Dysrupt Healthcare Podcast

Welcome to the Impact Healthcare Podcast, where we're revolutionizing the health benefits industry with innovative ideas and game-changing strategies! In our latest episode, host Lester J. Morales has an inspiring conversation with Patrick Staunton, a partner in the Employee Benefits Group at Thompson Flanagan. Patrick's journey from starting his career at Cigna to becoming an influential figure at Thompson Flanagan is a testament to his passion for transforming the way private equity firms approach insurance!  During their conversation, Patrick takes us through the pivotal moments that shaped this transformation, including his personal experience of stepping into the world of private equity and the challenges he faced along the way.  Patrick shares the story of a company on the brink of a 60% insurance premium increase—an unsustainable burden for the business. Through innovative strategies, including the use of an independent third-party administrator and a transparent PBM, Patrick and his team were able to save the company nearly $1M. The story doesn't end there, as we explore the crucial role of communication and education in ensuring the success of these alternative plans, especially for blue-collar employees!  Join us as Patrick and Lester break down the complex world of private equity insurance, revealing how Thompson Flanagan’s hands-on approach not only provides value but also empowers employees to take control of their healthcare!   This episode is packed with insights, real-life examples, and a deep dive into the strategies that make a difference in the lives of employees and the bottom lines of businesses so whether you're in the healthcare industry or simply curious about the intersection of private equity and employee benefits, subscribe to the Impact Healthcare Podcast and don’t miss this transformative episode! 

In this insightful solo episode, Lester Morales addresses the necessity for change within the health benefits industry, specifically targeting advisors. Drawing from his rich background in risk management and insurance, Lester recounts his journey from Sun Life to Willis, highlighting key lessons learned. This episode challenges advisors to step out of their comfort zones and rethink their approach to healthcare benefits. Lester emphasizes the importance of empathy, accountability, and innovation, urging advisors to prioritize the well-being of employees and drive meaningful change.   Key Takeaways: The negative impact of maintaining the status quo in healthbenefits. How empathy can enhance decision-making in healthcare strategies. Understanding the financial realities of healthcare costs for employees. The importance of exploring and implementing innovative solutions. Real-world examples of successful health benefits strategies.   Subscribe to "Impact Healthcare" on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform to stay updated on the latest episodes. Join us in our mission to achieve significant savings and better health benefits through transparency and innovation.

In this solo episode, Lester Morales tackles the theme of change within the health benefits landscape. Lester addresses common misconceptions and excuses that employers and advisors face, emphasizing the critical need for innovation and adaptability. By understanding the real impact of healthcare costs on both organizations and employees, Lester highlights the importance of empathy and proactive decision-making. This episode is divided into two parts: one focused on employers and the other on advisors, offering tailored insights and strategies for each audience. Lester also shares compelling statistics and personal anecdotes to illustrate the dire need for change in the industry. Tune in to discover how you can drive meaningful change and make a lasting impact on your organization and its employees. Key Takeaways: The significance of health benefits in employee recruitment and retention. Common barriers to change and how to overcome them. The financial and emotional impact of healthcare costs on employees. Strategies for making informed and empathetic decisions regarding health benefits. The role of transparency and innovation in the health benefits industry. Subscribe to "Impact Healthcare" on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated on the latest episodes and join us on the journey on your healthcare benefits through total transparency. For more information and resources, visit our website and explore our show notes for each episode. Be part of the change and help disrupt the health benefits industry for a better, more transparent future.

Welcome to Impact Healthcare, where we're all about shaking up the health benefits industry with our fresh ideas and game-changing strategies! In this episode, our host, Lester J. Morales, has a super exciting chat with Ashley Bacot, President at RosenSure, and Kenneth Aldridge Jr., Director of Health Services at Rosen Medical Center.   Rosen Hotels, based in Orlando, FL, might not be a household name everywhere, but did you know it's the largest independent hotel chain in the Southeast? Pretty cool, right? On top of that, as they celebrate their 50th anniversary, Rosen Hotels goes beyond just hospitality – they're all about providing top-notch healthcare at a reasonable cost. Kenneth Aldridge, Director of Health Services at Rosen Medical, tells us about their amazing journey. Over 30 years ago, Rosen took a massive leap by pioneering self-funded healthcare to provide high-quality care directly to employees. They've come a long way since then, offering on-site services like physical therapy and even mobile dermatology and vision clinics, all tailored to meet their diverse workforce's needs.   Ashley and Kenneth want to make it clear: Rosen's approach isn't just about saving money – it's about boosting benefits in a major way. With zero deductibles and co-insurance, Rosen has achieved some seriously impressive results. They've slashed costs by a whopping 50% compared to traditional plans, all while making sure their employees are healthier and happier. Beyond the numbers, the impact is personal. Kenneth shares a really touching story about how early detection through Rosen's programs saved an employee's life, showing how their approach to healthcare goes way beyond just numbers.    Join us as we dive into how Rosen Hotels and RosenSure are changing the game in healthcare, proving that when care is proactive and personalized, everybody wins! Whether you're new to self-funding or looking to revamp your current strategy, this episode is jam-packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the ins and outs of healthcare benefits and get the most out of self-funding.    Don't miss out – be sure to subscribe to the Impact Healthcare Podcast and join us as we explore this innovative approach and take your healthcare strategy to the next level! 

Welcome to the Impact Healthcare Podcast, where we're revolutionizing the health benefits industry with innovative ideas and game-changing strategies! In our latest episode, host Lester J. Morales has an inspiring conversation with Ray Kober, CEO of Benefixa. If you're tired of hearing the same old promises and ready for some authentic, game-changing insights, this episode is for you!  Ray starts with a heartfelt introduction, emphasizing his dedication to putting people first. At Benefixa, it's all about balancing the needs of employers and employees, ensuring that healthcare isn't just a revenue-driving machine, but a service that truly benefits everyone involved. He shares the story behind their logo – a simple yet powerful symbol of an individual raising their hand, representing employers and employees in their quest for better healthcare solutions.   Growing up in the '70s and '80s, Ray draws inspiration from iconic underdog stories like Rocky. He resonates with the idea of competing against all odds and standing up for the little guy, a theme that drives his relentless pursuit of fairness in the healthcare industry. His disdain for a system that exploits the vulnerable fuels his mission to help organizations see that they don't have to settle for the status quo – there are better ways to achieve their goals.   Lester and Ray explore the complex relationship between insurance carriers and PBMs, revealing the financial incentives driving healthcare costs. They discuss the Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) and how it inadvertently encourages higher healthcare spending, benefiting insurance companies at the expense of employers and employees. Ray's insights provide a fresh perspective on why healthcare expenses continue to rise and what can be done to reverse this trend.   Throughout the episode, Ray's authenticity and passion shine through. He challenges listeners to rethink their approach to healthcare, urging them to take control and seek better solutions. Whether you're a CEO, CFO, or HR leader, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice to help you navigate the complex world of healthcare benefits.   Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of the Impact Healthcare Podcast and join Lester and Ray as they disrupt the status quo, challenge the biggest myths in healthcare, and inspire you to take bold steps towards a more sustainable, cost-effective future. 

Welcome to Impact Healthcare, the podcast that's all about shaking things up in the health benefits world with exciting ideas and strategies! In this episode, Lester J. Morales reconnects with Ben Conner, a trailblazer from Conner Insurance. Ben isn't just making his second appearance on the show; he's bringing a wealth of knowledge and a compelling story that spans decades and generations. Ben's journey with Conner Insurance, a third-generation family business based in Indianapolis, Indiana, is simply remarkable. Celebrating 75 years of service, Conner Insurance is a stalwart in employee benefits, commercial insurance, and personal insurance. Ben, who has been with the company for 18 years, leads with passion and a competitive spirit that traces back to his days on the basketball court, where his determination and innovative thinking set him apart. In this episode, Ben shares what fires him up about the insurance industry and his role as a change agent. He reflects on the underdog mindset that drives him to help frontline workers navigate a healthcare system that often feels like it's working against them. This drive has led Conner Insurance to not just talk the talk but walk the walk! Whether you're a broker, employer, or HR leader, this conversation promises to challenge the status quo and inspire you to take bold steps towards better healthcare solutions. Subscribe now to the Impact Healthcare Podcast and get ready to be informed, inspired, and empowered to make a difference!

