcomes. They dive into building an integrated approach that connects physical, mental, and financial wellbeing, the power of behavioral health coaching, red flags to watch for when evaluating vendors, and a real-world client example showing how focusing on mental health led to improved lifestyle choices, better biometrics, and measurable ROI. Whether you’re struggling with low participation, burnout, or justifying investment to leadership, Debra’s insights provide a practical roadmap to turn wellbeing into a true competitive advantage.

Guest Bio: Debra Wein is the CEO and Founder of Wellness Workdays, a registered dietitian, and a nationally recognized expert in employee wellbeing with more than 25 years of experience helping organizations design strategic, outcomes-based programs. A long-time vegetarian and advocate for healthy living, she has guided employers across industries to move beyond fragmented perks to integrated strategies that improve workforce health, productivity, and bottom-line results. She is also the author of the upcoming book The Wellness Multiplier.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

  • 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to wellbeing challenges and the cost of doing nothing.
  • 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome.
  • 02:05 - 03:15: Debra introduces herself, her role, and a fun fact.
  • 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on background and healthy living.
  • 04:10 - 06:00: Debra’s evolution from nutrition to full-spectrum wellbeing.
  • 06:00 - 07:00: Why wellbeing has shifted from “nice to have” to “need to have.”
  • 07:00 - 08:30: The cost of treating wellbeing as a checklist or perk.
  • 08:30 - 10:50: What organizations miss and where costs show up.
  • 10:50 - 13:15: Wellbeing as a competitive advantage and key metrics to track.
  • 13:15 - 15:55: Leading vs. lagging indicators and the importance of outcomes.
  • 15:55 - 19:25: Building an integrated wellbeing strategy (physical, mental, financial).
  • 19:25 - 21:25: Common pitfalls and the four-step process most employers skip.
  • 21:25 - 22:30: Red flags when evaluating wellness programs or vendors.
  • 22:30 - 24:00: Real-world client example: mental health focus driving lifestyle and biometric improvements.
  • 24:00 - 26:00: ROI and value-on-investment calculations.
  • 26:00 - 28:30: How to get leadership buy-in and resonate with different roles.
  • 28:30 - 29:45: Trends HR leaders are prioritizing in 2026.
  • 29:45 - 31:55: What separates successful programs and the shift toward outcomes.
  • 31:55 - 33:30: Debra’s upcoming book The Wellness Multiplier.
  • 33:30 - 34:40: One key shift every employer should make.
  • 34:40 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellbeing strategies, mental health integration, and workforce performance. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2394 Building Innovation Through Collaboration: Insights from Mason Powers If great ideas in your organization feel scattered, stuck in silos, or never fully realized, this episode reveals how to create the right environment to connect them and drive meaningful impact in employee benefits. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including innovation strategies, AI, and human-centered approaches. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Mason Powers, National Employee Benefits Innovation Leader at IMA Financial Group, to explore how organizations move from isolated ideas to real impact. Mason shares the story behind EBX Labs—a cross-functional initiative designed to surface, challenge, and connect ideas across silos. They discuss why innovation is less about chasing big breakthroughs and more about building the right environment, mindset shifts, opportunity framing, and human connection. From the first cohort’s selection process and storytelling exercises to practical ways employees can get involved, this conversation offers actionable insights for HR leaders seeking to foster collaboration, improve teammate and client experiences, and adapt to rising complexity with confidence. Guest Bio: Mason Powers is the National Employee Benefits Innovation Leader at IMA Financial Group. Based in Minnesota, he leads the development of EBX Labs to connect strategy, ideas, and execution across the organization. With a background that sparked the creation of this dedicated innovation role, Mason focuses on building collaborative spaces that empower teams, challenge the status quo, and deliver better experiences for both employees and clients. Outside of work, he enjoys lake life, bird hunting, fishing, and travel. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to innovation challenges and the role of environment. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Mason introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on location, sports, and outdoor life. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining Mason’s role and how innovation fits into employee benefits. 06:00 - 07:00: How the innovation role was created at IMA. 07:00 - 08:30: Changes observed since onboarding and the need for broader involvement. 08:30 - 10:50: Birth of EBX Labs and why it was needed. 10:50 - 13:15: Selection process, criteria, and forming the first cohort. 13:15 - 15:55: Early days of EBX Labs, pre-work, and first in-person session. 15:55 - 19:25: Dream Coach session, opportunity statements, and mindset shifts. 19:25 - 21:25: Storytelling exercises and lessons from movies like The Martian and Hidden Figures. 21:25 - 22:30: Permission to fail and sharing unfinished ideas. 22:30 - 24:00: Mindset shifts and incremental vs. transformational innovation. 24:00 - 26:00: Future of innovation in employee benefits amid complexity. 26:00 - 28:30: Importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration and breaking silos. 28:30 - 29:45: Biggest opportunities and the lab’s core focus areas. 29:45 - 31:55: Why sequencing (exploration before solutions) matters. 31:55 - 33:30: How to get involved and the path of least resistance. 33:30 - 34:40: Signals of success and what “working” looks like. 34:40 - 34:55: Giving voice to quieter contributors. 34:55 - 35:40: Vision for the future of EBX Labs. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations and final thoughts on innovation. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including innovation strategies, AI, and human-centered approaches. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If great ideas in your organization feel scattered, stuck in silos, or never fully realized, this episode reveals how to create the right environment to connect them and drive meaningful impact in employee benefits. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including innovation strategies, AI, and human-centered approaches. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Mason Powers, National Employee Benefits Innovation Leader at IMA Financial Group, to explore how organizations move from isolated ideas to real impact. Mason shares the story behind EBX Labs—a cross-functional initiative designed to surface, challenge, and connect ideas across silos. They discuss why innovation is less about chasing big breakthroughs and more about building the right environment, mindset shifts, opportunity framing, and human connection. From the first cohort’s selection process and storytelling exercises to practical ways employees can get involved, this conversation offers actionable insights for HR leaders seeking to foster collaboration, improve teammate and client experiences, and adapt to rising complexity with confidence. Guest Bio: Mason Powers is the National Employee Benefits Innovation Leader at IMA Financial Group. Based in Minnesota, he leads the development of EBX Labs to connect strategy, ideas, and execution across the organization. With a background that sparked the creation of this dedicated innovation role, Mason focuses on building collaborative spaces that empower teams, challenge the status quo, and deliver better experiences for both employees and clients. Outside of work, he enjoys lake life, bird hunting, fishing, and travel. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to innovation challenges and the role of environment. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Mason introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on location, sports, and outdoor life. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining Mason’s role and how innovation fits into employee benefits. 06:00 - 07:00: How the innovation role was created at IMA. 07:00 - 08:30: Changes observed since onboarding and the need for broader involvement. 08:30 - 10:50: Birth of EBX Labs and why it was needed. 10:50 - 13:15: Selection process, criteria, and forming the first cohort. 13:15 - 15:55: Early days of EBX Labs, pre-work, and first in-person session. 15:55 - 19:25: Dream Coach session, opportunity statements, and mindset shifts. 19:25 - 21:25: Storytelling exercises and lessons from movies like The Martian and Hidden Figures. 21:25 - 22:30: Permission to fail and sharing unfinished ideas. 22:30 - 24:00: Mindset shifts and incremental vs. transformational innovation. 24:00 - 26:00: Future of innovation in employee benefits amid complexity. 26:00 - 28:30: Importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration and breaking silos. 28:30 - 29:45: Biggest opportunities and the lab’s core focus areas. 29:45 - 31:55: Why sequencing (exploration before solutions) matters. 31:55 - 33:30: How to get involved and the path of least resistance. 33:30 - 34:40: Signals of success and what “working” looks like. 34:40 - 34:55: Giving voice to quieter contributors. 34:55 - 35:40: Vision for the future of EBX Labs. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations and final thoughts on innovation. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including innovation strategies, AI, and human-centered approaches. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If great ideas in your organization feel scattered, stuck in silos, or never fully realized, this episode reveals how to create the right environment to connect them and drive meaningful impact in employee benefits.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including innovation strategies, AI, and human-centered approaches.
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Mason Powers, National Employee Benefits Innovation Leader at IMA Financial Group, to explore how organizations move from isolated ideas to real impact. Mason shares the story behind EBX Labs—a cross-functional initiative designed to surface, challenge, and connect ideas across silos. They discuss why innovation is less about chasing big breakthroughs and more about building the right environment, mindset shifts, opportunity framing, and human connection. From the first cohort’s selection process and storytelling exercises to practical ways employees can get involved, this conversation offers actionable insights for HR leaders seeking to foster collaboration, improve teammate and client experiences, and adapt to rising complexity with confidence.

Guest Bio: Mason Powers is the National Employee Benefits Innovation Leader at IMA Financial Group. Based in Minnesota, he leads the development of EBX Labs to connect strategy, ideas, and execution across the organization. With a background that sparked the creation of this dedicated innovation role, Mason focuses on building collaborative spaces that empower teams, challenge the status quo, and deliver better experiences for both employees and clients. Outside of work, he enjoys lake life, bird hunting, fishing, and travel.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

  • 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to innovation challenges and the role of environment.
  • 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome.
  • 02:05 - 03:15: Mason introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact.
  • 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on location, sports, and outdoor life.
  • 04:10 - 06:00: Defining Mason’s role and how innovation fits into employee benefits.
  • 06:00 - 07:00: How the innovation role was created at IMA.
  • 07:00 - 08:30: Changes observed since onboarding and the need for broader involvement.
  • 08:30 - 10:50: Birth of EBX Labs and why it was needed.
  • 10:50 - 13:15: Selection process, criteria, and forming the first cohort.
  • 13:15 - 15:55: Early days of EBX Labs, pre-work, and first in-person session.
  • 15:55 - 19:25: Dream Coach session, opportunity statements, and mindset shifts.
  • 19:25 - 21:25: Storytelling exercises and lessons from movies like The Martian and Hidden Figures.
  • 21:25 - 22:30: Permission to fail and sharing unfinished ideas.
  • 22:30 - 24:00: Mindset shifts and incremental vs. transformational innovation.
  • 24:00 - 26:00: Future of innovation in employee benefits amid complexity.
  • 26:00 - 28:30: Importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration and breaking silos.
  • 28:30 - 29:45: Biggest opportunities and the lab’s core focus areas.
  • 29:45 - 31:55: Why sequencing (exploration before solutions) matters.
  • 31:55 - 33:30: How to get involved and the path of least resistance.
  • 33:30 - 34:40: Signals of success and what “working” looks like.
  • 34:40 - 34:55: Giving voice to quieter contributors.
  • 34:55 - 35:40: Vision for the future of EBX Labs.
  • 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations and final thoughts on innovation.
  • 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including innovation strategies, AI, and human-centered approaches. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]
  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2461 Communicating Benefits That Employees Actually Use: Insights from Jared Cox If your employees are overwhelmed by benefits information or missing the value of what you offer, this episode explores how better communication can improve understanding, utilization, and retention. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including communication strategy, employee engagement, and workforce experience. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out to John Dodson, Senior Marketing Strategist for Employee Benefits, john.dodson@imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Jared Cox, Communication and Engagement Practice Leader at IMA, to discuss why benefits communication matters just as much as benefits design. Jared explains how his team helps employers move beyond awareness toward real outcomes by improving employee understanding, increasing utilization, and turning benefits into a stronger tool for recruitment and retention. He shares how communication expectations are changing, why one-size-fits-all messaging no longer works, and how technology, including AI, can support employees when it is introduced thoughtfully and paired with clear guidance. Jared also walks through a practical client example in which a workforce survey revealed that a paper-first strategy would outperform a tech-heavy rollout, leading to better utilization and retention. From avoiding information overload to building communication plans around real employee needs, this conversation offers actionable advice for employers who want their people to actually understand and use the benefits they invest in. Guest Bio: Jared Cox is Communication and Engagement Practice Leader at IMA, where he focuses on employee strategy, storytelling, and helping clients create benefits communication that drives action. Based in Kansas City after recently moving back from Denver, Jared works with employers to improve education, utilization, and the overall employee experience around benefits. Outside of work, he and his wife spend plenty of time with their two miniature dachshunds, who occasionally make their own appearances on work calls. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:24: Introduction to why poor benefits communication creates bigger problems for employers and employees. 01:24 - 02:58: Jared shares where he is based, his recent move back to Kansas City, and a fun fact about his dachshunds. 02:58 - 04:20: Overview of Jared's role and how IMA's communication and engagement practice supports clients. 04:20 - 05:25: Common challenges employers bring to Jared and why benefits communication is never one size fits all. 05:25 - 07:26: Trends shaping benefits communication, including targeted messaging, timing, and AI-enabled support. 07:26 - 09:42: A client story about surveying employees, avoiding the wrong tech investment, and pivoting to a better strategy. 09:42 - 11:19: How better communication improved utilization and retention and why misunderstanding benefits creates risk. 11:19 - 12:39: Common employer mistakes, especially information overload, and what successful engagement efforts have in common. 12:39 - 13:32: How AI can simplify benefits access and make information easier for employees and dependents to use. 13:32 - 14:39: Where employers should start: review what has worked, gather feedback, and adapt over time. 14:39 - 16:27: The value of transparency, community-building, and making benefits feel more relevant to daily life. 16:27 - 17:21: Why timing matters and why employers need to start communication well before open enrollment. 17:21 - 18:25: Step one for leaders: tailor communication by audience and stop repeating strategies that are not working. 18:25 - 18:58: Jared's closing advice on staying adaptable as employee needs and communication norms continue to change. 18:58 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:00:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If your employees are overwhelmed by benefits information or missing the value of what you offer, this episode explores how better communication can improve understanding, utilization, and retention. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including communication strategy, employee engagement, and workforce experience. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out to John Dodson, Senior Marketing Strategist for Employee Benefits, john.dodson@imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Jared Cox, Communication and Engagement Practice Leader at IMA, to discuss why benefits communication matters just as much as benefits design. Jared explains how his team helps employers move beyond awareness toward real outcomes by improving employee understanding, increasing utilization, and turning benefits into a stronger tool for recruitment and retention. He shares how communication expectations are changing, why one-size-fits-all messaging no longer works, and how technology, including AI, can support employees when it is introduced thoughtfully and paired with clear guidance. Jared also walks through a practical client example in which a workforce survey revealed that a paper-first strategy would outperform a tech-heavy rollout, leading to better utilization and retention. From avoiding information overload to building communication plans around real employee needs, this conversation offers actionable advice for employers who want their people to actually understand and use the benefits they invest in. Guest Bio: Jared Cox is Communication and Engagement Practice Leader at IMA, where he focuses on employee strategy, storytelling, and helping clients create benefits communication that drives action. Based in Kansas City after recently moving back from Denver, Jared works with employers to improve education, utilization, and the overall employee experience around benefits. Outside of work, he and his wife spend plenty of time with their two miniature dachshunds, who occasionally make their own appearances on work calls. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:24: Introduction to why poor benefits communication creates bigger problems for employers and employees. 01:24 - 02:58: Jared shares where he is based, his recent move back to Kansas City, and a fun fact about his dachshunds. 02:58 - 04:20: Overview of Jared's role and how IMA's communication and engagement practice supports clients. 04:20 - 05:25: Common challenges employers bring to Jared and why benefits communication is never one size fits all. 05:25 - 07:26: Trends shaping benefits communication, including targeted messaging, timing, and AI-enabled support. 07:26 - 09:42: A client story about surveying employees, avoiding the wrong tech investment, and pivoting to a better strategy. 09:42 - 11:19: How better communication improved utilization and retention and why misunderstanding benefits creates risk. 11:19 - 12:39: Common employer mistakes, especially information overload, and what successful engagement efforts have in common. 12:39 - 13:32: How AI can simplify benefits access and make information easier for employees and dependents to use. 13:32 - 14:39: Where employers should start: review what has worked, gather feedback, and adapt over time. 14:39 - 16:27: The value of transparency, community-building, and making benefits feel more relevant to daily life. 16:27 - 17:21: Why timing matters and why employers need to start communication well before open enrollment. 17:21 - 18:25: Step one for leaders: tailor communication by audience and stop repeating strategies that are not working. 18:25 - 18:58: Jared's closing advice on staying adaptable as employee needs and communication norms continue to change. 18:58 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. If your employees are overwhelmed by benefits information or missing the value of what you offer, this episode explores how better communication can improve understanding, utilization, and retention.

Resources Mentioned:

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including communication strategy, employee engagement, and workforce experience. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out to John Dodson, Senior Marketing Strategist for Employee Benefits, john.dodson@imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Jared Cox, Communication and Engagement Practice Leader at IMA, to discuss why benefits communication matters just as much as benefits design. Jared explains how his team helps employers move beyond awareness toward real outcomes by improving employee understanding, increasing utilization, and turning benefits into a stronger tool for recruitment and retention. He shares how communication expectations are changing, why one-size-fits-all messaging no longer works, and how technology, including AI, can support employees when it is introduced thoughtfully and paired with clear guidance. Jared also walks through a practical client example in which a workforce survey revealed that a paper-first strategy would outperform a tech-heavy rollout, leading to better utilization and retention. From avoiding information overload to building communication plans around real employee needs, this conversation offers actionable advice for employers who want their people to actually understand and use the benefits they invest in.

Guest Bio: Jared Cox is Communication and Engagement Practice Leader at IMA, where he focuses on employee strategy, storytelling, and helping clients create benefits communication that drives action. Based in Kansas City after recently moving back from Denver, Jared works with employers to improve education, utilization, and the overall employee experience around benefits. Outside of work, he and his wife spend plenty of time with their two miniature dachshunds, who occasionally make their own appearances on work calls.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - 01:24: Introduction to why poor benefits communication creates bigger problems for employers and employees.

01:24 - 02:58: Jared shares where he is based, his recent move back to Kansas City, and a fun fact about his dachshunds.

02:58 - 04:20: Overview of Jared's role and how IMA's communication and engagement practice supports clients.

04:20 - 05:25: Common challenges employers bring to Jared and why benefits communication is never one size fits all.

05:25 - 07:26: Trends shaping benefits communication, including targeted messaging, timing, and AI-enabled support.

07:26 - 09:42: A client story about surveying employees, avoiding the wrong tech investment, and pivoting to a better strategy.

09:42 - 11:19: How better communication improved utilization and retention and why misunderstanding benefits creates risk.

11:19 - 12:39: Common employer mistakes, especially information overload, and what successful engagement efforts have in common.

12:39 - 13:32: How AI can simplify benefits access and make information easier for employees and dependents to use.

13:32 - 14:39: Where employers should start: review what has worked, gather feedback, and adapt over time.

14:39 - 16:27: The value of transparency, community-building, and making benefits feel more relevant to daily life.

16:27 - 17:21: Why timing matters and why employers need to start communication well before open enrollment.

17:21 - 18:25: Step one for leaders: tailor communication by audience and stop repeating strategies that are not working.

18:25 - 18:58: Jared's closing advice on staying adaptable as employee needs and communication norms continue to change.

18:58 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

]]> 1264 Building Alignment Across Markets: Insights from Jacqueline Roth If your teams are spread across markets, personalities, and ways of working, this episode explores how leadership, empathy, and clear communication can turn complexity into stronger alignment and better performance. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including leadership, collaboration, communication, and organizational change. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out to John Dodson, Senior Marketing Strategist for Employee Benefits, john.dodson@imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Jacqueline Roth, President of Employee Benefits at IMA, for a wide-ranging conversation about what it takes to build alignment across distributed teams without erasing the local expertise that makes each market successful. Jacqueline shares lessons from leading through national growth, partnership integration, and change, emphasizing that people want to be seen, heard, and understood no matter where they sit. She explains why strong leadership is not about imposing sameness, but about creating clarity, alignment, and commitment while drawing out quieter voices, making space for disagreement, and helping teams move through friction with curiosity instead of defensiveness. The conversation also explores empathy in leadership, the role of communication norms, how teams can collaborate more effectively across regions, and why clear structure matters even more in moments of rapid change. From practical language for repairing hard conversations to advice on meetings, AI adoption, and team accountability, this episode offers actionable guidance for leaders trying to connect people, improve performance, and scale culture in a way that actually works. Guest Bio: Jacqueline Roth is President of Employee Benefits at IMA, where she helps shape national strategy, drive growth, and bring together teams across markets, states, and leadership structures. Based in South Pasadena, California, Jacqueline is known for her people-first approach to leadership, with a focus on clarity, empathy, trust, and collaboration. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her two daughters, riding bikes, and jumping on the trampoline with her kids. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:25: Introduction to the challenge of creating alignment across markets, regulations, and ways of working. 01:25 - 03:13: Jacqueline shares where she is based, life outside of work, and a glimpse into family life with her two daughters. 03:13 - 06:26: Overview of Jacqueline's role, IMA's growth journey, and how she came into national leadership in employee benefits. 06:26 - 09:22: What Jacqueline has learned about bringing teams together across states, markets, and regulatory environments. 09:22 - 10:53: Collaboration, clarity, alignment, and commitment, and what becomes possible when teams truly connect. 10:53 - 14:59: How leaders can honor local market nuance while still creating unity, accountability, and shared standards. 15:02 - 17:46: Friction, conflict, and Jacqueline's leadership approach of replacing defensiveness with curiosity and “tell me more.” 18:15 - 21:27: Practical language for difficult conversations, do-overs, stating intention, and building trust in the room. 21:29 - 24:44: How empathy shows up in leadership, especially during change, and why clear information builds confidence. 24:44 - 26:24: The connection between empathy, safety, candid dialogue, and stronger team performance. 26:24 - 29:17: A cross-market collaboration example that led to a better workload measurement process across the organization. 29:31 - 34:59: AI, communication norms, and how leaders can introduce innovation without losing authenticity or trust. 34:59 - 36:16: Where leaders should start when trying to create stronger alignment across locations. 36:16 - 38:24: Common leadership mistakes, including interrupting, unclear meetings, and failing to define a goal. 38:49 - 40:06: Jacqueline's closing advice: clear is kind, state your why, and follow through on the basics. 40:06 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If your teams are spread across markets, personalities, and ways of working, this episode explores how leadership, empathy, and clear communication can turn complexity into stronger alignment and better performance. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including leadership, collaboration, communication, and organizational change. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out to John Dodson, Senior Marketing Strategist for Employee Benefits, john.dodson@imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Jacqueline Roth, President of Employee Benefits at IMA, for a wide-ranging conversation about what it takes to build alignment across distributed teams without erasing the local expertise that makes each market successful. Jacqueline shares lessons from leading through national growth, partnership integration, and change, emphasizing that people want to be seen, heard, and understood no matter where they sit. She explains why strong leadership is not about imposing sameness, but about creating clarity, alignment, and commitment while drawing out quieter voices, making space for disagreement, and helping teams move through friction with curiosity instead of defensiveness. The conversation also explores empathy in leadership, the role of communication norms, how teams can collaborate more effectively across regions, and why clear structure matters even more in moments of rapid change. From practical language for repairing hard conversations to advice on meetings, AI adoption, and team accountability, this episode offers actionable guidance for leaders trying to connect people, improve performance, and scale culture in a way that actually works. Guest Bio: Jacqueline Roth is President of Employee Benefits at IMA, where she helps shape national strategy, drive growth, and bring together teams across markets, states, and leadership structures. Based in South Pasadena, California, Jacqueline is known for her people-first approach to leadership, with a focus on clarity, empathy, trust, and collaboration. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her two daughters, riding bikes, and jumping on the trampoline with her kids. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:25: Introduction to the challenge of creating alignment across markets, regulations, and ways of working. 01:25 - 03:13: Jacqueline shares where she is based, life outside of work, and a glimpse into family life with her two daughters. 03:13 - 06:26: Overview of Jacqueline's role, IMA's growth journey, and how she came into national leadership in employee benefits. 06:26 - 09:22: What Jacqueline has learned about bringing teams together across states, markets, and regulatory environments. 09:22 - 10:53: Collaboration, clarity, alignment, and commitment, and what becomes possible when teams truly connect. 10:53 - 14:59: How leaders can honor local market nuance while still creating unity, accountability, and shared standards. 15:02 - 17:46: Friction, conflict, and Jacqueline's leadership approach of replacing defensiveness with curiosity and “tell me more.” 18:15 - 21:27: Practical language for difficult conversations, do-overs, stating intention, and building trust in the room. 21:29 - 24:44: How empathy shows up in leadership, especially during change, and why clear information builds confidence. 24:44 - 26:24: The connection between empathy, safety, candid dialogue, and stronger team performance. 26:24 - 29:17: A cross-market collaboration example that led to a better workload measurement process across the organization. 29:31 - 34:59: AI, communication norms, and how leaders can introduce innovation without losing authenticity or trust. 34:59 - 36:16: Where leaders should start when trying to create stronger alignment across locations. 36:16 - 38:24: Common leadership mistakes, including interrupting, unclear meetings, and failing to define a goal. 38:49 - 40:06: Jacqueline's closing advice: clear is kind, state your why, and follow through on the basics. 40:06 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. If your teams are spread across markets, personalities, and ways of working, this episode explores how leadership, empathy, and clear communication can turn complexity into stronger alignment and better performance.

