Podcasts about CMS

Subscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.Health Affairs' Jeff Byers welcomes Rachel Sachs from Washington University in St. Louis and Deputy Editor Chris Fleming back to the pod to discuss CMS' final guidance for the latest round of the Medicare drug price negotiation program. Related Articles:Administration Releases Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program Final Guidance For 2028 (Health Affairs Forefront)The Role of Combination Drugs in the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program (JAMA)Articulating policy options regarding implementation of the Medicare drug price negotiation program's renegotiation provision (Brookings Institution)Eye on The IRA (Health Affairs) Subscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.

CMS plans to simplify prior authorization for Medicare beneficiaries beginning in 2026. Listen to learn more about changes coming to Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare!   Read the text version  

On today's episode of The Gist Healthcare Podcast, CMS finalizes a Medicare pay bump for physicians. Kimberly-Clark to purchase Tylenol maker Kenvue, and Pfizer sues to block Novo Nordisk's merger with an obesity startup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caroline Gilbert — Director of Content & Editorial at Angi — joins Ross Hudgens to explore how one of the largest home-services brands is using AI to scale, transform, and optimize content operations. They discuss how Caroline's team doubled Angi's content library to 12,000+ articles, how AI helps maintain top-funnel visibility amid shifting search behaviors, and the nuanced balance between human expertise and generative automation. Caroline breaks down the three pillars of Angi's AI framework — generation, transformation, and operations — and how they've automated everything from brief creation to CMS ingestion while keeping a strong editorial voice. Plus: lessons learned from early AI missteps, real examples of disclosure testing, and how AI is reshaping both content creation and search behavior itself. Show Notes 0:08 – From cost guides to “everything home”: expanding Angi's library 1:00 – Moving up-funnel: education, troubleshooting, light DIY, and when to hire 2:14 – Top-funnel ROI drops as AI overviews change search behavior 2:56 – Why Angi adopts gen-AI: maintain helpful content without heavy human lift 3:27 – Staying visible where intent is early but brand value matters 4:45 – Content becomes commodity: deciding where humans add unique value 5:55 – Evergreen “how-to” steps vs. human nuance (risks, gotchas, pro POV) 7:18 – How AI is used: full refreshes, component injections, data-driven sizing 9:01 – The real trade-off: human time vs. technology time 9:26 – Scale context: 5k → 12k pages (growth mostly human-led) 9:41 – Three pillars: generation, transformation, operations 10:38 – Ops wins: briefs, automated edits/QA, CMS ingestion, minutes → hours 12:21 – Designers focus on UX polish when ingestion is 98% done 12:58 – Where AI struggled: risky DIY (HVAC/roofing), brand POV, nuance 15:02 – Licensing content is messy (state/county rules): tighter human review 17:19 – Design: generate/transform/streamline + “vibe coding” prototypes 20:18 – Pilot first: small cohorts, guardrails, measure engagement/conversions 21:22 – Disclosure tests: placement/tone matter; users split ~50/50 on trust 25:53 – “Tools, time, or talent”: when to push pro hire messaging 27:39 – Differentiators: pro interviews + Angi's original homeowner cost data 28:07 – AI helps editors analyze like analysts; humans shape the story 29:19 – Looking ahead: AI shifting search from answers to utilities/experiences Show Links Caroline Gilbert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-gilbert-41463518/ Angi: https://www.angi.com/ Subscribe today for weekly tips: https://bit.ly/3dBM61f Listen on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/content-and-conversation-seo-tips-from-siege-media/id1289467174 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1kiaFGXO5UcT2qXVRuXjsM Listen on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wbGVjYXN0LmNvbS9jT3NjUkdLeA Follow Siege on Twitter: http://twitter.com/siegemedia Follow Ross on Twitter: http://twitter.com/rosshudgens Directed by Cara Brown: https://twitter.com/cararbrown Email Ross: ross@siegemedia.com #seo | #contentmarketing

We are thrilled to welcome Mario Russell, the Executive Director of the Center for Migration Studies (CMS). CMS is a Catholic think tank devoted to the study of international migration. Mario talks about the background of the center and the research they are engaged in. He talks about his experience as a recent college graduate in the 1980s working with an immigrant community as President Regan's amnesty program was signed into law, providing a pathway for over 3 million migrants to legalize their status. He speaks about the rule of law and the value of tempering law with compassion and mercy. Mario offers his perspective on diverse topics including climate refugees, family separation, mass deportations, and asylum reform.Brian and Joe reflect on the results of a strict adherence to the rule of law, which has contributed to the drastic increase in migrant detention in the U.S. They share the story of a recent experience celebrating Mass together at an ICE detention center in Port Isabel, TX. The experience brought one of the men to tears as he reflected on what he is grateful for in light of the Gospel of the day, in which one of the ten lepers healed by Jesus returned to give thanks.

Donovan Campbell, CEO, and his organization Medbridge are urging CMS to finalize specific refinements to RTM as part of the Calendar Year 2026 Physician Fee Schedule (CMS-1832-P), recognizing that RTM is critical for supporting physical therapy, patient health, and patient engagement. We will explore how this shift provides a crucial financial incentive for organizations, but more importantly, how the successful adoption of RTM enhances the clinical value proposition by improving population health, lowering overall costs, and tackling the problem of access barriers to conservative care.

#178: Dan Ardelan is back. He joins Pat to unpack how Kentico is evolving its CMS into an AI-powered digital experience platform. Dan explains how Experience by Kentico represents a total rebuild—modern .NET architecture, evergreen updates, and a single version approach that keeps it future-proof.  The big story: Kentico isn't just dabbling in AI; they've built it into the DNA of their product. From generative content tools to predictive analytics, auto-tagging, and the new in-platform assistant "AIRA," Kentico is putting AI at the core of both marketing and development workflows.  Dan also touches on the competitive landscape, agency skill shifts, and how AI is changing not just CMS platforms but the way digital experiences are designed, delivered, and optimized.  Check out Dan's earlier episode here.  Connect with Dan here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-ardelan/ Want more on Kentico? Go here: https://www.kentico.com/ Connect with Pat here: pmcgovern@ascedia.com Oh, before you go, please do us a favor. Take a minute and leave us a review. That's the energy that powers this supertanker!  Thanks, you're the best! Want more marketing insights? Take a look at our full lineup. This podcast is sponsored by Ascedia. A web development and digital strategy agency helping clients win in the digital space.

Allen and Yolanda discuss operational shifts driven by the IRA bill, focusing on the importance of long-term operational strategies, collaboration, and advanced monitoring solutions. Sign up now for Uptime Tech News, our weekly email update on all things wind technology. This episode is sponsored by Weather Guard Lightning Tech. Learn more about Weather Guard's StrikeTape Wind Turbine LPS retrofit. Follow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Linkedin and visit Weather Guard on the web. And subscribe to Rosemary Barnes' YouTube channel here. Have a question we can answer on the show? Email us! Intro: [00:00:00] You are listening to the Uptime Wind Energy Podcast brought to you by build turbines.com. Learn, train, and be a part of the Clean Energy Revolution. Visit build turbines.com today. Now here's your hosts, Allen Hall, Joel Saxon, Phil Totaro, and Rosemary Barnes.  Allen Hall: Welcome to the Uptime Wind Energy Podcast. I'm your host, Allen Hall in the Queen city of Charlotte, North Carolina, and I have. Yolanda Padron in Austin, Texas, and Yolanda has been out at a site in West Texas last several days working out some strike tape installations because the, the blade season of Texas is so long and the repair season is so long. Everybody's really making work and, and maybe even spending a little more money than they thought they were gonna spend this year. Just to get their turbines righted because it is for us at Weather Guard, it's still lightning season. There are a lot of storms and the amount [00:01:00] of rain in West Texas is crazy. Flooded roads, uh, on highways still days after rainstorms. That tells you that the amount of rain. It has been a little bit of an unusual year on the, on the wind production side because of the weather. Right?  Yolanda Padron: Yeah. It's, it's been high production for, for a lot of the, that area. It's definitely, it's, you start getting all of those drone inspections in and everything. Sometimes I think it's, it's worked out pretty great for some of the operators that maybe didn't have a lot of, uh, planning capabilities in the past. So then they're able to come in and actually. Books, some teams to do work even, even though the traditional blade season has passed.  Allen Hall: Oh yeah. Is there gonna be a traditional blade season from here on out? And I think this is where a lot of operators are rethinking, uh, the changes to the IRA bill and the one big beautiful bill aspects is, you know, with the, with the production tax credits sort of waning and, and [00:02:00] wrapping up. They are going to be putting more emphasis on o and m. And in fact, when we were at Skys specs forums, and I keep bringing this up 'cause it's such a monumental thing that we were at in Ann Arbor a couple weeks ago. The emphasis has moved from definitely from development to more of operations. But the, the level of complexity there has changed. Even talking to operators today, and you and I talked to what, 3, 4, 5 different operators in one day. CMS is huge. You, you're seeing a, just a complete flip on CMS. Everybody's willing to try something, which is unique, right?  Yolanda Padron: Yeah. I think nobody loves being a Guinea pig, right? Nobody likes staying behind either. And especially now that you really do need to make sure these blades don't just last you 10 years before you can repower. They, the team seem to really be focusing a lot more on long-term solutions rather than short term solutions. So it be that, you know, installing Light Lightning diverters be [00:03:00] that installing even just a, a long-term leading edge protection solution instead of a short-term one teams, she seemed to be really looking into. What the overall opex impact is going to be in the very long term for as long as they can keep the site on, as long as they can keep the permits in, instead of having it be something where you can keep the cost low, low, low, low, low,

This week I Share “Scary” Business Stories [powerpress]

SpaceX's Bandwagon-4 mission launched on Sunday from Florida carrying 18 payloads for KOREA ADD, Exolaunch, Fergani, Tomorrow Companies Inc., Starcloud, and Vast.  India launched the CMS-03 satellite to provide communication services over the Indian landmass and a wide oceanic region. China's Shenzhou-21 crew arrived at the Tiangong Space Station 3.5 hours after liftoff, and more. Remember to leave us a 5-star rating and review in your favorite podcast app. Be sure to follow T-Minus on LinkedIn and Instagram. T-Minus Guest Bailey Reichelt from Aegis Space Law and Matthew Linton from Linton Space Law bring us Space Law FAQs. Note that the BIS Affiliates Rule discussed in the Space Law FAQ segment has undergone changes in enforcement status due to geopolitical discussions since the episode was recorded. While not being actively enforced for one year, according to the Trump administration, it is still a law, and enforcement can resume at any point. For more information on the President's statement announcing a one-year hold on enforcement, please check out this article: US Is ‘Suspending' BIS 50% Rule for a Year, Bessent Says, After China Trade Talks- Kharon Selected Reading SpaceX - Bandwagon-4 Mission India space agency launches its heaviest satellite China's Shenzhou-21 crewed spacecraft docks with space station - CGTN China's 2026 space mission lineup: Mengzhou-1, Long March-10A to debut - CGTN MDA Space Makes $10 Million Investment in Maritime Launch becoming an Equity Owner and a Strategic Partner NASA Cuts ISS Jobs At MSFC NRF, QIC Join Global Defence Investors in $46m Series A for Australian Hypersonic Flight Pioneer | Hypersonix Launch Systems Teledyne Completes Acquisition of TransponderTech from Saab Dwarf peas inside Biosphere 2's SAM breathe new life into space habitat research- University of Arizona News Share your feedback. What do you think about T-Minus Space Daily? Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts with us by completing our brief listener survey. Thank you for helping us continue to improve our show.  Want to hear your company in the show? You too can reach the most influential leaders and operators in the industry. Here's our media kit. Contact us at space@n2k.com to request more info. Want to join us for an interview? Please send your pitch to space-editor@n2k.com and include your name, affiliation, and topic proposal. T-Minus is a production of N2K Networks, your source for strategic workforce intelligence. © N2K Networks, Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

