ON THE PULSE with IMA

ON THE PULSE with IMA

By IMA / tentwentytwoBusinessManagement
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ON THE PULSE with IMA episodes

  • 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.

    41 min
  • 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.

    43 min
  • 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.

    45 min
  • 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.

    41 min
  • 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


      35 min
    • 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


        31 min
      • 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


          32 min
        • 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
              • 40 min
              • 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

                  30 min

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