Resources Mentioned:

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including leadership, collaboration, communication, and organizational change. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out to John Dodson, Senior Marketing Strategist for Employee Benefits, john.dodson@imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Jacqueline Roth, President of Employee Benefits at IMA, for a wide-ranging conversation about what it takes to build alignment across distributed teams without erasing the local expertise that makes each market successful. Jacqueline shares lessons from leading through national growth, partnership integration, and change, emphasizing that people want to be seen, heard, and understood no matter where they sit. She explains why strong leadership is not about imposing sameness, but about creating clarity, alignment, and commitment while drawing out quieter voices, making space for disagreement, and helping teams move through friction with curiosity instead of defensiveness. The conversation also explores empathy in leadership, the role of communication norms, how teams can collaborate more effectively across regions, and why clear structure matters even more in moments of rapid change. From practical language for repairing hard conversations to advice on meetings, AI adoption, and team accountability, this episode offers actionable guidance for leaders trying to connect people, improve performance, and scale culture in a way that actually works.

Guest Bio: Jacqueline Roth is President of Employee Benefits at IMA, where she helps shape national strategy, drive growth, and bring together teams across markets, states, and leadership structures. Based in South Pasadena, California, Jacqueline is known for her people-first approach to leadership, with a focus on clarity, empathy, trust, and collaboration. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her two daughters, riding bikes, and jumping on the trampoline with her kids.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - 01:25: Introduction to the challenge of creating alignment across markets, regulations, and ways of working.

01:25 - 03:13: Jacqueline shares where she is based, life outside of work, and a glimpse into family life with her two daughters.

03:13 - 06:26: Overview of Jacqueline's role, IMA's growth journey, and how she came into national leadership in employee benefits.

06:26 - 09:22: What Jacqueline has learned about bringing teams together across states, markets, and regulatory environments.

09:22 - 10:53: Collaboration, clarity, alignment, and commitment, and what becomes possible when teams truly connect.

10:53 - 14:59: How leaders can honor local market nuance while still creating unity, accountability, and shared standards.

15:02 - 17:46: Friction, conflict, and Jacqueline's leadership approach of replacing defensiveness with curiosity and “tell me more.”

18:15 - 21:27: Practical language for difficult conversations, do-overs, stating intention, and building trust in the room.

21:29 - 24:44: How empathy shows up in leadership, especially during change, and why clear information builds confidence.

24:44 - 26:24: The connection between empathy, safety, candid dialogue, and stronger team performance.

26:24 - 29:17: A cross-market collaboration example that led to a better workload measurement process across the organization.

29:31 - 34:59: AI, communication norms, and how leaders can introduce innovation without losing authenticity or trust.

34:59 - 36:16: Where leaders should start when trying to create stronger alignment across locations.

36:16 - 38:24: Common leadership mistakes, including interrupting, unclear meetings, and failing to define a goal.

38:49 - 40:06: Jacqueline's closing advice: clear is kind, state your why, and follow through on the basics.

40:06 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.


]]> 2543 Empowering Lifestyle Medicine: Insights from Dr. Jacob Mirsky If reactive chronic disease management and rising costs are limiting your workforce health, this episode shows how proactive lifestyle strategies can drive prevention, reversal, and sustained wellbeing without over-reliance on medications. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including lifestyle medicine, chronic disease reversal, and shared medical appointments. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Dr. Jacob Mirsky, Primary Care Physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and Founder of Lifestyle Medicine Consulting LLC, to explore Lifestyle Medicine's role in transforming healthcare. Dr. Mirsky discusses its distinction from traditional prevention through evidence-based behavior changes in diet, exercise, sleep, stress, and social connection for chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. He shares insights on virtual shared medical appointments, integrating with GLP-1s, and employer strategies to reduce friction for healthier choices. From inflammation's root causes to proactive care models, this conversation offers actionable guidance for HR leaders seeking to enhance employee health and productivity. Whether addressing obesity or building supportive cultures, Dr. Mirsky's expertise provides a roadmap to a healthier future. Guest Bio: Dr. Jacob Mirsky is a Primary Care Physician at Massachusetts General Hospital, Medical Director of the Healthy Lifestyle Program, and Founder of Lifestyle Medicine Consulting LLC. He specializes in lifestyle medicine for chronic disease management via shared medical appointments, focusing on diet, exercise, sleep, and stress. Based in Boston, Dr. Mirsky enjoys cross-country skiing. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to lifestyle medicine and chronic disease challenges. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Dr. Mirsky introduces himself, his roles, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on winter activities. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining lifestyle medicine and its evolution. 06:00 - 07:00: Shift to proactive, evidence-based strategies. 07:00 - 08:30: Impact on prevention, reversal, and employer health. 08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Reactive care models, with examples. 10:50 - 13:15: Client story on shared medical appointments success. 13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Remission metrics, ROI, and outcomes. 15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for diverse populations, with GLP-1 examples. 19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for motivation. 21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about behavior change. 22:30 - 24:00: Bridging clinical care with employer strategies, plus inflammation examples. 24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating interventions and reducing friction. 26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Overlooking root causes. 28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Integrated proactive models. 29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking health support through education and autonomy. 31:55 - 33:30: Building a proactive culture from leadership down. 33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, groups, and personalization in medicine. 34:40 - 34:55: Branding lifestyle programs for engagement. 34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Behavior-focused incentives. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Educate, inspire, and empower employees. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including lifestyle medicine, chronic disease reversal, and shared medical appointments. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If reactive chronic disease management and rising costs are limiting your workforce health, this episode shows how proactive lifestyle strategies can drive prevention, reversal, and sustained wellbeing without over-reliance on medications. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including lifestyle medicine, chronic disease reversal, and shared medical appointments. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Dr. Jacob Mirsky, Primary Care Physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and Founder of Lifestyle Medicine Consulting LLC, to explore Lifestyle Medicine's role in transforming healthcare. Dr. Mirsky discusses its distinction from traditional prevention through evidence-based behavior changes in diet, exercise, sleep, stress, and social connection for chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. He shares insights on virtual shared medical appointments, integrating with GLP-1s, and employer strategies to reduce friction for healthier choices. From inflammation's root causes to proactive care models, this conversation offers actionable guidance for HR leaders seeking to enhance employee health and productivity. Whether addressing obesity or building supportive cultures, Dr. Mirsky's expertise provides a roadmap to a healthier future. Guest Bio: Dr. Jacob Mirsky is a Primary Care Physician at Massachusetts General Hospital, Medical Director of the Healthy Lifestyle Program, and Founder of Lifestyle Medicine Consulting LLC. He specializes in lifestyle medicine for chronic disease management via shared medical appointments, focusing on diet, exercise, sleep, and stress. Based in Boston, Dr. Mirsky enjoys cross-country skiing. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to lifestyle medicine and chronic disease challenges. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Dr. Mirsky introduces himself, his roles, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on winter activities. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining lifestyle medicine and its evolution. 06:00 - 07:00: Shift to proactive, evidence-based strategies. 07:00 - 08:30: Impact on prevention, reversal, and employer health. 08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Reactive care models, with examples. 10:50 - 13:15: Client story on shared medical appointments success. 13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Remission metrics, ROI, and outcomes. 15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for diverse populations, with GLP-1 examples. 19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for motivation. 21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about behavior change. 22:30 - 24:00: Bridging clinical care with employer strategies, plus inflammation examples. 24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating interventions and reducing friction. 26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Overlooking root causes. 28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Integrated proactive models. 29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking health support through education and autonomy. 31:55 - 33:30: Building a proactive culture from leadership down. 33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, groups, and personalization in medicine. 34:40 - 34:55: Branding lifestyle programs for engagement. 34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Behavior-focused incentives. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Educate, inspire, and empower employees. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including lifestyle medicine, chronic disease reversal, and shared medical appointments. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If reactive chronic disease management and rising costs are limiting your workforce health, this episode shows how proactive lifestyle strategies can drive prevention, reversal, and sustained wellbeing without over-reliance on medications.

Resources Mentioned:

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including lifestyle medicine, chronic disease reversal, and shared medical appointments. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Dr. Jacob Mirsky, Primary Care Physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and Founder of Lifestyle Medicine Consulting LLC, to explore Lifestyle Medicine's role in transforming healthcare. Dr. Mirsky discusses its distinction from traditional prevention through evidence-based behavior changes in diet, exercise, sleep, stress, and social connection for chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. He shares insights on virtual shared medical appointments, integrating with GLP-1s, and employer strategies to reduce friction for healthier choices. From inflammation's root causes to proactive care models, this conversation offers actionable guidance for HR leaders seeking to enhance employee health and productivity. Whether addressing obesity or building supportive cultures, Dr. Mirsky's expertise provides a roadmap to a healthier future.

Guest Bio: Dr. Jacob Mirsky is a Primary Care Physician at Massachusetts General Hospital, Medical Director of the Healthy Lifestyle Program, and Founder of Lifestyle Medicine Consulting LLC. He specializes in lifestyle medicine for chronic disease management via shared medical appointments, focusing on diet, exercise, sleep, and stress. Based in Boston, Dr. Mirsky enjoys cross-country skiing.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to lifestyle medicine and chronic disease challenges.

01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome.

02:05 - 03:15: Dr. Mirsky introduces himself, his roles, and a fun fact.

03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on winter activities.

04:10 - 06:00: Defining lifestyle medicine and its evolution.

06:00 - 07:00: Shift to proactive, evidence-based strategies.

07:00 - 08:30: Impact on prevention, reversal, and employer health.

08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Reactive care models, with examples.

10:50 - 13:15: Client story on shared medical appointments success.

13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Remission metrics, ROI, and outcomes.

15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for diverse populations, with GLP-1 examples.

19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for motivation.

21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about behavior change.

22:30 - 24:00: Bridging clinical care with employer strategies, plus inflammation examples.

24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating interventions and reducing friction.

26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Overlooking root causes.

28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Integrated proactive models.

29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking health support through education and autonomy.

31:55 - 33:30: Building a proactive culture from leadership down.

33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, groups, and personalization in medicine.

34:40 - 34:55: Branding lifestyle programs for engagement.

34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Behavior-focused incentives.

35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Educate, inspire, and empower employees.

37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including lifestyle medicine, chronic disease reversal, and shared medical appointments. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2445 Managing People Risk: Insights from Tina Ballard If overlooked people risks like disengagement and role misalignment are undermining your growth and financial stability, this episode equips you with strategies to proactively build resilient teams without reactive fixes. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including people strategy, risk management, and talent alignment. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Tina Ballard, Founder of Catalyst HR Solutions, to discuss the often-underestimated people risks in scaling organizations. With over 20 years in HR leadership, Tina explores how ignoring employee engagement leads to legal and financial issues, and shares strategies for proactive HR in growth phases like acquisitions. They cover role clarity, talent alignment, bridging HR with finance, and fostering a learning culture to avoid common pitfalls. From auditing people strategies to implementing flexible policies, this conversation offers actionable insights for HR leaders aiming to turn people risks into competitive advantages. Whether you're consolidating companies or refining operations, Tina's expertise provides a roadmap to scalable, impactful HR. Guest Bio: Tina Ballard is the Founder of Catalyst HR Solutions, specializing in elevating HR for rapidly growing companies through acquisitions and organic expansion. With over 20 years in HR leadership, she focuses on proactive strategies, role clarity, and integrating people risks with business goals. Based near Denver, Colorado, Tina grew up in a small Nebraska town and draws from her experience in large corporations to guide PE firms and consolidating markets. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to people risks and growth challenges. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Tina introduces herself, her role, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on small-town roots. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining people risks and their evolution in scaling companies. 06:00 - 07:00: Shift to proactive HR strategies. 07:00 - 08:30: Impact on finances, engagement, and company sizes. 08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Ignoring root causes, with acquisition examples. 10:50 - 13:15: Client story on consolidating HR across multiple companies. 13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Engagement metrics, ROI, and risk reduction. 15:55 - 19:25: Designing strategies for diverse teams, with flexibility examples. 19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for alignment. 21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about people risks. 22:30 - 24:00: Bridging HR with finance, plus talent realignment examples. 24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating strategies and setting goals. 26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Reactive approaches. 28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Integrated HR in growth models. 29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking talent support through audits and learning cultures. 31:55 - 33:30: Building a proactive culture from leadership down. 33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, flexibility, and customization in HR. 34:40 - 34:55: Branding people strategies for buy-in. 34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Role clarity assessments. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Map work, align roles, and act proactively. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including people strategy, risk management, and talent alignment. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If overlooked people risks like disengagement and role misalignment are undermining your growth and financial stability, this episode equips you with strategies to proactively build resilient teams without reactive fixes. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including people strategy, risk management, and talent alignment. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Tina Ballard, Founder of Catalyst HR Solutions, to discuss the often-underestimated people risks in scaling organizations. With over 20 years in HR leadership, Tina explores how ignoring employee engagement leads to legal and financial issues, and shares strategies for proactive HR in growth phases like acquisitions. They cover role clarity, talent alignment, bridging HR with finance, and fostering a learning culture to avoid common pitfalls. From auditing people strategies to implementing flexible policies, this conversation offers actionable insights for HR leaders aiming to turn people risks into competitive advantages. Whether you're consolidating companies or refining operations, Tina's expertise provides a roadmap to scalable, impactful HR. Guest Bio: Tina Ballard is the Founder of Catalyst HR Solutions, specializing in elevating HR for rapidly growing companies through acquisitions and organic expansion. With over 20 years in HR leadership, she focuses on proactive strategies, role clarity, and integrating people risks with business goals. Based near Denver, Colorado, Tina grew up in a small Nebraska town and draws from her experience in large corporations to guide PE firms and consolidating markets. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to people risks and growth challenges. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Tina introduces herself, her role, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on small-town roots. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining people risks and their evolution in scaling companies. 06:00 - 07:00: Shift to proactive HR strategies. 07:00 - 08:30: Impact on finances, engagement, and company sizes. 08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Ignoring root causes, with acquisition examples. 10:50 - 13:15: Client story on consolidating HR across multiple companies. 13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Engagement metrics, ROI, and risk reduction. 15:55 - 19:25: Designing strategies for diverse teams, with flexibility examples. 19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for alignment. 21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about people risks. 22:30 - 24:00: Bridging HR with finance, plus talent realignment examples. 24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating strategies and setting goals. 26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Reactive approaches. 28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Integrated HR in growth models. 29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking talent support through audits and learning cultures. 31:55 - 33:30: Building a proactive culture from leadership down. 33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, flexibility, and customization in HR. 34:40 - 34:55: Branding people strategies for buy-in. 34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Role clarity assessments. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Map work, align roles, and act proactively. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including people strategy, risk management, and talent alignment. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If overlooked people risks like disengagement and role misalignment are undermining your growth and financial stability, this episode equips you with strategies to proactively build resilient teams without reactive fixes.

Resources Mentioned:

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including people strategy, risk management, and talent alignment. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Tina Ballard, Founder of Catalyst HR Solutions, to discuss the often-underestimated people risks in scaling organizations. With over 20 years in HR leadership, Tina explores how ignoring employee engagement leads to legal and financial issues, and shares strategies for proactive HR in growth phases like acquisitions. They cover role clarity, talent alignment, bridging HR with finance, and fostering a learning culture to avoid common pitfalls. From auditing people strategies to implementing flexible policies, this conversation offers actionable insights for HR leaders aiming to turn people risks into competitive advantages. Whether you're consolidating companies or refining operations, Tina's expertise provides a roadmap to scalable, impactful HR.

Guest Bio: Tina Ballard is the Founder of Catalyst HR Solutions, specializing in elevating HR for rapidly growing companies through acquisitions and organic expansion. With over 20 years in HR leadership, she focuses on proactive strategies, role clarity, and integrating people risks with business goals. Based near Denver, Colorado, Tina grew up in a small Nebraska town and draws from her experience in large corporations to guide PE firms and consolidating markets.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to people risks and growth challenges.

01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome.

02:05 - 03:15: Tina introduces herself, her role, and a fun fact.

03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on small-town roots.

04:10 - 06:00: Defining people risks and their evolution in scaling companies.

06:00 - 07:00: Shift to proactive HR strategies.

07:00 - 08:30: Impact on finances, engagement, and company sizes.

08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Ignoring root causes, with acquisition examples.

10:50 - 13:15: Client story on consolidating HR across multiple companies.

13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Engagement metrics, ROI, and risk reduction.

15:55 - 19:25: Designing strategies for diverse teams, with flexibility examples.

19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for alignment.

21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about people risks.

22:30 - 24:00: Bridging HR with finance, plus talent realignment examples.

24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating strategies and setting goals.

26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Reactive approaches.

28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Integrated HR in growth models.

29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking talent support through audits and learning cultures.

31:55 - 33:30: Building a proactive culture from leadership down.

33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, flexibility, and customization in HR.

34:40 - 34:55: Branding people strategies for buy-in.

34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Role clarity assessments.

35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Map work, align roles, and act proactively.

37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including people strategy, risk management, and talent alignment. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2442 Self-Funding in Practice: Insights from Mona Martin If navigating self-funded health plans, catastrophic claims, and executive buy-in feels overwhelming, this episode shares real-world strategies to build trust and achieve long-term success without shifting costs to employees. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including self-funding, pharmacy strategies, and HR advocacy. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Mona Martin, HR Leader at HM Dunn Aerosystems, to explore the realities of managing self-funded health plans in a mid-sized manufacturing environment. Mona shares decades of experience at the intersection of employees, executives, and financial risk, discussing the pros and cons of self-funding, handling catastrophic claims, and innovative pharmacy approaches. She emphasizes transparency, trust-building with leadership, and flexible policies to advocate for people while speaking finance's language. From White House summits to on-the-ground employee relationships, this conversation delivers practical insights for HR leaders aiming to navigate renewals, volatility, and culture. Whether you're considering self-funding or optimizing existing plans, Mona's stories offer a roadmap to sustainable, people-centered benefits. Guest Bio: Mona Martin is the HR Leader at HM Dunn Aerosystems in Wichita, Kansas, specializing in self-funded health plans and employee advocacy in manufacturing. With decades of experience, she focuses on balancing financial discipline with human impact through transparency and relationships. A White House summit attendee, Mona is passionate about "doing it afraid" to drive bold HR strategies. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to self-funding challenges and real-world impacts. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Mona introduces herself, her role, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on White House experiences. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining self-funding and its evolution in practice. 06:00 - 07:00: Shift to creative pharmacy and risk strategies. 07:00 - 08:30: Impact on budgets, employees, and executive buy-in. 08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Rigid policies and volatility, with examples. 10:50 - 13:15: Client story on catastrophic claims and recovery. 13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Savings metrics, trust, and ROI. 15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for manufacturing workforces. 19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for transparency. 21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about self-funding risks. 22:30 - 24:00: Bridging HR advocacy with finance, plus flexibility examples. 24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating options and building credibility. 26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Fear of the unknown. 28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Integrated advocacy and data use. 29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking employee support through relationships. 31:55 - 33:30: Building a trust culture from executives to frontline. 33:30 - 34:40: Role of flexibility, data, and personalization in plans. 34:40 - 34:55: Branding benefits for employee understanding. 34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Proactive risk management. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Build relationships, advocate boldly, and focus on core competencies. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including self-funding, pharmacy strategies, and HR advocacy. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 21:00:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If navigating self-funded health plans, catastrophic claims, and executive buy-in feels overwhelming, this episode shares real-world strategies to build trust and achieve long-term success without shifting costs to employees. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including self-funding, pharmacy strategies, and HR advocacy. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Mona Martin, HR Leader at HM Dunn Aerosystems, to explore the realities of managing self-funded health plans in a mid-sized manufacturing environment. Mona shares decades of experience at the intersection of employees, executives, and financial risk, discussing the pros and cons of self-funding, handling catastrophic claims, and innovative pharmacy approaches. She emphasizes transparency, trust-building with leadership, and flexible policies to advocate for people while speaking finance's language. From White House summits to on-the-ground employee relationships, this conversation delivers practical insights for HR leaders aiming to navigate renewals, volatility, and culture. Whether you're considering self-funding or optimizing existing plans, Mona's stories offer a roadmap to sustainable, people-centered benefits. Guest Bio: Mona Martin is the HR Leader at HM Dunn Aerosystems in Wichita, Kansas, specializing in self-funded health plans and employee advocacy in manufacturing. With decades of experience, she focuses on balancing financial discipline with human impact through transparency and relationships. A White House summit attendee, Mona is passionate about "doing it afraid" to drive bold HR strategies. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to self-funding challenges and real-world impacts. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Mona introduces herself, her role, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on White House experiences. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining self-funding and its evolution in practice. 06:00 - 07:00: Shift to creative pharmacy and risk strategies. 07:00 - 08:30: Impact on budgets, employees, and executive buy-in. 08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Rigid policies and volatility, with examples. 10:50 - 13:15: Client story on catastrophic claims and recovery. 13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Savings metrics, trust, and ROI. 15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for manufacturing workforces. 19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for transparency. 21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about self-funding risks. 22:30 - 24:00: Bridging HR advocacy with finance, plus flexibility examples. 24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating options and building credibility. 26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Fear of the unknown. 28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Integrated advocacy and data use. 29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking employee support through relationships. 31:55 - 33:30: Building a trust culture from executives to frontline. 33:30 - 34:40: Role of flexibility, data, and personalization in plans. 34:40 - 34:55: Branding benefits for employee understanding. 34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Proactive risk management. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Build relationships, advocate boldly, and focus on core competencies. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including self-funding, pharmacy strategies, and HR advocacy. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If navigating self-funded health plans, catastrophic claims, and executive buy-in feels overwhelming, this episode shares real-world strategies to build trust and achieve long-term success without shifting costs to employees.

Resources Mentioned:

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including self-funding, pharmacy strategies, and HR advocacy. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Mona Martin, HR Leader at HM Dunn Aerosystems, to explore the realities of managing self-funded health plans in a mid-sized manufacturing environment. Mona shares decades of experience at the intersection of employees, executives, and financial risk, discussing the pros and cons of self-funding, handling catastrophic claims, and innovative pharmacy approaches. She emphasizes transparency, trust-building with leadership, and flexible policies to advocate for people while speaking finance's language. From White House summits to on-the-ground employee relationships, this conversation delivers practical insights for HR leaders aiming to navigate renewals, volatility, and culture. Whether you're considering self-funding or optimizing existing plans, Mona's stories offer a roadmap to sustainable, people-centered benefits.

Guest Bio: Mona Martin is the HR Leader at HM Dunn Aerosystems in Wichita, Kansas, specializing in self-funded health plans and employee advocacy in manufacturing. With decades of experience, she focuses on balancing financial discipline with human impact through transparency and relationships. A White House summit attendee, Mona is passionate about "doing it afraid" to drive bold HR strategies.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to self-funding challenges and real-world impacts.

01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome.

02:05 - 03:15: Mona introduces herself, her role, and a fun fact.

03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on White House experiences.

04:10 - 06:00: Defining self-funding and its evolution in practice.

06:00 - 07:00: Shift to creative pharmacy and risk strategies.

07:00 - 08:30: Impact on budgets, employees, and executive buy-in.

08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Rigid policies and volatility, with examples.

10:50 - 13:15: Client story on catastrophic claims and recovery.

13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Savings metrics, trust, and ROI.

15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for manufacturing workforces.

19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for transparency.

21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about self-funding risks.

22:30 - 24:00: Bridging HR advocacy with finance, plus flexibility examples.

24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating options and building credibility.

26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Fear of the unknown.

28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Integrated advocacy and data use.

29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking employee support through relationships.

31:55 - 33:30: Building a trust culture from executives to frontline.

33:30 - 34:40: Role of flexibility, data, and personalization in plans.

34:40 - 34:55: Branding benefits for employee understanding.

34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Proactive risk management.

35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Build relationships, advocate boldly, and focus on core competencies.

