The Zemar Podcast

The CFO’s Guide to Predictable Healthcare Costs: Risk and Reward

There are growing concerns among CFOs regarding the unpredictability of healthcare costs, with 72% finding these expenses more volatile than others. Despite their increasing involvement in cost discussions, many CFOs are hesitant to invest time in fully understanding and controlling these costs. The conversation emphasizes the need for innovative and non-traditional strategies, such as working with new brokers and adopting alternative cost management approaches to improve predictability and savings.
Drawing parallels with strategic decisions in historical events like the Battle of Midway, the discussion encourages CFOs and HR managers to take calculated risks and explore new methodologies. A recent success story demonstrates how a small company saved $10,000 monthly by implementing a non-traditional healthcare plan. The same strategy has saved larger companies six to seven figures. By embracing innovative approaches and moving away from traditional methods, companies can better manage healthcare expenses and improve long-term outcomes.
For more information on Elite Benefits of America, contact Butch at 708-535-3006 or visit EliteBenefits.net

Purpose-Driven Success and Business Strategies

Purpose-Driven Success and Business Strategies
In a recent discussion, the importance of drive and purpose in achieving success was emphasized, using personal examples like reading goals and running achievements to illustrate how consistent effort and persistence can lead to significant outcomes. Financial challenges faced by small businesses were explored, noting the stark difference in revenue between solo companies, which average $50,000 annually, and small employers with teams, which can earn up to $5 million. According to the discussion, the key to bridging this gap is patience and incremental progress.
The discussion also highlighted the need for businesses to be receptive to innovative solutions. It showcased the transformative impact of innovative benefits broker strategies on business savings, citing case studies where companies saved hundreds of thousands of dollars annually by adopting new approaches. For instance, one business saved $200,000 per year, while another achieved a $400,000 annual savings by working with more proactive brokers. The conversation underscored the importance of consistency in marketing, patience in business strategies, and the necessity for businesses to be open to innovative solutions for better outcomes.
Listen in take your business to another level with these strategies. 
For more information on Elite Benefits of America, contact Butch at 708-535-3006 or visit EliteBenefits.net

Breaking Down Barriers: Improving Healthcare Transparency and Affordability

In this episode, the discussion centers on the complexities of the health insurance landscape, especially for small and mid-sized businesses. The conversation delves into the critical need for greater transparency and accountability in the industry. A key point is the importance of identifying flaws within health insurance programs and how consolidating data can improve offerings, ultimately making healthcare more affordable for employees.
The poor customer service in the healthcare sector negatively impacts companies, citing a recent study that ranked the industry near the bottom for service quality. Additional challenges discussed include dealing with inaccurate billing, misfilings, and errors within the healthcare system.
Actionable insights include exploring alternative healthcare strategies such as direct primary care and reevaluating current insurance brokers and consultants to prioritize cost-effectiveness and service improvement. The discussion raises concerns about misaligned incentives in the healthcare system, which often prioritizes profits over patient outcomes. Employers are encouraged to take a proactive role in selecting and managing health insurance plans to mitigate these issues and ensure they meet their fiduciary responsibilities.
 
For more information on Elite Benefits of America, contact Butch at 708-535-3006 or visit EliteBenefits.net

From the Deep End: Rethinking Employee Benefits with a Data-Driven Approach

There are parallels between the importance of proper planning and managing an employee benefit program effectively for your company. Scuba divers prioritize safety and must be equipped with the right tools. Employers should reassess their benefit packages, leveraging data-driven approaches to understand cost structures and explore innovative solutions beyond traditional broker advice.
 
Businesses need help in controlling benefit program costs because many need more data to make informed decisions. A closer analysis of healthcare benefit costs and the adoption of alternative approaches that offer greater transparency and control. By moving away from the status quo and considering new strategies, employers can better meet the needs of their employees while managing expenses effectively.
Listen in to this podcast and get an edge for your next benefits renewal. 
For more information on Elite Benefits of America, contact Butch at 708-535-3006 or visit EliteBenefits.net

Reinventing Employee Benefits: Strategies for Cost Savings

This episode explores the challenges of entrepreneurship and business ownership, emphasizing the critical traits of adaptability, resilience, and taking calculated risks. The discussion is enriched with personal anecdotes, shedding light on the problem-solving and adaptability required in various situations, such as maintaining complex systems. The guest also underscores the importance of a multi-year perspective for managing benefits programs, suggesting that such an approach can lead to significant cost savings and improved employer outcomes.
The conversation delves into the specific difficulties encountered in managing benefits programs and the expectations of employers. Issues such as unpredictable annual health insurance renewals and outdated methods for handling benefits are highlighted. The episode concludes with a call for employers to adopt a forward-thinking approach, leveraging comprehensive data and new strategies to achieve better results. This episode offers valuable insights for business owners and leaders aiming to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship and employee benefits management.
 
