Episode 4 : Shawn Gremminger, CEO at the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions

Welcome back to Season Two of the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for episode seven. In today’s episode, Norm Volsky interviews Patrick Quigley, the founder and CEO of Sidecar Health. They discuss the innovative approach Sidecar Health takes to transform healthcare by empowering consumers with transparent pricing and better financial incentives. Patrick shares insights from his previous experiences in the healthcare industry, the challenges consumers face with traditional health plans, and how Sidecar Health aims to eliminate barriers to care. The conversation also touches on the importance of leadership, company culture, and the impact of Sidecar Health on both members and employers. Takeaways✅ Sidecar Health aims to empower individuals with transparent pricing. 😤 Consumer frustration with traditional health plans led to the creation of Sidecar Health. 💰 The company provides a budget for healthcare, allowing consumers to make informed choices. 🚫 Eliminating prior authorization and formularies increases access to care. 📉 Sidecar Health's denial rate is significantly lower than traditional insurers. 🏥 The company focuses on creating a marketplace for healthcare services. 👥 Leadership and culture are critical in driving innovation in healthcare. 💼 Employers can save money while providing better coverage with Sidecar Health. 🛠️ The member experience is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. 🌍 Healthcare should be accessible and affordable for everyone. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sidecar Health and Patrick Quigley04:31 The Birth of Sidecar Health: A Personal Journey09:13 Real Stories: Impact on Members' Lives11:09 Confidence in Care: How Sidecar Health Reduces Stress13:38 The Need for Change in the Healthcare System17:43 Member Experience: A New Approach to Healthcare21:28 Scaling Sidecar Health: Success with Large Employers24:21 The Human Touch in Healthcare Communication24:52 Measuring Success: NPS Scores and Market Position25:56 The Birth of an Idea: Testing Healthcare Solutions27:16 Transforming Employer Healthcare: Cost Savings and Coverage28:39 Empowering Employers: The Financial Impact of Healthcare Choices29:57 Building a Strong Team: The Role of Expertise in Healthcare32:10 Creating a Culture of Innovation and Problem Solving34:27 The Unique Challenges of Leading a Healthcare Company36:48 Consumer-Centric Healthcare: Empowering Patients and Providers39:24 The Secret Sauce: How Sidecar Health Works40:44 The Future of Healthcare: A Call for Change43:47 Personal Wellness: Balancing Work and Health45:44 Healthy Living: Family Meals and Nutrition46:54 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to Season 2 of the Digital Health Heavyweights for our sixth episode!Today, Norm sits down with Tanya Little, the Chief Commercial Officer at Vitality. Tanya shares her journey from banking to healthcare, her experiences at Life Healthcare, and her insights into the healthcare systems in South Africa and the US. She discusses the importance of behavioral economics in health, the challenges of health disparities, and her philosophy on building high-performing teams at Vitality. Norm and Tanya explore the evolving landscape of communication in leadership, the challenges of building culture in remote environments, and the importance of effective public speaking. Tanya shares insights on the looping technique for communication, common flaws in leadership communication, and strategies for soliciting feedback. They discuss the significance of recruiting for strengths and weaknesses, the growth journey of Vitality, and the engagement of diverse populations. Tanya also emphasizes the importance of stress management and shares healthy cooking tips. Tune in for another great episode and be sure to like and subscribe! Takeaways🥼 Tanya transitioned from banking to healthcare seeking purpose. 💪 Her experience at Life Healthcare taught her resilience and trust in herself. 🏥 The primary care business she launched faced cultural and operational challenges. 🦠 COVID-19 forced rapid decision-making in healthcare operations. ⚖️ The dual healthcare system in South Africa mirrors some aspects of the US system. 🚑 Health disparities exist in both South Africa and the US, affecting access to care. 📈 Vitality's mission is grounded in behavioral economics and making people healthier. 🎯 Building teams should focus on playing to individual strengths. 🛡️ Creating emotional safety is crucial for high-performing teams. 🗣️ Effective communication is essential for team success. Each generation struggles more with one-on-one communication. 🏛️ Culture is defined by actions, not just words. 🎤 Practice public speaking out loud for better performance. 🔄 Looping ensures mutual understanding in conversations. 👀 Leaders often overlook the importance of communication. 🎯 Intentionality in communication can enhance effectiveness. 💬 Feedback should be solicited in a constructive manner. 🔍 Hiring should focus on attributes like integrity and curiosity. 📊 Vitality has successfully engaged millions through behavioral science. 🥗 Healthy cooking can be simple and delicious. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tanya Little and Vitality10:10 Healthcare Systems: South Africa vs. US15:25 Joining Vitality: A Behavioral Economist's Perspective26:24 Building High-Performing Teams at Vitality33:49 Public Speaking Tips for Success40:41 Becoming a Better Communicator48:52 Vitality's Growth Journey55:10 Stress Management and Wellness PracticesFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for our 5th episode of Season 2! In today’s episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky interviews Jeff Munn, a seasoned coach for entrepreneurs, particularly in the healthcare sector. Jeff shares his journey from a corporate career to founding his coaching practice, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and work-life balance for founders. The conversation delves into the coaching process, the challenges of balancing business development with team training, and the significance of hiring integrators to help implement a founder's vision. Jeff also discusses the importance of motivation through agreements rather than expectations, and he shares personal health and wellness practices that keep him sharp and focused. Takeaways 🌟 Jeff Munn transitioned from a corporate career to coaching entrepreneurs.💼✨ Authenticity and work-life balance are crucial for founders.🎥 The coaching process can be demonstrated through live sessions.⚖️ Balancing business development with team training is a common challenge.⏰💡 Finding time and efficiency is key for effective leadership.🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Integrators are essential for implementing a founder's vision.🏥👩‍⚕️ Healthcare founders benefit from specialized coaching due to industry knowledge.📝 Motivation should come from agreements, not just expectations.🧘‍♂️💪 Personal health practices, like sleep and exercise, are vital for success.🎉 Enjoying the process is as important as achieving outcomes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jeff Munn and His Journey05:42 The Importance of Mental Health and Meditation11:25 Preparing for an Exit: Insights for Founders17:02 The Mind of a Problem Solver22:26 Hiring for Grit and Emotional Intelligence28:06 Efficiency in Time Management34:31 The Importance of Teaching and Replication39:33 Visionaries vs. Integrators46:07 The Value of Industry-Specific Coaching58:18 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Second season of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast for Episode 4! In today’s interview, Norm sits down with Shawn Gremminger, president and CEO of the National Alliance, who discusses his journey into healthcare advocacy, the role of employers in the healthcare system, and the challenges of misaligned incentives. He emphasizes the importance of direct contracting and telehealth as innovative solutions to improve healthcare access and reduce costs. Shawn also shares insights on the future of healthcare, including the potential shift towards a single-payer system, and the need for better incentives for benefits leaders to drive meaningful change. Takeaways 🚑 Shawn Gremminger leads the National Alliance, focusing on healthcare value. 🔹 His career in healthcare advocacy began unexpectedly after a political campaign. 🏥 Essential hospitals play a critical role in providing care to underserved populations. 🔍 Understanding different perspectives in healthcare is crucial for effective advocacy. 💼 The National Alliance aims to empower employers to take control of healthcare costs. 🔗 Direct contracting can help employers bypass traditional health plans for better outcomes. 📱 Telehealth presents opportunities for improved access but also challenges in cost management. 😩 Employers are experiencing fatigue from numerous point solutions in healthcare. 💥 The healthcare system is approaching a breaking point due to rising costs. 🎯 Incentivizing benefits leaders is essential for driving change in healthcare management. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sean Gremminger and the National Alliance02:21 Sean's Journey into Healthcare Advocacy06:42 Understanding the Healthcare System from Multiple Perspectives08:16 Key Learnings from Reservoir Communications Group11:23 Leading the National Alliance: Challenges and Responsibilities13:05 Delivering Value to Employers in Healthcare14:39 The Role of Employers in the Healthcare System17:24 Empowering Employers through the National Alliance19:35 Exciting Developments in Telehealth23:40 Point Solution Fatigue in Healthcare26:25 Vision for the National Alliance30:28 Misaligned Incentives in Healthcare34:08 Learnings and Successes at the Alliance36:29 Policy Initiatives and Legislative Focus41:44 Direct Contracting and Cost Savings45:31 Future of Healthcare: Single Payer System?48:40 Incentivizing Benefits Leaders to Innovate50:29 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Second Season of the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for our Third Episode. Today, Norm Volsky interviews Steve Blumenfield, the global head of partnerships and alliances at Willis Towers Watson. Steve shares his journey from strategy consulting to benefits consulting, discussing the evolution of the healthcare landscape, innovations in the early 2000s, and the challenges faced by health plans in engaging consumers. He reflects on his experiences in the PBM industry, the importance of building partnerships, and the trends shaping digital health today. Steve also offers insights into the future of benefits consulting, the role of AI in healthcare, and shares his personal wellness practices. Takeaways 🧳 Steve's journey into healthcare was inspired by personal experiences and family health issues. 📊 The benefits consulting landscape has evolved significantly over the years, with a focus on innovation and client-specific solutions. 🤯 Engagement remains a critical challenge for health plans, as consumers often feel overwhelmed by options. 🤝 Building partnerships and alliances is essential for navigating the complex healthcare ecosystem. 📱 The rise of digital health solutions has transformed the way benefits are delivered and managed. 🤖 AI is poised to play a significant role in enhancing patient care and engagement. 🔑 Vendors must focus on delivering real value to gain trust and establish long-term relationships with clients. 🌀 Point solution fatigue is a common issue, and effective navigation tools are needed to help clients manage their options. 🔮 The future of benefits consulting will involve increased accountability and a focus on cost management. 💪 Personal wellness practices, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, are crucial for maintaining health in a high-stress industry. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Steve Blumenfield and His Journey02:30 Transitioning from Strategy to Benefits Consulting06:04 Innovations in the Early 2000s Benefits Landscape07:30 Insights from the PBM Industry09:22 Challenges in Health Plan Engagement11:42 Returning to Willis Towers Watson13:43 The Evolution of Digital Health15:21 Building Strategic Partnerships17:12 Lessons Learned from the Past Decade21:58 Proud Accomplishments and Industry Impact26:17 Identifying Durable Digital Health Solutions27:02 Evaluating Solutions for Durability and Engagement29:35 Navigating Point Solution Fatigue31:47 The Challenge of Vendor Promises33:59 Advice for New Vendors in the Market36:26 Current Trends in Digital Health38:29 The Future of Selling to Benefits Leaders40:37 Predictions for Accountability and AI in Healthcare45:03 Personal Wellness Practices and Philosophy49:16 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Second Season of The Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for Episode 2! In today’s sit down, Norm Volsky interviews Alan Lotvin, CEO and co-founder of Sequel Med Tech. Alan shares his journey from being a practicing cardiologist to leading various healthcare organizations, including CVS Caremark. He discusses the challenges and opportunities in the diabetes care space, particularly focusing on innovative drug delivery systems. Alan emphasizes the importance of collaboration in healthcare and the evolving role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in making healthcare more affordable. He also shares insights into his personal health practices and the future direction of Sequel Med Tech. Takeaways 👨‍⚕️ Alan Lotvin transitioned from cardiology to healthcare leadership. 🧑‍💼 The importance of recruiting top talent in healthcare organizations. 💊 PBMs play a crucial role in managing drug costs and healthcare affordability. 💡 Sequel Med Tech aims to simplify diabetes care through innovative technology. 🤝 Collaboration is key in healthcare decision-making processes. 📈 The diabetes technology market is experiencing significant growth. ⏱️ Sequel's device offers real-time monitoring and alerts for insulin delivery. 🧠 Mental health is a critical aspect of managing chronic diseases like diabetes. 🏋️‍♀️🍏 Exercise and nutrition are vital for maintaining health and wellness. 🔜 Sequel Med Tech plans to expand its offerings to include type 2 diabetes solutions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alan Lotvin and His Journey 03:05 Transition from Medicine to Business Leadership 05:40 Experience at CVS Caremark and Key Learnings 11:19 The Role of PBMs in Healthcare 17:43 Future of Pharmacy and Drug Pricing 23:23 Starting Sequel MedTech and Innovations in Diabetes Management 27:57 The Evolution of Diabetes Technology 29:56 Sequel’s Innovative Approach to Diabetes Care 36:30 The Impact of Diabetes on Mental Health 39:21 Future Directions for Sequel MedTech 43:11 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Diabetes Treatment 46:17 Expanding Beyond Diabetes: Future Opportunities 48:28 Personal Health Practices and Wellness Insights 53:32 Outro Follow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Happy New Year and welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast! In the first episode of 2025, our host Norm Volsky interviews Tom Cassels, Managing Director at Manatt Health. Tom shares his journey into healthcare, discussing his experiences in consulting, team building, and the complexities of the US healthcare system. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the system as a whole, the challenges and successes he has faced, and the values he upholds as a board member. Tom also highlights current trends in digital health and shares insights on personal wellness and healthy living. Takeaways🩺 Tom's journey into healthcare was influenced by personal experiences with the system. 💼 Building a consulting practice requires hard work and authenticity. 👥 Team building is essential for success in consulting. 🇺🇸 Understanding the US healthcare system is crucial for innovators. ⚠️ Challenges in healthcare can be frustrating but motivate change. 🤝 Humility and candor are key values for board members. 💬 Effective partnerships require trust and open communication. 🚩 Identifying red flags in startups is critical for success. 💪 Resilience and storytelling are core traits for startup founders. 💻 Current trends in digital health focus on AI and chronic disease management. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background01:20 Motivation to Work in Healthcare02:55 Early Strategy in Consulting04:34 Team Building and Authenticity05:57 Being a Trusted Advisor07:34 Understanding the US Healthcare System09:19 Challenges and Successes in Career11:46 Proud Achievements and Building Relationships15:04 Values as a Board Member18:09 Partnership with Companies as a Board Member20:20 Philosophy on Team Building in Early Stage Companies22:00 Identifying Red Flags in Digital Health Startups22:48 Qualifying Leads and Understanding Why You Win or Lose26:08 The Key Traits of Successful Startup Founders27:32 Trends in Digital Health: Use Cases, Chronic Disease Management, and Automation32:02 The Importance of Self-Care and Not Taking Oneself Too Seriously42:56 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights for Episode 60!In today’s episode, Norm Volsky interviews Jon Stout, the president of Motivo Health. They discuss Jon’s journey into healthcare, the importance of leadership in career growth, and the transition from corporate to startup culture. Jon shares insights on value-based care from his time at Blue Cross Blue Shield, the lessons learned at AbleTo, and the significance of building authentic relationships in sales. They also explore the mission of Motivo Health in addressing the therapist shortage and the key traits of successful startup CEOs, all while emphasizing the importance of personal health and wellness practices. Takeaways💼 Jon Stout's journey into healthcare began unexpectedly after studying accounting. 👥 The importance of leadership and mentorship in career decisions cannot be overstated. 🌟 Delivering amazing work and having a positive attitude can lead to career advancement. 🚀 Transitioning from a corporate environment to a startup can be challenging but rewarding. 💡 Value-based care was a new concept that John helped implement at Blue Cross Blue Shield. 🤝 Building authentic relationships is crucial in sales and networking. 🍭 Lollipop moments are significant experiences that can change the trajectory of a business. 📊 Understanding the venture capital landscape can enhance leadership effectiveness in startups. 🩺 Motivo Health aims to improve therapist licensing rates and address the therapist shortage. 🌱 Creating a positive company culture involves allowing employees to be their authentic selves. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jon Stout and Motivo Health02:00 Jon's Journey into Healthcare06:02 The Importance of Leadership in Career Growth11:44 Transitioning from Corporate to Startup19:05 Navigating Value-Based Care Contracts23:17 The Challenges of Startup Life24:22 Joining AbleTo and Its Mission27:39 Building Authentic Relationships in Sales32:33 Lollipop Moments: Defining Success in Startups36:52 Transitioning to Venture Capital: Insights and Learnings40:12 Motivo's Mission: Addressing the Therapist Shortage46:58 Key Traits of Successful Startup CEOs49:20 Creating a Positive Company Culture51:30 Personal Health and Wellness Practices53:44 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for Episode 59! Today, Norm Volsky interviews Laurel Pickering, CEO of the St. Louis Area Business Health Coalition. Laurel shares her journey from a background in anthropology to becoming a leader in healthcare transformation. She discusses the evolution of healthcare benefits, the challenges and successes of building coalitions, and the importance of employer leverage in influencing the healthcare system. Laurel also highlights the need for integration of digital health solutions and the role of policy advocacy in improving healthcare access and quality. She concludes with personal insights on wellness and healthy living. Takeaways🪶 Laurel Pickering transitioned from archaeology to healthcare through medical anthropology. 🏢 Employers have significant leverage to influence healthcare systems. 💰 The healthcare benefits landscape has shifted back towards first-dollar coverage. 🤝 Coalitions can drive change by getting health plans to collaborate. 😓 Point solution fatigue is a growing concern among employers. 💼 Employers are increasingly focused on the employee experience in healthcare. 🏥 Direct contracting between employers and health systems is on the rise. ❓ The ROI claims made by vendors are often met with skepticism by employers. 💪 Wellness strategies, including exercise, are crucial for managing stress. 🍣 Simple, healthy recipes like air-fried salmon can promote better eating habits. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:15 The Role of Employers in Driving Change07:33 The Evolution of Healthcare Benefits12:01 Bringing Together Stakeholders19:03 Understanding the Target Audience in Healthcare Marketing22:21 Buying Differently: Driving Transformation in the Market26:15 Driving Healthcare Transformation: Leadership Buy-In and Consultant Support32:38 The Vision for the St. Louis Area Business Health Coalition38:32 Policy Advocacy and Impacting Legislation41:41 Employer Priorities: Cost, Employee Experience, and Health Improvement44:33 Employer Expectations and Building Trust with Vendors46:34 The Future of Healthcare: Integration of Point Solutions and Direct Contracting48:25 Reducing Stress and Healthy Recipes: Salmon in the Air Fryer52:12 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for Episode 58! Today, Norm Volsky interviews Chris Fisher, founder of BenefitsAlly. Chris shares his journey into the healthcare industry, the inspiration behind BenefitsAlly, and the innovative 3x3x3 challenge that aims to simplify the presentation of employee benefits solutions. The conversation delves into the importance of operational execution, the role of brokers and consultants, and common misconceptions about them. Chris also discusses the future of Benefits Ally, industry trends, and his personal wellness practices, emphasizing the need for clarity and differentiation in the benefits space. Takeaways🌟 Chris Fisher's background in healthcare is deeply rooted in family influence. 🔍 The 3x3x3 challenge is designed for brevity and clarity. ⚙️ Operational execution is critical in the employee benefits industry. 🤝 Brokers and consultants are often underestimated in their intelligence and capabilities. 🏗️ Reputation in the healthcare industry can take years to build and moments to destroy. 🚀 Innovative approaches are needed to keep up with the evolving benefits landscape. 📞 The importance of being responsive and easy to work with cannot be overstated. 📚 Content should be accessible and not gated to encourage learning. 💡 The future of healthcare requires a focus on lowering costs and improving quality. 🧘 Personal wellness practices can help manage stress in a demanding industry. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Chris Fisher and BenefitsAlly05:33 The Inspiration Behind BenefitsAlly12:10 The 3x3x3 Challenge Explained17:01 Value Creation and Networking in BenefitsAlly22:47 Common Misconceptions About Brokers and Consultants30:26 Future Vision for BenefitsAlly36:26 Industry Trends and Areas for Growth44:19 Predictions for the Future of Healthcare46:22 Personal Wellness and Healthy Living51:03 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast