Explore every episode of the podcast The H.I.T. Podcast

Welcome back to the HIT (Human Resources, Insurance, and Technology) podcast! This week, host Toby Kennedy is joined by world-renowned business consultant and author Kevin Lawrence for a deep dive into the strategies that separate stagnant companies from high-growth organizations.

With over 30 years of experience helping executive teams scale 5x to 10x, Kevin shares why the "people piece" is the ultimate fuel for any growth engine.

In this episode, we explore:

The Discernment of Growth:

Learn the critical difference between making your business "better" (optimizing units) versus making it "bigger" (driving core growth).

Escaping the "Pull of Problems":

Discover why leaders often get trapped in the drama of daily problem-solving, inadvertently starving their company's growth engine.

The 30% Growth Rule:

Why every leader, including those in HR, should aim to spend 30% of their time on future-focused growth activities like networking with top talent.

Quarterly Talent Discipline:

Why annual reviews aren't enough and how executive teams must actively manage and develop "Aces" every 90 days.

Courage vs. Fear:

How leadership from the top creates an environment where people feel safe to take chances and learn from mistakes.

**About Our Guest**

Kevin Lawrence is a strategic advisor to CEOs and executive teams worldwide. He is a key contributor to the book "Scaling Up," author of "Your Oxygen Mask First," and author of the recent release "The Four Forces of Growth."

Brought to you by:

Montage Insurance Solutions

#BusinessGrowth #ScalingUp #Leadership #HRTech #HITPodcast #KevinLawrence #ExecutiveCoaching #HumanResources

In this episode of The H.I.T. Podcast, host Toby Kennedy sits down with Kim Bohr, CEO of Spark Effect, to break down the latest research on organizational trust—and why it may be one of the most important (and overlooked) drivers of performance.

This conversation moves beyond theory and into practical frameworks leaders can use right now.

Key Insights on Organizational Trust

Trust as a KPI:

Trust isn’t soft—it’s measurable and directly tied to revenue, retention, and reputation.

Thriving in Disruption:

Organizations that lean into change can see a +12% increase in trust above baseline.

Manager Trust Gap:

During change, trust in direct managers drops faster than overall organizational trust.

What Builds (and Breaks) Trust:

Transparency, empathy, and communication build trust—while misalignment and poor execution erode it.

The Five Dimensions of Trust

To make trust measurable, the research outlines five key areas:

• Strategic Clarity – Do employees understand where the organization is going?

• Psychological Safety – Can people speak up without fear?

• Relational Continuity – Do employees feel connected to purpose and culture?

• Technology & Systems Trust – Are tools implemented clearly and transparently?

• Fairness in Change – How are difficult decisions (like layoffs) handled?

The Five C’s Framework

A practical model for leading through change while maintaining trust:

• Context – What’s changing and why

• Commitment – What stays the same

• Change – What’s happening next

• Care – Supporting your people

• Call to Action – What to do this week

If you lead people, manage teams, or influence culture, this episode offers clear, actionable ways to build and sustain trust—even in uncertain times.

Access the full report + resources:

sparkeffect.com/hit

What does it actually take to build and lead companies that scale?

In this episode of The H.I.T. Podcast, entrepreneur, executive, and author Glenn Poulos joins the show to share lessons from nearly four decades of building, leading, and selling successful businesses.

Glenn discusses how moving away from “seat-of-the-pants” management toward a structured leadership system—specifically the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)—helped transform the way his companies operate and scale.

We dive into practical leadership strategies including:

• Structure before people — why clear roles and expectations drive performance
• Defining meaningful core values with team input
• Holding teams accountable and enforcing culture consistently
• Why HR must operate as a strategic leadership partner, not just an administrative function
• The importance of meeting cadence — weekly, quarterly, and annual planning
• How AI and technology are helping businesses analyze opportunities and streamline RFP processes
• Lessons learned from building and exiting multiple companies

Glenn also shares insights from his book Never Sit in the Lobby, which focuses on sales discipline, leadership accountability, and building durable organizations that customers trust long-term.

