NEBGH Voices

Every October, the world turns pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month to increase awareness of the disease, encourage screening and early detection, and raise funds for research. But, after 40 years, has this campaign made a difference? In this episode, host and NEBGH CEO Kim Thiboldeaux is joined by Dr. Marc Watkins, a board-certified physician executive and nationally recognized leader in retail health, population health, and employer-focused care innovation. Together they explore:

• the impact of the awareness month on breast cancer and metastatic breast cancer
• the state of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment
• why disparities for Black women still persist
• initiatives that are making a difference
• actions employers can take to help employees achieve the best possible health outcomes while managing the cost of cancer care

Find out more about Nia, the digital breast health assistant: https://www.niayourbreasthealthguide.com

NEBGH Voices is produced by: Deren Abram and Adria Subbiondo

What if healthcare were designed around the patient instead of the system? Melinda Morimoto, Senior Benefits Director at Genentech, joins Kim to discuss how employers can drive meaningful change in healthcare. From innovative women’s health programs and best-in-class cancer support to pharmacy benefit transformation and AI-powered personalization, this episode explores how NEBGH member Genentech is challenging traditional models and creating a healthcare experience built on trust, access, and better outcomes.

This episode of NEBGH Voices is sponsored by Genentech.

NEBGH Voices is produced by: Deren Abram, Adria Subbiondo, and Christian Waugh

In recognition of Healthy Vision Month and UV Awareness Month, this episode of NEBGH Voices explores the importance of protecting and preserving eye health throughout life.

Kim Thiboldeaux is joined by Dr. Brenton Finklea, a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in cornea, cataract, and refractive surgery, to discuss preventive vision care, UV protection, and the value of regular eye screenings. The conversation also highlights common eye conditions, the impact of aging, nutrition and eye health, digital eye strain, and emerging innovations in vision care.

Listeners will come away with practical tips to help protect their vision, support long-term eye health, and better understand the steps they can take today to prevent future vision problems.

NEBGH Voices is produced by: Deren Abram, Adria Subbiondo, and Christian Waugh

In this episode of NEBGH Voices, Kim Thiboldeaux sits down with Shawn Gremminger, President and CEO of the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions, to discuss the growing impact of the 340B Drug Pricing Program on employer-sponsored healthcare. Together, they explore how the program has evolved, its effect on pharmacy costs and transparency, and what employers can do to better understand and manage its impact on their health plans.

Episode Resources:

• 340B Employer Cost Impact Calculator
• SPH study finds 340B drug discount program has expanded far beyond Congress’s original intent
• Stretching Scarce Authorizing Legislation as Far as Possible: A Legislative History of the 340B Drug Pricing Program

NEBGH Voices is produced by: Deren Abram, Adria Subbiondo, and Christian Waugh

In this episode of NEBGH Voices, Kim is joined by Jon Koval PharmD, Vice President and General Manager of Pharmacy Care and Weight Health at Transcarent, to explore how pharmacy benefits have become a central driver of healthcare cost, strategy, and employee experience. Jon shares insights on rising specialty drug costs, increasing demand for transparency and PBM reform, and the growing importance of fiduciary accountability. The conversation also examines the rapid evolution of GLP‑1 medications, their impact on employer benefit design, and the challenge of balancing access, affordability, and long-term sustainability.

This episode of NEBGH Voices is sponsored by Transcarent.

NEBGH Voices is produced by: Deren Abram, Adria Subbiondo, and Christian Waugh

In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week, NEBGH Voices explores how fertility care has evolved over the past decade and why it matters for employers today.

Kim Thiboldeaux is joined by Dr. Janet Choi, Chief Medical Officer of Progyny, to discuss rising infertility rates, delayed parenthood, fertility preservation, and the growing role of employer-sponsored benefits. The conversation highlights how thoughtful, comprehensive support can improve outcomes, reduce costs, and better meet the needs of today’s workforce.

This episode of NEBGH Voices is sponsored by Progyny.

NEBGH Voices is produced by: Deren Abrams, Adria Subbiondo, and Christian Waugh

Pharmacy benefit costs continue to rise, with specialty drugs, GLP-1 therapies, and emerging biosimilars reshaping employer health strategies. In this episode of NEBGH Voices, Kim Thiboldeaux sits down with Ryan Czado, Chief Pharmacy Officer at RazorMetrics, to explore the most important pharmacy and specialty drug trends benefits leaders should be tracking.

The conversation examines growing investment in point solutions, the evolving pharmacy ecosystem, employer transparency and privacy considerations, and the increasing focus on utilization management. Ryan also shares insights into cardiometabolic care, expanded GLP-1 indications, biosimilars, and the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with clinical outcomes. As employers plan for 2026 and beyond, this episode offers practical perspectives on building a thoughtful, data-driven pharmacy strategy that aligns financial stewardship with member health.

This episode of NEBGH Voices is sponsored by RazorMetrics.

NEBGH Voices is produced by: Deren Abrams, Adria Subbiondo, and Christian Waugh

Season 2 of NEBGH Voices opens with a preview of what’s ahead for NEBGH in 2026. Kim is joined by NEBGH’s Janaera Gaston, Jeanette Fuente, and Emily Commer to highlight the year’s major events - including the Tribute to Leadership, Cardiometabolic Conference, 15th Annual Conference, Pharmacy Benefits Conference, and an upcoming physical and mental health and well-being event. The conversation explores key issues shaping employer health strategies, from GLP-1s and pharmacy costs to high-cost claims, behavioral health, and whole-person well-being, and shares practical ways members can engage, connect, and get the most out of their NEBGH membership in the year ahead.

NEBGH Voices is produced by: Deren Abrams, Adria Subbiondo, and Christian Waugh

In this year-end episode, Kim Thiboldeaux reflects on a productive year at NEBGH and looks ahead to what’s coming in 2026, thanking members and partners for their continued engagement and support.

She also highlights a recent Mondays with Dr. Mark and Dr. Michael episode featuring mindfulness expert and author Harriet Stein and encourages listeners to revisit NEBGH programming available on our website.

Listen to the Mondays with Dr. Mark and Dr. Michael episode featuring Harriet Stein: https://vimeo.com/1142176659?fl=pl&fe=sh

NEBGH Voices is produced by: Deren Abrams, Adria Subbiondo, and Christian Waugh

In this episode of NEBGH Voices, Kim Thiboldeaux speaks with Dr. Michelle Morse, Acting Health Commissioner and Chief Medical Officer of the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. They explore the goals of the HealthyNYC initiative, approaches to strengthening vaccine confidence, and the city’s progress in cancer prevention and screening equity. Dr. Morse also discusses how employers can support workforce and community health, and offers a forward look at 2026 priorities, from expanding community health workers to increasing healthcare accountability. A timely and actionable discussion for employer leaders.

NEBGH Voices is produced by: Deren Abrams, Adria Subbiondo, and Christian Waugh