Welcome to the Impact Healthcare Podcast, where we're shaking up the health benefits industry with fresh ideas and groundbreaking strategies! In our latest episode, our fantastic host, Lester J. Morales, chats with Peter Rowe, President at Arcwood, a relationship-based firm known for its custom employee benefits, human capital, and retirement plans. During this game-changing episode, Peter shares his incredible journey and the philosophy that drives Arcwood's success. With a deep understanding of the industry, Peter dives into how Arcwood tailors its services to align with a company's strategic goals, industry demands, and competitive landscape. He emphasizes building strong client relationships and creating unique solutions that address individual challenges. Tune in to hear Peter's passion for personalized service and his dedication to transforming how companies approach employee benefits. This episode offers valuable insights, engaging stories, and practical advice for brokers, employers, HR leaders, and anyone interested in the future of employee benefits. Whether you're eager to enhance your company's benefits strategy or just curious about the exciting changes in the industry, this episode promises to provide an enlightening and inspiring conversation. Subscribe to the Impact Healthcare Podcast and get ready to be informed, inspired, and empowered to make a difference!

Welcome to Impact Healthcare, where we are committed to making a significant impact on the health benefits industry with our innovative ideas and game-changing strategies! In this episode, Lester J. Morales sits down with Anthony Masotto, GM and Executive Vice President of Drexi, for an enlightening discussion. Anthony shares his fascinating journey from being a professional hockey player to making a significant impact in the healthcare industry. With his background in pharmacy consulting and stop-loss, Anthony brings a fresh perspective to Drexi, a mid-market PBM based in Phoenix, Arizona. Drexi is on a mission to lower drug costs and provide genuine value by working closely with consultants and plan sponsors. During the episode, Anthony reveals the inner workings of the PBM industry, uncovering the hidden practices of major players. He explains how contract manipulation can affect drug pricing and stresses the importance of transparency and fiduciary responsibility in today's healthcare landscape. Anthony also highlights how Drexi operates differently, focusing on fixed costs and delivering real savings for their clients. Tune in to hear Anthony's passion for transparency and his commitment to improving the industry. This episode offers valuable information, engaging stories, and insightful discussions. Whether you're a broker, employer, HR leader, or simply curious about the healthcare system, this episode promises to provide an eye-opening conversation that challenges the status quo and inspires action. Subscribe now to the Impact Healthcare Podcast and get ready to be informed, inspired, and empowered to make a difference!

Welcome to Impact Healthcare, where we are committed to significantly impacting the health benefits industry with our innovative ideas and game-changing strategies! In this episode, our host, Lester J. Morales, sits down with Zac Hart, a dynamic force at Hodge, Hart & Schleifer (HHS), who has turned his 20+ years in the insurance business into a journey of innovation and success. Zac shares his compelling story of following in his family's footsteps, from his early days of cold-calling for life insurance to becoming a trusted advisor for businesses across the spectrum. During the episode, you'll learn how Zac's firm navigates the complex landscape of risk management and employee benefits while staying fiercely independent amidst industry consolidation. In this engaging and insightful episode, you'll hear Zac's perspective on the evolving conversations around health benefits and risk management and how his firm brings value to clients by addressing their unique needs. Whether you're an industry insider or just curious about the world of insurance, this episode will inspire and inform you. Tune in to the Impact Healthcare Podcast to learn how passion and doing things differently can transform the insurance and healthcare industry!

Welcome to Impact Healthcare, the podcast that's all about shaking things up in the health benefits world with exciting ideas and strategies! In this episode, our host, Lester Morales, is joined by Braden Monaco, a seasoned expert from Blue Horizon Benefits, to dive into the world of self-funding solutions! Braden shares valuable insights into how self-funding can transform how businesses handle their healthcare benefits. Together, they explore the ins-and-outs of self-funding, discussing its benefits, potential challenges, and the positive impact it can have on employers and employees.  Braden breaks down the core principles behind self-funding, showing how it empowers companies to manage their healthcare costs, tailor plans to suit their employees better, and save money. He also shares real-world examples of how businesses have successfully used self-funding to improve their healthcare offerings while staying financially responsible. Lester and Braden also tackle common misconceptions and challenges about self-funding, offering practical solutions and advice to overcome these obstacles.  Together, they emphasize the importance of partnerships in the self-funding landscape and how working with experienced benefits consultants like Blue Horizon Benefits can ensure a smooth and successful transition! Whether you're new to self-funding or looking to enhance your current strategy, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the complexities of healthcare benefits and maximize your business's potential through self-funding. Subscribe to the Impact Healthcare Podcast and join us to gain a deeper understanding of this innovative approach and take your healthcare strategy to the next level!