If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or HR professional focused on building stronger teams and scalable businesses, this conversation delivers practical insights from someone who has done it at the highest level.

What does it actually take to build and lead companies that scale?

In this episode of The H.I.T. Podcast, entrepreneur, executive, and author Glenn Poulos joins the show to share lessons from nearly four decades of building, leading, and selling successful businesses.

Glenn discusses how moving away from “seat-of-the-pants” management toward a structured leadership system—specifically the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)—helped transform the way his companies operate and scale.

We dive into practical leadership strategies including:

• Structure before people — why clear roles and expectations drive performance
• Defining meaningful core values with team input
• Holding teams accountable and enforcing culture consistently
• Why HR must operate as a strategic leadership partner, not just an administrative function
• The importance of meeting cadence — weekly, quarterly, and annual planning
• How AI and technology are helping businesses analyze opportunities and streamline RFP processes
• Lessons learned from building and exiting multiple companies

Glenn also shares insights from his book Never Sit in the Lobby, which focuses on sales discipline, leadership accountability, and building durable organizations that customers trust long-term.

If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or HR professional focused on building stronger teams and scalable businesses, this conversation delivers practical insights from someone who has done it at the highest level.

What are we actually chasing?

Likes?

Applause?

Recognition?

Or real impact?

In this episode of The H.I.T. Podcast, Dr. Brandi Stankovic, Ed.D. joins us fresh off her recent TED talk to challenge the modern definition of “success” — especially the kind fueled by online praise and performative wins.

We explore:

• Why fake happiness and surface-level validation are so easy to chase

• How leaders unintentionally reward the wrong behaviors

• What organizations should really be measuring

• How to build cultures rooted in meaningful work — not optics

If you lead people, influence culture, or care about what your organization is truly optimizing for, this conversation is a must-watch.

This one goes deeper than tactics — it’s about intention.

What do rules and expectations have in common? You shouldn’t set them if you’re not willing to enforce them.

Unenforced standards make bad performers worse—and they quietly drain the motivation of your best people when they see inconsistency.

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Tommie Jo Brode for a powerful conversation about leadership, culture, team-building, and what it really means to hold the line as a leader.

We talk about:

• Why accountability protects your top performers
• How culture erodes when standards aren’t enforced
• The connection between expectations and trust
• What strong, consistent leadership actually looks like

This is one of those conversations that feels simple—but hits deep. If you care about building high-performing teams and protecting your culture, you won’t want to miss this one.

What exactly is a TPA (Third-Party Administrator)—and why does it matter in the world of health insurance?

In this episode, Nick Buratti from Allied Benefit Systems joins me for a clear, practical conversation about how TPAs operate, what they’re responsible for, and where they fit into the broader health insurance ecosystem.

If you’re involved in employee benefits, self-funded health plans, or just want to better understand how all the moving pieces connect, this episode is a must-watch.

#TheHITPodcast #HealthInsurance #TPA #EmployeeBenefits #SelfFunded #HRLeadership #AlliedBenefitSystems #HealthcareExplained

What does it really take to build a high-performing, low-drama team?

In this episode, we break down the real-world strategies behind employee management, intentional turnover, and aligning teams with mission, vision, and values—including practical lessons from the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS).

We cover:

Managing People & Turnover

• The real cost of keeping the wrong person in the role
• What “intentional turnover” means—and how to handle transitions the right way
• Creating kind, professional exits while protecting team performance
• Why strong teams naturally push toward “right people, right seats”

Intelligent Hiring

• Hiring for natural wiring—not just resumes
• Using personality and behavioral assessments to identify top performers
• Why the best employees make difficult roles look effortless
• Data-driven filtering to focus on candidates most likely to succeed

EOS & Team Alignment

• How EOS aligns teams around mission, vision, and values
• The Six Key Components: Vision, People, Data, Issues, Process, Traction
• Using scorecards, structured meetings, and accountability rhythms
• Military-style” backward planning from long-term goals to 90-day priorities

If you’re a leader, founder, or HR professional trying to build a disciplined, accountable, and high-performing culture—this episode delivers practical insights you can apply immediately.

That advice we all know we need to hear—delivered in a no-nonsense, get-it-done way.

In this episode, we’re joined in studio by Chris Hallberg, aka The Business Sergeant—one of Inc. Magazine’s Top 50 Leadership and Management Experts, published author, and personally trained by Gino Wickman, creator of EOS and author of Traction.

Chris breaks down his world-renowned leadership principles that help teams:

• Stop accepting poor leadership
• Build real accountability
• Adopt a disciplined, military-style mindset
• Get measurable results

This is a must-watch for leaders who are done with excuses and ready to raise the standard.

We’re excited to welcome Mark Dunahoo, President & COO of TruHu, into the studio for a thoughtful conversation on employee engagement and feedback.

In this episode, we dive into TruHu’s mission, how organizations can better listen to their people, and what HR leaders should be thinking about as they look to strengthen culture, communication, and trust across their teams.

We cover:

• Practical approaches to employee engagement
• Why feedback systems often fail—and how to improve them
• What HR leaders should prioritize right now
• Tools and strategies that actually work in the real world

This episode is a great watch for HR professionals who care about culture, connection, and building workplaces where people feel heard.

Special thanks to our sponsors:

TruHu, Excel Health, Cigna, KLB, and Rula

#HR #HumanResources #HRPodcast #EmployeeEngagement #HRTechnology #EmployeeFeedback #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeBenefits

Following up on our 2026 employment law update, employment attorney Brian Koegle is back with a highly practical breakdown of the top three legal compliance issues that continue to trip up HR teams—even experienced ones.

In this episode, we cover:

• Recordkeeping do’s, don’ts, and common pitfalls
• Key compliance beats around leave laws
• Pro tips for avoiding wage & hour mistakes

This isn’t theory—it’s real-world guidance drawn from what Brian sees employers getting wrong every day. Clear, actionable, and incredibly relevant for HR leaders, managers, and business owners alike.

If you haven’t watched Part 1 yet, be sure to check it out for the full legal landscape—this episode builds right on top of it.

Employment law continues to evolve—and staying ahead of it is critical for HR leaders and employers.

In this episode, employment attorney Brian Koegle joins me in studio to break down the most important legal updates impacting the workplace in 2026. We cover what’s already in effect, what’s changing, and what organizations should be preparing for now.

Topics include:

• Key employment law changes affecting HR
• Compliance updates employers can’t ignore
• Practical steps to reduce risk and stay ahead
• What to prioritize as you plan for the year ahead

Clear, practical, and focused on real-world impact—this episode is a must-watch for anyone responsible for people, policy, and compliance.

“Do better. Somehow.”

That’s how a lot of professional goals are set — and it’s exactly why they fail.

Most goals don’t collapse because people lack motivation. They fail because they’re too vague, unowned, and impossible to measure once real work, real calendars, and real pressure show up.

In this episode, we break down what good professional goal setting actually looks like—the kind that survives busy schedules, competing priorities, and everyday reality.

We cover:

• Why vague goals are a trap
• What ownership really means
• How to build goals you can measure and maintain
• A practical framework you can actually use at work

If you’ve ever set goals that sounded great… and then quietly disappeared, this episode is for you.

Curious what The H.I.T. Podcast is all about? This episode is the perfect place to start.

We’ve pulled together a hand-picked collection of our favorite moments—10 short clips stitched into one episode—to give you a true feel for the conversations, insights, and energy that define the show.

• Real talk
• Practical insights
• Incredible guests
• Bite-sized, digestible takes on the topics that matter in HR, benefits, leadership, and the future of work

If you’re new here—or wondering why this podcast is a must-follow heading into 2026—this episode will tell you everything you need to know.

Hit subscribe and welcome aboard.

“We’re thinking about switching HRIS…”

Famous. Last. Words.

This episode is all about how HRIS platforms actually differ—and why so many teams end up frustrated after implementation.

If you’ve sat through five demos that all felt exactly the same, this will help you ask better questions before you sign anything. This is a truly neutral guide to HRIS platforms—no selling, no affiliate links, no bias.

I don’t work for those guys and I’m not here to push one platform over another. What I did do was conduct countless interviews across the HRIS ecosystem to build a tight, concise episode covering:

• Where platforms really differ
• Why implementations go sideways
• What actually matters for your organization
• How to avoid common (and costly) mistakes

Save this if an HRIS decision is on your horizon

Tag the person who’ll end up owning the implementation

DM me if you’re mid-HRIS evaluation—this episode was built for you

It’s that time of year… when HR gets absolutely flooded with FSA questions.

Yes — your FSA can buy some pretty weird stuff.

Oura rings?

Massage guns?

DNA tests?

Yep. All real.

In this episode, we break down unusual (but legit!) FSA purchases, clarify what actually qualifies, and help employees make the most of those use-it-or-lose-it dollars before they disappear.

Perfect for HR pros, benefits teams, and anyone trying to spend FSA funds wisely—without crossing the line.

This episode features an awesome conversation with Shane Foss, CEO of Hooray Health, about a super affordable and high-value option your employees will actually use and love.

We break down a benefit designed specifically for part-time and hourly staff, offering:

• Low co-pays
• A large national provider network
• Virtual care access
• Rx component
• Simple, predictable costs
• A benefit employees genuinely appreciate

If you’ve been looking for a way to strengthen your benefits portfolio without blowing up your budget — this might be the perfect solution.

Don’t miss this fun, insightful episode!

Some of you know my story, and some of you don’t — but growing up on the run from a violent household, spending time in battered women’s shelters, and even living through a kidnapping are all parts of what shaped me. They’re also why I care so deeply about doing good in this world… and why I’m so proud to serve on the board of Rainbow Services, Ltd., an incredible organization supporting survivors of domestic violence.

Coming right after Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday — days centered on food, deals, and consumption — Giving Tuesday gives us a meaningful contrast. It’s a reminder to pause, give back, and choose impact.

In this episode, we cover:

• What Giving Tuesday is really about
• How companies can approach corporate giving in a way that fits their culture
• One powerful nonprofit (Rainbow Services) doing life-changing work
• How individuals AND organizations can make a difference

Whether you’re giving personally, leading a team, or shaping company culture, this episode offers a thoughtful roadmap for purposeful generosity.

The holiday season is officially underway… which means holiday party planning is in full swing!

But before you hit send on those invites, this episode breaks down the 9 essential things HR and employers need to consider — the details that can truly make or break your event.

We cover:

• Alcohol or no alcohol?
• Family-friendly vs. adults-only
• Expectations, communication & guardrails
• How to create a fun, safe, inclusive celebration

A quick, practical guide your future self will thank you for.

There’s a fairly new(ish) legislative mandate that’s catching some employers off guard — the Gag Clause Attestation requirement tied to your company’s health insurance plan.

In this quick, informative episode, we break down:

• What the Gag Clause Attestation actually is
• Who needs to file it (and how often)
• Important deadlines & compliance steps
• Simple action items to make sure your organization is covered

Short, clear, and to the point — everything you need to know to stay compliant and avoid costly oversights.

There are a lot of plan designs out there that promise tax advantages, cost savings, or “creative” ways to structure benefits… but not all of them are compliant. Some are even double-dipping schemes that can create major legal and financial risk for employers.

So we brought in someone who actually knows this space at the highest level: Alden Bianchi — a nationally-recognized employee benefits attorney who:

• Testified before the U.S. Senate Finance Committee during the development of the ACA
• Served as Mitt Romney’s outside counsel on the Massachusetts health care reform law
• Helped shape the very framework that became the Affordable Care Act

Yeah… he knows a thing or two.

In this episode, we break down:

• Where employers get into trouble
• How these “tax-advantaged” plan designs really work
• What not to do
• How to evaluate whether your plan is actually compliant

Clear, practical, and a must-watch for HR, consultants, CFOs, and anyone touching employee benefits strategy.

Open enrollment season is here! Whether you’re choosing your health plan for the first time or just need a quick refresher, this under 9-minute episode gives you everything you need to make smart, confident choices.

We’ll break down:

• The difference between HMO and PPO plans
• What’s the deal with Kaiser Permanente?
• How to think about deductibles, networks, and coverage levels
• All delivered with a touch of humor and zero boring jargon!

Quick. Insightful. Actually fun. Tune in and get ready to make the most of open enrollment season!

In this very special (and very scary) episode, we’re diving into all things Halloween at work — from fun ideas and team activities to best practices for keeping it festive and professional.

We cover:

• Office costume contests & team themes
• Creative treats, decorations, and events
• How to keep celebrations inclusive & fun for everyone
• Simple ways to boost morale and team spirit

Don’t miss a chance to turn your trick into a treat this Halloween!

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

Have you heard of an LSA—or wondered why they’re quickly becoming one of the most popular employee benefits out there?

In this episode, I sit down with Rob Cinco to break down everything you need to know about Lifestyle Spending Accounts—what they are, how they work, and why both employers and employees can’t get enough of them!

We cover:

• What an LSA is and how it differs from FSAs & HSAs
• Why employers are adding them to their benefits mix
• How employees use them for real, everyday wellness perks
• The pros, cons, and creative ways to roll one out

If you’re looking for a fresh, flexible, and fun benefit idea to bring to your organization, LSAs might be exactly what you’ve been looking for! ????

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

This episode is all about helping you get ready to make it awesome. Whether you’re a team member, manager, or HR pro, we’ve got fun, thoughtful, and easy ideas to celebrate your boss (or your team leaders!) the right way.

We’ll cover:

• Creative gift ideas that stand out
• Meaningful ways to show appreciation
• How to personalize your message
• Simple gestures that make a big impact

Tune in for inspiration, last-minute ideas, and a reminder that a little appreciation goes a long way.

#TheHITPodcast #BossesDay #Leadership #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeAppreciation #HRLeadership

We’ve reached the third and final episode in our incredible series with the Podfather himself — Spencer Smith — and we’re closing things out with a bang!

In this episode, we dig into point solutions, explore how they’re shaping today’s self-funded landscape, and then take a look into the crystal ball to talk about the future of healthcare.

If you want forward-thinking insights from one of the most trusted voices in the industry, this one’s a can’t-miss.

Be sure to catch Parts 1 & 2, available now, for the full conversation!

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

Self-insuring can feel complicated—especially when you get into contract provisions or health insurance captives.

In Part 2 of our 3-part series with the Podfather himself, Spencer Smith, CSFS®, we break down:

• What a health insurance captive actually is
• When a captive might be the right fit for your group
• Key contract nuances every employer should understand
• Practical insights for anyone dealing with group benefits

This series was a blast to record and is packed with value for employers, HR pros, and benefits decision-makers. If you missed Part 1, go check it out—and don’t miss this episode if you want to take your self-funding knowledge to the next level.

HIT LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-h-i-t-podcast/about/

HIT IG: https://www.instagram.com/the_hitpodcast/

HIT Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bZ4GyZEm8Acmo60BetLHm?si=7f59f1b218b14ef6&nd=1&dlsi=cba58f30269a4c34

HIT iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-h-i-t-podcast/id1685677680?i=1000611317315

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

#TheHITPodcast #SelfFunding #StopLoss #CaptiveInsurance #GroupBenefits #SpencerSmith #Healthcare #HRLeadership #EmployerBenefits

We’ve got Spencer Smith in the house—and if you know anything about self-funded employer healthcare, you know this guy is the name to listen to.

Spencer is the host of “Self Funding with Spencer” and one of the clearest voices in the country at breaking down this complex topic into language everyone can understand.

In this 3-part series, we kick things off by covering:

• What self-insurance really is (and isn’t)
• Why Stop-Loss is the most important piece of the puzzle
• Key considerations for companies exploring or currently using self-funding

This is the stuff every employer, HR leader, and benefits decision-maker needs to know—straight from the Podfather of Self-Funding himself.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

One of the many reasons a skilled, independent actuary is crucial to your health plan strategy: setting the right individual stop-loss limit.

