The Work Dad Podcast

Send us a textYou bet we can! We recorded this episode on Friday, June 13th (YIKES). So much swirling globally and domestically in terms of politics and unrest. We needed an escape!In this episode we take a break from the breaking news and discuss Anna's upcoming trip to Ireland…hello Dingle! Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textIn short, Randy Brown is that dude!In this episode, Randy shares how he became a career mentor at Butler University's Lacy College of Business after a decorated corporate journey that culminated in being the CHRO of Anthem (now Elevance).You'll quickly see why we are big fans!To learn more about and connect with Randy, follow him on LinkedIN:https://www.linkedin.com/in/randalbrown1?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textThis week, Paul and Anna venture out of their comfort zone and talk today's hottest drugs with NFP P&C producer, Adam Wilkins. Adam has found a niche in the market insuring alternative forms of wellness and medicine including assisted therapies, hot/ cold exposure, and THC drinks. They talk about responsibly introducing these items to the market and whether they should be on employer radars. Spoiler alert - it is already on your employee's mind.A few links to solutions mentioned in this episode:https://www.othership.us/https://www.enthea.com/We are not doctors or lawyers so nothing in this episode should be taken as medical or legal advice. That would be silly!Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textThis week, Paul and Anna talk with Long Term Care expert Charlie Mabry about why more folks should be considering this solution early in life. Charlie shares how the long term care insurance industry has evolved into what is the most dynamic solution we have seen in its history. They end the episode discussing their 2025 college football hot takes.More on Carlie's organization can be found here:https://www.totaliscbs.com/Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textThis week, Paul and Anna talk about their professional and personal ins and outs. Paul discusses his love for legos and Anna gets much needed closure from a colleague.Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textReturn guest Kurt Snyder joins Anna and Paul to discuss the parallels between ultra distance trial running and executive benefits…how about that!Follow Kurt on LinkedIN:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-snyderMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textIn this week's episode, Paul and Anna had the pleasure of sitting down with Hurdle CEO, Ryan Alsman. They focused on how small businesses can weather the storm of a bad economy and when it is the right time to invest in employee health benefits. At the end, Ryan shared his experience starting a business with a young family at home and how he makes it work. Check out Hurdle: Hurdle Financial Services – Removing financial obstacles so you can run!Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textThis week, Paul and Anna chatted with in house legal expert to talk about the recent Trump executive orders around healthcare transparency. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11129567/Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textIt's annual review season and some people are NOT having a great experience! Anna and Paul connected with Chelsea DuKate (learn more about her firm: https://www.redenvelope.consulting/) and she helped with some best practices for leaders and employees.We also shared recommendations on our recent great book reads.Be sure to connect with or follow Chelsea on LinkedIN:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseadukateMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a text

Send us a textIn this week's episode, Paul and Anna discuss the 2025 NFP US Benefits Trends Report and explore what it means for businesses. They break down the current PBM landscape as well as innovative leave solutions. Check out the report here: Annual Employee Benefits Trend Report | NFPMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textThis week, Anna and Paul sat down with KWP Growth Partners CEO Will Prest and Partner Lisa Kottler to talk about their recently published RetireTech Map. They shared how employers can use these resources to better support employee financial wellness.Here is a link to the map: RetireTech ReportMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textToday, Anna and Paul talk to Justin Clifford from the company Bereave. He shares about the increasing need to provide bereavement benefits. They wrap up by sharing their greatest holiday gifts of all time.Check out Bereave: Better Bereavement for All: A Human Response for the Business World Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textThis week, Anna and Paul have just a short episode to recap a fantastic 2024 for the Work Dad Pod. We talk podcast progress and what we are excited to do with this thing in 2025!We also encourage you all to check out  episode 2 on Mental Health during this holiday season. Linked below:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2361068/episodes/15030736-paul-is-it-alright-to-talk-about-thisMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textIn this episode, we explore the latest Forbes article on workplace trends for 2024, highlighting key insights that will shape the future of work. We also delve into practical tips and strategies to help you stay ahead of the curve. Plus, don't miss Paul's top wine picks for the holiday season, perfect for adding a touch of festivity to your gatherings!Here is a link to Santiago's new venture that Paul mentioned:https://www.pragmatico.ai/Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textIn the latest episode, Anna and Paul introduce Lauren Sulkowski, who has been a mentor of our podcast since its inception. Lauren shares her experiences as the head of HR at Sanctuary Wealth, discussing the importance of workplace flexibility and empathy in leadership. She also talks about balancing work and personal life as a single mother and the significance of creating a supportive work environment.  Tune in to hear more about Lauren's journey and her advice for other leadersMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textToday, Paul and Anna have some lively debate over some of the workplaces most lukewarm topics such as:Monitor vs No MonitorSmelliest food to eat in the officeWhat does business casual even mean?Working out before vs after workMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textToday, Paul and Anna discuss the recent headlines that companies are regretting their Gen Z hires. They also dish on pickleball drama and America's greatest treat.Here is a link to the study discussed: 1 in 6 Companies Are Hesitant To Hire Recent College Graduates - IntelligentMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textEmployee benefits are expensive, confusing, and personal. If you can help explain these you can explain just about anything internally as an employer!This week we are joined by Amos Haffner, VP of Employee Communication with NFP. Based in Indianapolis, he leads a practice that advises, produces, and implements internal communication efforts for employers.Connect with Amos here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amoshaffnerMore on the LASSO model we discussed:https://www.nfp.com/insights/how-to-create-a-winning-employee-communication-strategy/Link to MetLife survey on employee communications related to benefits:https://www.metlife.com/workforce-insights/employee-benefit-trends/Enjoy!Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textThis week, Anna and Paul are joined by Peter Dunn AKA Pete the Planner to talk about the generational differences in financial planning and about his business 'Your Money Line.'Listen to hear about how to save in your 20s and 50s, how to make your money work for you, and even some Taylor/ Travis predictions.Check out Pete and his fantastic books here: Pete the Planner® | Official Site Checkout solutions from Your Money Line here:https://www.yourmoneyline.com/Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a textToday, Anna and Paul sat down with Nick Beaty. Nick is an assistant men's tennis coach at UT Austin and played at the University of Michigan for 6 years before coaching there as well. Nick shares his tips on staying coachable and how to coach a winning team.Here is a link to a HBR article on the corporate athlete concept mentioned in this episode:https://hbr.org/2001/01/the-making-of-a-corporate-athleteMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a Text Message.In this week's episode, Paul and Anna are joined by The Well-being Ninja, Matt Perica.Connect with Matt on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewpercia?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appHope you are well and that this episode gives you a refreshed perspective on wellness!Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a Text Message.This week, Paul and Anna took it to the digital streets to hear about what their listeners are thinking about when it comes to company culture, work-life balance, and what they wish they could ask their CEO.Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a Text Message.Anna and Paul are joined by Katy Stowers and Abby Clegg to discuss all things FLSA. Must know stuff for business leaders.Here is a link to Abby's recent article on the matter:https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/recent-flsa-classification-changes-what-you-need-know-abby-b5k5c?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&utm_campaign=share_viaFor those worried about being too nerdy…we do mix in some fun…even giving out wine recommendations! Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Paul and Anna chat about ten things she has learned in the past year post graduation.  Listen to hear what your new hires are thinking about and how you can support them best.Just two generations vibing about the workplace and life!Link to Anna's Furniture guy: Lyons Reclamation & Custom Designs | FacebookMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a Text Message.Hottest of hot topics...GLP-1 (Ozempic and Mounjaro) medications for weight loss. Warning...we went longer than normal because there was so much ground to cover with Dr. Schmidt.Speaking of Dr. Schmidt, he has just released his book, Take a Load Off: Game Changing Injections for Weight Loss. To learn more about his book and find him on social media here are some links:Amazon Link to Book - https://a.co/d/01kFdhDp Facebook - Jonathan Schmidt, MDInstagram - @jonathanschmidtmdLinkedIn - Jonathan Schmidt, MD We also made mention of an IFEBP survey of employers on the topic of covering GLP-1 medications for weight loss you can access that here:glp-1-drugs-me-pe-2024.pdf (ifebp.org) Thanks for listening and we would love to hear your thoughts and feedback on this topic!Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Paul and Anna are joined by Kurt Snyder. The crew discusses:The business challenges that can be solved with key employee/executive benefits Kurt's take on becoming a grandfather The greatest dog ever…Axel!Give it a listen and to learn more about Kurt find him on LinkedIN at:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-snyder?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Anna and Paul sit down with Sarah Beaty, employee training, development, and engagement expert. She also happens to be Anna's mom so Paul was on his best behavior.In this episode we hit on:- Developing a training strategy for a diverse workforce.- The impact AI will have on training.- How to engage a hybrid workforce.They end on a Paris trip recap and review Anna's biggest aha moments while oversees.Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a Text Message.In this week's episode, Anna and Paul have a candid conversation about their experiences with mental health and how they have learned to work with it. Then they explore how the workforce is dealing with mental health and wellness on the national level and some effective solutions we see.They then discuss all things Taylor and Travis. Anna defends this whirlwind romance while Paul takes a more conservative approach - what's not to like but is it too good to be true??The episode ends with an intellectual and slightly disturbing recommendation on the French Sauvignon blanc (Sarah Beaty's favorite) from Paul, before Anna heads to France.Wellness Council of Indiana - Mental Health First Aid Resource: Mental Health First Aid - Wellness Council of Indiana (wellnessindiana.org)Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, co- hosts Paul and Anna share why they are making a podcast. They touch on how the employee landscape is changing and why employers need to shape their Total Rewards Offering to best support their employee population. They also talk Indy Sports and the phenomenon that is Caitlin Clark and the WNBA.Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Total Rewards Halo: https://www.nfp.com/media/s4loz2jf/total-rewards-halo-benefits-resize429x439.pngMusic in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast