Episodes tagged: Benefits

More U.S. Workers Feeling the Financial Strain of Their Kids’ College Expenses

In this episode Steve discusses recent polling data from NBC News showing that more Americans are doubting the value of the four-year college degree, citing increasing costs, rising debt levels, and an uncertain job market. We break down what this means for HR and Talent pros moving forward.

Listen now

A Sign of the Times: Cutting Paid Holidays in Corporate America

In this episode Steve discusses news from Walgreens, where new Private Equity ownership has taken cost-cutting right to the frontline – by eliminating paid holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas for their retail store hourly employees.

Listen now

Why So Many Americans Get Health Insurance from Their Employers

In this episode Steve discusses the history of employer-based health insurance in America, how it came to be, who it benefits, and why considering a single-payer, Medicare for all type system might create better healthcare outcomes and allow companies to focus on their businesses.

Listen now

GLP-1s, Open Enrollment, and the Future of Employee Benefits

In this episode Steve discusses the decisions employers have to make regarding coverage of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss. The drugs are popular, effective – and expensive. As Benefits Open Enrollment approaches, employers have plenty to evaluate before making their coverage decisions.

Listen now

Preparing for 2025: What HR and Payroll Professionals Need to Know

In our latest episode, Trish and Steve brought back Tom Hammond for another year-end prep episode. They discuss everything you want to know about navigating end-of-year and new laws/regulations for 2025 payroll.

Listen now

With Obesity Rates Climbing, Employers are Challenged to Respond

In this episode Steve discusses the climbing rate of obesity in the US, and the challenges facing employers when considering how to respond to increasing demand for GLP-1 weight loss drug coverage for their employees.

Listen now

Health Benefits in 2024: Higher Premiums and Impact from GLP-1 Medications

In this episode Steve shares data from a new survey on company sponsored healthcare benefits in 2024 – premiums continue to rise, and most companies still are not covering GLP-1 medications when prescribed for weight loss.

Listen now

Employer Sponsored Healthcare Costs Expected to Surge in 2025

In this episode Steve shares new research from Aon which estimates a 9% rise in employee healthcare costs in 2025 – driven at least in part by the surge in popularity and high cost of GLP-1 weight loss medications.

Listen now