Do you just go with what you did last year? Follow “best practices” blindly? Take whatever a vendor recommends? In this episode, we break down:

• How to approach stop-loss decisions strategically
• Why good data is your best friend
• Common mistakes employers make when self-funding
• How actuaries help you budget accurately & protect your plan

I was thrilled to have Nick Allen, career actuary and Founder/CEO of Blue Raven, back in the studio for this second half of our 2-part series on why actuaries matter so much in the health plan ecosystem.

If you missed Part 1, go back and catch it—then dive into this powerful conclusion!

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

In any version of self-funding, you’ll need to know your premium equivalent rates—what to budget for, what to deduct from employees, and how to keep your health plan sustainable. That’s where a skilled, independent actuary comes in.

To unpack this crucial role, I’m joined by my friend and insurance expert Nick Allen, a career actuary and the Founder/CEO of Blue Raven. Together, we kick off a 2-part series that dives into:

• The value actuaries bring to employers & HR teams
• How premium equivalent rates are calculated
• Why independence matters in actuarial work
• How actuaries fit into the larger ecosystem of health plans

This series will give you the clarity and confidence to make smarter, data-driven decisions about your benefits. Don’t miss it!

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

What happens if I.C.E. shows up at your workplace? Whether you’re running a private business or a public-facing company like a restaurant, it’s critical to know your responsibilities, your rights, and your company’s official policy.

I sat down with Matthew Meltzer, Immigration Attorney and Co-Founder/Partner at Meltzer Hellrung, for an essential conversation on what every employer needs to know about immigration enforcement, deportations, and I-9 compliance in today’s environment.

In this episode, we cover:

• What to do if I.C.E. shows up at your business
• How to prepare and communicate a company policy
• Who should (and shouldn’t) speak with immigration officers
• Updates on I-9s, hiring best practices, and compliance
• Why every employer needs to “put on their employer hat” when it comes to immigration issues

Politics aside, this is about being prepared, protecting your people, and having the right systems in place.

#TheHITPodcast #Immigration #ICE #EmployerCompliance #MatthewMeltzer #BusinessImmigration #I9Compliance #HRLeadership

No Trumps were hurt in the making of this episode

Where else are you going to get PBM lore? After 3 bite-sized episodes with John C. Tackman, Director of Strategic Partnerships at MedOne, we’ve reached the big conclusion of our PBM mini-series!

In Part 1, we broke down what a Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) actually is.

In Part 2, we dove into the fascinating world of formularies.

Now, in Part 3, we tackle the ALL-IMPORTANT conversation on rebates—what they are, how they work, and the impact they have on employers, employees, and the entire benefits ecosystem.

With 15+ years in the pharmacy space, John brings a wealth of knowledge—and we cover:

• The truth about rebates & transparency
• How PBMs differ (and why it matters)
• What employers don’t know they don’t know
• The future of pharmacy benefits

If you’ve ever felt PBMs were opaque or confusing, this series will clear it up—and give you the tools to ask the right questions.

Part 2 of our 3-part mini-series is here! Last time, we broke down what a PBM (Pharmacy Benefit Manager) actually is—now we’re diving into a fascinating conversation about formularies and why they matter so much.

I’m joined in-studio by John Tackman, Director of Strategic Partnerships at MedOne, who brings over 15 years of pharmacy experience to the table.

In this episode, we cover:

• What a formulary is and how it’s built
• Why formularies differ from one PBM to another
• The role formularies play in cost control & access
• The questions you didn’t know you should be asking about your PBM

If you’ve ever wondered how this often-opaque part of the health insurance puzzle works, this series will give you the clarity you’ve been looking for.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

If you’ve ever been confused (or frustrated) by how Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) work... you're not alone.

I sat down in-studio with John Tackman, Director of Strategic Partnerships at MedOne, for an in-depth, no-fluff breakdown of this complex—but critical—piece of the health insurance puzzle.

With over 15 years in the pharmacy space, John brings a wealth of experience to the table—and we’re breaking our 45-minute conversation into a 3-part, bite-sized series you won’t want to miss.

We dive into:

• What a PBM actually is
• How formularies, rebates, and pricing structures really work
• Why PBMs can vary dramatically (and what to look for)
• Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drugs model
• Past, present, and future trends in pharmacy benefits

This is the deep-dive your HR, benefits, or broker brain has been waiting for.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

I sat down with the brilliant Sherli Frank, employment attorney and investigator, for a high-impact conversation on what it takes to conduct effective workplace investigations—and how to avoid the biggest mistakes.

We cover:

• Does the situation even require an investigation?
• Choosing the right investigator (it matters more than you think)
• Common pitfalls that trip up even experienced HR teams
• Sherli’s top advice after years in the field—distilled into under 20 minutes!

If you’re in HR, compliance, or leadership, this episode will sharpen your understanding and protect your organization.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

ICHRA (Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement) might be relatively new to the market—but the complexity, strategy, and opportunity behind it run deep.

In this episode, I’m joined by David Hoxworth, one of the go-to experts on ICHRA, to break down what it is, how it works, and why more employers are paying attention.

We cover:

• What ICHRA actually is (and isn’t)
• Why it matters in today’s benefits landscape
• Common misconceptions and hidden advantages

Whether you’re brand new to the concept or looking to refine your understanding, this episode will leave you saying, “I didn’t know I didn’t know that.”

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

It’s always a privilege to welcome brilliant guests—but even more special when they’re returning friends of the show. In this episode, I sit down once again with the incredible Dr. Brandi Stankovic, Ed.D.—a dynamic leader, speaker, and yes, someone who’s graced the TED stage.

We dive into what DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) looks like today, how organizations can align their strategic planning with their true mission, and what real leadership looks like in action.

Every conversation with Dr. Brandi is insightful, energizing, and packed with takeaways—and this one is no exception.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

What if—hear me out—work could actually be FUN?

And what if that fun led to higher engagement, more creativity, and even greater profitability?

Yeah… that’d be pretty cool, right?

In this episode, we’re back with Part 2 of my awesome conversation with play expert Jeff Harry. We dig into the real-life power of play at work—and how it can help teams thrive, connect, and actually enjoy what they do.

We talk about:

• Making work suck less
• Why fun isn’t fluff
• How play drives performance

If you missed Part 1, it’s live now—go check it out! And don’t miss this inspiring finale.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

After over a year of trying to coordinate schedules, I finally got the chance to sit down with the incredible Jeff Harry—and it was worth the wait.

In this episode, Jeff shares his unique journey from building the largest LEGO-based STEM education organization in the U.S. to working with major tech and Fortune 500 companies—helping them rediscover the power of play in the workplace.

We talk about how play isn’t just for kids—it’s a key tool for innovation, connection, and creating workplaces that don’t… well, suck.

This is Part 1 of a 2-part conversation you won’t want to miss.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

Few topics are as important—or as often avoided—as honest conversations around mental health. In this episode, we shine a light on what’s too often kept in the dark.

I’m joined by my friend and guest Russell Carney, PHR, a high-level HR professional who came up through operations but never lost sight of the internal battles many face—including his own.

As we close out Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode is a powerful reminder that some of the men in your life are struggling quietly—and doing a remarkably good job of hiding it.

We’re proud to end the month with this real, thoughtful, and deeply personal conversation.

We had an incredible opportunity to be live from the floor at the California HR Conference (#CAHR25) last month, serving as the official podcast of the event—and the conversations did not disappoint.

This episode marks the final installment in our CAHR series, and we’ve pulled together some of our favorite moments from across the interviews. Insightful, candid, and often surprising, these clips capture the energy and expertise of the people shaping the future of HR.

If you missed any of the earlier episodes, now’s a great time to catch up—but definitely don’t miss this one. It’s a highlight reel of what made CAHR25 so special.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

I had the chance to sit down with Diana Tsai LIVE from the floor at #CAHR25 for a fascinating conversation on how A.I. is reshaping the world of work—especially in HR.

From hiring and retention to compliance, culture, and beyond, Diana brings bold insights on what’s already happening and what’s just around the corner.

If you're curious—or concerned—about how A.I. is impacting your workplace, this is a must-listen.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

We hit the floor at #CAHR25 as the official podcast of the California HR Conference—and spent two packed days collecting interviews from HR professionals across industries.

We asked everyone the same question:

“What’s keeping HR up at night?”

The answers? Insightful. Honest. And packed with wisdom.

In this special compilation episode, we highlight the biggest challenges facing HR leaders today—along with real-world advice. Don’t miss this one—it’s the pulse of HR, straight from the people living it.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

Find out more here: www.hitpodcast.com

We were honored to deliver the closing keynote at #CAHR25, and we’ve been bringing it to you in a powerful 3-part series.

In this final installment, we dive deep into the world of Pharmacy spend—covering everything from rebates and PBMs to real, actionable strategies for cost containment.

Then we shift gears to explore the often-overlooked but essential ancillary benefits:

✔️ Dental

✔️ Vision

✔️ Disability

✔️ Life and more

If you missed Parts 1 or 2, go back and catch up! This finale ties it all together with high-impact insights every employer should hear.

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

Find out more here: www.hitpodcast.com

This is Part 2 of my keynote from the Main Stage at #CAHR25—if you missed Part 1, definitely go check that out first!

In this episode, we dive into Self Funding: what it actually takes to do it well. From point solutions to stop loss nuance to controlling claims, it’s all here.

If you’re in this space, you won’t want to miss this one.

We’re extremely proud to share the closing keynote we delivered last week at #CAHR25, live from the main stage!

This keynote was all about breaking down core health insurance concepts that impact everything you do in the benefits space—starting with practical strategies for fully insured plans.

The feedback from the live audience was incredible, and now we’re bringing it to you in our signature bite-sized, digestible style.

This is Part 1 of your three part series—don’t miss it!

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

Find out more here: www.hitpodcast.com

We’ve hit the floor at #CAHR2025, thanks to the incredible Rafael Rivera and the awesome team at PIHRA, and we’re podcasting LIVE from the heart of the action!

If you’re here at the conference, come find us! Jump on the mic, share your HR insights, and be part of a special series featuring interviews with real HR professionals from across the industry.

And don’t miss the keynote! I’m closing out Day 1 with a full hour on everything you need to know about employee benefits in 2025—trends, strategies, and what’s coming next.

Let’s make it a great one. See you on the floor!

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

Find out more here: www.hitpodcast.com

Looking to take your wellness program beyond just checking a box?

In the second part of our mini-series on Employer Wellness Programs, I’m joined by the amazing Carly Marino-Healy — Corporate Wellness Expert and Founder & CEO of Marino Wellness LLC.

Carly brings years of experience (and a ton of wisdom!) to the table, sharing real-world tips, best practices, and major do’s and don’ts for employers looking to launch, improve, or maximize their wellness initiatives.

If you're serious about building a workplace culture that actually supports health and well-being, you won't want to miss this one!

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

Find out more here: www.hitpodcast.com

We’re kicking off a 2-part series on Employer Wellness with special guest Austin Ollis—Air Force missileer, active reservist, and founder of the innovative wellness company Fly Bodies.

In this episode, we dive into: How to launch or improve a workplace wellness program

• Realistic tips for increasing employee engagement
• How to measure ROI and long-term impact

Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to level up your current wellness efforts, this conversation is packed with actionable advice and big-picture perspective.

Tune in for a powerful conversation on the future of wellness at work!

About the Show:

The H.I.T. Podcast (Powered by Montage Insurance Solutions): A thought leader in the space, curating the top news and information to deliver a brief, high impact overview designed specifically for the Human Resources professional, business person, and company executive.

Find out more here: www.hitpodcast.com