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Healthcare Happy Hour

[email protected]·Hosted by David Saltzman·187 episodes

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The NABIP Healthcare Happy Hour podcast is released every other Thursday afternoon by the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals, and includes a recap of the week’s top issues in healthcare and health insurance politics and policy.

Why listen

Healthcare Happy Hour is a practical health insurance policy briefing for benefits advisors, brokers, and anyone tracking how Washington rules affect coverage decisions. Host David Saltzman mixes NABIP advocacy updates with interviews from policy, compliance, technology, Medicare, and benefits leaders, so listeners hear both the regulation and what it means in client conversations. It is best for professionals who want industry-specific context without sitting through a full policy seminar.

Series(1)

Episodes

May 28, 2026
ACA Marketplace Final Rule: Fraud Prevention, Enrollment & Broker Impact

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman sits down with Emily Trevino, senior managing partner at Wise Partners and a leader in NABIP’s Individual Working Group, to break down the new CMS Marketplace Integrity and Affordability Final Rule. Emily discusses how the rule aims to address fraud and enrollment issues in the ACA marketplace while creating new challenges for consumers, carriers, and brokers. The conversation covers tighter verification requirements, changes to premium tax credit reconciliation, shortened enrollment windows, and increased oversight of brokers and agents, along with practical strategies for benefits professionals preparing for the next enrollment season.

May 21, 2026
The Power of “Yes, And” in Sales and Leadership

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman speaks with communication expert and Annual Convention Keynote Speaker John Colby about how improvisation skills can improve communication, sales, leadership, and networking. John explains how improv techniques help professionals think on their feet, listen more effectively, handle objections, and build stronger relationships through authentic conversations and “Yes, and” thinking. The discussion also explores how these strategies can improve client interactions, team collaboration, and overall confidence in both business and personal settings.

May 14, 2026
AI, Cyber Threats & the Next Era of Benefits Advising

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman sits down with Daniel Metcalf, president of CyberFin and co-leader of NABIP’s Cybersecurity & AI Task Force, to discuss how cyber threats and artificial intelligence are rapidly reshaping the health insurance and benefits industry. Daniel explains why the task force was created, the growing risks facing agencies and clients, and how increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks are targeting both businesses and vulnerable consumers. The conversation explores practical steps advisors can take to strengthen cybersecurity, comply with evolving regulations, and prepare incident response plans. Daniel also shares insights into how AI is transforming agency operations, improving scalability and client engagement, while highlighting the importance of responsible adoption, data protection, and maintaining the human relationships that remain central to the advisor role.

Apr 30, 2026
From Capitol Hill to the Client: How Policy Shapes Retirement & Healthcare

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman continues his conversation with Chris Orestis, president of Retirement Genius, shifting the focus from retirement planning to the intersection of healthcare policy, advocacy, and politics. Drawing on his experience in Washington, D.C., Chris reflects on how healthcare and insurance policy are shaped over time and why persistence, member engagement, and in-district advocacy are essential to driving change. The discussion explores the role benefits professionals can play in shaping policy, the importance of political participation and PAC support, and the major funding and entitlement debates likely to impact Medicare, Social Security, and the broader benefits landscape in the years ahead. Chris emphasizes that advisors who stay informed and engaged will be better positioned to serve their clients and help influence the future of the industry.

Apr 23, 2026
Retirement Reality Check: Healthcare Costs, Income Gaps & Long-Term Care

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman sits down with Chris Orestis, president of Retirement Genius, to explore the critical gaps in retirement planning—particularly when it comes to healthcare and long-term care costs. Chris explains how a lack of financial literacy and avoidance of difficult conversations leave many Americans unprepared for the realities of aging, often leading to crisis-driven decisions. The discussion highlights the growing importance of income planning, managing debt, and understanding longevity risk, as well as the significant financial and emotional impact of long-term care on individuals and families. Chris also outlines practical strategies for both consumers and advisors, emphasizing the need for early planning, diversified financial tools, and a more holistic, solution-oriented approach to retirement readiness in this first installment of a two-part series.

Apr 16, 2026
The Real Cost of Coverage: Insights from KFF Data

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman sits down with Lunna Lopez, senior survey manager at the Kaiser Family Foundation, to examine how rising healthcare costs are affecting consumers’ insurance decisions and overall financial well-being. Drawing on recent KFF survey data, they explore how increases in premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs are forcing many marketplace enrollees to make difficult trade-offs—such as cutting back on basic household expenses or dropping coverage altogether. The conversation highlights the emotional toll of navigating coverage decisions, including widespread feelings of stress, confusion, and frustration, and discusses how affordability challenges may influence consumer behavior, market stability, and broader policy and voting dynamics.

Apr 13, 2026
Breaking Down the 2027 Medicare Advantage & Part D Final Rule

In this timely episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman sits down with NABIP Medicare Advisory Group Chair Chalen Jackson for an in-depth discussion on the 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule, released last week. They break down key policy changes, including updates to Star Ratings and Part D provisions, and what they mean for both beneficiaries and advisors. The conversation also explores evolving market dynamics, expected pressure on plan benefits, and new flexibilities for agents that can improve workflow and client engagement. Chalen highlights how ongoing advocacy efforts helped shape many of these changes and offers practical guidance on how advisors can prepare for another challenging enrollment season.

Apr 2, 2026
From Admin to Advisor: How AI Is Transforming the Broker Role

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, David Saltzman sits down with Will Johnson, CEO and co-founder of Gyde Health, to discuss how AI and modern technology are transforming the insurance broker industry. They explore the historical underinvestment in brokers despite their role as the front door to the healthcare system, and how AI can automate administrative work to free up capacity for growth and client engagement. Will also shares his vision for the future of advisors as comprehensive, technology-enabled guides who support consumers across insurance, health, and financial decisions.

Mar 26, 2026
CAA 2026 Unpacked: Compliance, Compensation & Fiduciary Responsibility

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, David Saltzman sits down with Jennifer Berman, chief legal officer of Lumelight, to break down the key provisions of the Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA) 2026. The discussion focuses on expanded transparency requirements, including new prescription drug reporting and significant changes to compensation disclosure rules impacting brokers, TPAs, and other health plan vendors. Jennifer also explores the growing fiduciary responsibilities for plan sponsors, increased litigation risk, and the need for structured governance and documentation. The conversation highlights both the challenges and opportunities these evolving regulations present for plan sponsors, vendors, and advisors.

Mar 23, 2026
Decoding the 2027 ACA Marketplace Rule: What Brokers Need to Know

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, David Saltzman sits down with Joshua Brooker, co-founder and chief visionary officer of SnapHealth and chair of NABIP’s Individual Market Working Group, to break down NABIP’s 28-page comment letter to CMS on the proposed 2027 Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters (NBPP). Drawing on the Working Group’s expertise and insights, they explore key implications for the ACA market, including the impact on brokers, consumers, and carriers, as well as the revisions and proposals that could shape its future.

Feb 19, 2026
Precision Medicine in Practice: The Future of Personalized Healthcare

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, David Saltzman interviews Lena Chaihorsky, co-founder and senior vice president of Payer Innovation at Alva10, discussing the concept of precision medicine and its implications for healthcare delivery. They explore the importance of pharmacogenomics, the role of brokers in implementing precision medicine, and the need for education among employers regarding these innovative healthcare solutions. Lena emphasizes the significance of drug efficacy and the financial implications of non-optimized medications, while also highlighting real-world applications and future directions for the NABIP's Precision Medicine Task Force.

Feb 5, 2026
From Broker to Media Expert

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman interviews Craig Gussin, president & CEO of Auerbach & Gussin. Craig shares his journey from starting in life and disability insurance to becoming a trusted media resource in health insurance. He discusses the importance of proactive media engagement, building relationships with media outlets, and effectively communicating with the public. Craig emphasizes the need for insurance professionals to position themselves as resources for consumers and the media, providing valuable insights and education. He also offers advice for aspiring media experts in the industry.

Jan 29, 2026
The Impact of Integrated Virtual Care on Healthcare Savings

Employers and health plans continue to face rising healthcare costs driven by chronic conditions, fragmented care delivery, and delayed access to services. In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman speaks with Jon O’Toole, chief revenue officer of Recuro Health, about how integrated virtual care models—connecting primary care, urgent care, and behavioral health—are emerging as a response to these pressures. Drawing from industry data, case study insights, and market trends, the conversation explores how coordinated virtual care delivery can improve care quality while generating measurable cost savings across populations.