37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including self-funding, pharmacy strategies, and HR advocacy. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2537 Advancing Orthopedic Care: Insights from Mark Testa If escalating orthopedic costs and unnecessary surgeries are burdening your benefits plan, this episode explores regenerative medicine strategies to reduce downtime and expenses without invasive procedures. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including MSK innovations, regenerative medicine, and cost avoidance. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Mark Testa, Executive Vice President at Regenexx, to discuss non-surgical alternatives in musculoskeletal care. With 30 years as a chiropractor and acupuncturist, Mark explains how regenerative medicine using platelet-rich plasma and bone marrow cells fits between conservative therapy and surgery, reducing costs by 60-70% and avoiding downtime. They cover breakdowns in traditional MSK pathways, integrating with digital PT and centers of excellence, and evidence from academic centers. From candidate evaluations to zero-dollar member costs, this conversation provides actionable insights for HR leaders seeking to enhance plans with advanced, accessible options. Whether addressing arthritis or rotator cuff tears, Mark's expertise offers a roadmap to smarter orthopedic strategies. Guest Bio: Mark Testa is Executive Vice President at Regenexx, focusing on non-surgical regenerative medicine to help patients avoid elective orthopedic surgeries. A trained chiropractor and acupuncturist with 30 years of hands-on experience in pain clinics and hospitals, he promotes image-guided cell therapies. Based in Denver, Mark enjoys cooking homemade Italian dishes like bolognese sauce. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to orthopedic cost challenges and alternatives. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Mark introduces himself, his role at Regenexx, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on cooking passions. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining regenerative medicine and its evolution. 06:00 - 07:00: Shift to non-surgical strategies. 07:00 - 08:30: Impact on costs, downtime, and employee access. 08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Traditional MSK breakdowns, with examples. 10:50 - 13:15: Client story on avoiding surgery through cell therapies. 13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Savings metrics, ROI, and outcomes data. 15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for diverse populations, with integration examples. 19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for education. 21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about regenerative novelty. 22:30 - 24:00: Bridging clinical care with finance, plus academic examples. 24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating candidates and plan integration. 26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Defaulting to surgery. 28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Broader regenerative access. 29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking MSK support through conservative enhancements. 31:55 - 33:30: Building a non-surgical culture from leadership down. 33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, imaging, and personalization in care. 34:40 - 34:55: Branding regenerative options for clarity. 34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: MSK pathway audits. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Integrate non-surgical options, educate teams, and measure avoidance. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including MSK innovations, regenerative medicine, and cost avoidance. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 19:00:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If escalating orthopedic costs and unnecessary surgeries are burdening your benefits plan, this episode explores regenerative medicine strategies to reduce downtime and expenses without invasive procedures. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including MSK innovations, regenerative medicine, and cost avoidance. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Mark Testa, Executive Vice President at Regenexx, to discuss non-surgical alternatives in musculoskeletal care. With 30 years as a chiropractor and acupuncturist, Mark explains how regenerative medicine using platelet-rich plasma and bone marrow cells fits between conservative therapy and surgery, reducing costs by 60-70% and avoiding downtime. They cover breakdowns in traditional MSK pathways, integrating with digital PT and centers of excellence, and evidence from academic centers. From candidate evaluations to zero-dollar member costs, this conversation provides actionable insights for HR leaders seeking to enhance plans with advanced, accessible options. Whether addressing arthritis or rotator cuff tears, Mark's expertise offers a roadmap to smarter orthopedic strategies. Guest Bio: Mark Testa is Executive Vice President at Regenexx, focusing on non-surgical regenerative medicine to help patients avoid elective orthopedic surgeries. A trained chiropractor and acupuncturist with 30 years of hands-on experience in pain clinics and hospitals, he promotes image-guided cell therapies. Based in Denver, Mark enjoys cooking homemade Italian dishes like bolognese sauce. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to orthopedic cost challenges and alternatives. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Mark introduces himself, his role at Regenexx, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on cooking passions. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining regenerative medicine and its evolution. 06:00 - 07:00: Shift to non-surgical strategies. 07:00 - 08:30: Impact on costs, downtime, and employee access. 08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Traditional MSK breakdowns, with examples. 10:50 - 13:15: Client story on avoiding surgery through cell therapies. 13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Savings metrics, ROI, and outcomes data. 15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for diverse populations, with integration examples. 19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for education. 21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about regenerative novelty. 22:30 - 24:00: Bridging clinical care with finance, plus academic examples. 24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating candidates and plan integration. 26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Defaulting to surgery. 28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Broader regenerative access. 29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking MSK support through conservative enhancements. 31:55 - 33:30: Building a non-surgical culture from leadership down. 33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, imaging, and personalization in care. 34:40 - 34:55: Branding regenerative options for clarity. 34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: MSK pathway audits. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Integrate non-surgical options, educate teams, and measure avoidance. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including MSK innovations, regenerative medicine, and cost avoidance. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If escalating orthopedic costs and unnecessary surgeries are burdening your benefits plan, this episode explores regenerative medicine strategies to reduce downtime and expenses without invasive procedures.

Resources Mentioned:

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including MSK innovations, regenerative medicine, and cost avoidance. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Mark Testa, Executive Vice President at Regenexx, to discuss non-surgical alternatives in musculoskeletal care. With 30 years as a chiropractor and acupuncturist, Mark explains how regenerative medicine using platelet-rich plasma and bone marrow cells fits between conservative therapy and surgery, reducing costs by 60-70% and avoiding downtime. They cover breakdowns in traditional MSK pathways, integrating with digital PT and centers of excellence, and evidence from academic centers. From candidate evaluations to zero-dollar member costs, this conversation provides actionable insights for HR leaders seeking to enhance plans with advanced, accessible options. Whether addressing arthritis or rotator cuff tears, Mark's expertise offers a roadmap to smarter orthopedic strategies.

Guest Bio: Mark Testa is Executive Vice President at Regenexx, focusing on non-surgical regenerative medicine to help patients avoid elective orthopedic surgeries. A trained chiropractor and acupuncturist with 30 years of hands-on experience in pain clinics and hospitals, he promotes image-guided cell therapies. Based in Denver, Mark enjoys cooking homemade Italian dishes like bolognese sauce.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to orthopedic cost challenges and alternatives.

01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome.

02:05 - 03:15: Mark introduces himself, his role at Regenexx, and a fun fact.

03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on cooking passions.

04:10 - 06:00: Defining regenerative medicine and its evolution.

06:00 - 07:00: Shift to non-surgical strategies.

07:00 - 08:30: Impact on costs, downtime, and employee access.

08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Traditional MSK breakdowns, with examples.

10:50 - 13:15: Client story on avoiding surgery through cell therapies.

13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Savings metrics, ROI, and outcomes data.

15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for diverse populations, with integration examples.

19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for education.

21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about regenerative novelty.

22:30 - 24:00: Bridging clinical care with finance, plus academic examples.

24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating candidates and plan integration.

26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Defaulting to surgery.

28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Broader regenerative access.

29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking MSK support through conservative enhancements.

31:55 - 33:30: Building a non-surgical culture from leadership down.

33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, imaging, and personalization in care.

34:40 - 34:55: Branding regenerative options for clarity.

34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: MSK pathway audits.

35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Integrate non-surgical options, educate teams, and measure avoidance.

37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including MSK innovations, regenerative medicine, and cost avoidance. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2680 Rethinking Wellness: Insights from Anji Antkowiak If fragmented wellness programs and vendor overload are failing to engage employees or control costs, this episode guides you toward a cohesive ecosystem that integrates benefits for measurable impact. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellness ecosystems, incentives, and integration strategies. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Anji Antkowiak, Senior Wellness Service Manager at HealthBreak Inc., to tackle why wellness hasn't failed—fragmentation has—and how to build smarter, integrated strategies. With over 25 years in employer wellness, Anji discusses moving from scattered programs to ecosystems that boost utilization across benefits, using digital and high-touch solutions for small to mid-market employers. She shares tips on incentives, champion networks, and embedding wellbeing into operations for better engagement and ROI. From mapping existing benefits to fostering cultures of health, this conversation offers actionable guidance for HR leaders overwhelmed by disconnected solutions. Whether you're redesigning wellness or enhancing retention, Anji's insights provide a roadmap to efficient, impactful programs. Guest Bio: Anji Antkowiak is Senior Wellness Service Manager at HealthBreak Inc., overseeing on-site and virtual wellness coordinators, content, and client strategies for employers. With nearly 25 years in health and wellbeing, she helps design and deliver programs for corporations, universities, and health systems. Based in Iowa, Anji is a singer-songwriter with two folk albums. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to wellness fragmentation and ecosystem needs. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Anji introduces herself, her role at HealthBreak, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on music and wellness connections. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining wellness evolution and integration challenges. 06:00 - 07:00: Shift to cohesive ecosystem strategies. 07:00 - 08:30: Impact on engagement, costs, and company sizes. 08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Standalone perks, with examples. 10:50 - 13:15: Client story on successful ecosystem implementation. 13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Utilization metrics, ROI, and feedback. 15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for diverse industries, with incentive examples. 19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for promotion. 21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about wellness failure. 22:30 - 24:00: Bridging wellness with benefits, plus champion network examples. 24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating vendors and setting realistic goals. 26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Over-reliance on one-offs. 28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: High-touch digital hybrids. 29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking support through benefit mapping. 31:55 - 33:30: Building a wellness culture from leadership down. 33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, incentives, and customization in wellness. 34:40 - 34:55: Branding ecosystems for memorability. 34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Integrated incentives. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Map benefits, leverage partners, and incentivize wisely. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellness ecosystems, incentives, and integration strategies. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:00:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If fragmented wellness programs and vendor overload are failing to engage employees or control costs, this episode guides you toward a cohesive ecosystem that integrates benefits for measurable impact. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellness ecosystems, incentives, and integration strategies. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Anji Antkowiak, Senior Wellness Service Manager at HealthBreak Inc., to tackle why wellness hasn't failed—fragmentation has—and how to build smarter, integrated strategies. With over 25 years in employer wellness, Anji discusses moving from scattered programs to ecosystems that boost utilization across benefits, using digital and high-touch solutions for small to mid-market employers. She shares tips on incentives, champion networks, and embedding wellbeing into operations for better engagement and ROI. From mapping existing benefits to fostering cultures of health, this conversation offers actionable guidance for HR leaders overwhelmed by disconnected solutions. Whether you're redesigning wellness or enhancing retention, Anji's insights provide a roadmap to efficient, impactful programs. Guest Bio: Anji Antkowiak is Senior Wellness Service Manager at HealthBreak Inc., overseeing on-site and virtual wellness coordinators, content, and client strategies for employers. With nearly 25 years in health and wellbeing, she helps design and deliver programs for corporations, universities, and health systems. Based in Iowa, Anji is a singer-songwriter with two folk albums. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to wellness fragmentation and ecosystem needs. 01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome. 02:05 - 03:15: Anji introduces herself, her role at HealthBreak, and a fun fact. 03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on music and wellness connections. 04:10 - 06:00: Defining wellness evolution and integration challenges. 06:00 - 07:00: Shift to cohesive ecosystem strategies. 07:00 - 08:30: Impact on engagement, costs, and company sizes. 08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Standalone perks, with examples. 10:50 - 13:15: Client story on successful ecosystem implementation. 13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Utilization metrics, ROI, and feedback. 15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for diverse industries, with incentive examples. 19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for promotion. 21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about wellness failure. 22:30 - 24:00: Bridging wellness with benefits, plus champion network examples. 24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating vendors and setting realistic goals. 26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Over-reliance on one-offs. 28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: High-touch digital hybrids. 29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking support through benefit mapping. 31:55 - 33:30: Building a wellness culture from leadership down. 33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, incentives, and customization in wellness. 34:40 - 34:55: Branding ecosystems for memorability. 34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Integrated incentives. 35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Map benefits, leverage partners, and incentivize wisely. 37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro. Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience): 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellness ecosystems, incentives, and integration strategies. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026] Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. If fragmented wellness programs and vendor overload are failing to engage employees or control costs, this episode guides you toward a cohesive ecosystem that integrates benefits for measurable impact.

Resources Mentioned:

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellness ecosystems, incentives, and integration strategies. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Anji Antkowiak, Senior Wellness Service Manager at HealthBreak Inc., to tackle why wellness hasn't failed—fragmentation has—and how to build smarter, integrated strategies. With over 25 years in employer wellness, Anji discusses moving from scattered programs to ecosystems that boost utilization across benefits, using digital and high-touch solutions for small to mid-market employers. She shares tips on incentives, champion networks, and embedding wellbeing into operations for better engagement and ROI. From mapping existing benefits to fostering cultures of health, this conversation offers actionable guidance for HR leaders overwhelmed by disconnected solutions. Whether you're redesigning wellness or enhancing retention, Anji's insights provide a roadmap to efficient, impactful programs.

Guest Bio: Anji Antkowiak is Senior Wellness Service Manager at HealthBreak Inc., overseeing on-site and virtual wellness coordinators, content, and client strategies for employers. With nearly 25 years in health and wellbeing, she helps design and deliver programs for corporations, universities, and health systems. Based in Iowa, Anji is a singer-songwriter with two folk albums.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to wellness fragmentation and ecosystem needs.

01:20 - 02:05: Show intro and welcome.

02:05 - 03:15: Anji introduces herself, her role at HealthBreak, and a fun fact.

03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on music and wellness connections.

04:10 - 06:00: Defining wellness evolution and integration challenges.

06:00 - 07:00: Shift to cohesive ecosystem strategies.

07:00 - 08:30: Impact on engagement, costs, and company sizes.

08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Standalone perks, with examples.

10:50 - 13:15: Client story on successful ecosystem implementation.

13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Utilization metrics, ROI, and feedback.

15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for diverse industries, with incentive examples.

19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for promotion.

21:25 - 22:30: Misconceptions about wellness failure.

22:30 - 24:00: Bridging wellness with benefits, plus champion network examples.

24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating vendors and setting realistic goals.

