#RockstarsRocking

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar father/son team Tim and Luke Davis of Novaura from the central Texas area. In this engaging podcast episode, we delve into the dynamic world of family businesses through the lens of Luke and Tim Davis's journey. Luke shares his unique perspective on what it's like working alongside his father, Tim, discussing the blend of personal and professional dynamics that shape their daily interactions. Luke outlines how forward-thinking strategies can enhance efficiency and competitiveness in a family-run business. Together, they emphasize the importance of maintaining a community-driven ethos within their company, fostering strong relationships and a supportive environment among their team members. Transitioning from the insurance industry to public service, Tim shares his remarkable journey from corporate life to becoming the Mayor of Temple, Texas. He reflects on the pivotal moments and challenges that propelled him towards civic leadership. Tim's experiences underscore the power of perseverance and adaptability, offering listeners valuable insights into navigating career shifts and making meaningful contributions to their communities. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: What it’s like working with your father/son How Luke implemented new technology and ideas in the workplace Keeping the company community driven Cold calling connections How Tim went from being in the insurance world to becoming Mayor of Temple, Tx Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar Ryan Miller author of the best selling book Wounds and host of the Unlocking Greatness podcast. In this thought-provoking podcast episode, the spotlight shines on the art of voicing opinions that have the potential to spark social discourse, navigating the delicate balance between authenticity and social repercussions. Drawing from his best-selling book "Wounds" and his role as the host of "Unlocking Greatness with Ryan Miller," Ryan leads a compelling discussion on the power and impact of authentic expression in today's society. Listeners are guided through strategies for handling the challenges of conflicting opinions, offering valuable insights into maintaining resilience and integrity in the face of societal pressures. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: Voicing your opinions that may cause social discourse Wounds – Ryan's Best-selling book and host of Unlocking Greatness wtih Ryan Miller How to deal with being outcast for your views How to handle conflicting opinions and how it can affect your workspace Being your own worst enemy Wound analysis framework Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar Alex Frommeyer, CEO and Founder of Beam Benefits. In this podcast episode, Alex shares the inspiring journey of Beam, from its inception to its status as an innovator in the ancillary benefits industry. He discusses Beam's groundbreaking approach to ancillary benefits, highlighting both its successes and the challenges faced along the way. Emphasizing a customer-first philosophy, Alex explores how Beam prioritizes client needs to drive innovation and excellence. Looking ahead, he provides insight into Beam's future direction and the role of AI in enhancing risk assessment, ensuring its continued leadership in the industry. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: How Beam came to be How Beam is innovating ancillary benefits world Struggles along the way A customer first approach Where is Beam headed? How AI helps risk assessment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar Lindsay Clarke Youngwerth, Managing Partner of The Shandro Group from the Boise, Idaho area. On this episode of #RockstarsRocking, listeners are introduced to Lindsay Clarke Youngwerth, a distinguished finalist for the Top 5 Advisor of the Year by BenefitsPro Magazine. Lindsay shares her journey into the insurance world, offering insights into the pivotal moments and motivations that sparked her passion for the industry. Lindsay provides valuable guidance on connecting with clients, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and empathy in building strong, lasting relationships. Through anecdotes and practical advice, she illuminates strategies for fostering genuine connections that transcend mere transactions, enriching both the client-advisor dynamic and the overall business landscape. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: Lindsay’s nomination: Top 5 Advisor of the Year finalists for BenefitsPro Magazine How Lindsay got involved in the insurance world How to connect with clients Strategies to fostering business relationships Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar Chris Wolpert, founder and owner of Group Benefit Solutions from the greater Tacoma, Washington area. In this episode, Chris opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome in the competitive industry, sharing practical tips for boosting confidence, and being a top 5 finalist for the BenefitsPro Advisor of the Year award. He also previews his upcoming national documentary, "It's not Personal, It's Healthcare," which promises an insightful look into healthcare complexities. Additionally, Chris discusses his comic book, "Voyage of the Contrarian," highlighting how storytelling intersects with advocacy in benefit issues. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: Chris’ nomination: Top 5 Advisor of the Year finalists for BenefitsPro Magazine How to deal with imposter syndrome in the industry Chris’ upcoming national documentary It’s not Personal, It’s Healthcare Upcoming release of Chris’ comic book: Voyage of the Contrarian Consolidated Appropriations Act Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar Larry Turell, CEO, Founder and President of Customized Consulting Services originally from New York but now based in the Florida area. In this episode, Larry shares his journey into insurance and self-funding, offering firsthand insights into his career motivations and experiences. He discusses the benefits of self-funding, emphasizing cost savings, flexibility, and control for both employers and employees. Additionally, Larry provides a comprehensive framework for understanding self-funding and navigating its complexities, touching on stop-loss insurance and risk management strategies. He also adds a personal touch by reminiscing about his time as a bat boy for the New York Yankees, showcasing the diverse experiences that have shaped his perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar Ryan Lavarnway, former MLB player, author, and keynote speaker out of the Denver Metropolitan Area. In this episode, listeners are treated to an enlightening discussion with Ryan Lavarnway about his MLB career and his acclaimed book "Baseball and Belonging," offering profound insights into the intersection of sports, identity, and community. Ryan shares anecdotes from his experiences in Major League Baseball (MLB), international leagues, and the minor leagues, providing a firsthand account of the challenges and triumphs within the realm of professional sports. The conversation delves into the complexities of imposter syndrome, as Ryan explores the psychological hurdles faced by athletes striving for success at the highest level. We then delve into strategies for leveraging cognitive diversity and optimizing team efficiency, as well as practical approaches for fostering innovation and. He also addresses critical issues surrounding mental health and players' access to healthcare, shedding light on the importance of comprehensive support systems in safeguarding the well-being of athletes. Ryan concludes the episode with invaluable advice for aspiring professional athletes, offering invaluable insights and guidance for navigating the multifaceted challenges inherent in pursuing a career in sports. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - Ryans book “Baseball and Belonging” - Ryans’ life experience in the MLB as well as international and minor leagues - Imposter syndrome - Leveraging Cognitive Diversity and organizing efficiency for your team - Mental health and players health insurance - Advice for aspiring professional athletes navigating career challenges Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar Spencer Smith, Senior Vice President at ParetoHealth out of the Dallas-Fort-Worth, Tx area, and host of the podcast Self-Funded with Spencer. In this episode, we delve into the DPC model of healthcare and where it stands in the insurance world today. We discuss the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing the healthcare industry and key insights are shared on the ways AI is reshaping patient care, diagnostics, and overall healthcare management. The episode further explores the evolution of stop-loss insurance, providing a nuanced perspective on how this crucial aspect of risk management has adapted to the changing landscape of the self-funded world. Spencer, an expert in the self-funded realm, shares valuable insights from his career, offering listeners a unique glimpse into the intricacies of navigating this dynamic space. The episode concludes with an exploration of ParetoHealth, providing a deeper understanding of its role and significance within the broader context of healthcare and self-funded models. Episode Highlights: What the DPC model is and where it is heading How AI is revolutionizing the healthcare industry How stop-loss insurance has evolved Spencer's career in the self-funded world ParetoHealth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar Bryan Fine, MD, MPH, Physician and Founder of Percentric, out of the Norfolk, VA area. In this episode, we uncover the driving force behind Bryan’s journey into the health field and the organic evolution that led to the formation of Percentric. Tune in to explore how Percentric is reshaping healthcare accessibility through direct texting with doctors, offering a middle ground between a simple Google search and the traditional in-person doctor's office visit. Our conversation delves deeper into the innovative approach of having a doctor on staff and its transformative impact on company culture and talent retention. Discover how Percentric's unique model goes beyond conventional healthcare benefits, fostering a healthier and more engaged workplace. Additionally, we explore the relevance of HIPAA in the context of direct texting with doctors the need for space to innovate. Join us for this insightful discussion at the crossroads of healthcare, technology, and workplace dynamics with the visionary founder of Percentric. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: How he got into the health field and organically ended up forming Percentric Innovating access to healthcare through direct texting with doctors Being the halfway point between a google search and going to the doctor’s office. How having a doctor on staff can help with company culture and talent retention The relevance of HIPAA with directly texting a doctor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features my friend, Rockstar Dan Bredson, Author of Seeds of Culture, out of the Charlotte Metro area. We dive right into our interview with Dan taking us on a journey from the spark of inspiration for his book while working in the benefits industry, to his decision to return to grad school for a deep dive into organizational leadership. We explore the diverse organizational styles within Major League Baseball teams, unraveling how these distinctions shape the experiences of players and fans. The second half of our podcast delves into the paramount importance of "psychological safety" in crafting a thriving organizational culture. Drawing on real-world examples, he sheds light on how fostering an environment of trust and openness can profoundly impact team success. Wrapping up, Dan shares practical insights into how successful companies build and sustain positive cultures. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - How he got the idea for his Amazon Bestselling book, Seeds of Culture - Going back to grad school to study organizational leadership - How organizational style differences of MLB teams lead to very different experiences for players and fans - Why “psychological safety” is so important to culture How companies built good cultures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features my friend, Rockstar Erin Issac, President/CEO & Founder of Joy Benefits, out of the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas area. We dive right into our conversation, talking about how and why she created her own agency after leaving a large “everything in house” company where competing priorities kept her from giving the service she wanted. We discuss how she fights to get employees and employers better coverage and better costs by cutting out some of the middlemen who take a piece of commissions but don’t really know their products and/or client needs. We wrap up with Erin telling us about her book club which is designed to help industry insiders, employers, and employees read and understand helpful benefit focused books that are changing the industry. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - Leaving a large firm that handled everything in house to start her own agency, to focus on providing the best employee benefit solutions for her clients - Cutting down the number of “hands in the pot” to help her clients get affordable, quality coverage. - Knowing your clients & product vs. selling a slide-deck - Fighting imposter syndrome when opening her own agency - Starting a book club for benefits industry books & resources Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar Stephanie Schomer, Editor-In-Chief of Employee Benefit News at Arizent, out of New York City. We dive right into our interview with Stephanie talking about how she came to be the Editor-In-Chief of Employee Benefit News and why it’s the best job in journalism. We then discuss company culture, navigating the remote vs return to office debate, the new focus on mental health in the workplace, and how Employee Benefits can help all of those. We finish up with a sneak peek into the upcoming BENEFITS AT WORK conference, and what folks can expect to see, hear, and experience there. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: Becoming Editor In Chief at Employee Benefit News and why it’s the best job in journalism. The importance of company culture and doing the best for your employees no matter your budget Navigating the remote vs. in office work changes and what that means for recruiting and retention The explosion of mental health discussions in the workplace and wanting to offer support through employee benefits Women in the workplace and their changing needs since Covid The brand-new BENEFITS AT WORK Conference Sept. 27th - 29th bringing employers and industry leaders together Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features Rockstar Chelsea Ryckis, President & Founder of Ethos Benefits & President of Ladies Executive Golf Society Orlando out of the Orlando, Florida area. We dive right into this episode with Chelsea talking about working with her husband, growing up playing sports and how that sent her to college on a D1 scholarship, and how a freak accident left her with a brain injury that changed the trajectory of her life. We then dig into her career start with a non-profit who, when asked for a raise, gave her a $10 bonus instead. She then joined the employee benefits field and recently went through a rebrand of her business, Ethos Benefits and how that’s brought all aspects of the business into better alignment. We round out our discussion with her founding the Orlando chapter of the Ladies Executive Golf Society and how it helps her foster relationships with fellow businesswomen. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - Meeting her husband through business, then going into business together - Growing up playing sports and going to college on a D1 scholarship - How a serious brain injury changed the trajectory of her life - Re-learning her worth and getting into Employee Benefits after a $10 Bonus - Going through a rebrand and bringing clients, partners, employees, and values into alignment Founding the Orlando chapter of LEGS to create space for women to network and grow relationships on the golf course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features my longtime friend, rockstar Cerinna Jensen, Co-founder of the Ellevate Foundation and Benefits Consultant with Solv Independent Insurance Associates out of the Greater Sacramento, California area. We dive right into our episode with Cerrina detailing how getting laid off from a former company lead to her career in employee benefits, specializing in micro-groups. She then discusses starting Stellar Stories as a ‘side hussle’ which became even more successful than she expected. The Ellevate Foundation and the Women’s Leadership Summit make up the bulk of our talk, as we go through how and why she co-founded Ellevate, how they put on a successful summit every year, and how men can also be allies to the Women’s Leadership Summit through the Mars Squad. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - How getting laid off lead to her start in the employee benefits field, selling to micro-groups up to 10 employees - Starting Stellar Stories as a side hustle and becoming independent - Co-Founding the Ellevate Foundation & Women’s Leadership Summit - The men who support Ellevate through the Mars Squad - Growing the summit with the help of supporters who believe in the cause Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features rockstar Kelly Fristoe, Healthinsurologist & President of NABIP, of out of the Greater Wichita Falls, Texas area. We dive right into our interview with Kelly talking about his start in the industry via a shady, though familiar, newspaper ad and what caused him to specialize in what he calls being a “Healthinsurologist”. As the President of NABIP, he explains why being involved in industry focused associations is not only important, but can be beneficial to your business. He also emphasizes how his tenure wasn’t only about his personal goals, but how multiple NAHU/NABIP leaders came together to create a common vision for the organization to work towards collaboratively across multiple presidential terms. From there, we turn to a look at the upcoming NABIP Annual Convention and the great speaker lineup you can expect, as well as the possibility of announcing the new CEO! So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - How answering a shady ad in the newspaper lead to becoming a Health Insurance Specialist aka a Healthinsurologist - The benefits of being involved in industry associations and masterminds - Creating a legacy that outlasts any one leadership term - Where to start if you want to get more involved (and why it benefits your business) - Sneak Peek of this year’s NABIP Annual Convention - The future of NABIP as they search for a new CEO - Words of wisdom for weathering a rough patch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features my good friend, rockstar Dan LaBroad, CEO of Ovation Health & Life Services of out of Plano, Texas. Dan opens with telling us how he deleted the email telling him he was a BenefitsPRO Broker of the Year Top 5 Finalist and how he resisted joining the Mastermind group officially, before learning how much it helped him. He then digs into his opportunity to create the Lone Star Counsel to bring together business leaders in Texas. We round out the interview with how he makes his own space in the business, how creating a flu clinic service let him see the health industry from both sides, and how he’s learned to balance relationship, both personally and professionally. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - Deleting his announcement email for BenefitsPRO Broker of the Year Top 5 Finalist - Joining Mastermind and the knowledge he’s learned leading to closing clients - Closing clients by being everywhere - Creating the Lone Star Counsel to bring business leaders together - What differentiates him from the rest of the pack - Building a Flu Clinic service & finding out how carrier inconsistencies lead to overspend - Nurturing relationship both personal and professional Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features rockstar Jenni Bickerstaff, Senior Partner/ SVP of Employee Benefits at AHT Insurance of out of the Northern Virginia area. We dive straight into our episode talking about being recognized at a BenefitsPRO Broker of the Year Top 5 Finalist and her work to be a mentor for others. She gets into the challenges and opportunities of working with international clients, how she was able to continue to grow her business and keep clients during the pandemic, as well as why it’s important to know multiple parts of the health industry to be a better at her job. We round out with a look at the specifics of what products are hot, what’s upcoming, and how she’s created a winning communication strategy for her clients. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - Being recognized as a BenefitsPRO Broker of the Year Top 5 Finalist - Coming up in the Insurance industry and trying to be a mentor for others - Being a better insurance agent by knowing many different aspects of the medical field - How working with international clients presents its own opportunities and challenges - How she was still able to grow business during Covid - New products that clients are asking for - Communication and driving employee engagement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features rockstar Bryce Heinbaugh, CEO/Managing Partner of IEN Risk Management Consultants and President of Concierge Nurse Navigators out of the Greater Cleveland, Ohio area. We dive straight into our episode with how Bryce got into the insurance industry while recovering from a major medical event, as a way to find health insurance for himself after being told he was “uninsurable”. A deeper dive into his passion for self-funded plans shows us how they, along with Nurse Navigators, can get members high quality care and stop down-stream money bleeds. Bryce also gives us his insight on why it’s important to have value aligned partners, what that means for growing your business, and what role technology plays in that. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - Getting his insurance license after being told he was “uninsurable” - Why he’s so passionate about self-funded plans - Focusing on value aligned client partners - Stopping down stream money bleeds for customers - Using Nurse Navigators to get patients to quality providers - How personal interactions are key to his clients in technology deserts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features rockstar Paul Wilson, Editor-In-Chief of BenefitsPRO Magazine out of the Denver, Colorado area. Join our discussion about how Paul transformed his love of literature and writing as a kid into a career within the benefits industry, with the magazine BenefitsPRO. He detailed how they started out as ‘Benefits Selling Magazine’ and rebranded with the expansion into the digital media world of the internet era. We also dig into the upcoming BenefitsPRO Broker Expo, May 8th – 10th, 2023 in Atlanta, GA. Paul explains why BenefitsPRO Broker Expo is successful at leaning into industry strengths, some of the amazing speakers they’ve had in the past, including one of his own personal heroes, as well as some sneak peeks into what’s in store for the 2023 expo agenda. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - How he transformed his love of literature and writing into a career - The story behind BenefitsPRO Magazine - How the BenefitsPRO Broker Expo leans into industry strengths - Amazing past expo speakers and how they try to break out of “echo chambers” - The good & bad changes he’s seen in the industry over time - A sneak peek of the BenefitsPRO Broker Expo’s 2023 agenda Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the #RockstarsRocking podcast features dual rockstars of the GovCon world; Jim Campbell, CEO of AXIM and TrUcare out of the Las Vegas area and Patrick Moore, President of AXIM and Vice President of TruCare out of the Greater Chicago area. We have a double hitter this week, and jump right into our conversation with how both Jim and Patrick served in the Marines, fell into the insurance industry as a “carrier rep”, and eventually found their path with their current companies. With a focus on the ‘GovCon’ (government contractor) sector, they operate with the intention of bringing both transparency and niche knowledge to benefits. A discussion about their upcoming “un-conference” in April 2023, mAXIMize 2023: The Competitive Edge, is an outstanding way for GovCon brokers, agents, providers, and employers to come together to network, learn sector specific strategies and information, and find ways that they can bring best in class benefits to employees. So, are you ready for more? Go ahead and grab your favorite ice-cold beverage and tap that play button, to tune in to this week’s edition of the #RockstarsRocking podcast. Episode Highlights: - How they both joined the Marines and how they then transitioned to the insurance industry. - Moving from a traditional carrier rep to current path - Bringing transparency to health insurance for government contractors - Starting a business during the pandemic - Finding the correct people and information for your industry - mAXIMize 2023: The Competitive Edge “unconference” in April Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices