Podcasts about Blue Cross

Trying to get stage time at the Laugh Factory in L.A. is a big deal—especially if you're hoping to get in front of Jamie Masada, the guy who helped launch tons of comedy careers. This story's all about the hustle, calling in favors, and navigating the weird world of showbiz politics. It's a real-life peek into how things almost happen in Hollywood—and what you learn when they don't. https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.  

People always ask what it's like being a woman in the male-dominated world of stand-up, and the truth is—it's mostly fine… but there are a couple things that drive me nuts. This is a fun peek into what what I've had people say to my face, and how I've handled it! https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations

The mother of a 5-year-old boy found dead in South Dallas was sentenced to life in prison last week for beating the child. 29 year old Tiffany Williams was found guilty Friday of injury to a child in connection with the 2022 death of Zamaurian Kizzee. The boy's legal father, 77 year old Ulysses Kizzee, faces a charge of injury to a child by omission. In other news, Southwestern Health Resources, which includes the medical providers and hospitals at Texas Health Resources and UT Southwestern are no longer in-network for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas insurance plans, including commercial plans, as well as Medicaid and Medicare Advantage plans; Big Bend National Park in Texas could soon expand by thousands of acres. Three lawmakers — U.S. Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas, and Ben Ray Luján D-New Mexico, and U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-San Antonio — introduced a bill in Congress last month to acquire roughly 6,100 acres along the park's western boundary; and April is Dallas Arts Month and the city is buzzing with fresh, interactive ways to experience art and music. Check out the trends taking over the city in today's edition of the Dallas Morning News. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, host Mitch Robbins interviews Mickey Brown, Vice President of Access and Reimbursement at Cerapedics, discussing his 30+ year career journey and insights on healthcare market access.Key Highlights:Mickey shares his transition from 15 years on the payer side (Blue Cross, United Healthcare) to manufacturer roles at Medtronic, Cochlear, and now CerapedicsLearn how stepping outside his comfort zone at critical moments propelled his career forwardDiscover the biggest challenges facing market access professionals in 2025Understand common reimbursement strategy mistakes companies make and how to avoid themPractical Takeaways:Why waiting too long to develop reimbursement strategy hurts product launchesThe key differences between director and VP-level thinkingWhat makes an outstanding market access professionalHow to effectively engage with increasingly inaccessible payersWhether you're in medical device sales, reimbursement, or aspiring to leadership roles in healthcare, this conversation offers valuable insights from both sides of the healthcare ecosystem.

Pete Ielmini, Executive Director of the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust (LMCT), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the efforts to reintroduce the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act, the success of their Firestop Market Recovery Program and the importance of properly installed mechanical insulation in federal buildings. Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the National Labor Office at Blue Cross and Blue Shield, and Lynn Pina, Chief Marketing Officer at GeoBlue, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the benefits of GeoBlue, the necessity of additional coverage when traveling abroad and how GeoBlue can assist union members and their families during their international travel plans this summer.

In the debut episode of Enter the Vault, host Nancy Giacolone takes listeners on a journey through her 30+ years in the employee benefits industry, sharing how she got started and how the field has evolved. From typewriters to cutting-edge technology, she reflects on the changes, challenges, and innovations that have shaped employee benefits today.

Imagine flying to Hawaii for a humor keynote, only to have everything shift in a way you never saw coming. As a keynote speaker, comedian, and corporate speaker, I know that timing, adaptability, and engaging an audience are everything—but this was a whole new challenge. With the pressure on and no room for error, I had to think fast and use comedy in business to keep the energy high. What happened next proved that sometimes, the best moments in public speaking come when you least expect them, and that workplace humor can turn any situation into a success. https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.

In this episode, comedian and keynote speaker Jan McInnis takes us behind the scenes of a high-stakes convention show that could make or break her career. With pressure mounting from every angle—an intimidating crowd, a skeptical agent, and a fellow comic with a history—she had no idea how the night would unfold. Tune in for a gripping and hilarious story about resilience, surprises, and finding the funny in unexpected places.   https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.   Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients.   https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/   Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations   Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association   Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations   Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,   Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations   Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.  

In this episode, Jakob Emerson, Associate News Director at Becker's Healthcare, joins Scott Becker to discuss the ongoing Medicare Advantage billing investigation into UnitedHealth, the financial struggles of smaller Blue Cross Blue Shield plans, and how these challenges are reshaping the healthcare landscape.

This Day in Legal History: Dred Scott DecidedOn March 6, 1857, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its infamous ruling in Dred Scott v. Sandford, a decision that deepened national tensions over slavery. The Court held that Dred Scott, an enslaved man who had lived in free territories, was not a U.S. citizen and therefore had no legal standing to sue for his freedom. In a sweeping opinion by Chief Justice Roger B. Taney, the Court went further, declaring that Congress had no power to prohibit slavery in federal territories. This effectively struck down the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which had restricted the spread of slavery in certain parts of the country. The ruling was celebrated in the South but outraged abolitionists and many in the North, who saw it as an alarming expansion of pro-slavery power.The Dred Scott decision is widely regarded as one of the worst in Supreme Court history, as it denied citizenship and legal protections to Black Americans. It also emboldened pro-slavery forces while further alienating the growing anti-slavery movement. The backlash contributed to the intensifying sectional divide that would lead to the Civil War just four years later. During the war, President Abraham Lincoln and Congress took steps to undermine the decision, culminating in the passage of the 13th and 14th Amendments. These amendments abolished slavery and established birthright citizenship, directly overturning Dred Scott. Today, the case stands as a stark reminder of how the law has been used to uphold racial injustice—and how later legal reforms can correct such profound wrongs.The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 against President Donald Trump's effort to withhold payments from foreign aid organizations for work already completed. The decision upheld an order by U.S. District Judge Amir Ali, requiring the government to release nearly $2 billion in funds owed to contractors and grant recipients under USAID and the State Department. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett joined the Court's liberal justices to form the majority, while four conservative justices dissented. The Trump administration had paused all foreign aid on January 20, citing an “America First” agenda, which disrupted humanitarian efforts worldwide. Aid organizations sued, arguing Trump exceeded his authority by defunding programs approved by Congress. The administration contended that enforcing payments without proper review amounted to judicial overreach. Despite Ali's repeated orders, the administration largely kept the funds frozen, prompting legal battles over compliance. Plaintiffs warned that continued delays would cause “extraordinary and irreversible harm” to millions relying on aid. The Supreme Court did not provide a rationale for its order but instructed Ali to clarify compliance obligations. A hearing is scheduled for March 7 to determine the next steps.US Supreme Court won't let Trump withhold payment to foreign aid groups | ReutersDozens of U.S. hospital systems and healthcare providers have filed lawsuits against Blue Cross Blue Shield, alleging the insurer underpaid them by billions. These providers chose to opt out of a $2.8 billion class-action settlement in Alabama, which is awaiting final approval. The new lawsuits, filed in federal courts in California, Illinois, and Pennsylvania, argue that Blue Cross and its affiliates conspired to divide the market, reducing competition and driving down reimbursement rates in violation of antitrust laws. Plaintiffs, including Bon Secours Mercy Health and Temple University Health, believe they could recover more through individual lawsuits than the settlement. Blue Cross has denied wrongdoing and declined to comment. The final approval hearing for the Alabama settlement is scheduled for July 29. This litigation follows a separate $2.7 billion antitrust settlement in 2020 for commercial and individual subscribers, which the U.S. Supreme Court upheld last year. Some large companies also opted out of that settlement to pursue their own claims.Hospitals line up to sue Blue Cross, opting out of $2.8 bln settlement | ReutersThe U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments on whether the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has the authority to license temporary nuclear waste storage sites, a case brought by Texas and oil industry interests. The dispute centers on a facility in western Texas, licensed by the NRC in 2021, which opponents argue poses environmental and security risks. Some conservative justices questioned whether "temporary" storage could last indefinitely, undermining efforts to establish a permanent waste site. Liberal justices focused on whether the plaintiffs had legal standing, as they did not initially challenge the NRC's decision through the agency's process. The case follows past failures to establish a permanent nuclear waste site at Yucca Mountain, Nevada, despite significant federal investment. The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals previously ruled the NRC lacked authority under the Atomic Energy Act, prompting the Biden administration to appeal—a move continued under Trump. A decision is expected by June.US Supreme Court hears Texas nuclear waste storage dispute | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Cannon v. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Inc.

Bombers winter special tonight! / Jets win again! / Fungi Film Festival?? (1:40); Sounds of the Game... Jets win 10 in a row! (9:20); The tasks you can't ignore or walk away from, like Greg spending 20 minutes cleaning up his son's overnight Italian cooking fiasco (17:00); National study on Canadian travel trends from Blue Cross (26:50); Breakfast with the Bombers - Blue Bombers annual winter special is TONIGHT ON CJOB! (34:00); There's an International FUNGI Film Festival??? And it's being held in Winnipeg for the first time ever (42:25); Winning entry on messes we can't walk away from (50:40); PINK SHIRT DAY is Nigh (54:40).

In this week's episode of Empower LEP, I had such a fantastic conversation with Dr. Jaclyn Fleck, and let me tell you—if you've ever felt overwhelmed by insurance billing, superbills, and all the fine print, you are not alone! As a fellow psychologist, I found her insights so valuable, and I walked away with a much clearer understanding of how to navigate this tricky system.Dr. Fleck is a clinical psychologist and co-owner of a neuropsych/psych testing practice outside of Chicago. She and her husband (also a clinical psychologist) started their testing-only practice almost eight years ago. Dr. Fleck meets with clients ages 4 and older and for a variety of referral requests including ADHD, autism, Specific Learning Disorders, and various psychiatric concerns (e.g., mood disorders, anxiety, traumatic stress, personality disorders). Dr. Fleck also works part-time as a consultant to other mental health professionals; specifically, she meets with professionals who need support around billing for testing, understanding CPT codes, and trying to avoid insurance audits.Here are some of my biggest takeaways from our chat:

Ever wondered what really goes on behind the wheel of a rideshare? As someone who relies on Uber and Lyft for travel, I've had some eye-opening experiences—some hilarious, some frustrating, and some downright nerve-wracking. From reckless drivers to unexpected fare demands and surprising last-minute changes, these rides have taught me a lot about safety, preparation, and the importance of professionalism. Whether you're a frequent traveler or just curious about the wild world of ridesharing, take a listen to the things that happened to me LAST YEAR! https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.   Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients.   https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.    

This Day in Legal History: George Washington Unanimously ElectedOn February 4, 1789, George Washington was unanimously elected as the first President of the United States by the Electoral College, setting a precedent for democratic governance under the newly ratified Constitution. His election marked the formal beginning of the executive branch, shaping the legal and political framework of the young nation. On the same date in 1801, John Marshall was sworn in as Chief Justice of the United States. Marshall's tenure, spanning 34 years, would profoundly influence American law, particularly through landmark decisions like Marbury v. Madison, which established judicial review. His leadership solidified the Supreme Court as a coequal branch of government. Decades later, on February 4, 1945, the Yalta Conference began, with President Franklin D. Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and Soviet leader Joseph Stalin meeting to discuss Europe's post-World War II reorganization. The conference had lasting legal implications, shaping international law, the formation of the United Nations, and the division of Germany. More recently, on this day in 1997, a civil jury found O.J. Simpson liable for the wrongful deaths of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, a stark contrast to his earlier criminal trial acquittal. This verdict highlighted the differing burdens of proof in civil versus criminal law. Each of these events reflects the evolving nature of law and governance, from the founding of the presidency to the expansion of judicial power and international legal agreements.President Donald Trump has announced plans to invoke the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 as part of his strategy to deport millions of undocumented immigrants. The law, originally passed during rising tensions with France, gives the president broad authority to detain, deport, or impose restrictions on foreign nationals deemed a threat during wartime. It can be activated when the U.S. is at war or facing an “invasion or predatory incursion” by a foreign government. Trump has directed his administration to assess whether drug cartels operating in the U.S. qualify as an invasion, which could serve as the legal basis for invoking the act.Historically, the Alien Enemies Act has been used in wartime, including during the War of 1812 and both World Wars. President Woodrow Wilson imposed restrictions on foreign nationals, and President Franklin Roosevelt used the law to justify the internment of Japanese, German, and Italian Americans during World War II. The Supreme Court has upheld the law's constitutionality, even allowing deportations after wartime, as seen in the 1948 case of a former Nazi, Kurt Ludecke. However, courts have been reluctant to define “invasion” broadly, previously ruling that large numbers of migrants crossing the border do not meet the founders' definition of an armed threat.Democratic lawmakers have recently pushed to repeal the act, citing its historical use in violating civil rights. If Trump proceeds with his plan, legal challenges will likely arise over whether cartel activity constitutes an invasion and whether the law can be used outside of traditional wartime contexts.What is the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 that Trump wants to use in deportations? | ReutersA Trump-appointed federal prosecutor, Edward Martin, has warned that anyone obstructing Elon Musk's government efficiency initiative could face criminal charges. In a letter posted on X, Martin assured Musk that his office would take legal action against anyone threatening or hindering the work of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk responded with a public thank-you.The warning follows reports that career government officials tried to block DOGE employees from accessing sensitive information. At the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), two top security officials were removed after preventing DOGE representatives from entering secure areas. Similarly, a Treasury Department official reportedly resisted efforts by DOGE to access financial systems.Martin revealed that his office had been working with DOGE but did not provide specifics. He also encouraged Musk to report any “questionable conduct” for potential legal action. The Trump administration has been expanding its control over the Justice Department, recently launching an investigation into a sheriff's office for releasing an undocumented immigrant in defiance of federal orders. Martin, who previously dropped all Jan. 6-related cases, has been outspoken in support of Trump, a departure from the typical neutrality of U.S. attorneys.US prosecutor warns of legal risk for anyone hindering Musk's efficiency effort | ReutersLawyers representing plaintiffs in a $2.8 billion antitrust settlement with Blue Cross Blue Shield have asked a federal judge in Alabama to approve over $754 million in legal fees and expenses. The legal team, led by Joe Whatley and Edith Kallas, is requesting $657.1 million in fees—equal to 23.47% of the settlement fund—along with at least $97 million in expenses. They argue this percentage is consistent with a similar $2.7 billion Blue Cross settlement in 2020, which awarded lawyers a comparable fee.The case, which has been in litigation for over a decade, accuses Blue Cross of dividing the country into exclusive territories to avoid competition, which allegedly drove up insurance costs and lowered reimbursements. Blue Cross has denied any wrongdoing. The lawyers claim they have worked 373,000 hours and spent $100 million on expert witnesses and other expenses.A previous $2.7 billion settlement involving Blue Cross, which addressed overcharging claims, was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court last year and resulted in $667 million in legal fees. The current settlement agreement permits lawyers to request up to 25% of the total fund for legal fees, leaving the judge to decide whether the request is reasonable.Lawyers seek $754 million in new Blue Cross antitrust settlement | ReutersA U.S. judge has extended a pause on the Trump administration's plan to freeze federal loans, grants, and financial aid after advocacy groups challenged the policy in court. Judge Loren AliKhan warned that cutting off funding would be "catastrophic" for organizations serving the public interest. The extension follows an earlier short-term pause, which was set to expire Monday.The funding freeze originated from a White House budget office memo directing agencies to halt funding in line with Trump's executive orders on immigration, climate change, and diversity. The memo was later withdrawn, but some grant recipients reported ongoing difficulties accessing funds.A Rhode Island judge issued a separate restraining order last week in response to a lawsuit from 22 Democratic attorneys general and Washington, D.C. Despite these rulings, a Trump administration lawyer argued that the president has the right to direct agencies under his executive authority. The legal battle over whether the funding freeze can move forward remains unresolved.US judge extends pause on Trump's plan to freeze federal grants, loans | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

About Gabe Castaneda:Gabe Castaneda is the Chief Revenue Officer at FlyteHealth, bringing over 25 years of experience in sales, marketing, and customer success in both business-to-business and direct-to-consumer markets. He has held significant roles at Omada Health, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, and UnitedHealth Group. Gabe holds a bachelor's degree in marketing from the University of Minnesota, a law degree from the Mitchell Hamline School of Law, and an MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management. His expertise lies in developing strategic sales and marketing organizations, reducing costs, improving health outcomes, and increasing member engagement.Things You'll Learn:Innovative obesity management combines lifestyle strategies with clinical medication management using a patented algorithm for personalized care.Significant weight loss results, averaging 15.8% with non-GLP-1s, reduce costs and minimize side effects.Avoiding compound prescriptions is a critical focus in effective obesity management.Efforts center on building state-level partnerships with healthcare systems and expanding collaborations with payers, consultants, and employer groups.Resources:Connect with and follow Gabe Castaneda on LinkedIn.Follow FlyteHealth on LinkedIn and visit their website. 

From a global perspective, there are four main models of health care, each of which takes a different approach both legislatively and in practical terms of how it affects a populace's ability to obtain health care coverage and services. In 1929, Blue Cross established the first employer-sponsored health coverage in Dallas as a partnership between the Baylor University hospital and its patients. One of the largest health care acts in American history, commonly referred to as the Medicare and Medicaid Act, was approved by President Lyndon B. Johnson in July 1965. After intense debate, lawmakers passed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) or Obamacare, which was signed into law on Mar. 23, 2010. 

Ever thought you could conquer anything with just a mix of enthusiasm and naivety? In this inspiring and humorous episode, Jan McInnis shares her journey from an ill-prepared novice hiker to an experienced explorer of over 25 national parks. Through tales of daunting trails like Angel's Landing and Old Rag, Jan reflects on the surprising life lessons these adventures offer. This episode is packed with laughs, relatable missteps, and valuable leadership insights on fostering enthusiasm while offering the right guidance. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, a leader looking to motivate your team, or someone who loves a great story of perseverance and humor, this episode is for you. Discover Jan's "recipe for success" and hear how a simple blend of courage and preparation can lead to big achievements—on trails and in life. Tune in to learn, laugh, and maybe even be inspired to visit a national park! https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.   Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients.   https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  Financial. . . Federal Reserve Banks, BDO Accounting, Transamerica Insurance & Investment Group, Merrill Lynch, treasury management associations, bankers associations, credit unions, Money Transmitter Regulators Association, Finance Officers Associations, automated clearing house associations, American Institute of CPAs, financial planning companies, Securities, Insurance, Licensing Association  Government . . . purchasing officers associations, city clerks, International Institute of Municipal Clerks, National League of Cities, International Worker's Compensation Fund, correctional associations, LA County Management Association, Social Security Administration, Southern California Public Power Authority, public utilities, U.S. Air Force, public personnel associations, public procurement associations, risk management associations, Rehabilitation associations, rural housing associations, community action associations  Women's Events. . . American Heart Associations, Go Red For Women luncheons, Speaking of Women's Health, International Association of Administrative Professionals, administrative professionals events, Toyota Women's Conference, Women in Insurance and Financial Services, Soroptimists, Women in Film & Video, ladies night out events, Henry Ford Health Centers Women's Event, spirit of women events, breast cancer awareness,  Education . . . School Business Officials associations, school superintendent associations, school boards associations, state education associations, community college associations, school administrators associations, school plant managers associations, Head Start associations, Texas adult protective services, school nutrition associations, Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals, principal associations, library associations  Emergency, safety, and Disaster . . . International Association of Emergency Managers, Disney Emergency Managers, state emergency management associations, insurance groups, COPIC, Salt Lake County Public Works and Municipal Services Disaster Recovery Conference, Pennsylvania Governor's Occupational Safety and Health conference, Mid Atlantic Safety conference and Chesapeake Regional Safety Council, Risk associations.  

In this anniversary episode of This Is Ag!, I sat down with Chana Hauben, our Vice President of Human Resources, to reflect on the remarkable culture we've built at UnitedAg and celebrate four years of the podcast. Our conversation explored the heart of what makes UnitedAg not just a great place to work but a unique environment for personal and professional growth.At UnitedAg, we've more than tripled our financial growth over the past decade all the while maintaining the innovative, energetic spirit of a startup. Chana and I discussed how this growth has been driven by intentional culture-building, starting with empathy, collaboration, and creativity. These values are central to everything we do, from hiring passionate and proactive people to fostering innovation at all levels.Initiatives like the Emerging Leaders Program, the Ag-a-thon, and our CULTIVATE values recognition system create opportunities for growth and connection. Our onboarding process, transformed into a comprehensive and immersive experience, ensures new hires feel supported and inspired from the start.A standout moment was celebrating our recent recognition as one of the best places to work in Orange County. This honor symbolizes the dedication and care we pour into creating a positive, people-first environment. It's also a reflection of Chana's exceptional leadership in fostering an inclusive, innovative, and empowering culture.For me, UnitedAg has always been a "lab" where we experiment with ideas—not just for business growth but for human connection. Every day is an opportunity to grow a little more, to connect on a deeper level, and to lead with empathy. Listening to our employees, hearing their stories, and seeing them thrive fills me with pride and reinforces my belief in the work we do.As we wrap up our conversation, I reflect on what makes UnitedAg so special: it's not just a workplace, it's a community where people support each other, challenge each other, and grow together. Whether it's through innovative programs, meaningful connections, or a shared commitment to our values, UnitedAg continues to be a place where we can all thrive.If you're looking for a space to innovate, grow, and make an impact, we'd love to hear from you. This is what makes us UnitedAg: a family where the journey of growth and connection never ends.This episode is sponsored by UnitedAg,  one of the largest association health plans to offer healthcare to the agriculture industry of California and Arizona.  Chana Hauben, Vice President of Human Resources at UnitedAg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chanah/Agricultural Personnel Management Association (APMA): http://agpersonnel.org/about/bod/Kirti Mutatkar, President and CEO of UnitedAg. Reach me at kmutatkar@unitedag.org, www.linkedin.com/in/kirtimutatkarUnitedAg website - www.unitedag.orgUnitedAg Health and Wellness Centers - https://www.unitedag.org/health-benefits/united-agricultural-benefit-trust/health-centers/Episode Contributors - Chana Hauben, Kirti Mutatkar, Dave Visaya, Rhianna MaciasThe episode is also sponsored by Brent Eastman Insurance Services Inc. - https://brenteastman.comBlue Shield of California - https://www.blueshieldca.comElite Medical - https://www.elitecorpmed.comGallagher - https://www.ajg.com/SAIN Medical https://sainmedical.com/MDI Network - https://www.mdinetworx.com/about-us 

Rachel Hardeman and Simone Hardeman-Jones are identical twins who share more than DNA. They also share a commitment to addressing racial inequities.Rachel Hardeman is a professor at the University of Minnesota whose research is used nationally to show how racism affects health. Her work illuminates the disparities between the experiences of Black mothers during pregnancy and childbirth and their white peers. This year, she was named one of TIME's 2024 most influential people in the world.Simone Hardeman-Jones has spent most of her career in education policy, including four years at the federal level working in former President Barack Obama's administration. Now she heads GreenLight Fund Twin Cities, which is changing how philanthropy can better listen to communities to identify unsolved problems and introduce solutions.MPR News host Angela Davis talks with the two sisters about their work and how they support each other as part of our MPR News Power Pairs series. Do you know a Power Pair? We'd love to hear your ideas for Power Pairs to interview in 2025. We're talking with prominent Minnesotans who you may know of separately but who reveal something new when we sit them down together. Maybe they're married or siblings or best friends. They could be business partners or a parent/adult child dynamic duo.Check out previous previous Power Pair conversations. And, send us your suggestions for Power Pairs.Guests: Rachel R. Hardeman is a professor in the Division of Health Policy & Management at the University of Minnesota's School of Public Health. She is also the Blue Cross endowed professor of health and racial equity and the founding director of the Center for Antiracism Research for Health Equity. She serves on an advisory committee to the director of the Centers for Disease Control.Simone Hardeman-Jones became the founding executive director of GreenLight Fund Twin Cities in 2020. Her previous work focused on education policy. She was a national director of policy and partnerships at the nonprofit Educators for Excellence and served as a deputy assistant secretary in the U.S. Department of Education in the Obama administration. Simone also worked as a policy advisor to two U.S. senators, including Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn. Subscribe to the MPR News with Angela Davis podcast on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify or RSS.    Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.     

Rachel Hardeman and Simone Hardeman-Jones are identical twins who share more than DNA. They also share a commitment to addressing racial inequities.Rachel Hardeman is a professor at the University of Minnesota whose research is used nationally to show how racism affects health. Her work illuminates the disparities between the experiences of Black mothers during pregnancy and childbirth and their white peers. This year, she was named one of TIME's 2024 most influential people in the world.Simone Hardeman-Jones has spent most of her career in education policy, including four years at the federal level working in former President Barack Obama's administration. Now she heads GreenLight Fund Twin Cities, which is changing how philanthropy can better listen to communities to identify unsolved problems and introduce solutions.MPR News host Angela Davis talks with the two sisters about their work and how they support each other as part of our MPR News Power Pairs series. Do you know a Power Pair? We'd love to hear your ideas for Power Pairs to interview in 2025. We're talking with prominent Minnesotans who you may know of separately but who reveal something new when we sit them down together. Maybe they're married or siblings or best friends. They could be business partners or a parent/adult child dynamic duo.Check out previous previous Power Pair conversations. And, send us your suggestions for Power Pairs.Guests: Rachel R. Hardeman is a professor in the Division of Health Policy & Management at the University of Minnesota's School of Public Health. She is also the Blue Cross endowed professor of health and racial equity and the founding director of the Center for Antiracism Research for Health Equity. She serves on an advisory committee to the director of the Centers for Disease Control.Simone Hardeman-Jones became the founding executive director of GreenLight Fund Twin Cities in 2020. Her previous work focused on education policy. She was a national director of policy and partnerships at the nonprofit Educators for Excellence and served as a deputy assistant secretary in the U.S. Department of Education in the Obama administration. Simone also worked as a policy advisor to two U.S. senators, including Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn. Subscribe to the MPR News with Angela Davis podcast on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify or RSS.    Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.     

This is our last episode of 2024! We'll be back right after the new year to discuss new messes. Today, we look at the substantial settlement that Disney-owned ABC has agreed to pay over George Stephanopoulos's repeated assertions that Donald Trump had been found “liable for rape” by a jury or juries. And Trump sues CBS, Ann Selzer and the Des Moines Register. Plus: Judge Juan Merchan has ruled that the Supreme Court decision establishing a sphere of presidential immunity does not compromise the guilty verdicts Trump faced in his court — we discuss the reasons. Meanwhile, Mike Flynn has lost an incompetently-litigated defamation case against Rick Wilson; a Blue Cross customer faces criminal charges for telling a call center worker “you people are next” in an argument over a claim denial; and Ingrid Lewis-Martin, Eric Adams' longtime right-hand woman, continues to find ways to annoy Ken by not shutting up about her impending criminal charges.Visit serioustrouble.show to support the show and to find a transcript of this episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.serioustrouble.show/subscribe

  Well, the year is coming to an end, and let's kick off our year-end fundraising extravaganza! I will be periodically posting some merch and patron links on the screen. I'm going full retard on the PBS ness of it all.  As you all know, TIR is entirely listener-funded. We don't take corporate money—yet. But hey, at this point, I am not above accepting some venture capitalist funds. If lizard man Peter Thiel wants to drop some change this way, I WILL TAKE IT! Seriously, though, we're gearing up to celebrate five incredible years of bringing you top-tier shows spiced with the finest dick jokes in podcasting.   To finish the year strong, we've lined up an all-star roster of guest hosts. The Green and Red Podcast will be here to dig into the biggest environmental stories of the year. Champagne Sharks is making a triumphant return, and the Antifada crew will also be in the mix. So if you like your podcasts smart, sharp, and a little chaotic, now's the time to help us grow—so big that maybe, just maybe, we too can be part of the Vanguard's podcast drama wars.   In actual news, a suspect is now in custody for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The accused, Luigi Mangione, has become something of an antihero heartthrob online. There are memes, thirst traps, and even some wild right-wing takes—I saw one guy call him “a real-life Batman.” (Spoiler: that guy doesn't know who Batman is.)   But, following the Robin Hood-like response across the political spectrum for Mangione there has been a backlash. Following the murder, a Florida woman named Brianna Boston used the same chilling words reportedly etched on the shell casings found at the scene of the crime—“Delay, Deny, Depose.” Boston was arrested for making terrorist threats after her claim was denied while she was on the phone with Blue Cross. Boston was just venting after having a claim denied and posed no threat, but will this be the move of these companies moving forward?   One thing this incident has done is reignited public outrage about the deadly inefficiency of the American healthcare system. Michael Moore was inspired to drop *Sicko* on YouTube for free, it feels like we're in a moment worth examining.   So let's talk about it. What does Luigi Mangione's viral antihero status say about the state of the public's frustration with corporate healthcare? Is this a sign that Americans are reaching a breaking point with the “profits over people” model? Or is this just another fleeting moment in the outrage cycle, destined to fizzle before it can spark meaningful reform?   Meanwhile, local news outlets are amplifying stories about families suffering under Medicaid cuts and unaffordable premiums. But can the spotlight on healthcare—even one as darkly sensational as this—actually push us closer to socialized medicine? And what does it say about the system that it takes extreme events, like the death of a CEO or the arrest of a desperate woman, to bring these issues to the fore?   Let's dive in. And don't forget to drop a Super Chat! Help us grow, so one day I can afford the kind of healthcare coverage these CEOs would deny me. Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop   Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined,   BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH!   Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents?   Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!)   THANKS Y'ALL   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland   Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles   Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/          

A Florida woman’s arrest for threatening an insurance company underscores growing tensions in the U.S. healthcare debate. A repeat offender in New Mexico is facing new charges after a bizarre encounter with police, where he threw rocks at an officer and begged to be arrested. Drew Nelson reports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Paul Hlivko, EVP, Chief Information and Digital Officer, Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield as he discusses technology modernization, cloud, data, and the digital talent of the future. 

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Blue Cross rules that irk, Christmas gift ideas in restaurant merch, Blitzen the unloved Reindeer, Harry Azcrac and Duncan McCockiner in Texas, a heartwarming Christmas tune for kids, and a listener e-mail that both informs and offends are among the minutiae discussed this week by Rick and Dave. [Ep376]

The assassination of the United Healthcare CEO. Blue Cross places limits on anesthesia. The public option. Joe and Mika apologize for "flippant" remarks by David Frum. What's happening to MSNBC? Should President Biden issue preemptive pardons for officials on Kash Patel's enemies list? Donald faces pushback from Senate Republicans, indicating he doesn't have a lot of political capital. Rand Paul and Mike Rounds oppose Donald on deportations and Ukraine. Joe Rogan and Steve Schmidt live in a different reality. With Jody Hamilton, David Ferguson, music by Freekbass, Everyday Dolores, and more!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, I speak with Stan Welsh, a healthcare provider at the UnitedAg Health and Wellness Center in Salinas, about the transformative power of putting people at the heart of healthcare. We explore the importance of compassion, trust, and meaningful human connections in improving patient outcomes and redefining what it means to provide quality care.Stan shares his insights on how human interaction is often missing in traditional, metrics-driven healthcare settings and how the approach at UnitedAg allows providers to fulfill their desire to make a real difference. We discuss how small yet impactful changes—like showing appreciation and building trust—can create a ripple effect, leading to better patient experiences and long-term growth.Stan and I also dive into practical advice for listeners: the importance of self-care, including regular checkups, a balanced diet, and consistent exercise. Stan stresses the value of simplicity and consistency in maintaining health and well-being. Finally, we discuss how UnitedAg's philosophy of putting people first—not metrics or profit—has tripled its impact, proving that prioritizing human beings at the center of care not only makes business sense but is also a step toward transforming the healthcare system.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about challenging the status quo and the power of human connection in healthcare.This episode is sponsored by UnitedAg,  one of the largest association health plans to offer healthcare to the agriculture industry of California and Arizona.  Kirti Mutatkar, President and CEO of UnitedAg. Reach me at kmutatkar@unitedag.org, www.linkedin.com/in/kirtimutatkarUnitedAg website - www.unitedag.orgUnitedAg Health and Wellness Centers - https://www.unitedag.org/health-benefits/united-agricultural-benefit-trust/health-centers/Episode Contributors - Stan Welsh, Kirti Mutatkar, Dave Visaya, Rhianna MaciasThe episode is also sponsored by Brent Eastman Insurance Services Inc. - https://brenteastman.comBlue Shield of California - https://www.blueshieldca.comElite Medical - https://www.elitecorpmed.comGallagher - https://www.ajg.com/SAIN Medical https://sainmedical.com/MDI Network - https://www.mdinetworx.com/about-us 

Blue Cross unlawfully terminated 250 employees who had submitted religious exemption requests. Constitutional expert, lawyer, author, pastor, and founder of Liberty Counsel Mat Staver discusses the important topics of the day with co-hosts and guests that impact life, liberty, and family. To stay informed and get involved, visit LC.org.

This time on Code WACK! Imagine learning that your baby girl has a brain tumor that's causing seizures and disrupting her development, and your health insurance company is denying coverage for the treatment her pediatric oncologist says she needs to survive and thrive? What would you do? Where did one mother turn when repeated health insurance denials delayed time-sensitive treatment to shrink her baby's tumor?  To find out, we spoke to Dr. Eunice Stallman, a psychiatrist in Idaho and clinical faculty at the University of Washington School of Medicine and the University of Washington Boise Psychiatry Residency Program. Her daughter Zoey is two years old now and still undergoing medical treatment. This is the first episode in a two-part series. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more!  

Here's a quick story about a rental car that almost killed me this year! AND I offer 4 quick things to check on a rental car that might just save your life.   https://www.theWorkLady.com Jan McInnis is a top keynote speaker, funny female motivational speaker, comedian, Master of Ceremonies, and comedy writer. She has written for Jay Leno's The Tonight Show monologues as well as many other people, places, and groups—radio, TV, syndicated cartoon strips, guests on The Jerry Springer Show (her parents are proud). For over 25 years, she's traveled the country as a keynote speaker and comedian, sharing her unique and practical tips on how to use humor in business (yes, it's a business skill!). She's been featured in The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post for her clean humor, and she's the author of two books: Finding the Funny Fast – How to Create Quick Humor to Connect with Clients, Coworkers, and Crowds, and Convention Comedian: Stories and Wisdom From Two Decades of Chicken Dinners and Comedy Clubs. She also has a popular podcast titled Comedian Stories: Tales From the Road in Under 5 Minutes. In her former life, she was a marketing executive in Washington, D.C. for national non-profits, and she received the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives “Excellence in Education” Award. Jan's been featured at thousands of events from the Federal Reserve Banks to the Mayo Clinic.  Jan McInnis shows businesses how to use humor in everything from sales to human resources in dealing with staff, coworkers, clients and potential clients. https://www.TheWorkLady.com https://youtu.be/BtjxzDn-QLE https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmcinnis https://twitter.com/janmcinnis https://www.pinterest.com/janmcinnis/pins/ https://www.youtube.com/c/JanMcInnisComedian https://www.facebook.com/ComedianJanMcInnis https://www.instagram.com/jan.mcinnis/  Jan has shared her humor keynotes from Fortune 500 companies to international associations. Groups such as . .. Healthcare. . . Mayo Clinic, Health Information Management Associations, Healthcare Financial Management Associations, Hospitals, Abbott Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Kaiser-Permanente, Davita Dialysis Centers, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Home Healthcare Associations, Assisted Living Associations, Healthcare Associations, National Council for Prescription Drug Companies, Organization of Nurse Leaders, Medical Group Management Associations, Healthcare Risk Associations, Healthcare Quality Associations  

Send us a textIn this episode, Alexis sits down with Jackie Yarbrough, Senior Program Officer of the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health, to explore how this unique foundation is transforming school communities across Idaho. While it may not seem typical for a health insurance company foundation to be involved in education, the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation is deeply committed to improving the health and wellbeing of local communities through strategic investments. Jackie, a passionate native Idahoan, shares how the foundation supports Community School models and provides vital grants to numerous districts and nonprofits throughout the state. Tune in to learn more about this innovative approach to community building and hear firsthand the impact these investments are having on school communities in Idaho.Find Alexis on Instagram and JOIN in the conversation: https://www.instagram.com/the_idaho_lady/Send Alexis an email with guest requests, ideas, or potential collaboration.alexis@ourkidsourschools.comFind great resources and info on school communities:https://ourkidsourschools.com/

(2:00) Finally, Justice for Corporate MandatesMassive $15 MILLION judgement against corporation that fired woman who refused to get the jab because of religious beliefs.  There are HUNDREDS more coming to trial in just a single stateHow vaccines have made flying far less safeIs FDA's Butter Story an Effort to Make Us Think They Care?Why "public health" MUST be shut down in its entirety(43:06) LIVE comments (48:28) No CO2, No FoodUK takes the lead in destroying farms — it's clear they want the land, but disagreement about the conspiracy's end gameWill Jeremy Clarkson, now publicly siding with farmer against Labour's radical Net Zero policies, become UK's Trump?RFKj does a great job breaking down how China got control of US pork industryThe host of the UN's COP29 Climate grift slams the agendaUN Guterres says "the clock is ticking".  Yeah, we're on to their scheme(1:18:52) From Handy: Here's how Blue Cross was bribing doctors to get their patients vaxed with mRNA TrumpShot (1:23:59) AI isn't living up to the hypeNYC attempt to use AI surveillance for weapons on the subway is an EPIC FAILThe creator of Linux says he hates the "hype cycle" of AI as he talks about WHY he's skeptical(1:30:35) LIVE comments — Infowars is down…my comments (1:35:23) INTERVIEW Tony Arterburn, What's Going on with Bitcoin and GoldTony Arterburn, DavidKnight.gold joinsWhat is behind the amazing run up of Bitcoin?Is BTC price an aberration or reasonable?What happens now with gold? What is happening in other countries, outside of the US election bubble?(2:11:19) BREAKING: Onion has purchased Infowars (2:13:20) Personnel is Policy — Gaetz & Tulsi TappedWhat does Matt Gaetz' appointment tell us of Trump's agenda?Will Gaetz be confirmed? MSM pushes back on Hegseth nomination for laughable reasons - offering the "credentials" of other SecDef'sHegseth doesn't seem to understand that he can't reset the "rules" of war, ethics and moralityCan you believe anyone is taking Musk/Ramaslimy's DOGE seriously?Can Trump shut down Dept of Education? What are the options?Now technocrat & ESG promoter Howard Lutnick, co-chair of Trump transition, is vying against the frontrunner, a Soros partner, for the position of Treasury SecretaryMike Johnson moves to severely penalize any attempt to remove him as Speaker(2:54:43) Netflix is about to release an "EPIC" "RE-IMAGINING" of Christianity's "ORIGIN STORY"If you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-show Or you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7 Money should have intrinsic value AND transactional privacy: Go to DavidKnight.gold for great deals on physical gold/silver For 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to TrendsJournal.com and enter the code KNIGHTBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-david-knight-show--2653468/support.

(2:00) Finally, Justice for Corporate MandatesMassive $15 MILLION judgement against corporation that fired woman who refused to get the jab because of religious beliefs.  There are HUNDREDS more coming to trial in just a single stateHow vaccines have made flying far less safeIs FDA's Butter Story an Effort to Make Us Think They Care?Why "public health" MUST be shut down in its entirety(43:06) LIVE comments (48:28) No CO2, No FoodUK takes the lead in destroying farms — it's clear they want the land, but disagreement about the conspiracy's end gameWill Jeremy Clarkson, now publicly siding with farmer against Labour's radical Net Zero policies, become UK's Trump?RFKj does a great job breaking down how China got control of US pork industryThe host of the UN's COP29 Climate grift slams the agendaUN Guterres says "the clock is ticking".  Yeah, we're on to their scheme(1:18:52) From Handy: Here's how Blue Cross was bribing doctors to get their patients vaxed with mRNA TrumpShot (1:23:59) AI isn't living up to the hypeNYC attempt to use AI surveillance for weapons on the subway is an EPIC FAILThe creator of Linux says he hates the "hype cycle" of AI as he talks about WHY he's skeptical(1:30:35) LIVE comments — Infowars is down…my comments (1:35:23) INTERVIEW Tony Arterburn, What's Going on with Bitcoin and GoldTony Arterburn, DavidKnight.gold joinsWhat is behind the amazing run up of Bitcoin?Is BTC price an aberration or reasonable?What happens now with gold? What is happening in other countries, outside of the US election bubble?(2:11:19) BREAKING: Onion has purchased Infowars (2:13:20) Personnel is Policy — Gaetz & Tulsi TappedWhat does Matt Gaetz' appointment tell us of Trump's agenda?Will Gaetz be confirmed? MSM pushes back on Hegseth nomination for laughable reasons - offering the "credentials" of other SecDef'sHegseth doesn't seem to understand that he can't reset the "rules" of war, ethics and moralityCan you believe anyone is taking Musk/Ramaslimy's DOGE seriously?Can Trump shut down Dept of Education? What are the options?Now technocrat & ESG promoter Howard Lutnick, co-chair of Trump transition, is vying against the frontrunner, a Soros partner, for the position of Treasury SecretaryMike Johnson moves to severely penalize any attempt to remove him as Speaker(2:54:43) Netflix is about to release an "EPIC" "RE-IMAGINING" of Christianity's "ORIGIN STORY"If you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-show Or you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7 Money should have intrinsic value AND transactional privacy: Go to DavidKnight.gold for great deals on physical gold/silver For 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to TrendsJournal.com and enter the code KNIGHTBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-david-knight-show--5282736/support.

In this edition of Generations, Kevin and Steve discuss Trump's second presidency. What are the number one priorities? Is Trump going to protect Christians? Will Trump cut spending? It's important for Christians to be in prayer for righteousness to take priority in this presidency. This program includes: 1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus (Trump picks Matt Gaetz as Attorney General, Blue Cross to pay $12 million for firing over COVID shot, Slovakia's March for Life draws 40,000) 2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

It's Thursday, November 14th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Myanmar's persecution of Christians The military regime of Myanmar continues its persecution of Christians. Authorities imposed new restrictions in the capital of Rakhine State. Churches cannot display crosses. They must also submit membership lists to police and get authorization to hold services. One local Christian told the Myanmar Pressphoto Agency, “Last month, we installed a cross, a symbol of our faith, as a way to identify the Christian church here, but the police came and demanded it be removed. We prayed before putting it up, so we refused to take it down ourselves, and instead asked them to do it on their own.”  The southeast Asian nation is ranked 17th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of countries where it most difficult to be a Christian.  Slovakia's March for Life draws 40,000 This past September, nearly 40,000 people participated in the fourth March for Life in Slovakia, reports LifeSiteNews. The slogan of the march in the Eastern European nation was “Love is pro-life.”  Jozef Miklosko, the country's Commissioner for Children, addressed the crowd, saying it's his job to stand up for children, born or unborn. Abortion is currently legal up to 12 weeks of pregnancy. However, the abortion kill pill is not legal. Slovakia also voted to reject a resolution by the European Parliament to make abortion a so-called right.  Trump nominates Elon Musk & Vivek Ramaswamy to lead Dept. of Government Efficiency In the United States, President-elect Donald Trump announced tech billionaire Elon Musk and conservative entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy will lead a new Department of Government Efficiency.  Trump said in a statement, “Together, these two wonderful Americans will pave the way for my administration to dismantle government bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure federal agencies.”  Musk said the department's actions “will be posted online for maximum transparency. We will also have a leaderboard for [the] most insanely dumb spending of your tax dollars. This will be both extremely tragic and extremely entertaining.” In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, the Apostle Paul wrote, “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” Trump picks Matt Gaetz as Attorney General Trump also tapped Republican Congressman Matt Gaetz of Florida to be his Attorney General, reports CBS News.  Trump praised him as a "tenacious attorney" who will "end weaponized government, protect our borders, dismantle criminal organizations and restore Americans' badly shattered faith and confidence in the Justice Department." Gaetz immediately resigned from Congress. Trump picked Fox News host & veteran Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary President-elect Trump also surprised many by picking Pete Hegseth as his Secretary of Defense, reports Fox News. Trump wrote, “Pete has spent his entire life as a warrior for the troops, and for the country. Pete is tough, smart, and a true believer in America First."  Hegseth, age 44, an Army National Guard veteran who served tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantanamo Bay, has hosted the FOX Nation "Patriot Awards" since 2019, which is the network's version of a Hollywood awards show honoring heroes like first responders.  Take a look at the winners of the 2023 Patriot Awards through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. Court: Blue Cross to pay $12 million for firing over COVID shot A former employee of Blue Cross Blue Shield won a $12 million settlement last Friday in a religious liberty case. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan fired Lisa Domski in 2021 after she sought a religious exemption for the COVID-19 shot. The insurance company denied her request, calling into question her objections as a Catholic.  Her attorney, Jon Marko, said, “Lisa refused to renounce her faith and beliefs and was wrongfully terminated from the only job she had ever known. The jury's verdict today tells [Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan] that religious discrimination has no place in America and affirms each person's right to religious freedom.” Judge blocks Ten Commandments at schools On Tuesday, a federal judge temporarily blocked a Louisiana law that requires public schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms. U.S. District Judge John deGravelles ruled the law is “unconstitutional on its face.”  Louisiana's Attorney General Liz Murrill said she would appeal to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. She said, “This law, I believe, is constitutional . . . you don't have to like the posters. The point is you can make posters that comply with the Constitution.” In Deuteronomy 6:6-9, God said, “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children … You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Trump won 56% of the Christian vote And finally, Dr. George Barna released a report on the Christian vote in this year's presidential election. The report found self-identified Christians made up 72% of the voters who turned out, and Trump won 56% of the Christian vote. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris won 60% of the non-Christian vote. The study noted, “not only did most of President Trump's votes come from Christians, but they gave him a 17-million-vote cushion over Mrs. Harris, which proved to be an insurmountable lead. The incumbent Vice President fared much better among people associated with non-Christian faiths and with no religious faith, but those segments represented too small a slice of the voting population to make her bid for the White House viable.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, November 14th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). And now, here to close the newscast, is my daughter, Mercy Geneva, who is turning 13 today. Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

In this edition of Generations, Kevin and Steve discuss Trump's second presidency. What are the number one priorities? Is Trump going to protect Christians? Will Trump cut spending? It's important for Christians to be in prayer for righteousness to take priority in this presidency.This program includes:1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus (Trump picks Matt Gaetz as Attorney General, Blue Cross to pay $12 million for firing over COVID shot, Slovakia's March for Life draws 40,000)2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

This episode, recorded live at the Becker's Healthcare 2024 Fall Payer Issues Roundtable, features Dr. Jeremy Wigginton, Chief Medical Officer at Capital Blue Cross. Here, he shares his approach to improving member experience by addressing overutilization, enhancing health literacy, and integrating whole-person care. He highlights the role of technology in growth strategies and discusses Capital Blue Cross's move towards a fully integrated care model to foster better health outcomes.

Andrew Strom, a labor lawyer and contributor to the OnLabor Blog, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the potential impacts the presidential election results could have on the National Labor Relation Board (NLRB). He also discussed holes in the National Labor Relation Act that have been exploited by corporations. Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the National Labor Office at Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, and Daniel Yoder, Senior Vice President of the Federal Employee Program (FEP) at Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the open enrollment period for federal employees and how the FEP helps members simplify navigating their healthcare options.

In this special episode, I reflect on my journey alongside an extraordinary leader and mentor, Veronica Urzua-Alvero, Vice President of Human Resources at Church Brothers Farms, who has been instrumental in shaping not only UnitedAg's organization but also my own approach to leadership. Veronica's roots in agriculture, inspired by her family, set her on a path where she found her true calling in operations and community-building within the ag industry. Her resilience and determination allowed her to rise above challenges and stay focused on her own growth without letting external factors derail her journey.Veronica's strategic thinking and unique insights have shaped UnitedAg's distinct approach, one that doesn't simply follow the industry but stays true to who we are. Through her guidance, I've learned how important it is to view challenges with a long-term perspective, making big-picture decisions that serve the greater good, even if they're tough in the moment.During our conversation, Veronica also shares her shift from a focus on individual achievement to empowering her team, fostering a growth-oriented and purpose-driven environment. We both emphasize the importance of empathy and coaching in leadership, striving to build understanding and resilience within our teams.  We also reflect on the impact of Veronica's leadership, especially in her role at UnitedAg such as serving as the first female chairperson in 2013 and guiding us through significant events like the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and COVID-19. Her big-picture vision and risk management skills were essential to building a strong foundation for UnitedAg, setting structures and making decisions that continue to support our organization today. I am deeply grateful for her friendship and leadership. She has not only shaped UnitedAg but has influenced how I lead and live my life, encouraging me to think beyond the immediate and truly value the people and purpose behind our work. Join us as I celebrate and share the lessons I've learned from this remarkable leader and friend, Veronica Urzua-Alvero.Veronica Urzua-Alvero: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-urzua-alvero-52842730b/Church Brothers Farms: https://www.churchbrothers.com/This episode is sponsored by UnitedAg,  one of the largest association health plans to offer healthcare to the agriculture industry of California and Arizona.  Kirti Mutatkar, President and CEO of UnitedAg. Reach me at kmutatkar@unitedag.org, www.linkedin.com/in/kirtimutatkarUnitedAg website - www.unitedag.orgEpisode Contributors - Veronica Urzua-Alvero, Kirti Mutatkar, Dave Visaya, Rhianna MaciasThe episode is also sponsored by Brent Eastman Insurance Services Inc. - https://brenteastman.comBlue Shield of California - https://www.blueshieldca.comElite Medical - https://www.elitecorpmed.comGallagher - https://www.ajg.com/SAIN Medical https://sainmedical.com/MDI Network - https://www.mdinetworx.com/about-us 

Dr. Kurthy has practiced in Southern California for 46 years. He graduated with highest honors from Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Dentistry in 1978 and completed a GP residency at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. Dr Kurthy's 48 years of research & development include laser and surgical periodontal bone regeneration; endodontic surgery, including bone regeneration and repair of resorptive lesions; teeth whitening; teeth sensitivity; development of several cosmetic techniques and impression techniques; and even credible, professional marketing techniques designed to attract only high-quality patients. His first participation in periodontal research was in 1976, and teeth whitening in 1977. Dr. Kurthy is the recipient of many awards and accolades including the Mosby Scholarship Award; FDU Prosthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry Awards; the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society Gold Key Award; and a commendation from the Chief Attorney of the United States Department of Defense for his role in supporting patients' rights in disputes with insurance carriers. Dr. Kurthy's efforts were directly responsible for forcing Blue Cross of California to correct their Explanation of Benefit comments to conform to accepted practice. In March of 2005, Dr. Kurthy was selected as the most respected member of DentalTown.com by over 60,000 of his peers. Dr. Kurthy is an exciting and effective international lecturer and author of five popular clinical and dental marketing books. He has authored numerous articles in, and is frequently interviewed by, dental journals and consumer magazines. He has appeared numerous times on the covers of several widely-read dental journals in the U.S.; has been featured six times on national tape interview series; is a consultant to several popular consumer magazines such as People Magazine, and has been a feature writer for Oxygen women's fitness magazine. He has been interviewed and featured numerous times in national media and was the personal dentist of the 1994 United States Men's World Cup Soccer Team. Most recently Dr. Kurthy has been widely known for his remarkable KöR® Whitening System. 

If you have been a long-time listener, you'll know that ever since I started my Canadian private practice, I have never offered direct billing to clients.  There were many reasons for this, such as when I started eight years ago, there weren't many insurance companies covering registered counselling therapists. Plus, each insurance plan seemed to have a different rule or agreement on whether a registered counselling therapist could be covered, and if so, by what percentage.  Until now! In 2024, there's been a big change where TELUS Health is now allowing registered counselling therapists and psychotherapists to be part of their platform, and the TELUS platform offers many different types of insurance companies. Listen in to find out more!  In this Episode: TELUS Health and Jane App  Discovering the offered insurance companies  How to integrate direct billing with your Jane App  TELUS Health and Jane App  ‘TELUS Health is now allowing registered counselling therapists and psychotherapists to be a part of their platform, and on their platform [are] many different types of insurance companies … Which makes it so much easier to direct bill.' - Julia Smith I really started to think about offering direct billing once I heard that TELUS Health integrates with Jane App.  I knew that if I could offer direct billing through my EMR, Jane App, and it would only take a couple of minutes that it would be worth looking into, and adding into my practice structure.  ‘The last thing I want to do is add another 15-30 minutes to each session having to deal with billing, but if it's only going to take five minutes to do direct billing, I know my clients would really appreciate that, and therapy would become more accessible for people that are looking for direct billing and therapy services!' - Julia Smith  Discovering the offered insurance companies  From talking with clients, I know that the three main insurance companies that people use are;  Sun Life  Manulife  Blue Cross  Unfortunately, TELUS Health only has Manulife, but then a tonne of other insurance companies. I started to talk with other therapists about Blue Cross to see if it's worth it to apply for direct billing with them, even though they're not part of the TELUS Health system.  Then, I started the process of adding direct billing to my private practice through TELUS Health and Blue Cross.  ‘Luckily in Canada as therapists we don't have to apply for an insurance panel, like therapists do in the states, as long as you have the degrees needed you can just apply to TELUS Health, to Blue Cross, and then any insurance program that offers therapy and accepts registered counselling therapists or psychotherapists, you'll be covered!' - Julia Smith How to integrate direct billing with your Jane App ‘Luckily, Jane App did not disappoint!' - Julia Smith  There were two videos that answered all of the pressing questions that you may have about linking insurance with your Jane App EMR - you can watch these videos here, and here, and learn how to integrate insurance with your Jane App as well! If you're ready to give Jane App a go, use my code FEARLESS to receive one month free!  ‘With your schedule, Jane App also shows a little insurance badge with the clients who are using insurance, so that can make it a lot easier to know which client's are going through insurance and which clients aren't.' - Julia Smith  With Jane App, you can reduce the amount of admin that you will have to do with each client!  Connect with me: Instagram Website  Resources Mentioned and Useful Links:  EP 140: Blackcy Placidass: Developing a Value-Based Practice | EP 140  Learn more about the tools and deals that I love and use for my Canadian private practice Article: How to Set Up a Canadian Private Practice Website   Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Jane App (use code FEARLESS for one month free) Rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and TuneIn

Crain's health care reporters Katherine Davis and Jon Asplund talk with host Amy Guth about how Chicago-area hospitals are coping with dwindling supply levels of IV fluid after Hurricane Helene halted production at a North Carolina Baxter plant.Plus: Walgreens is closing stores and bleeding cash, but new CEO insists it's hitting long-term marks; Blue Cross antitrust lawsuit reaches $2.8B tentative settlement; True Value files for bankruptcy to sell itself to rival Do It Best; and Adams Street raises $1.2 billion for venture investments.

Our guest today is Drew Hobby, the Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer of Blue Cross of Idaho. Drew has spearheaded the transition from fee-for-service to value-based payments, making healthcare more affordable for members and clients. He now oversees the Healthcare Economics, IT, and Strategy teams pushing for innovation in healthcare delivery and affordability. Drew's deep understanding of healthcare dynamics and commitment to value-based care emphasizes the significance of innovative strategies in enhancing patient outcomes and controlling costs. His work has not only transformed healthcare economics at Blue Cross of Idaho but also improved access to care for many underserved populations. In this episode, you will hear about Drew's insights on the complexities of health insurance, the importance of proactive care management, and his efforts to tackle the healthcare affordability crisis Do you have any thoughts or guest suggestions? Please email us at hello@rosenmaninstitute.org.

In this episode, I spoke with Jayson Welter, our General Counsel at United Ag, about our advocacy efforts for agricultural communities, particularly in healthcare. We discussed key challenges like hospital closures and improving access to mental health services through platforms like Teladoc. Jayson explained how the Affordable Care Act brought mental health parity, ensuring equal costs for mental and physical healthcare.  We also touched on the empathy and care that agricultural employers have for their workers, and how improving healthcare coverage boosts productivity. Our advocacy isn't just about making requests—it's about building relationships, educating policymakers, and showing the real challenges faced in rural healthcare and agriculture.I encourage anyone, even outside of agriculture, to get involved. Whether it's locally or joining us in Sacramento, every effort makes a difference. Agriculture touches all of us, and together we can do even more to support the communities that feed our nation.Jayson Welter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayson-welter-7b049290/UnitedAg Advocacy - https://www.unitedag.org/advocacy/This episode is sponsored by UnitedAg,  one of the largest association health plans to offer healthcare to the agriculture industry of California and Arizona.  Kirti Mutatkar, President and CEO of UnitedAg. Reach me at kmutatkar@unitedag.org, www.linkedin.com/in/kirtimutatkarUnitedAg website - www.unitedag.orgEpisode Contributors - Jayson Welter, Kirti Mutatkar, Dave Visaya, Rhianna MaciasThe episode is also sponsored by Brent Eastman Insurance Services Inc. - https://brenteastman.comBlue Shield of California - https://www.blueshieldca.comElite Medical - https://www.elitecorpmed.comGallagher - https://www.ajg.com/SAIN Medical https://sainmedical.com/MDI Network - https://www.mdinetworx.com/about-us

Minnesota State University, Mankato announced a five-year agreement with Blue Cross and Blue Shield to open The Rural Behavioral Health Clinic this year. Rural patients living in greater Minnesota often encounter barriers to receiving services including having to travel great distances to see mental and behavioral health care providers.And the Hennepin County Attorney's Office today dismissed charges against a man accused of attacking residents of a north Minneapolis homeless shelter after police misidentified the suspect. Those stories and more in today's evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

In this eye-opening episode, Emma Fox and David Contorno dive deep into the often-overlooked mechanisms that drive healthcare costs higher year after year. Emma shares her viral LinkedIn post about being "anti-BUCA" (Blue Cross, United, Cigna, Aetna) and the heated debate that followed. The conversation unveils the truth behind medical loss ratios, pre-certification practices, and the intricate systems that benefit insurers at the expense of employers and employees. Tune in to understand why challenging the status quo is essential for creating fair and transparent health plans.TIMESTAMPS[01.22] The anti-BUCA (Blue Cross, United, Cigna, Aetna) stance[04.42] David explains how pre-certification is used to control care and ensure claims go up[10.36] Discussed an article about Aetna's former medical director ignoring patient records[11.15] Correlation between premium increases and carrier stock prices[16.43] Higher standards their plans are held to compared to traditional carriers[19.19] History and purpose of pre-certification in healthcare[24.27]Story of a physician-owned hospital system preferring non-BUCA payers[28.47 The role of doctors in current healthcare systemQUOTES:"None of this is by accident. When I meet with employers and we talk about how we build health plans, we talk about medical management... the initial decisions are made by largely non-clinical administrative people who are following a series of checkboxes." -Emma Fox"You know, carriers put out messages that they provide great care, that they want costs to be lower, that they want to control costs, but that's not how they operate." -David Contorno"I feel like when I come in with the plan that I have demonstrated is higher quality going to lower out of pocket, it's going to save the money. I'm held to a much higher standard than Blue Cross and United is." -David ContornoSOCIAL MEDIA LINKSDavid ContornoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcontorno/Emma FoxLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmamariefox/WEBSITEE-Powered Benefits: https://www.epoweredbenefits.com/Emma Fox: https://emmamariefox.com/Mixed & Edited by Next Day Podcastinfo@nextdaypodcast.com

Are you experiencing symptoms like bloating, abdominal pains, headaches, fatigue, diarrhea, or joint pain? You might be gluten-sensitive. In this episode of the Visibly Fit Podcast, I dive deep into the world of gluten sensitivity with guest Susan Neal, a registered nurse and health expert.Discover the puzzle of gluten sensitivity and how it could be affecting your health without you even realizing it. Susan shares her journey with gluten sensitivity and how it impacted her life. Learn about the difference between gluten sensitivity and celiac disease, and why it's crucial to get tested if you suspect gluten-related issues.We also discuss the importance of a healthy gut microbiome, the impact of lifestyle changes on our overall well-being, and the role of faith in our health journey. Whether you're looking to better understand your symptoms or seeking guidance on navigating a gluten-free lifestyle, this episode is packed with valuable information you won't want to miss.Chapter:[00:00] Podcast Preview[00:31] Welcome to Visibly Fit Podcast[01:13] Symptoms of Gluten Sensitivity[02:07] Guest Introduction: Susan Neal[03:11] Susan Neal's Personal Story[04:10] What is Gluten?[05:13] Hidden Sources of Gluten[07:26] Misdiagnosis and Gluten Sensitivity[08:27] Susan's Symptoms and Diagnosis[10:21] Misdiagnosis and Common Symptoms[11:01] Genetic Testing for Celiac Disease[13:01] Lifestyle Changes and Gluten-Free Diet[16:13] Hidden Gluten in Foods[17:17] Susan's Coaching and Health Background[17:49] Difference Between Gluten Sensitivity and Celiac Disease[21:03] Gluten-Free Trend and Testing[21:35] Differences in Gluten Across Countries[23:16] Impact of Chemicals on Health[24:09] Susan's Book: 12 Ways to Age Gracefully[25:22] Importance of Exercise and Diet[26:07] Root Causes of Unhealthy Eating[28:22] Importance of Gut Health[29:01] Challenges of Change[30:14] Faith and Health[31:38] Susan's Faith Journey[33:33] Where to Find Susan's Books[33:54] Conclusion and Call to ActionResources mentioned:Gluten Intolerance QuizSusan Neal's WebsiteVisibly Fit 7-Week Accelerator ProgramConnect with today's guest:Susan Neal, RN, is a Certified Christian Health and Wellness Coach dedicated to helping others reclaim their health and ideal weight. With a master's degree in health science, Susan combines her medical expertise with a biblical approach to guide individuals in overcoming unhealthy eating habits and embracing a healthier lifestyle. After facing a severe health crisis at fifty, which left her bedridden and with multiple medical diagnoses, Susan used her knowledge and faith to restore her health and achieve her ideal weight.Susan is the author of the award-winning 'Healthy Living Series,' including 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates, Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates, Healthy Living Bullet Journal, and Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1. She also wrote Solving the Gluten Puzzle and developed the course 7 Steps to Reclaim Your Health and Optimal Weight, helping others identify and resolve the root causes of their negative eating habits.Susan's professional background includes roles as a Kidney Transplant Nurse at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida, as an Assistant Administrator at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, and Quality Assurance Nurse at Blue Cross

We kick off 'This Week in Pharmacy' with a news review starting with an interview from Pharmacy Times with Rina Shah, SVP of Walgreens about -- "Sustainable Care Models Must Expand Role of Pharmacist" Rina discussed what the future of sustainable care models in the pharmaceutical industry. We also note the article titled: "Community Pharmacists Can Impact Disparities in Care Delivery" Drug Topics interviews Jasmine Perry, PharmD, senior clinical pharmacist, professional engagement and quality at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina.  Access In some rural areas of the United States, pharmacists are the only health care providers that a community can access. Our guest, Vincent Grippi is the Founder and CEO of Grippi Media. He brings over 16 years of experience helping companies leverage digital marketing to accelerate business growth, reach new customers and build brand equity.    Vincent has designed and implemented digital marketing strategies for startups and Fortune 500 companies both agency-side and in-house. His work has been featured in AdWeek, Business Insider, Fierce Healthcare, Marketing Dive and more.