For more information on Elite Benefits of America, contact Butch at 708-535-3006 or visit EliteBenefits.net
 

Mastering Healthcare Costs: Strategies for CFOs

In this episode, we explore the complexities of managing healthcare costs and expectations within the US, focusing on strategies CFOs can implement to gain better control over expenses. Our guest highlights the importance of having a proactive approach, including regularly checking cost trends and working closely with benefits advisors to analyze claims data. We delve into the significance of selecting the right broker, considering their experience, expertise, and track record. We also discuss the risks of relying on a single broker for too long.
The conversation also covers the unpredictable nature of healthcare costs, as revealed by a recent report where 72% of CFOs expressed concerns over their inability to predict these expenses. We address common issues, such as the need for more access to essential data and the rising occurrence of high-cost claims. The discussion concludes with actionable steps for CFOs, including building self-funded plans and leveraging data for more informed decision-making. This episode provides valuable insights for financial leaders aiming to navigate the challenging landscape of healthcare cost management.
 
For more information on Elite Benefits of America, contact Butch at 708-535-3006 or visit EliteBenefits.net

Hidden Costs and Conflicts | A Deep Dive into the Healthcare System with Butch Zemar

In this episode, Butch Zemar dives into the complexities of the healthcare system, highlighting the lack of transparency and the misalignment between brokers and insurance companies. He underscores the significance of patient advocacy programs, urging employers to invest in these initiatives to help employees navigate the healthcare system more effectively. Zemar emphasizes that such investments can lead to substantial long-term benefits, including increased productivity and cost savings.
Zemar also discusses recent regulatory changes, such as the reduction of short-term medical plans to three months, and their potential impact on coverage. He highlights the hidden fees and conflicts of interest within the health insurance industry, including incentives for brokers to prioritize plans with higher commissions. Throughout the episode, Zemar advocates for proactive measures, such as implementing patient advocacy programs and promoting transparency in healthcare costs, to address these challenges and support employees better.
 
For more information on Elite Benefits of America, contact Butch at 708-535-3006 or visit EliteBenefits.net

Scuba and Business Resilience | Sunken Ships to Boardrooms

Butch Zemar dives into his scuba diving adventures, sharing valuable insights on pushing beyond basic skills and dealing with unexpected equipment malfunctions. Emphasizing the importance of proper training, safety protocols, and teamwork, recounting several challenging dives, including a leaking mask in 38-degree water on a sunken car ferry and a dry suit failure on a frigate dive to 190ft deep. These stories highlight the significance of preparation and adaptability, illustrating how divers can manage and overcome underwater challenges through continuous learning and practice.
Beyond scuba diving, Zemar also explores business challenges in this episode, discussing common mistakes and the importance of learning from them. He shares personal experiences of navigating business ventures, emphasizing the value of adaptability in the face of changing laws and market trends. Additionally, Zemar addresses recurring issues during benefits renewals, advising employers to plan ahead and remain open to innovative solutions. Through his diverse experiences, Zemar underscores the parallels between scuba diving and business, advocating for continuous improvement and strategic planning in both realms.
 
For more information on Elite Benefits of America, contact Butch at 708-535-3006 or visit EliteBenefits.net

Strategic Troubleshooting and Benefits Management

In this episode, Butch Zemar delves into his expertise in electronics troubleshooting, problem-solving, and benefits program management. He underscores the significance of intuition, experience, and creative thinking in identifying and resolving issues.
Entrepreneurs often encounter the same hurdles in decision-making and problem-solving when offering strategies for obtaining affordable, high-quality health insurance for employees. It is important to have a strategic approach to problem-solving. Listen in as we approach the next benefits renewal or any other business issue that needs a resolution. 
 
For more information on Elite Benefits of America, contact Butch at 708-535-3006 or visit EliteBenefits.net

From Navy Adventures to HR Strategies

In this episode, Butch Zemar shares his unpredictable and challenging experiences in the Navy, including his service on the USS Constellation. He discusses the pros and cons of partnering with a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) for HR outsourcing, highlighting benefits like cost savings, streamlined processes, and access to a larger employee pool. However, there are potential downsides. Check out this podcast!
 
For more information on Elite Benefits of America, contact Butch at 708-535-3006 or visit EliteBenefits.net