Captives…loosely defined as an alternative method of sharing the claim risk across a larger pool. Side Affects producer, Kenzie McEvily and co-host, Anne Marie Singleton speak with Scott Insurance’s, Pim Jager, VP Lead of Captives about the history, the dynamics, and the future of modern captives for health care specifically brought on by the ACA in 2010. Are you willing to be part of a collaborative community that can create better outcomes for your company and your employees? Take a listen and give captives a good hard look as an alternative option to healthcare.

Side Affects Episode 099 | Captives: “Putting the We in Front of Me”

James O’Hara, CEO of Dayton-based ConsumerOptix, has drawn a path for this front-office communication start-up to become the ‘Amazon’ of Life Insurance. James and his team are driven to get the employee benefits and insurance industry up to speed in the digital evolution by understanding the employee’s approach to consuming and purchasing.

Join Side Affects producer Kenzie McEvily and McGohan Brabender’s Director of Strategy & Innovation, David Homan, offsite in the newly renovated Dayton Arcade, where ConsumerOptix resides. Tune in to learn how employers can use this software to share a personalized message that all employees can understand.

Side Affects Episode 102 | ConsumerOptix:  Becoming the ‘Amazon’ of Life Insurance

Join co-hosts, Kenzie McEvily and Dave Homan as they take on part three of the Adulting and Insurance series with special guest, University of Cincinnati junior, Maura Homan. In this episode, you will get inside the brain of a college student when managing the task of filling a prescription from start to finish. Learn how Maura does it and what decisions have led her to knowing the perfect formula to get the right meds at the right time and the right price. Let’s get started…

Side Affects Episode 122 | The First Fill: Navigating Your First Prescription as an Adult

Discover the ins and outs of self-funded insurance plans in this episode of Side Affects, where co-host, Dave Homan and Producer, Kenzie McEvily are joined by seasoned McGohan Brabender Consultant, Tim Rieger. With over 22 years of experience in risk management and customer service, Tim breaks down the funding arrangement, ideal employer profiles, and the pros and cons of self-funded insurance. From highlighting the importance of intentionality and diligence in decision-making to offering practical strategies for success, this episode equips listeners with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of self-funded insurance with confidence and expertise. Tune in now!

Side Affects Episode 134 | Empowering Employers: Pros and Cons of Self-Funded Health Plans

Assistant Vice President at Innovative Captive Strategies, Sara Stopulos joins Digital Experience Producer Kenzie McEvily and Chief Marketing Officer Dave Homan for the third episode in this funding arrangement series. Sara has more than 18 years of experience in employee benefits and explains how to set up a captive program, covering the risks, benefits, and challenges. Tune in now to learn why captives are "better together!"

Side Affects Episode 136 | Exploring How Captive Strategies Can Empower Risk Management

Join us as we dive into the world of MEWAs with Liz Schneider, MB's Executive Vice President of Emerging Markets, and Matt Appenzeller, President and CEO of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance (SOCA). Discover how SOCA, an alliance of 129 Chambers of Commerce, pioneered the largest MEWA in the United States. Learn how their innovative approach is transforming access to health coverage and creating peace of mind for small businesses.

Side Affects Episode 137 | Navigating Group Health Plans: What is a MEWA?

In this episode, Digital Experience Producer Kenzie flips the script, interviewing co-host-turned-guest Dave Homan, Chief Marketing Officer at McGohan Brabender. With open enrollment season in full swing, it's time to rethink how we present employee benefits. Too often, these presentations are bogged down by text-heavy PowerPoints with presenters reading straight from the slides. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

Join us for Part 1 of Dave’s 10 Non-Negotiables for Benefit Communication, where he shares the first five essentials for delivering impactful messages. Discover how simplicity, storytelling, and smart presentation strategies can engage your employees and transform your benefit communication. Don't miss these actionable tips to make your next presentation unforgettable!

Side Affects Episode 138 | Non-Negotiables for Benefit Communication: Part I

Producer, Kenzie McEvily is back with Dave Homan, Chief Marketing Officer at McGohan Brabender, for Part 2 of his 10 Non-Negotiables for Benefit Communication. In this follow-up episode, Dave shares the remaining essentials, drawing on nearly 30 years of experience in the benefits industry and a year spent researching the psychology behind effective communication.