26:00 - 28:30: Mindsets holding employers back: Over-reliance on one-offs.

28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: High-touch digital hybrids.

29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking support through benefit mapping.

31:55 - 33:30: Building a wellness culture from leadership down.

33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, incentives, and customization in wellness.

34:40 - 34:55: Branding ecosystems for memorability.

34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Integrated incentives.

35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Map benefits, leverage partners, and incentivize wisely.

37:55 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

Resources Mentioned (Repeated for Convenience):

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including wellness ecosystems, incentives, and integration strategies. [https://imacorp.com/insights/hr-insights-on-the-pulse-report-2026]

Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe (Repeated for Convenience): If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

]]> 2419 Data-Driven Funding Strategies: Insights from Jordan Paulus and Leigh Stenby If rising healthcare costs and uncertain funding decisions are impacting your renewals, this episode equips you with data strategies to gain control and achieve meaningful savings without shifting burdens to employees. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Jordan Paulus, EB Data & Insights expert, and Leigh Stenby, Director of National Accounts at IMA Financial Group, to explore how data transforms benefits funding in the mid-market. They discuss the shift toward self-funded and alternative models amid 10% medical and 18% pharmacy trends, sharing strategies for using analytics to lower renewals, model transitions, and activate savings levers. From auditing limited-data plans to partnering on smooth implementations, this conversation offers actionable insights for HR leaders in industries like healthcare and manufacturing. Whether you're evaluating captives, consortiums, or hybrid options, Jordan and Leigh provide a roadmap to financial control and strategic decision-making. Guest Bio: Jordan Paulus is an EB Data & Insights expert at IMA Financial Group, focusing on helping mid-sized employers use claims data for smarter funding decisions and cost control. He guides organizations through modeling, benchmarking, and transitions to alternative models like level-funding and captives. Leigh Stenby serves as Director of National Accounts at IMA Financial Group, with 27 years in benefits. She specializes in evaluating, designing, implementing, and managing group health and welfare programs for self-funded and fully insured clients, thriving on creative solutions for complex challenges. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to healthcare cost trends and funding pressures 01:20: Show intro and welcome 02:05: Jordan and Leigh introduce themselves, their roles at IMA, and fun facts 03:15: Personal chit-chat on data in benefits evolution 04:10: Defining data-driven funding shifts and mid-market trends 06:00: Shift to alternative models like captives and level-funding 07:00: Impact on renewals, industries, and company sizes 08:30: Common pitfalls: Limited data access, with examples 10:50: Client story on successful funding transition using analytics 13:15: Measuring success: Savings metrics, ROI, and benchmarks 15:55: Designing strategies for diverse populations and operations 19:25: Communication trends and tools for funding education 21:25: Misconceptions about alternative funding complexity 22:30: Bridging HR insights with finance data needs, plus consortium examples 24:00: Evaluating options and preparation steps 26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Sticking to traditional models 28:30: Upcoming trends: Hybrid funding and advanced analytics 29:45: Rethinking data use for high-cost claimants and preventative care 31:55: Building a data culture from leadership to teams 33:30: Role of dashboards, modeling, and customization in funding 34:40: Branding data strategies for buy-in 34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Proactive data activation 35:40: Advice for organizations: Expose cost drivers, model confidently, and transition smoothly 37:55: Closing thanks and show outro Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:10:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If rising healthcare costs and uncertain funding decisions are impacting your renewals, this episode equips you with data strategies to gain control and achieve meaningful savings without shifting burdens to employees. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Jordan Paulus, EB Data & Insights expert, and Leigh Stenby, Director of National Accounts at IMA Financial Group, to explore how data transforms benefits funding in the mid-market. They discuss the shift toward self-funded and alternative models amid 10% medical and 18% pharmacy trends, sharing strategies for using analytics to lower renewals, model transitions, and activate savings levers. From auditing limited-data plans to partnering on smooth implementations, this conversation offers actionable insights for HR leaders in industries like healthcare and manufacturing. Whether you're evaluating captives, consortiums, or hybrid options, Jordan and Leigh provide a roadmap to financial control and strategic decision-making. Guest Bio: Jordan Paulus is an EB Data & Insights expert at IMA Financial Group, focusing on helping mid-sized employers use claims data for smarter funding decisions and cost control. He guides organizations through modeling, benchmarking, and transitions to alternative models like level-funding and captives. Leigh Stenby serves as Director of National Accounts at IMA Financial Group, with 27 years in benefits. She specializes in evaluating, designing, implementing, and managing group health and welfare programs for self-funded and fully insured clients, thriving on creative solutions for complex challenges. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to healthcare cost trends and funding pressures 01:20: Show intro and welcome 02:05: Jordan and Leigh introduce themselves, their roles at IMA, and fun facts 03:15: Personal chit-chat on data in benefits evolution 04:10: Defining data-driven funding shifts and mid-market trends 06:00: Shift to alternative models like captives and level-funding 07:00: Impact on renewals, industries, and company sizes 08:30: Common pitfalls: Limited data access, with examples 10:50: Client story on successful funding transition using analytics 13:15: Measuring success: Savings metrics, ROI, and benchmarks 15:55: Designing strategies for diverse populations and operations 19:25: Communication trends and tools for funding education 21:25: Misconceptions about alternative funding complexity 22:30: Bridging HR insights with finance data needs, plus consortium examples 24:00: Evaluating options and preparation steps 26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Sticking to traditional models 28:30: Upcoming trends: Hybrid funding and advanced analytics 29:45: Rethinking data use for high-cost claimants and preventative care 31:55: Building a data culture from leadership to teams 33:30: Role of dashboards, modeling, and customization in funding 34:40: Branding data strategies for buy-in 34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Proactive data activation 35:40: Advice for organizations: Expose cost drivers, model confidently, and transition smoothly 37:55: Closing thanks and show outro If rising healthcare costs and uncertain funding decisions are impacting your renewals, this episode equips you with data strategies to gain control and achieve meaningful savings without shifting burdens to employees.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies.

  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Jordan Paulus, EB Data & Insights expert, and Leigh Stenby, Director of National Accounts at IMA Financial Group, to explore how data transforms benefits funding in the mid-market. They discuss the shift toward self-funded and alternative models amid 10% medical and 18% pharmacy trends, sharing strategies for using analytics to lower renewals, model transitions, and activate savings levers. From auditing limited-data plans to partnering on smooth implementations, this conversation offers actionable insights for HR leaders in industries like healthcare and manufacturing. Whether you're evaluating captives, consortiums, or hybrid options, Jordan and Leigh provide a roadmap to financial control and strategic decision-making.

Guest Bio: Jordan Paulus is an EB Data & Insights expert at IMA Financial Group, focusing on helping mid-sized employers use claims data for smarter funding decisions and cost control. He guides organizations through modeling, benchmarking, and transitions to alternative models like level-funding and captives.

Leigh Stenby serves as Director of National Accounts at IMA Financial Group, with 27 years in benefits. She specializes in evaluating, designing, implementing, and managing group health and welfare programs for self-funded and fully insured clients, thriving on creative solutions for complex challenges.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00: Introduction to healthcare cost trends and funding pressures
01:20: Show intro and welcome
02:05: Jordan and Leigh introduce themselves, their roles at IMA, and fun facts
03:15: Personal chit-chat on data in benefits evolution
04:10: Defining data-driven funding shifts and mid-market trends
06:00: Shift to alternative models like captives and level-funding
07:00: Impact on renewals, industries, and company sizes
08:30: Common pitfalls: Limited data access, with examples
10:50: Client story on successful funding transition using analytics
13:15: Measuring success: Savings metrics, ROI, and benchmarks
15:55: Designing strategies for diverse populations and operations
19:25: Communication trends and tools for funding education
21:25: Misconceptions about alternative funding complexity
22:30: Bridging HR insights with finance data needs, plus consortium examples
24:00: Evaluating options and preparation steps
26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Sticking to traditional models
28:30: Upcoming trends: Hybrid funding and advanced analytics
29:45: Rethinking data use for high-cost claimants and preventative care
31:55: Building a data culture from leadership to teams
33:30: Role of dashboards, modeling, and customization in funding
34:40: Branding data strategies for buy-in
34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Proactive data activation
35:40: Advice for organizations: Expose cost drivers, model confidently, and transition smoothly
37:55: Closing thanks and show outro


]]> 2096 Navigating PFML Expansion: Insights from Craig Truitt If expanding state PFML laws are complicating your compliance and operations, this episode shows how to integrate them seamlessly without overwhelming your HR team or workforce. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Craig Truitt, Absence Consulting expert at IMA Financial Group, to address the accelerating expansion of Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) programs across states. Craig discusses the current timeline for new programs in Minnesota, Maryland, Maine, and Delaware, along with strategies for managing contributions, benefits coordination, and compliance in multi-state environments. He shares practical tips for auditing policies, creating leave roadmaps, and integrating PFML with existing PTO and disability programs to reduce administrative burden. From client examples to handling high-volume industries like retail and healthcare, this conversation offers actionable guidance for HR leaders facing this patchwork of requirements. Whether you're preparing for upcoming launches or optimizing current setups, Craig's insights provide a clear path to compliance and employee support. Guest Bio: Craig Truitt is an Absence Consulting expert at IMA Financial Group, specializing in helping employers navigate paid leave compliance, policy integration, and operational challenges. With deep knowledge of state PFML programs and federal requirements, he guides multi-state organizations in building scalable strategies that minimize risks and empower HR teams. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to PFML expansion challenges and compliance pressures 01:20: Show intro and welcome 02:05: Craig introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact 03:15: Personal chit-chat on leave policy evolutions 04:10: Defining PFML trends and their rapid growth since 2018 06:00: Shift to state-specific implementation strategies 07:00: Impact on multi-state employers, industries, and remote workforces 08:30: Common pitfalls: Policy conflicts and payroll complications, with examples 10:50: Client story on successful PFML integration in a high-volume industry 13:15: Measuring success: Compliance metrics, employee satisfaction, and cost controls 15:55: Designing programs for distributed teams, with coordination examples 19:25: Communication trends and tools for educating on PFML 21:25: Misconceptions about PFML costs and requirements 22:30: Bridging HR operations with finance needs, plus PTO integration examples 24:00: Evaluating state programs and preparation timelines 26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Delaying audits and integrations 28:30: Upcoming trends: More state adoptions and hybrid models 29:45: Rethinking leave support through roadmaps and templates 31:55: Building a compliance culture from leadership to employees 33:30: Role of technology, alerts, and customization in PFML management 34:40: Branding leave programs for clarity 34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Proactive state-by-state planning 35:40: Advice for organizations: Audit gaps, coordinate benefits, and educate early 37:55: Closing thanks and show outro Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:09:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If expanding state PFML laws are complicating your compliance and operations, this episode shows how to integrate them seamlessly without overwhelming your HR team or workforce. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Craig Truitt, Absence Consulting expert at IMA Financial Group, to address the accelerating expansion of Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) programs across states. Craig discusses the current timeline for new programs in Minnesota, Maryland, Maine, and Delaware, along with strategies for managing contributions, benefits coordination, and compliance in multi-state environments. He shares practical tips for auditing policies, creating leave roadmaps, and integrating PFML with existing PTO and disability programs to reduce administrative burden. From client examples to handling high-volume industries like retail and healthcare, this conversation offers actionable guidance for HR leaders facing this patchwork of requirements. Whether you're preparing for upcoming launches or optimizing current setups, Craig's insights provide a clear path to compliance and employee support. Guest Bio: Craig Truitt is an Absence Consulting expert at IMA Financial Group, specializing in helping employers navigate paid leave compliance, policy integration, and operational challenges. With deep knowledge of state PFML programs and federal requirements, he guides multi-state organizations in building scalable strategies that minimize risks and empower HR teams. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to PFML expansion challenges and compliance pressures 01:20: Show intro and welcome 02:05: Craig introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact 03:15: Personal chit-chat on leave policy evolutions 04:10: Defining PFML trends and their rapid growth since 2018 06:00: Shift to state-specific implementation strategies 07:00: Impact on multi-state employers, industries, and remote workforces 08:30: Common pitfalls: Policy conflicts and payroll complications, with examples 10:50: Client story on successful PFML integration in a high-volume industry 13:15: Measuring success: Compliance metrics, employee satisfaction, and cost controls 15:55: Designing programs for distributed teams, with coordination examples 19:25: Communication trends and tools for educating on PFML 21:25: Misconceptions about PFML costs and requirements 22:30: Bridging HR operations with finance needs, plus PTO integration examples 24:00: Evaluating state programs and preparation timelines 26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Delaying audits and integrations 28:30: Upcoming trends: More state adoptions and hybrid models 29:45: Rethinking leave support through roadmaps and templates 31:55: Building a compliance culture from leadership to employees 33:30: Role of technology, alerts, and customization in PFML management 34:40: Branding leave programs for clarity 34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Proactive state-by-state planning 35:40: Advice for organizations: Audit gaps, coordinate benefits, and educate early 37:55: Closing thanks and show outro If expanding state PFML laws are complicating your compliance and operations, this episode shows how to integrate them seamlessly without overwhelming your HR team or workforce.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies.

  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Craig Truitt, Absence Consulting expert at IMA Financial Group, to address the accelerating expansion of Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) programs across states. Craig discusses the current timeline for new programs in Minnesota, Maryland, Maine, and Delaware, along with strategies for managing contributions, benefits coordination, and compliance in multi-state environments. He shares practical tips for auditing policies, creating leave roadmaps, and integrating PFML with existing PTO and disability programs to reduce administrative burden. From client examples to handling high-volume industries like retail and healthcare, this conversation offers actionable guidance for HR leaders facing this patchwork of requirements. Whether you're preparing for upcoming launches or optimizing current setups, Craig's insights provide a clear path to compliance and employee support.

Guest Bio: Craig Truitt is an Absence Consulting expert at IMA Financial Group, specializing in helping employers navigate paid leave compliance, policy integration, and operational challenges. With deep knowledge of state PFML programs and federal requirements, he guides multi-state organizations in building scalable strategies that minimize risks and empower HR teams.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00: Introduction to PFML expansion challenges and compliance pressures
01:20: Show intro and welcome
02:05: Craig introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact
03:15: Personal chit-chat on leave policy evolutions
04:10: Defining PFML trends and their rapid growth since 2018
06:00: Shift to state-specific implementation strategies
07:00: Impact on multi-state employers, industries, and remote workforces
08:30: Common pitfalls: Policy conflicts and payroll complications, with examples
10:50: Client story on successful PFML integration in a high-volume industry
13:15: Measuring success: Compliance metrics, employee satisfaction, and cost controls
15:55: Designing programs for distributed teams, with coordination examples
19:25: Communication trends and tools for educating on PFML
21:25: Misconceptions about PFML costs and requirements
22:30: Bridging HR operations with finance needs, plus PTO integration examples
24:00: Evaluating state programs and preparation timelines
26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Delaying audits and integrations
28:30: Upcoming trends: More state adoptions and hybrid models
29:45: Rethinking leave support through roadmaps and templates
31:55: Building a compliance culture from leadership to employees
33:30: Role of technology, alerts, and customization in PFML management
34:40: Branding leave programs for clarity
34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Proactive state-by-state planning
35:40: Advice for organizations: Audit gaps, coordinate benefits, and educate early
37:55: Closing thanks and show outro


]]> 1834 Navigating Alternative Funding: Insights from Sam Burns If persistent inflation and renewal pressures are straining your benefits budget, this episode reveals how captive programs and alternative funding can deliver control and savings without shifting costs to employees. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Sam Burns, Vice President and Captive Practice Leader at IMA Financial Group, to discuss the shift toward alternative funding models in employee benefits. Sam explains how captives, level-funding, and consortiums help mid-sized employers gain financial control amid rising healthcare costs. He shares strategies for evaluating funding options, managing volatility, and using data to optimize plans. From client success stories to addressing common implementation challenges, this conversation provides actionable guidance for HR leaders looking to improve renewals and plan performance. Whether you're exploring self-funding for the first time or refining existing arrangements, Sam's insights offer a practical roadmap to sustainable benefits. Guest Bio: Sam Burns serves as Vice President and Captive Practice Leader in Employee Benefits at IMA Financial Group. Based in Denver, he specializes in helping organizations implement alternative funding solutions like captives to achieve cost savings and risk management. With extensive experience in the insurance industry, Sam focuses on tailoring strategies that provide predictability and control for employers facing healthcare inflation. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to funding challenges and inflation impacts 01:20: Show intro and welcome 02:05: Sam introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact 03:15: Personal chit-chat on industry changes 04:10: Defining alternative funding models and their evolution 06:00: Shift to captive and level-funded strategies 07:00: Impact on budgets, renewals, and company sizes 08:30: Common pitfalls: Misunderstanding captives, with examples 10:50: Client story on successful captive implementation 13:15: Measuring success: Savings metrics, ROI, and data analysis 15:55: Designing programs for multi-state or diverse operations 19:25: Communication trends and tools for funding education 21:25: Misconceptions about self-funding risks 22:30: Bridging HR and finance perspectives, with consortium examples 24:00: Evaluating options and setting goals 26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Resistance to change 28:30: Upcoming trends: Hybrid models and stop-loss innovations 29:45: Rethinking volatility management through captives 31:55: Building a funding culture from leadership down 33:30: Role of data, analytics, and customization in funding 34:40: Branding alternative funding for employee understanding 34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Data-informed transitions 35:40: Advice for organizations: Assess readiness, partner strategically, and monitor progress 37:55: Closing thanks and show outro Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:02:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If persistent inflation and renewal pressures are straining your benefits budget, this episode reveals how captive programs and alternative funding can deliver control and savings without shifting costs to employees. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Sam Burns, Vice President and Captive Practice Leader at IMA Financial Group, to discuss the shift toward alternative funding models in employee benefits. Sam explains how captives, level-funding, and consortiums help mid-sized employers gain financial control amid rising healthcare costs. He shares strategies for evaluating funding options, managing volatility, and using data to optimize plans. From client success stories to addressing common implementation challenges, this conversation provides actionable guidance for HR leaders looking to improve renewals and plan performance. Whether you're exploring self-funding for the first time or refining existing arrangements, Sam's insights offer a practical roadmap to sustainable benefits. Guest Bio: Sam Burns serves as Vice President and Captive Practice Leader in Employee Benefits at IMA Financial Group. Based in Denver, he specializes in helping organizations implement alternative funding solutions like captives to achieve cost savings and risk management. With extensive experience in the insurance industry, Sam focuses on tailoring strategies that provide predictability and control for employers facing healthcare inflation. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to funding challenges and inflation impacts 01:20: Show intro and welcome 02:05: Sam introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact 03:15: Personal chit-chat on industry changes 04:10: Defining alternative funding models and their evolution 06:00: Shift to captive and level-funded strategies 07:00: Impact on budgets, renewals, and company sizes 08:30: Common pitfalls: Misunderstanding captives, with examples 10:50: Client story on successful captive implementation 13:15: Measuring success: Savings metrics, ROI, and data analysis 15:55: Designing programs for multi-state or diverse operations 19:25: Communication trends and tools for funding education 21:25: Misconceptions about self-funding risks 22:30: Bridging HR and finance perspectives, with consortium examples 24:00: Evaluating options and setting goals 26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Resistance to change 28:30: Upcoming trends: Hybrid models and stop-loss innovations 29:45: Rethinking volatility management through captives 31:55: Building a funding culture from leadership down 33:30: Role of data, analytics, and customization in funding 34:40: Branding alternative funding for employee understanding 34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Data-informed transitions 35:40: Advice for organizations: Assess readiness, partner strategically, and monitor progress 37:55: Closing thanks and show outro If persistent inflation and renewal pressures are straining your benefits budget, this episode reveals how captive programs and alternative funding can deliver control and savings without shifting costs to employees.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies.

  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Sam Burns, Vice President and Captive Practice Leader at IMA Financial Group, to discuss the shift toward alternative funding models in employee benefits. Sam explains how captives, level-funding, and consortiums help mid-sized employers gain financial control amid rising healthcare costs. He shares strategies for evaluating funding options, managing volatility, and using data to optimize plans. From client success stories to addressing common implementation challenges, this conversation provides actionable guidance for HR leaders looking to improve renewals and plan performance. Whether you're exploring self-funding for the first time or refining existing arrangements, Sam's insights offer a practical roadmap to sustainable benefits.

Guest Bio: Sam Burns serves as Vice President and Captive Practice Leader in Employee Benefits at IMA Financial Group. Based in Denver, he specializes in helping organizations implement alternative funding solutions like captives to achieve cost savings and risk management. With extensive experience in the insurance industry, Sam focuses on tailoring strategies that provide predictability and control for employers facing healthcare inflation.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00: Introduction to funding challenges and inflation impacts
01:20: Show intro and welcome
02:05: Sam introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact
03:15: Personal chit-chat on industry changes
04:10: Defining alternative funding models and their evolution
06:00: Shift to captive and level-funded strategies
07:00: Impact on budgets, renewals, and company sizes
08:30: Common pitfalls: Misunderstanding captives, with examples
10:50: Client story on successful captive implementation
13:15: Measuring success: Savings metrics, ROI, and data analysis
15:55: Designing programs for multi-state or diverse operations
19:25: Communication trends and tools for funding education
21:25: Misconceptions about self-funding risks
22:30: Bridging HR and finance perspectives, with consortium examples
24:00: Evaluating options and setting goals
26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Resistance to change
28:30: Upcoming trends: Hybrid models and stop-loss innovations
29:45: Rethinking volatility management through captives
31:55: Building a funding culture from leadership down
33:30: Role of data, analytics, and customization in funding
34:40: Branding alternative funding for employee understanding
34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Data-informed transitions
35:40: Advice for organizations: Assess readiness, partner strategically, and monitor progress
37:55: Closing thanks and show outro


]]> 1891 Building a Whole Health Strategy: Insights from Adam Moret If rising renewal costs, low engagement, and fragmented benefits strategies are creating pressure in your organization, this episode lays out how to move to an integrated whole health approach that actually works. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Adam Moret, Whole Health Practice Lead at IMA Financial Group, to explore the evolving landscape of employee wellbeing. Adam breaks down the four pillars of whole health—physical, social, financial, and mental—and shares practical strategies for HR leaders to move beyond siloed programs toward integrated approaches that drive real impact. From reframing communications to boost engagement in hybrid workforces to addressing high-cost claims and chronic conditions, this conversation offers actionable insights for designing benefits that enhance retention, productivity, and ROI. Whether you're navigating rising renewal costs or seeking ways to personalize programs for diverse populations, Adam's expertise provides a clear path forward. Guest Bio: Adam Moret leads IMA's Whole Health practice, managing a team of nine health and wellbeing consultants with diverse expertise. With over 13 years in the field, including roles at a Fortune 200 company and a wellness startup, Adam focuses on holistic strategies tailored to organizational needs. Based in Denver, Colorado, he's a father of two young girls, an avid skier, and a former Ironman competitor. 00:00: Introduction to whole health challenges and the four pillars 01:16: Show intro and welcome 02:02: Adam introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact 03:09: Personal chit-chat on winter activities 04:00: Defining whole health and its evolution from traditional wellness 05:53: Shift to integrated wellbeing strategies 06:33: Impact on retention, engagement, and tailoring benefits to demographics 08:03: Common pitfalls: Broad vs. targeted programs, with webinar examples 10:25: Client story on reframing meditation communications for better engagement 12:50: Measuring success: ROI, surveys, retention, and promoting total rewards 15:31: Designing programs for hybrid and remote workforces, with a 5K race example 19:01: Communication trends, apps, and using challenges to promote benefits 20:59: Misconceptions about wellbeing ROI 22:03: Bridging HR storytelling with finance’s data focus, plus fertility benefits example 23:32: Vendor evaluations and realistic expectations 25:27: Mindsets holding employers back: Balancing breadth vs. depth in programs 28:00: Upcoming trends: High-cost claims and chronic conditions 29:17: Rethinking mental health support through resource optimization and Mental Health First Aid training 31:25: Building a culture of health from leadership to middle managers 33:00: Role of technology, data, and personalization in wellbeing 34:08: Branding wellbeing programs for memorability 34:23: Must-have strategy for 2026: Focus on chronic condition management 35:10: Advice for organizations: Understand your population, include spouses, and communicate broadly 37:27: Closing thanks and show outro Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:01:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If rising renewal costs, low engagement, and fragmented benefits strategies are creating pressure in your organization, this episode lays out how to move to an integrated whole health approach that actually works. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Adam Moret, Whole Health Practice Lead at IMA Financial Group, to explore the evolving landscape of employee wellbeing. Adam breaks down the four pillars of whole health—physical, social, financial, and mental—and shares practical strategies for HR leaders to move beyond siloed programs toward integrated approaches that drive real impact. From reframing communications to boost engagement in hybrid workforces to addressing high-cost claims and chronic conditions, this conversation offers actionable insights for designing benefits that enhance retention, productivity, and ROI. Whether you're navigating rising renewal costs or seeking ways to personalize programs for diverse populations, Adam's expertise provides a clear path forward. Guest Bio: Adam Moret leads IMA's Whole Health practice, managing a team of nine health and wellbeing consultants with diverse expertise. With over 13 years in the field, including roles at a Fortune 200 company and a wellness startup, Adam focuses on holistic strategies tailored to organizational needs. Based in Denver, Colorado, he's a father of two young girls, an avid skier, and a former Ironman competitor. 00:00: Introduction to whole health challenges and the four pillars 01:16: Show intro and welcome 02:02: Adam introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact 03:09: Personal chit-chat on winter activities 04:00: Defining whole health and its evolution from traditional wellness 05:53: Shift to integrated wellbeing strategies 06:33: Impact on retention, engagement, and tailoring benefits to demographics 08:03: Common pitfalls: Broad vs. targeted programs, with webinar examples 10:25: Client story on reframing meditation communications for better engagement 12:50: Measuring success: ROI, surveys, retention, and promoting total rewards 15:31: Designing programs for hybrid and remote workforces, with a 5K race example 19:01: Communication trends, apps, and using challenges to promote benefits 20:59: Misconceptions about wellbeing ROI 22:03: Bridging HR storytelling with finance’s data focus, plus fertility benefits example 23:32: Vendor evaluations and realistic expectations 25:27: Mindsets holding employers back: Balancing breadth vs. depth in programs 28:00: Upcoming trends: High-cost claims and chronic conditions 29:17: Rethinking mental health support through resource optimization and Mental Health First Aid training 31:25: Building a culture of health from leadership to middle managers 33:00: Role of technology, data, and personalization in wellbeing 34:08: Branding wellbeing programs for memorability 34:23: Must-have strategy for 2026: Focus on chronic condition management 35:10: Advice for organizations: Understand your population, include spouses, and communicate broadly 37:27: Closing thanks and show outro If rising renewal costs, low engagement, and fragmented benefits strategies are creating pressure in your organization, this episode lays out how to move to an integrated whole health approach that actually works.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies.

