Episodes

  • 51. Your Benefits, Your Risk: Why Fiduciary Duty Can’t Be Ignored

    51. Your Benefits, Your Risk: Why Fiduciary Duty Can’t Be Ignored
    May 16 2025
    In this high-impact episode of The Business of Benefits Podcast, we're cutting through the legal jargon and post-lunch drowsiness to bring you the most engaging conversation you’ll ever hear on fiduciary compliance. Hosts Chelsea and Donovan Ryckis pull back the curtain on what it really means to be a fiduciary under ERISA, especially in today’s healthcare landscape, where misaligned incentives are costing employers and employees big.

    Chelsea shares her personal journey from NCAA athlete to healthcare advocate after a traumatic brain injury exposed the broken realities of the American health system. Donovan breaks down the parallels between fiduciary standards in financial services and the gaping lack of those same protections in health benefits—until now.

    From health plan lawsuits and PBM fraud to RxDC reporting and compensation disclosure, this episode arms employers with the truth, the data, and the questions you must start asking.

    You’ll learn:
    • What fiduciary duty actually looks like in practice (and in court)
    • Why the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 is a game-changer for employer-sponsored plans
    • How to identify and eliminate conflicts of interest across your benefit ecosystem
    • What brokers aren’t telling you—and why that matters
    • Practical steps you can take today to realign incentives and protect your people

    Stick around for the debut of special guest Bryan Orr, whose real-world results show what’s possible when employers take back control.

    If you’re ready to rethink your role, reclaim your data, and radically improve your health plan decisions, this one’s for you.

    Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:
    Website: www.ethoseffectpodcast.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/
    Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis
    Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/
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    39 mins
  • 50. Cracking the Code on PBMs: Real Cost-Saving Strategies for Employers with Guest Rachel Strauss

    50. Cracking the Code on PBMs: Real Cost-Saving Strategies for Employers with Guest Rachel Strauss
    May 1 2025
    If you've ever felt confused or frankly, duped by your pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), this episode is your wake-up call. Chelsea Ryckis sits down with the “PBM Princess” herself, Rachel Strauss, a 20+ year industry veteran and fierce advocate for transparency, to pull back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood (and most expensive) parts of your health plan.

    You’ll learn:
    - The origin story of PBMs and how it all went sideways
    - The real story behind rebates and why “pass-through” doesn’t always mean what you think
    - How vertical integration and offshore contracts allow PBMs to hide profits in plain sight
    - 40 ways PBMs make money (and how to spot the red flags in your contract)
    - Actionable strategies like international sourcing, manufacturer assistance, and 340B pricing that can drastically reduce costs without impacting employee experience

    Whether you’re a CFO, HR leader, or CEO, this episode is packed with no-BS insights to help you finally take control of your pharmacy spend. Plus, don’t miss Rachel’s exclusive giveaway: the top 10 questions to ask your broker if you're serious about cutting costs.


    Connect with Rachel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelmstrauss/

    Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:
    Website: www.ethoseffectpodcast.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/
    Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis
    Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/
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    58 mins
  • 49. HR Special: An HR's Guide to the Strategic C-Suite with Guest Andy Najjar

    49. HR Special: An HR's Guide to the Strategic C-Suite with Guest Andy Najjar
    Apr 17 2025
    Are you ready to finally break free from the traditional HR rut and discover the game-changing strategies shaping the future of human resources? In this special episode we are joined by Andy Najjar, COO of FutureSolve and host of The Strategic HR Show.


    From redefining the path from HR manager to CHRO, to exploring innovative perks like Uber credits and unlimited PTO, this episode dives deep into what makes HR strategic, and how modern HR leaders can earn and keep their seat at the executive table. Andy shares real-world stories about saving millions on benefits, leveraging automation and AI for HR efficiency, and the untapped power of creative total rewards programs. Plus, the team tackles pressing topics like HR fatigue, upskilling, M&A people-risk, and the critical role of aligning culture beyond the written handbook.


    Tune in to learn how to think like a CHRO, benchmark your current programs, use technology to lighten your load, and create a workplace where people truly thrive. This episode is your no-nonsense guide to elevating HR from compliance taskmaster to strategic business driver so you and your people can win, together.

    Connect with Andy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andynajjar

    Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:
    Website: www.ethoseffectpodcast.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/
    Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis
    Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/
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    30 mins
  • 48. JP Morgan ERISA Lawsuit: A Case Study - with Jennifer Berman

    48. JP Morgan ERISA Lawsuit: A Case Study - with Jennifer Berman
    Apr 3 2025
    Could your company be blindsided by an ERISA lawsuit? Join us as we sit down with Jen Berman from MCQ Consulting, who gives us the scoop on a groundbreaking case involving JP Morgan. Unlike previous lawsuits that focused on HR and finance executives, this one takes aim at the board of directors, setting a precedent that could reverberate through companies big and small. Jen unpacks why this case carries more weight and how it impacts employers, particularly those with fewer than 10,000 employees. Her expert insights offer a roadmap for safeguarding your organization against such legal headaches.

    The episode navigates the complicated world of fiduciary duty and ERISA compliance, especially within the healthcare industry. We chat about the essentials of proving harm and the indispensable role that documenting decision-making processes plays in shielding your company from legal trouble. Jen dispels myths surrounding fiduciary responsibilities, asserting that ERISA principles are more than just legal requirements—they're best practices for any organization. Don't miss out on these valuable perspectives that could arm you against the mounting challenges in benefits compliance.

    Connect with Jennifer:
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-spiegel-berman-b834b15/

    Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:
    Website: www.ethoseffectpodcast.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/
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    25 mins
  • 47. Exposing the Truth About Healthcare Costs: How One Business Took Control with Guest Bryan Orr

    47. Exposing the Truth About Healthcare Costs: How One Business Took Control with Guest Bryan Orr
    Mar 20 2025
    Are you tired of skyrocketing healthcare costs and feeling like there’s nothing you can do about it? In this special episode of The Business of Benefits Podcast, we flip the script on traditional benefits planning. CEO of Ethos Benefits, Don Minrakis, sits down with Bryan Orr, President of Kalos Services and host of the HVAC School Podcast, to dive deep into how Kalos transformed its healthcare strategy—saving money while improving employee benefits.

    From slashing insurance premiums by 40% to eliminating unnecessary costs and navigating a broken system, this conversation is packed with real-world strategies and eye-opening insights. If you're an employer looking for practical ways to cut costs without cutting care, this episode is a must-listen.

    We also break down the hidden truths behind insurance pricing, pharmacy benefit managers, and hospital billing practices—exposing how businesses are often overcharged without even realizing it. Learn how Kalos Services leveraged transparency, direct primary care, and strategic cost controls to take back control of their healthcare expenses while enhancing coverage for their employees.

    Tune in now to learn how to take control of your healthcare plan, empower your employees, and break free from the insurance trap!

    Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts!

    Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:
    Website: https://businessofbenefitspodcast.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/
    Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-whalley-8508a192/
    Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/

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    Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs
    Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/
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    43 mins
  • 46. Dodging Lawsuits: The Must-Have Insurance for Your Benefits Team

    46. Dodging Lawsuits: The Must-Have Insurance for Your Benefits Team
    Mar 6 2025
    In this episode of The Business of Benefits, host Chelsea Ryckis dives into a crucial topic for HR professionals, CFOs, and employers—how to indemnify the risk of your fiduciary committee. If you're involved in employee benefits decisions, you’re likely acting as a fiduciary under ERISA, which means you have a legal and ethical responsibility to act in the best interest of your employees.

    Joining Chelsea is professional liability expert Paul Hacker, who breaks down the essential insurances every fiduciary committee should have, including fiduciary insurance, directors & officers coverage, cyber insurance, errors & omissions, and fidelity bonds. With recent lawsuits personally naming HR executives and financial officers, it’s never been more critical to ensure you and your team are protected.

    Tune in as we unpack what these policies cover, how they’re priced, and why even fully insured plans aren’t exempt from fiduciary liability. Don’t leave yourself exposed—get the insights you need to safeguard your role and your company.

    Listen now and make sure your fiduciary committee is covered!

    Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:
    Website: www.ethoseffectpodcast.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/
    Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-whalley-8508a192/
    Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/

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    Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs
    Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/
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    36 mins
  • 45. The Key to Fixing Our Broken Healthcare System

    45. The Key to Fixing Our Broken Healthcare System
    Feb 20 2025
    This episode is not just another dialogue; it's an exposé of the often hidden truths within the benefits system. As a registered nurse, Deb sheds light on the intricacies of medical management and its profound impact on healthcare delivery and financing.

    Listeners will be captivated by personal anecdotes and insights into the tumultuous journey toward healthcare transparency, challenging the status quo one employer decision at a time. From dissecting the roles of medical management in both fully insured and self-funded plans to unveiling the truth behind automated prior authorizations and claim denials, this episode leaves no stone unturned.

    Deb emphasizes the pivotal role employers play in reshaping the healthcare landscape, urging them to see beyond the traditional confines set by large carriers. With her direct and passionate approach, she shares innovative ways to integrate medical management, ensuring quality care while efficiently managing costs. Listeners will walk away not only inspired but also empowered with the knowledge and tools necessary to initiate change within their organization. This episode promises to shift your perspective and potentially save your business significant expenses—all while ensuring the well-being of your most valuable asset: your people.

    Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:
    Website: www.ethoseffectpodcast.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/
    Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-whalley-8508a192/
    Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/
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    47 mins
  • 44. Using Data to Create Wins

    44. Using Data to Create Wins
    Feb 6 2025
    Join hosts Chelsea and Donovan Ryckis in this engaging episode as they join Spencer in his podcast to unravel the complexities and opportunities in the self-funded healthcare space. This episode dives into the importance of fiduciary responsibility, the impact of healthcare costs on employers, and the potential for innovative solutions to transform the industry. Discover why self-funding may be the key to sustainable and effective healthcare for businesses.

    Whether you’re a seasoned industry professional or new to the world of benefits, this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice. Tune in and learn how you can take control of your healthcare strategy!

    Highlights:
    1. Introduction to Self-Funded Healthcare (00:00:01)
    2. Importance of Fiduciary Responsibility (00:00:24)
    3. Case Studies and Real-Life Examples (00:01:36)
    4. Ethos and Culture in Benefits Consulting (00:20:00)
    5. Navigating Complex Healthcare Changes (00:43:00)

    Subscribe to our channel for more no-nonsense insights into the business of benefits! If you found this episode valuable, give us a thumbs up and share it with your network. Don't forget to leave your thoughts and questions in the comments below! 🔔

    Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:
    Website: www.ethoseffectpodcast.com
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/
    Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-whalley-8508a192/
    Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/

    Podcast #Healthcare #Finance #Insurance #BusinessOfBenefits
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    1 hr and 20 mins