Ever wonder why adding movement to your slides makes a difference? Or what the movie Rain Man can teach us about keeping text minimal? Tune in to find out! Dave wraps up his insights with practical tips to ensure your next open enrollment presentation captivates and engages your audience from start to finish.

Side Affects Episode 139 | Non-Negotiables for Benefit Communication: Part II

On today’s episode of Side Affects, hosts Kenzie McEvily and Dave Homan explore the emerging landscape of alternative health plans with Senior Consultant Dean Stitz. As healthcare costs continue to rise, many employers and employees are searching for innovative, non-traditional options that offer flexibility and tailored solutions. Dean dives into popular alternatives like Side Car, Ohio Healthy and the ICHRA model, explaining how each approach can empower organizations and individuals to manage healthcare on their own terms. From cash-pay structures to systems where hospitals act as insurers, we’ll unpack the benefits, challenges, and the ideal fit for these plans. So, if you’re curious about new directions in healthcare, this episode is packed with insights to help you decide if non-traditional plans might be the right fit for your needs. Let’s get started!

Side Affects Episode 140 | Beyond the Norm: Alternatives to Traditional Health Plans

Mental health is no longer optional in the workplace - it’s essential. In this episode of Side Affects, hosts Kenzie McEvily and Dave Homan sit down with Tiffany Kuck, Director of Population Health at McGohan Brabender, to discuss how Mental Health First Aid Training is transforming corporate wellness. From skyrocketing stress levels to legal landmines in wellness programs, we uncover the biggest challenges employers face - and the strategies that actually work. Plus, find out how some companies are saving on healthcare costs, boosting productivity, and staying legally compliant while creating a healthier, happier workforce. Tune in for expert insights, real-world success stories, and actionable takeaways!

Side Affects Episode 143 | The Missing Piece in Corporate Wellness: Mental Health First Aid

In this episode of Side Affects, hosts Kenzie McEvily and Dave Homan sit down with Dr. Jeff Eichholz, VP of Pharmacy Solutions at McGohan Brabender, to unpack the rapidly evolving world of pharmacy. From the rise of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, to the growing influence of digital pharmacies and international prescription access, Dr. Jeff shares expert insights on the trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the future of pharmacy. Whether you’re an HR leader, benefits manager, or just curious about where pharmacy is heading, this episode offers a clear, compelling look at what’s next - and how it affects us all.

Side Affects Episode 144 | A New Era of Pharmacy Solutions: Trends, Tech & GLP-1s

In this episode of Side Affects, host Kenzie McEvily and guest co-host, EVP of MB Columbus, Kevin Grabeman sit down with Dr. David Lee, President of the OhioHealthy Medical Plan, to explore innovative alternatives to traditional health insurance. OhioHealthy, backed by the trusted OhioHealth system, is reshaping the benefits landscape with a focus on simplicity, value-based care and better outcomes for employers and their teams. Dr. Lee shares how OhioHealthy balances affordability with personalized support, coordinated care, and transparent pricing. Tune in to learn how this nontraditional solution could be a game-changer for your organization’s health plan strategy.

Side Affects Episode 145 | Alternatives to Traditional Health Plans: Inside OhioHealthy

Choosing the right benefits broker is one of the most important decisions an employer can make — and we’re breaking it down with MB Chief Growth Officer Anne Marie Singleton. Hosts, Kenzie McEvily and Dave Homan explore why companies go to market, what red flags to watch for and why RFPs might not tell the whole story. Anne Marie shares practical steps for evaluating brokers, the key questions to ask, and how to build lasting, strategic partnerships. Whether you're shopping for a new advisor or evaluating your current one, this episode is packed with expert advice to guide your decision.

Side Affects Episode 146 | Broker Selection Process

They’re the creative minds behind the curtain -- until now. In this episode, host, Kenzie McEvily and CMO, Dave Homan introduce the full Strategy & Innovation (S&I) team at McGohan Brabender. Meet the eight talented individuals who bring benefits to life through clear, engaging and customized communication strategies.

From writing and design to video production and digital tools, this team helps simplify complex healthcare messaging, boost employee engagement and reduce the burden on HR teams. Whether it’s Open Enrollment or year-round communication, they specialize in making benefits not just understandable -- but fun.

Tune in to hear how the S&I team supports both internal teams and clients, and why their work is crucial to a better benefits experience.

Side Affects 147 | Who is the Strategy & Innovation Team?

