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, [email protected].

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 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, [email protected].

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 rising healthcare costs, complex governance, and pressure to preserve rich benefits are making health plan decisions harder, this episode offers a practical framework for building sustainability through data, communication, and proactive change.

Resources Mentioned:

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including plan sustainability, healthcare cost drivers, and strategic decision-making. [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, [email protected].

Episode Description: Kelly Bowman sits down with Cody Purdy, National Practice Leader for IMA's Taft-Hartley and Government Practice, to explore the unique realities of managing health plans in public sector and union environments. Cody explains why these plans require a different strategy than traditional corporate benefits, from governance structures and stakeholder dynamics to longstanding employee expectations around rich benefits and retirement. He breaks down the biggest forces driving cost today, including prescription drugs, specialty medications, cancer, and underlying healthcare inflation, while making the case that inaction is no longer a viable strategy. From using employee census data and member feedback to proactively managing plan design over time, Cody shares what separates high-performing plans from those that fall behind. He also walks through a striking Taft-Hartley case study that shows how active, strategic management can restore long-term stability without abandoning the value members depend on. Whether you support a city, school district, or labor trust fund, this episode offers practical guidance for balancing sustainability, employee expectations, and change.

Guest Bio: Cody Purdy is National Practice Leader for IMA's Taft-Hartley and Government Practice, where he helps public employers and labor organizations navigate the structural, financial, and strategic complexities of health plan management. Based in Denver, Colorado, Cody brings a service-minded perspective to benefits consulting and is passionate about helping plans stay sustainable while protecting value for members and employees. Outside of work, he enjoys fly fishing in Colorado and chasing tarpon on salt water with a fly rod.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - 01:28: Introduction to rising healthcare costs and the unique pressure facing public sector and union health plans.

01:28 - 02:31: Cody shares where he is based and his love of fly fishing, including saltwater tarpon fishing.

02:31 - 04:51: Overview of Cody's role and why Taft-Hartley and government plans require specialized expertise.

04:51 - 07:27: What drew Cody to this work and how his team supports clients through research, tools, and customized consulting.

07:27 - 09:35: Why public sector and union plans require a different strategy than private sector benefit programs.

09:35 - 12:44: Decision-making realities, stakeholder layers, and the budget and governance pressures shaping these plans.

13:03 - 17:50: The biggest healthcare cost drivers today, including GLP-1s, specialty drugs, cancer, and rising medical costs.

17:50 - 20:23: Why data matters and the practical data sources every employer already has, including census data and employee feedback.

20:23 - 24:11: What separates high-performing plans from struggling ones and why taking the first step matters.

24:11 - 25:59: Leadership mindsets that drive better outcomes, including curiosity and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

25:59 - 30:50: A Taft-Hartley case study on rebuilding a financially troubled plan and the power of strategic, active management.

31:03 - 33:47: Common misconceptions about public sector and union plans, including the myth that these groups cannot change.

33:47 - 36:33: Why communication is one of the most underused tools in benefits strategy and how perceived value shapes employee experience.

36:48 - 40:03: Looking ahead: AI, future disruption, and the move toward more targeted and self-directed benefits support.

40:03 - 42:21: Cody's closing advice: start now, stay curious, and reframe change as a path to long-term sustainability.

42:21 - End: Closing thanks and show outro.

If rising healthcare costs, funding transitions, and employee trust issues are straining your benefits strategy, this episode reveals how thoughtful, data-driven approaches can deliver stability and meaningful impact without disruption.

Resources Mentioned:

2026 On the Pulse Report: Insights on Employee Benefits Trends – Download this free report for forward-looking trends in employee benefits, including funding models, pharmacy strategies, and employee 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 Evan Oslica, Benefits Consultant at IMA Financial Group, to explore the dramatic shifts in employee benefits over the past decade. Evan shares insights from a client case study involving a 500-employee group transitioning from fully insured to self-funded models amid leadership anxiety and rising costs. They discuss building trust through invisible backend changes, implementing pharmacy strategies like the IMARx Program for cost savings and enhanced member experiences, and leveraging advocacy tools like Ask Charlie for navigation support. From avoiding massive renewals to achieving over $1 million in under-budget savings, this conversation provides actionable guidance for HR leaders navigating volatility while prioritizing employee confidence. Whether you're evaluating funding shifts or refining communication, Evan's expertise offers a roadmap to balanced, sustainable benefits.

Guest Bio: Evan Oslica is a Benefits Consultant at IMA Financial Group, with over a decade of experience in employee benefits. She specializes in guiding mid-sized employers through funding transitions, pharmacy optimizations, and strategic planning to achieve cost control and employee satisfaction. A mother of two young boys, Evan is based in Kansas City and draws from her service-side roots to foster trusting partnerships.

Host: Kelly Bowman

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - 01:20: Introduction to benefits landscape shifts and challenges.

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

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

03:15 - 04:10: Personal chit-chat on motherhood and career evolution.

04:10 - 06:00: Defining benefits transformations and client anxieties.

06:00 - 07:00: Shift to self-funded strategies.

07:00 - 08:30: Impact on employee trust, renewals, and mid-sized groups.

08:30 - 10:50: Common pitfalls: Reactive benefits and leadership concerns, with examples.

10:50 - 13:15: Client story on successful self-funded transition and savings.

13:15 - 15:55: Measuring success: Budget savings, ROI, and employee feedback.

15:55 - 19:25: Designing programs for diverse workforces, with pharmacy examples.

19:25 - 21:25: Communication trends and tools for building confidence.

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

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

24:00 - 26:00: Evaluating options and addressing volatility.

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

28:30 - 29:45: Upcoming trends: Advocacy integration and data-driven decisions.

29:45 - 31:55: Rethinking employee experience through invisible enhancements.

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

33:30 - 34:40: Role of data, analytics, and personalization in benefits.

34:40 - 34:55: Branding benefits for employee buy-in.

34:55 - 35:40: Must-have strategy for 2026: Proactive funding and pharmacy reviews.

35:40 - 37:55: Advice for organizations: Build trust, communicate thoughtfully, and measure impact.

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 funding models, pharmacy strategies, and employee 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 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

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 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 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 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 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 Ankoviak, 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: Angi Ankoviak 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, Angie 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: Angi 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 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: