In this episode Amanda Brummitt and health insurance industry expert Beverly Norman break down the difference between illustrative, conditional and final rates, and explain small-group funding options like fully insured and level-funded plans. Beverly covers how underwriting and pharmacy data influence quoted rates, why accurate census information matters, and what can change between firm quotes and final rates.

Practical tips include starting the renewal process early, clearly communicating with employees about who will enroll, and understanding carrier thresholds that can trigger rate adjustments — all to avoid surprises at final enrollment.

Welcome to the Generous Benefits Podcast, where we help employers create meaningful people-first benefits that make a real impact. Join host Amanda Brummitt and special guest Bret Brummitt, founder of Generous Benefits, as they dive into the complexities of rising insurance premiums.

Discover the factors driving these increases and explore actionable strategies to manage costs effectively. From understanding the impact of healthcare market dynamics to leveraging innovative solutions, this episode provides valuable insights for employers looking to build sustainable and affordable benefit plans. Don't miss this opportunity to take control of healthcare expenses and benefit your team.

In this episode of the Generous Benefits Podcast, host Amanda Brummitt explores the transformative potential of hospital financial assistance programs under IRS 501(r). Joined by healthcare advocate Justin Leader, they delve into how nonprofit hospitals are mandated to offer financial support to eligible patients. Discover why many people are unaware of these benefits, and learn practical steps to access this relief, whether you're insured or not. This episode is essential listening for patients and employers alike, revealing how understanding hospital financial policies can lead to significant savings and foster greater healthcare transparency.

Join Amanda Brummitt in the Generous Benefits Podcast as she delves into the complexities of workplace dynamics with HR expert Becky Goldsmith. Together, they explore the challenges of managing difficult personalities in the workplace, from chronic complainers to passive-aggressive peers, and offer practical strategies for improving workplace culture and relationships.

Discover how Becky's unique path from kindergarten teacher to HR leader shapes her empathetic approach, and gain valuable insights into recognizing the difference between temporary difficult behavior and toxic patterns.

Whether you're a leader, manager, or team member, this episode provides actionable advice to navigate tricky interpersonal situations and foster a more positive and productive work environment.

In this episode of the Generous Benefits Podcast, host Amanda Brummitt is joined by Topher Reynoso, the founder of Kept, a company dedicated to transforming the off-boarding process into a moment of clarity and compassion. They explore the intricacies of post-employment transitions, focusing on the often-overlooked aspect of employee benefits when someone leaves a company.

Topher offers insights into COBRA, debunking common misconceptions and highlighting its critical role in supporting individuals during job transitions. He emphasizes the importance of empathy and support in off-boarding, providing practical advice for employers to make this process smoother and more humane.

The conversation also covers the impact of a thoughtful off-boarding experience on company reputation and future hiring, outlining how businesses can avoid common pitfalls and maintain a positive relationship with former employees. Tune in for expert tips on turning legal complexities into opportunities for kindness and connection.

Leadership isn't about having all the answers—it’s about showing up with respect, courage, and a willingness to grow.

On the latest episode of the Generous Benefits Podcast, our host reconnects with Chris Davis, SHRM-CP—a longtime friend and one of her first-ever bosses. Today, he’s a respected HR leader, coach, and champion for people-first leadership—and the wisdom he shared is well worth a listen.

Here are a few gems from our conversation:

💬  “People, process, and then profits.”

They talk about about:

✅ Early lessons in leadership

This one’s for anyone trying to lead with purpose and heart. Chris’s journey shows that leadership isn’t a title—it’s daily action rooted in care, courage, and consistency.  Chris shares so much wisdom from 25+ years in HR that challenges and encourages leaders.

Heidi Rasmussen, CEO and co-founder of freshbenies, joins Amanda Brummitt to talk about the real reason employees tune out benefits messaging. And how to fix it. From “trust collapse” and culture misfires to the power of simplicity, repetition, and internal marketing, Heidi shares actionable tactics to help HR leaders and CEOs communicate benefits with clarity, consistency, and a little fun. If you're investing in great benefits but struggling to get your team to engage, this conversation should guide your playbook.

Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) influence a significant portion of how employers handle prescription drug costs, yet many leaders still don’t fully understand how they operate behind the scenes.

In this candid conversation, Amanda Brummitt sits down with longtime collaborators and friendly competitors Bret Brummitt and Alex Dampf to explore what PBMs are, how they make money, and the conflicts of interest that can arise. The discussion covers spread pricing, rebates, contract language, and the growing interest in transparent PBM models. It’s an honest look at what’s working, what’s not, and what employers should be paying close attention to.

Alex and Bret also explain how to assess the value of a PBM, what to look for in contract terms, and why some cost-saving strategies may not deliver real value. This episode is filled with clear examples, practical advice, and a few dad joke laughs along the way.

Topics include:

The true role of PBMs in employer health plans

Conflicts of interest in integrated PBM models

Spread pricing and rebates explained

The promise and limitations of transparent and pass-through PBMs

Key contract terms and questions employers should be asking

Not all TPAs are created equal. In this candid conversation, Amanda Brummitt sits down with Matthew McCuen of Imagine360 to unpack what a third-party administrator actually does, why employers might choose one over a traditional insurance carrier, and how transparency, flexibility, and strategy make all the difference. If you’ve ever wondered whether TPAs are just claim processors or if they can help transform your healthcare strategy, this episode clears the air and offers a practical roadmap for making better decisions.

In this candid and refreshingly unscripted episode, Amanda Brummitt sits down with longtime friends (and supposed competitors) Josh Butler and Bret Brummitt to talk shop and call out the worst offenders in the world of employee benefits. From predatory insurance products to opaque broker compensation, no sacred cow is safe. The trio breaks down what employers need to know about ICHRAs, PBMs, commission structures, and how to spot when a broker is prioritizing profit over people. With plenty of humor, transparency, and a few coffee-fueled tangents, this is a must-listen for any employer trying to do better by their team.