When employees hear “employee benefits,” they might think of healthcare, perks, wellness programs, PTO, 401(k) plans or disability coverage. But when HR professionals hear “employee benefits,” they’re likely thinking about cost management, compensation strategies, open enrollment, and—most importantly—compliance. Compliance is a cornerstone of today’s insurance landscape. With that in mind, let’s dive into your July 2025 breakdown of Compliance in Motion.

Side Affects 148 | Compliance in Minutes - July 2025

When employees hear “employee benefits,” they might think of healthcare, perks, wellness programs, PTO, 401(k) plans or disability coverage. But when HR professionals hear “employee benefits,” they’re likely thinking about cost management, compensation strategies, open enrollment, and—most importantly—compliance. Compliance is a cornerstone of today’s insurance landscape. With that in mind, let’s dive into your August 2025 breakdown of Compliance in Motion.

Side Affects 149 | Compliance in Minutes - August 2025

The power of data is reshaping how organizations deliver their benefits strategies -- especially through the lens of population health. Historically, only large employers had access to meaningful data insights. But in the last decade, this has changed. Now organizations of all sizes can use data to guide smarter decisions, improve outcomes and control costs.

In this episode, MB Population Health & Data Strategist, Shelly Cherry shares why data is only as valuable as the strategy behind it. She explains how to use data to its full advantage, why organizations must be open to change and how shifting mindsets is just as critical as the numbers themselves.

Side Affects 150 | The Power of Data Guiding Your Benefits Strategy

When employees hear “employee benefits,” they might think of healthcare, perks, wellness programs, PTO, 401(k) plans or disability coverage. But when HR professionals hear “employee benefits,” they’re likely thinking about cost management, compensation strategies, open enrollment, and—most importantly—compliance. Compliance is a cornerstone of today’s insurance landscape. With that in mind, let’s dive into your September 2025 breakdown of Compliance in Motion.

Side Affects Episode 151 | Compliance in Minutes - September 2025

When employees hear “employee benefits,” they might think of healthcare, perks, wellness programs, PTO, 401(k) plans or disability coverage. But when HR professionals hear “employee benefits,” they’re likely thinking about cost management, compensation strategies, open enrollment, and—most importantly—compliance. Compliance is a cornerstone of today’s insurance landscape. With that in mind, let’s dive into your October 2025 breakdown of Compliance in Motion.

Side Affects Episode 152 | Compliance in Minutes - October 2025

Employee benefits shouldn’t feel like a burden - for HR teams to design or for employees to use. Yet, unread open enrollment emails and overlooked preventive care show a disconnect in how we communicate. In this episode, McGohan Brabender’s Chief Marketing Officer, Dave Homan, explores how applying behavioral science and Robert Cialdini’s 7 Principles of Persuasion can help HR and benefits professionals ethically capture attention, build trust and inspire action.

Discover how reimagining communication through the lens of human behavior can turn benefits engagement from obligation to connection - motivating, empowering, and energizing your workforce.

Side Affects Episode 153 | The Science of Employee Persuasion | Part I

If you haven’t caught Part I, start there — MB Chief Marketing Officer, Dave and Producer, Kenzie unpacked the first rule of persuasion: reciprocity. In this episode, they continue exploring how behavioral science can transform employee engagement, diving into three new principles of persuasion: scarcity, authority and commitment.

From creating urgency without fear, to leveraging expertise authentically, to building lasting commitment through small actions, this episode reveals practical ways HR and benefits professionals can apply psychology to drive connection, motivation, and trust.

Side Affects Episode 154 | The Science of Employee Persuasion | Part II

Side Affects host, Kenzie McEvily closes out the three-part series with MB Chief Marketing Officer, Dave Homan, exploring the final three of Robert Cialdini’s 7 Principles of Persuasion: Liking, Social Proof and Unity.

In this episode, Dave shares how psychology and human connection can transform benefits communication — from using peer influence and authentic storytelling to fostering a shared culture that drives trust, engagement and participation.

Discover how to move beyond information overload and inspire genuine connection between your employees and their benefits.

Side Affects Episode 155 | The Science of Employee Persuasion | Part III

When employees hear “employee benefits,” they might think of healthcare, perks, wellness programs, PTO, 401(k) plans or disability coverage. But when HR professionals hear “employee benefits,” they’re likely thinking about cost management, compensation strategies, open enrollment, and—most importantly—compliance. Compliance is a cornerstone of today’s insurance landscape. With that in mind, let’s dive into your November 2025 breakdown of Compliance in Motion.