  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Adam Moret, Whole Health Practice Lead at IMA Financial Group, to explore the evolving landscape of employee wellbeing. Adam breaks down the four pillars of whole health—physical, social, financial, and mental—and shares practical strategies for HR leaders to move beyond siloed programs toward integrated approaches that drive real impact. From reframing communications to boost engagement in hybrid workforces to addressing high-cost claims and chronic conditions, this conversation offers actionable insights for designing benefits that enhance retention, productivity, and ROI. Whether you're navigating rising renewal costs or seeking ways to personalize programs for diverse populations, Adam's expertise provides a clear path forward.

Guest Bio: Adam Moret leads IMA's Whole Health practice, managing a team of nine health and wellbeing consultants with diverse expertise. With over 13 years in the field, including roles at a Fortune 200 company and a wellness startup, Adam focuses on holistic strategies tailored to organizational needs. Based in Denver, Colorado, he's a father of two young girls, an avid skier, and a former Ironman competitor.

  • 00:00: Introduction to whole health challenges and the four pillars
  • 01:16: Show intro and welcome
  • 02:02: Adam introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact
  • 03:09: Personal chit-chat on winter activities
  • 04:00: Defining whole health and its evolution from traditional wellness
  • 05:53: Shift to integrated wellbeing strategies
  • 06:33: Impact on retention, engagement, and tailoring benefits to demographics
  • 08:03: Common pitfalls: Broad vs. targeted programs, with webinar examples
  • 10:25: Client story on reframing meditation communications for better engagement
  • 12:50: Measuring success: ROI, surveys, retention, and promoting total rewards
  • 15:31: Designing programs for hybrid and remote workforces, with a 5K race example
  • 19:01: Communication trends, apps, and using challenges to promote benefits
  • 20:59: Misconceptions about wellbeing ROI
  • 22:03: Bridging HR storytelling with finance’s data focus, plus fertility benefits example
  • 23:32: Vendor evaluations and realistic expectations
  • 25:27: Mindsets holding employers back: Balancing breadth vs. depth in programs
  • 28:00: Upcoming trends: High-cost claims and chronic conditions
  • 29:17: Rethinking mental health support through resource optimization and Mental Health First Aid training
  • 31:25: Building a culture of health from leadership to middle managers
  • 33:00: Role of technology, data, and personalization in wellbeing
  • 34:08: Branding wellbeing programs for memorability
  • 34:23: Must-have strategy for 2026: Focus on chronic condition management
  • 35:10: Advice for organizations: Understand your population, include spouses, and communicate broadly
  • 37:27: Closing thanks and show outro
]]> 2356 Mastering Pharmacy Costs: Strategies from Austin Nabor If soaring pharmacy costs and complex drug management are challenging your benefits strategy, this episode provides practical ways to optimize spend and improve outcomes without compromising employee care. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Austin Nabor, Pharmacy National Director for the IMARx Program at IMA Financial Group, to tackle the pressing challenges in pharmacy benefit management. Austin explores rising drug costs, the impact of GLP-1 medications, and effective strategies for evaluating pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). He shares actionable advice on implementing cost-containment measures, optimizing specialty drug management, and balancing access with financial sustainability. From navigating prior authorizations to integrating wellness programs for long-term savings, this conversation delivers insights for HR leaders aiming to control pharmacy spend while supporting employee health. Whether you're dealing with double-digit increases or seeking innovative funding models, Austin's expertise offers a roadmap to smarter decisions. Guest Bio: Austin Nabor, Pharm.D., serves as the Pharmacy National Director for the IMARx Program at IMA Financial Group. With deep expertise in pharmacy benefit management, he guides employers in controlling escalating drug prices through targeted strategies and efficient programs. Austin focuses on helping organizations achieve meaningful savings while maintaining high-quality care, drawing from his experience in cost management, PBM evaluations, and innovative pharmacy solutions. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to pharmacy cost challenges and rising trends 01:20: Show intro and welcome 02:05: Austin introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact 03:15: Personal chit-chat on healthcare innovations 04:10: Defining current pharmacy spend issues and their evolution 06:00: Shift to strategic cost management approaches 07:00: Impact on budgets, employee access, and tailoring strategies to company size 08:30: Common pitfalls: Ineffective PBM contracts, with real-world examples 10:50: Client story on implementing GLP-1 coverage for better outcomes 13:15: Measuring success: ROI on pharmacy programs, claims analysis, and savings metrics 15:55: Designing strategies for diverse workforces, with specialty drug examples 19:25: Communication trends, tools, and using data to promote pharmacy benefits 21:25: Misconceptions about drug cost control 22:30: Bridging HR needs with finance priorities, plus biosimilar adoption example 24:00: PBM evaluations and setting realistic goals 26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Over-reliance on traditional models 28:30: Upcoming trends: Oral GLP-1s and value-based contracting 29:45: Rethinking high-cost drug support through targeted interventions 31:55: Building a culture of cost-aware benefits from leadership down 33:30: Role of technology, analytics, and personalization in pharmacy management 34:40: Branding pharmacy initiatives for employee buy-in 34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Aggressive PBM optimization 35:40: Advice for organizations: Analyze claims data, partner wisely, and monitor continuously 37:55: Closing thanks and show outro Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:26:00 -0000 full IMA / tentwentytwo If soaring pharmacy costs and complex drug management are challenging your benefits strategy, this episode provides practical ways to optimize spend and improve outcomes without compromising employee care. Resources Mentioned: 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies. Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits. Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com. Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Austin Nabor, Pharmacy National Director for the IMARx Program at IMA Financial Group, to tackle the pressing challenges in pharmacy benefit management. Austin explores rising drug costs, the impact of GLP-1 medications, and effective strategies for evaluating pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). He shares actionable advice on implementing cost-containment measures, optimizing specialty drug management, and balancing access with financial sustainability. From navigating prior authorizations to integrating wellness programs for long-term savings, this conversation delivers insights for HR leaders aiming to control pharmacy spend while supporting employee health. Whether you're dealing with double-digit increases or seeking innovative funding models, Austin's expertise offers a roadmap to smarter decisions. Guest Bio: Austin Nabor, Pharm.D., serves as the Pharmacy National Director for the IMARx Program at IMA Financial Group. With deep expertise in pharmacy benefit management, he guides employers in controlling escalating drug prices through targeted strategies and efficient programs. Austin focuses on helping organizations achieve meaningful savings while maintaining high-quality care, drawing from his experience in cost management, PBM evaluations, and innovative pharmacy solutions. Host: Kelly Bowman Key Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to pharmacy cost challenges and rising trends 01:20: Show intro and welcome 02:05: Austin introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact 03:15: Personal chit-chat on healthcare innovations 04:10: Defining current pharmacy spend issues and their evolution 06:00: Shift to strategic cost management approaches 07:00: Impact on budgets, employee access, and tailoring strategies to company size 08:30: Common pitfalls: Ineffective PBM contracts, with real-world examples 10:50: Client story on implementing GLP-1 coverage for better outcomes 13:15: Measuring success: ROI on pharmacy programs, claims analysis, and savings metrics 15:55: Designing strategies for diverse workforces, with specialty drug examples 19:25: Communication trends, tools, and using data to promote pharmacy benefits 21:25: Misconceptions about drug cost control 22:30: Bridging HR needs with finance priorities, plus biosimilar adoption example 24:00: PBM evaluations and setting realistic goals 26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Over-reliance on traditional models 28:30: Upcoming trends: Oral GLP-1s and value-based contracting 29:45: Rethinking high-cost drug support through targeted interventions 31:55: Building a culture of cost-aware benefits from leadership down 33:30: Role of technology, analytics, and personalization in pharmacy management 34:40: Branding pharmacy initiatives for employee buy-in 34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Aggressive PBM optimization 35:40: Advice for organizations: Analyze claims data, partner wisely, and monitor continuously 37:55: Closing thanks and show outro If soaring pharmacy costs and complex drug management are challenging your benefits strategy, this episode provides practical ways to optimize spend and improve outcomes without compromising employee care.

Resources Mentioned:

  • 2026 On the Pulse Report⁠: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including data-driven funding shifts, healthcare costs, and mid-market strategies.

  • Visit imacorp.com to connect with the IMA team and learn more about building smarter employee benefits.

Listen and Subscribe: Share this episode with a fellow HR leader and subscribe to On the Pulse with IMA on your favorite podcast platform for more practical insights. Have questions or topics you'd like covered? Reach out via imacorp.com.

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Austin Nabor, Pharmacy National Director for the IMARx Program at IMA Financial Group, to tackle the pressing challenges in pharmacy benefit management. Austin explores rising drug costs, the impact of GLP-1 medications, and effective strategies for evaluating pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). He shares actionable advice on implementing cost-containment measures, optimizing specialty drug management, and balancing access with financial sustainability. From navigating prior authorizations to integrating wellness programs for long-term savings, this conversation delivers insights for HR leaders aiming to control pharmacy spend while supporting employee health. Whether you're dealing with double-digit increases or seeking innovative funding models, Austin's expertise offers a roadmap to smarter decisions.

Guest Bio: Austin Nabor, Pharm.D., serves as the Pharmacy National Director for the IMARx Program at IMA Financial Group. With deep expertise in pharmacy benefit management, he guides employers in controlling escalating drug prices through targeted strategies and efficient programs. Austin focuses on helping organizations achieve meaningful savings while maintaining high-quality care, drawing from his experience in cost management, PBM evaluations, and innovative pharmacy solutions.

Host: Kelly Bowman


Key Timestamps:

00:00: Introduction to pharmacy cost challenges and rising trends

01:20: Show intro and welcome

02:05: Austin introduces himself, his role at IMA, and a fun fact

03:15: Personal chit-chat on healthcare innovations

04:10: Defining current pharmacy spend issues and their evolution

06:00: Shift to strategic cost management approaches

07:00: Impact on budgets, employee access, and tailoring strategies to company size

08:30: Common pitfalls: Ineffective PBM contracts, with real-world examples

10:50: Client story on implementing GLP-1 coverage for better outcomes

13:15: Measuring success: ROI on pharmacy programs, claims analysis, and savings metrics

15:55: Designing strategies for diverse workforces, with specialty drug examples

19:25: Communication trends, tools, and using data to promote pharmacy benefits

21:25: Misconceptions about drug cost control

22:30: Bridging HR needs with finance priorities, plus biosimilar adoption example

24:00: PBM evaluations and setting realistic goals

26:00: Mindsets holding employers back: Over-reliance on traditional models

28:30: Upcoming trends: Oral GLP-1s and value-based contracting

29:45: Rethinking high-cost drug support through targeted interventions

31:55: Building a culture of cost-aware benefits from leadership down

33:30: Role of technology, analytics, and personalization in pharmacy management

34:40: Branding pharmacy initiatives for employee buy-in

34:55: Must-have strategy for 2026: Aggressive PBM optimization

35:40: Advice for organizations: Analyze claims data, partner wisely, and monitor continuously

37:55: Closing thanks and show outro

]]> 1783