Jan 27, 2026
Broker Excellence & Our Shared Future

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman speaks with Dr. Darwin Hale, founder and CEO of Advocate Health Advisors, about the critical role of brokers in the healthcare system, particularly in Medicare Advantage. Dr. Hale shares his personal journey that led him to establish his company, emphasizing the importance of localized connections and trust in helping seniors navigate their healthcare options. The conversation also explores the distinction between advocacy and sales, the value of Medicare Advantage plans, and the future of healthcare innovation.

Jan 15, 2026
Engaging Members, Embracing Technology: A Conversation with Susan Rider

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman engages with NABIP President Susan Rider to discuss the evolving landscape of the benefits and insurance industry. They explore the fragmentation within the industry, the importance of member engagement, and the integration of technology and AI to enhance member services. Susan shares insights on professional development, the significance of designations, and the association's efforts to modernize its brand. The conversation also highlights the need for academic partnerships and the establishment of a rapid response media team to strengthen community engagement and advocacy efforts.

Nov 20, 2025
Bridging the Gap: Why Supplemental Health Benefits Matter More Than Ever

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman discusses the importance of supplemental health benefits with Diana Steinhoff, president and CEO, and John Feeney, vice president of group sales and market development, from Renaissance Life and Health. They explore the rising healthcare costs and how supplemental benefits can help cover out-of-pocket expenses for employees. The conversation highlights the perspectives of employers and employees regarding these benefits, the role of brokers in offering them, and emerging trends in the industry.

Oct 23, 2025
Empowering Agents, Strengthening Communities: Inside Your Health Idaho

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, David Saltzman speaks with Pat Kelly, executive director and CEO of Your Health Idaho. They discuss the evolution of the health exchange since its inception in 2013, the critical role of agents and brokers in the enrollment process, and how a private sector mindset has enhanced customer experience. Pat shares insights on maintaining a competitive insurance market in Idaho, operational efficiency, and the impact of local agents in rural areas. They also address the potential implications of post-COVID subsidies and future innovations for sustainability.

Oct 16, 2025
The Vision Advantage: Enhancing Healthcare Through Eye Care

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, sponsored by EyeMed, David Saltzman discusses the importance of vision benefits with Jason Rome, chief commercial officer, and Dr. John Lahr, senior medical director, from EyeMed. They explore how eye exams can play a crucial role in early detection of medical conditions, the impact of eye health on overall well-being and productivity, and how vision benefits can enhance employee satisfaction and retention in a competitive job market. The conversation emphasizes the need for brokers to effectively communicate the value of vision care to employers and the broader implications for healthcare costs.

Oct 2, 2025
The Benefits of ICHRAs for Employers and Employees

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, David Saltzman interviews Ray Seaver, CEO of Zizzl Health, discussing the innovative Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA) model. They explore how ICHRAs provide employers with a flexible way to offer health insurance, addressing key pain points such as affordability and employee satisfaction. The conversation delves into the employee experience, the importance of decision support tools, and the unique advantages of Zizzl Health's approach. They also touch on regulatory challenges, compensation models for advisors, and future trends in the ICHRA landscape.

Sep 18, 2025
Mastering In-District Meetings: A Guide for Healthcare Advocates

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, sponsored by RxBenefits, host David Saltzman and Rick Israel, partner at Life Line Insurance Consultants, discuss the significance of in-district meetings with legislators for healthcare professionals. They explore strategies for scheduling these meetings, the importance of preparation, and how to build lasting relationships with legislators. The conversation also covers the engagement with state legislators and effective follow-up strategies to ensure ongoing communication and advocacy.

Sep 11, 2025
Resurgence of Long-Term Care Insurance: Trends and Insights

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, David Saltzman and Steve Cain, director, sales & business development leader, at LTCI Partners, discuss the evolving landscape of long-term care insurance. They explore the current state of the market, the impact of demographic shifts, and the role of public programs in shaping private insurance conversations. The discussion highlights the importance of long-term care planning and the need for financial advisors to engage clients in these critical discussions. Looking ahead, they anticipate continued growth and demand for long-term care solutions as awareness increases.

Sep 4, 2025
Navigating the Big Beautiful Bill: Impacts on Healthcare

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, David Saltzman speaks with Jessica Altman, Executive Director of Covered California, about the implications of the recent public law, often referred to as the 'Big Beautiful Bill.' They discuss its significant provisions affecting healthcare markets, particularly focusing on affordability, Medicaid changes, plan design, and the potential impact on consumers and providers. The conversation also touches on the likelihood of Congress extending enhanced premium tax credits and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for healthcare coverage in the United States.

Aug 28, 2025
Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Public Benefit Approach

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, sponsored by AffirmedRx, David Saltzman speaks with Mike Stancil, Vice President of Strategic Alliances at AffirmedRx, about the unique structure of public benefit corporations in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing patient care over profits. They discuss the need for transparency in pharmacy benefits, the growing awareness among employers regarding their options, and the complexities surrounding specialty medications. The conversation highlights the innovative approaches AffirmedRx is taking to ensure better healthcare outcomes while maintaining ethical standards.

Jul 24, 2025
Leave as a Benefit: What Today’s Employees Really Want

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman interviews AbsenceSoft founder Seth Turner about the growing role of leave as a core employee benefit. Paid leave is no longer just a nice-to-have. It’s a deciding factor for job seekers and a loyalty builder for current staff. Seth shares new data on the types of leave employees value most, how poor leave experiences drive turnover, and why delivering the right leave benefits with the right process can improve retention, morale, and compliance. HR and benefits leaders will walk away with practical strategies to support today’s workforce more effectively, without adding to their administrative load.

Jun 12, 2025
The Complexity of Pricing Transparency

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, sponsored by RxBenefits, host David Saltzman speaks with Whitney Reboulet, Senior Vice President of Account Management at RxBenefits. They discuss Whitney's journey into the pharmacy benefits management space, the challenges of pricing transparency, the importance of data in decision-making, and the impact of specialty drugs like GLP-1s. The conversation also covers formulary design, pharmacy network options, and the ongoing legislative trends affecting the industry.

Jun 5, 2025
The Food Babe's Journey to Health Advocacy

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman interviews Vani Hari, known as the Food Babe, who shares her journey from a childhood filled with processed foods to becoming a leading food activist. Vani discusses her health struggles, the pivotal moment that led her to change her diet, and her efforts to expose the truth about food ingredients and advocate for healthier options. She highlights her experience with Chick-fil-A, the challenges of navigating advocacy without being polarizing, and the importance of understanding food labels. Vani also addresses the dangers of glyphosate and offers advice for building a purpose-driven movement in today's digital landscape.

May 22, 2025
Understanding the 'Why': A Conversation with Connie Podesta on Communication, Change, and Leadership

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman interviews Connie Podesta, a renowned speaker known for her unique blend of psychology and humor. They discuss Connie's journey from being a talkative student to a successful speaker, the importance of understanding the 'why' behind actions, and how COVID has changed personal and professional dynamics. Connie emphasizes the need for flexibility in goal-setting and the significance of self-awareness in communication. She also shares insights on her upcoming speech at the NABIP Annual Convention, focusing on the challenges of dealing with others.

Mar 6, 2025
Simplifying Screen Sharing for Better Client Engagement

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman interviews Jói Sigurdsson, founder and CEO of Crankwheel, about the innovative screen sharing platform designed to enhance communication, particularly for less tech-savvy users. They discuss the origins of Crankwheel, its unique features such as e-signature capabilities, recording functionalities, and tools for client engagement. Jói explains how Crankwheel simplifies the presentation process, making it accessible for agents working with older clients. The conversation also touches on the future of the platform and its commitment to user-friendly design.

Feb 13, 2025
Navigating Healthcare Politics with Chris Cillizza

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman interviews Chris Cillizza, a prominent political commentator, about the current state of healthcare legislation under the Trump administration. They discuss the priorities of the Republican party, the implications of government reduction, and the potential impact of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on healthcare policy. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by Big Pharma and the effectiveness of executive orders versus legislation in enacting healthcare reform.

Jan 23, 2025
Innovative Pharmacy Solutions for Modern Healthcare

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, David Saltzman speaks with Vinay Patel, founder of MakoRx, about the evolving role of community pharmacies in the healthcare landscape. They discuss the challenges faced by these local pharmacies as they compete with big box competition, the importance of transparency in drug pricing, and innovative models like subscription services that aim to improve access and affordability. The conversation also touches on the potential for legislative reform to create a more equitable healthcare system.

Dec 19, 2024
Understanding the Impact of New Employer Reporting Bills

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman and NABIP Vice President of Congressional Affairs Michael Andel discuss two new healthcare bills that are set to impact employer reporting. They delve into the legislative process, the significance of the bills, and the future of healthcare under the new administration. The conversation highlights the importance of advocacy and the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare legislation.

Dec 5, 2024
Reviving Long-Term Care Insurance: Trends and Insights

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman speaks with NABIP Long-Term Care Working Group Chair Lori Martin and Steve Cain, director at LTCI Partners, about the current state of long-term care insurance. They discuss the resurgence of the market, driven by demographic shifts and state initiatives like the Washington CARES Fund. The conversation highlights the importance of worksite benefits, the variety of products available, and the role of NABIP in advocating for long-term care solutions. The episode emphasizes the need for education and awareness among employers and benefit professionals regarding long-term care planning.

Nov 14, 2024
Decoding Drug Pricing in America with RxBenefits

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, sponsored by RxBenefits, host David Saltzman speaks with KC Armstrong, director of business development at RxBenefits, about the evolution of the pharmacy industry, the complexities of drug pricing in the U.S., and strategies for self-funded plans. KC shares insights on how RxBenefits has adapted to the rapidly changing landscape of healthcare and pharmacy, the role of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), and the various factors influencing medication costs. The discussion also highlights the importance of data-driven strategies for employers looking to manage their pharmacy spend effectively.

Oct 31, 2024
Navigating the Changes in Medicare Commissions with NABIP Director of Public Policy & Advocacy Nicole LePetri

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, sponsored by RxBenefits, host David Saltzman discusses the recent decision by Centene Corporation, through its subsidiary WellCare, to stop paying commissions to agents and brokers for enrolling Medicare beneficiaries in standalone Part D drug plans. Nicole LePetri, director of public policy & advocacy at NABIP, explains the implications of this decision for agents, brokers, and consumers, and discusses NABIP's advocacy efforts in response to these changes. The conversation also touches on the future outlook for NABIP members and the importance of feedback from agents and beneficiaries.

Oct 24, 2024
Effective Risk Management Strategies with CalSurance

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, sponsored by RxBenefits, host David Saltzman speaks with John Jasinski, senior vice president at CalSurance, about the complexities of Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance, particularly in the context of the evolving landscape of self-funded plans. They discuss the various risks associated with professional liability, the importance of effective communication and documentation, and strategies for advisors to protect themselves from potential claims. The conversation also touches on compliance issues and the tailored coverage options available for different types of professionals in the insurance industry.

Oct 10, 2024
The Value and Role of NABIP PAC in Advancing NABIP's Mission with NABIP PAC Chair Joshua Haberman

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman interviews NABIP PAC Chair Joshua Haberman to discuss the importance of political action committees (PACs) in the health insurance industry. Haberman shares his journey into the insurance business and his involvement with NABIP. They explain what a PAC is and how NABIP PAC works to support legislative priorities related to access and affordability in healthcare. They also discuss the role of PACs in building relationships with elected representatives and the impact of PAC contributions on policy outcomes.

Sep 26, 2024
Revolutionizing Healthcare Access with Healthcare2U

In this episode of Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman speaks with Andy Bonner, co-founder, president and CEO of Healthcare2U, about his personal journey into the healthcare industry after a misdiagnosis led to a cancer diagnosis. Andy discusses the creation of Healthcare2U, a direct primary care model that aims to provide affordable healthcare solutions to underserved populations. The conversation explores the patient experience, the importance of board-certified care, and the challenges of addressing care deserts in the healthcare system.

Sep 19, 2024
Advocating for Changes in Medicare with NABIP Medicare Advisory Group Chair Danielle Roberts

In this episode of the Healthcare Happy Hour podcast, host David Saltzman interviews Danielle Roberts, the chair of the NABIP Medicare Advisory Group. They discuss Danielle's background in insurance and how she transitioned her business to focus solely on Medicare. They also talk about the role of the Medicare Advisory Group and their current initiatives, including lobbying CMS to remove agents from the third-party marketing organization definition and advocating for changes in Part D coverage. Danielle emphasizes the importance of staying informed and encourages Medicare advisors to join the NABIP Broker to Broker community for support and guidance.

Sep 5, 2024
Navigating Compliance and Regulatory Challenges with NABIP Employer Working Group Chair Bianca Saul

In this episode of the Healthcare Happy Hour, host David Saltzman interviews Bianca Saul, the chair of the NABIP Employer Working Group. They discuss Saul's background in the industry and the role of the working group in advocating for employer-provided health coverage. They also touch on topics such as employer reporting, fiduciary responsibility, transparency, mental health parity, and the potential impact of the upcoming election on health policy. The working group aims to address these issues and make an impact through NABIP's advocacy efforts.

Aug 22, 2024
Improving the Member Experience with NABIP Membership Chair Leslie Shelton

NABIP Membership Chair Leslie Shelton discusses her journey into the insurance business and her passion for membership. She emphasizes the importance of making new members feel welcome and supported, and shares strategies for improving the member experience. Shelton also highlights the social aspect of NABIP and the value of networking and building relationships within the industry. She encourages members to spread the word about NABIP and offers tips for approaching potential new members. Shelton concludes by discussing upcoming events and the future of NABIP.

Aug 9, 2024
Prepare for August Recess Meetings with Michael Andel and Andrew McKechnie!

NABIP’s Vice President of Congressional Affairs Michael Andel and Tiber Creek Group’s Andrew McKechnie discuss setting meetings with your federal legislators during August recess and how to get the most out of these meeting. NABIP has released August talking points for all members to use and is encouraging all members to meet with their federal legislators while they are in their district offices for the entirety of the month of August.

Jul 23, 2024
Navigating the Insurance Industry: A Conversation with Alicia Riedl, NABIP President

Alicia Riedl, the new national president of NABIP, shares her journey in the insurance industry and discusses the issues and initiatives that NABIP is focusing on. She emphasizes the importance of creating a healthcare system centered around the consumer and highlights NABIP's efforts to advocate for a better healthcare system. Riedl also discusses the challenges faced by advisors in the industry, such as restrictive rebating laws and the need for transparency. She shares her views on leadership and the qualities that make a good leader. The conversation also touches on the role of technology, chapter development, and membership changes within NABIP.

May 31, 2024
NABIP’s Healthcare Happy Hour Podcast, sponsored by AgencyBloc

Join us for a special episode of the Healthcare Happy Hour podcast, sponsored by our Premier Affinity Partner, AgencyBloc,  an agency management system that helps health and life insurance agents manage their information, leads, policies, and communications with clients. Alongside our host, David Saltzman, they discuss their AMS, along with additional solutions like marketing tools, a commissions module, and a small group quoting and enrollment tool called QuotePlus. QuotePlus is designed for the small group side and can quote ACA products, community rated products, underwritten products, and self-funded products. Agency Bloc helps advisors differentiate themselves by offering a consolidated quoting tool that allows them to view all available products in the market. They also help advisors automate time-consuming processes, manage paperwork, and streamline workflows. The core agency management software helps advisors manage their leads, prospects, marketing communications, renewals, and commissions.

May 22, 2024
An Update on NABIP’s Legislative Priorities from Capitol Conference

We all know it’s an election year, and Congressional action has been limited. Join host David Saltzman and NABIP lobbyists John Greene and Michael Andel to discuss several key topics related to healthcare legislation, including employer reporting and the challenges faced by employers in complying with the reporting requirements. They also discuss the status of legislation related to telehealth expansion, COBRA bills and the need for a one-time open enrollment for seniors transitioning to Medicare.

May 9, 2024
The Final Rule on Short-Term Limited Duration Insurance (STLDI) and Fixed Indemnity Plans: What it Means for Brokers and their Clients.

This episode of NABIP’s Healthcare Happy Hour is a deep dive into the recent changes surrounding short-term limited duration insurance (STLDI). It explores concerns surrounding STLDI’s impact on risk pools and the ACA market. Join OneDigital’s Scott Wham and host David Saltzman for a conversation that addresses the new rule, marketing practices of STLDI plans and the challenges faced by employers in offering minimum essential coverage. It also touches on the potential spillover effects on other plans, such as hospital indemnity plans. The conversation also looks at future trends, like the focus on prescription drug costs and the possibility of repeal and replace efforts.

May 2, 2024
Exploring Ancillary Benefits in Self-Funded Plans - The Role of Stop-Loss Insurance in Self-Funded Plans

In this episode of NABIP’s Healthcare Happy Hour, sponsored by Nationwide Insurance, our new host, David Saltzman, interviews Sarah Ann Flaherty and Adam Sheehan from AccuRisk about the differences between fully insured and self-insured health plans. They discuss the benefits and risks of each type of plan, as well as the role of stop-loss insurance in self-funded plans. They also explore the flexibility and cost-saving potential of self-funded plans, as well as the importance of data analysis and employee engagement in making informed decisions. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the inclusion of ancillary benefits in self-funded plans.

Mar 22, 2024
NABIP's Vision for the Next Era of ERISA

Welcome back, one and all, to NABIP’s Healthcare Happy Hour podcast. Earlier this week, the association submitted our response to a Request for Information, or RFI, from the House Education and Workforce Committee. The RFI focused on the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (much more commonly referred to as ERISA). In light of the law’s 50th anniversary, the committee issued this RFI to stakeholders to see what areas surrounding ERISA that may benefit from new legislation to reflect how healthcare is delivered today, so it is crucial that NABIP be a part of this conversation. Additionally, this will be the final episode of the Healthcare Happy Hour hosted and produced by NABIP’s Dan Parker. We will all miss “the Voice of NABIP,” who has been a staple of the podcast for the last few years – but we are also excited about what the future holds for the Happy Hour!

Mar 8, 2024
The Future is Now – Capitol Conference Reflections and NABIP's Path Forward in Healthcare

In this special edition of the Healthcare Happy Hour, we take you inside the halls of the 34th Annual Capitol Conference, held in Washington D.C. from February 25th to 28th, 2024. This episode, recorded live amidst the buzz and excitement of Cap Con, offers an unparalleled glimpse into the heart of healthcare policy discussions and developments that are shaping the future. Join NABIP's very own Dan Parker and John Greene, along with esteemed Legislative Council Vice Chair and Conference Chair Jennifer Berman, and the charismatic CAHIP president and Cap Con emcee, Tim Kanter, as they dissect and discuss the pivotal moments of this year's conference.

Feb 2, 2024
Capitol Conference Keynote Sneak Peek, Featuring Amy Walter!

As our listeners are aware, NABIP’s 34th Capitol Conference is just around the corner, from February 25-28, 2024, here in Washington D.C. If for some reason you haven’t registered yet, we’re positive you’ll be clamoring to be registered as soon as this episode ends! We have the privilege this week of welcoming a very special guest: Amy Walter - the keynote speaker at this year’s Capitol Conference. Amy Walter is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the Cook Political Report with Amy Walter, where she offers in-depth analysis of the issues, trends, and events that are shaping the political environment. Known for her objective and insightful commentary, Amy has earned her place as one of Washington's Most Powerful Women. Get a sneak peek of what Amy will be discussing in this week’s episode of the Healthcare Happy Hour, where she provides her take on the 2024 elections thus far.

Jan 5, 2024
NABIP Submits Strong Comments to CMS on Medicare Advantage and FMO Proposed Rule; DOL Releases Association Health Plan (AHP) Proposed Rule

Happy New Year! We hope you all enjoyed the holidays after a long fourth quarter and OEP. We’re going to kick the year off today by discussing the comments that NABIP submitted to CMS regarding the recent, alarming, proposed regulations relevant to FMOs and Medicare agent compensation. We also saw a hotly anticipated proposed rule come out on Association Health Plans over the holidays, so we will be reviewing that as well. Additionally, we’ll look at what to expect from Congress in early 2024. On this week’s episode of the Healthcare Happy Hour, to discuss all of this, are none other than John Greene and Michael Andel.