Side Affects Episode 156 | Compliance in Minutes - November 2025

When employees hear “employee benefits,” they might think of healthcare, perks, wellness programs, PTO, 401(k) plans or disability coverage. But when HR professionals hear “employee benefits,” they’re likely thinking about cost management, compensation strategies, open enrollment, and—most importantly—compliance. Compliance is a cornerstone of today’s insurance landscape. With that in mind, let’s dive into your December 2025 breakdown of Compliance in Motion.

Side Affects Episode 157 | Compliance in Minutes - December 2025

We join Side Affects Producer, Kenzie and guest host, Dave Homan with MB Population Health Manager, Tiffany Kuck to discuss different wellness program options. Since the ACA inception, employers have been able to provide incentives to keep employees motivated on a healthier path. From free gym memberships to premium differentials, the options are endless when it comes to incentive strategies. No matter the size of the group, Tiffany gives some great direction, starting first with education. Click to watch, listen and learn!

Episode 080: Strategize Your Wellness Program with Incentives

Here is round two of the three-part series with HR Technology Consultant, Kelly Zimmerman of BTR. You’ve made the decision to bring in HR Technology, now take the next step of implementing it. Tune in as Kenzie and Anne Marie quiz Kelly on the best steps going forward for a successful transition of your HR Data. You must determine your priorities, requirements, and especially your budget. HR Technology can do as much or as little as you need! Remember, this is a process. Being prepared and consistent is key to a successful implementation.

Episode 086: HR Technology Implementation Doesn't Have An Easy Button | Part 2 of 3

As we wrap up the HR Technology series with Kelly Zimmerman from BTR, we discuss how companies that have HR Technology in place may be spending too much on the wrong products. What is the shelf life of technology? What you needed in 2010 may not be what you need now. Side Affects Producer, Kenzie, Co-Host, Anne Marie, and Kelly highlight how important it is to build a relationship with your HR Tech vendor and ask them as experts the questions you don't know. You may not know what you need! Tune in to fix those red flags that are draining your budget and make sure the technology is working for you and you are not working for the technology.

Episode 087: Benefit Technology: Rip and Replace? | Part 3 of 3

2020 has turned most of us upside down, so it may be the time to try something new for your benefits communications.  For this Side Affects episode, producer, Kenzie Fell has pulled our Director of Strategy and Innovation, Dave Homan, from behind the scenes, upfront to discuss different options for open enrollment.  Dave has decades of health care communication experience and knows how to get your message heard.  Keep it simple, make it fun, and do it all year long. Tune in to learn how to deliver your message to your workforce.

Episode 089 | Break the Rules: Automate your Annual Benefit Communications

A magic ball could make future health care decisions a bit easier, but math and science make your options realistic. Join MB CEO Scott McGohan, and "Side Affects" Producer, Kenzie Fell, with business partners Mike Pattengale and Jennifer Jones from Springbuk, a data analytics platform supporting employers to make better health care decisions. With Springbuk's vision, you can prevent disease with data. It's clear how data analytics educates and empowers employers with the leverage of data to justify health care increased cost.  It isn't magical, but it may seem miraculous.  Tune in to learn more.

Episode 092 | The Decision is in the Data

Do you understand your contract with your Pharmacy Benefit Manager? Do you know if your PBM is managing your pharmacy utilization properly for your workforce? Join Kenzie and Scott with Thatcher Sloan and Bill Lenskold from Confidio, a PBM Consulting firm.  Listen and learn how Confidio enhances the relationship you have with your PBM. They hold the PBM accountable to the contract and manage a strategy going forward that fits your culture. With pharmacy trends constantly transforming, it helps to have an advisor looking out for you.

Episode 094 | The ‘Trusty’ PBM Advisor

Side Affects Producer Kenzie McEvily, joined by her guest hosts, spotlights invited industry experts to discuss their best practices that disrupt the norm of health care, leadership, and business. Side Affects: A podcast that prompts you, as an employer, to think differently about the needs of your people and your company. We encourage you to take action by taking a deep look into benefit strategies that will transform your workforce engagement, i.e., diversity, compliance, mental health, and modern reporting. Kenzie and her guests bring these subjects and more to light to better health and productivity. Tune in and learn more!

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