VOV1 - Tổ chức Nghiên cứu Không gian Ấn Độ (ISRO) ngày 2/11 đã phóng thành công vệ tinh thông tin liên lạc lớn nhất từ trước tới nay của nước này mang tên CMS-03 vào không gian. Sự kiện này đánh dấu một bước tiến quan trọng về năng lực an ninh hàng hải của quốc gia Nam Á.

Would you like access to our advanced agency training for FREE? https://www.agencymastery360.com/training How would you go about making acquisitions to accelerate your growth? Would you buy for revenue, culture fit, or client roster? Would you be willing to fire big clients that are holding your agency back? Most agency owners chase growth by saying "yes" to everything, from new services, new clients, and every new opportunity. Today's featured guest built one of the fastest-growing mobile and digital agencies in the world by narrow focusing, firing bad-fit clients, and mastering the art of strategic acquisitions. Today he'll unpack how his agency evolved from a small mobile startup in Tel Aviv to a global digital powerhouse working with brands like Google, Uber, Samsung, and Microsoft. Gilad Bechar is the CEO and founder of Moburst, a mobile-first marketing and digital transformation agency with offices in Tel Aviv, New York, and San Francisco. Since 2013, Moburst has helped startups and Fortune 500s alike scale their reach through creative, data-driven, and tech-forward strategies. Under Gilad's leadership, the agency has raised capital, acquired multiple specialized firms, and built proprietary technology that keeps them ahead of the curve in AI, mobile UX, and cross-platform performance. In this episode, we'll discuss: The similarities between the mobile boom and the new AI era. Raising capital without losing control. Using acquisitions as a growth strategy. The power of saying no and focusing on fit. Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio Sponsors and Resources This episode is brought to you by Wix Studio: If you're leveling up your team and your client experience, your site builder should keep up too. That's why successful agencies use Wix Studio — built to adapt the way your agency does: AI-powered site mapping, responsive design, flexible workflows, and scalable CMS tools so you spend less on plugins and more on growth. Ready to design faster and smarter? Go to wix.com/studio to get started. From A Mobile-First Niche Focus to Global Agency Powerhouse When Moburst launched in 2013, the agency world was flooded with "digital experts" who claimed to understand mobile. Most didn't. Gilad noticed that agencies were simply repurposing desktop experiences for smaller screens without real mobile UX thinking, no data-driven optimization, and definitely no understanding of how users behaved differently on apps. That insight became Moburst's edge. Instead of trying to compete as another full-service digital shop, they doubled down on mobile-first marketing. They mastered app store optimization (ASO), performance tracking, and mobile UX design. That focus helped them land early wins with major clients who were desperate for expertise in a fast-changing environment. As Gilad puts it, "When you show big clients that a critical piece of their marketing is being ignored, and you can fix it, that's your entry point." The AI Parallel: Most Agencies Talk, Few Deliver Gilad sees history repeating itself with AI. Just like the early mobile days, everyone's suddenly an "AI expert." But the difference between hype and real expertise shows up fast in a conversation. He believes the proof lies under the hood. Real experts can answer deep implementation questions: which tools integrate best, how to handle data security, and what AI models perform for specific tasks. Pretenders can't. For agencies, this is a reminder that credibility is earned through insight, not jargon. Clients see through the buzzwords. And the ones who don't will eventually learn when the work doesn't deliver. Raising Capital Without Losing Control Unlike most agency founders, Gilad took venture funding, not once, but three times. But he did it differently. Instead of giving away huge equity chunks, Moburst only diluted small percentages (around 6% each round). The investors came to them after seeing how fast their clients were growing. Without that, his agency wouldn't have its current success in the US market and would probably still be a very local agency in Israel. That capital gave him the means to hire a team in New York and then eventually move there to lead that office. It was the start of many new opportunities for the agency, like building internal tech tools that set them apart. It was also the way his team has stayed ahead of the curve from competitors that are not investing in the future and stay too focused on the right here and now. Furthermore, despite having 11 investors, Moburst kept full control. Only one board seat represents all investors, and it can't override the founders' decisions. According to Gilad, that control is what allowed them to make hard but smart moves, like firing clients and cutting costs in 2017 when growth was strong but profitability wasn't. The Hard Reset That Saved the Agency and Restored Profitability In 2017, Moburst was scaling fast but losing money just as quickly. The agency was adding clients and headcount, but without the right systems to manage profitability. At one point, they were bleeding up to $70,000 a month. So Gilad made the tough call: he cut unprofitable clients, reduced staff, and rebuilt the agency around systems that supported healthy margins. "It was brutal," he admits. "We let go of big, well-known clients we loved working with. But it didn't make sense to keep losing money just to say we worked with them." That painful reset worked. By 2018, the agency was profitable again and positioned for sustainable growth. That reset set the stage for their next evolution: acquisitions. How to Use Acquisitions as a Growth Strategy (Not a Gamble) Moburst's acquisition strategy wasn't about buying revenue or chasing vanity growth. It was about buying capabilities that solved their biggest operational gaps. Their first acquisition was a video production studio they had already worked with for over a year. The partnership was strong, the culture aligned, and the collaboration was smooth. So they brought them in-house in 2019 and the agency's offerings instantly expanded. Then they looked at their next biggest outsourced expense: web and app development. So in 2022, they acquired a dev shop after a successful collaboration period. In total, Moburst has made five acquisitions, each one following a simple rule: test first, integrate later. As Gilad says, "We don't buy to solve problems. We buy what already works and multiply it." When asked about whether or not these brands keep their names after acquisition, Gilad says it all depends on their brand authority. If they do great work and have a solid team but their brand isn't as strong, then it's best to just bring it under the Moburst umbrella. In case they do have a strong brand, then they'll just make sure their website reflects they are part of a larger group. How to Structure an Agency Acquisition Deal the Smart Way For agency owners eyeing their own M&A moves, Gilad shared his preferred deal structure. Each acquisition has four key components: Cash upfront - Rewards founders for their hard work. Equity - Gives them a stake in the larger vision. Dividends - Paid yearly so they benefit from the agency's profits. Performance bonuses - Tied to the profitability of their specific business unit. This structure keeps founders motivated and aligned for years to come, without the traditional burnout that comes from rigid earnouts. Everyone wins when growth is sustainable and collaborative. Why Firing Bad Clients Helps Scale Smarter One of the biggest lessons Gilad takes away from journey is the courage to say no: to clients, deals, or directions that don't fit. Agencies often cling to bad accounts out of fear of losing revenue, but simply put, that's a silent killer. If you're not profitable on a client, you're not just breaking even; you're paying for the privilege of overworking your team. Moburst's growth didn't come from doing more — it came from doing what mattered most. By focusing, pruning, and strategically acquiring, Gilad turned a niche mobile startup into a global digital powerhouse. Do You Want to Transform Your Agency from a Liability to an Asset? Looking to dig deeper into your agency's potential? Check out our Agency Blueprint. Designed for agency owners like you, our Agency Blueprint helps you uncover growth opportunities, tackle obstacles, and craft a customized blueprint for your agency's success.

In this Web News episode, Matt and Mike dive into the big question — is WordPress still relevant in 2025? With modern tools like Webflow, SvelteKit, and Next.js gaining traction, does WordPress still deserve its spot as the world's most popular CMS? The duo explore its staying power, the ecosystem that keeps it alive, and whether developers should still be learning it today. Show Notes: https://www.htmlallthethings.com/podcast/is-wordpress-still-relevant-in-2025

Have you heard? The definition of Short-Term Limited Duration Insurance has changed. We unpack what it means for insurance agents!   Read the text version  

बिहार में पीएम मोदी 2 नवंबर को पटना में रोड शो करेंगे, इसरो कल CMS-03 कम्युनिकेशन सैटेलाइट लॉन्च करेगा, NDA के संकल्प पत्र पर लालू प्रसाद ने साधा निशाना, मोकामा हत्याकांड के बाद चुनाव आयोग ने हथियारों पर सख्ती के निर्देश दिए, जुबिन गर्ग मामले की पोस्टमॉर्टम रिपोर्ट भारत पहुंची, महाविकास अघाड़ी की रैली की नहीं मिली अनुमति, मायावती आज मुस्लिम भाईचारा संगठन की बैठक करेंगी, दिल्ली में हवा की खराब स्थिति, रिपोर्ट में हुआ चौंकाने वाला खुलासा, अमेरिका में भारतीय मूल के CEO पर बड़े घोटाले का आरोप और बाबर आज़म टी20 में सबसे ज्यादा रन बनाने वाले खिलाड़ी बने. सिर्फ 5 मिनट में सुनिए सुबह 10 बजे तक की बड़ी ख़बरें.

प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी आज छत्तीसगढ़ रजत महोत्सव में शामिल हुए और 14 हजार करोड़ से ज्यादा की परियोजनाओं का लोकार्पण किया, आंध्र प्रदेश के वेंकटेश्वर मंदिर में भगदड़ से 9 लोगों की मौत हुई, बिहार में चुनावी रैलियों में अमित शाह और जेपी नड्डा ने जंगलराज और विकास का मुद्दा उठाया, जबकि प्रियंका गांधी ने सरकार पर क्राइम और भ्रष्टाचार को लेकर निशाना साधा, सिद्धारमैया ने केंद्र पर हिंदी थोपने का आरोप लगाया, मुंबई में मतदाता सूची में गड़बड़ी को लेकर MVA ने निकाली रैली, कोलकाता में SIR पर TMC 4 नवंबर को विरोध मार्च निकालेगी, अक्टूबर में GST कलेक्शन बढ़कर 1.96 लाख करोड़ पहुंचा, ISRO 2 नवंबर को CMS-03 सैटलाइट लॉन्च करेगा. तंजानिया में राष्ट्रपति सामिया सुलुहू दोबारा जीतीं और टेनिस खिलाड़ी रोहन बोपन्ना ने रिटायरमेंट की घोषणा की. सिर्फ 5 मिनट में सुनिए शाम 4 बजे तक की बड़ी ख़बरें.

SummaryIn this episode of The Compliance Guy podcast, Sean M Weiss engages in a detailed conversation with attorney Summer McKeivier about the complexities of healthcare law, particularly focusing on incident two billing, healthcare fraud prosecutions, and the challenges faced by providers in navigating compliance issues. They discuss the current trends in healthcare fraud, the role of medical directors and Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs), and the implications of inexperienced prosecutors in healthcare cases. The conversation also highlights the impact of accusations on healthcare professionals and the importance of understanding medical necessity in the context of local coverage determinations. Throughout the discussion, both Sean and Summer share insights from their experiences in the field, emphasizing the need for knowledgeable representation in healthcare law.TakeawaysSummer McKeivier is a leading attorney in healthcare law.Incident two billing is a significant issue in healthcare compliance.Wound care is currently a major focus for healthcare fraud investigations.CMS's definition of medical necessity often differs from providers' perspectives.Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) do not have the effect of law.Medical directors may lack the necessary expertise in specific healthcare areas.Healthcare providers face challenges due to poorly written LCDs.Overpayment disputes can escalate if not addressed properly.Inexperienced prosecutors can lead to unjust accusations in healthcare cases.Accusations can severely impact healthcare professionals' ability to practice.

The trial begins for two men accused of murdering Scott Brooks of Brooks Sandwich House. More than 100,000 recipients in Mecklenburg County face losing SNAP benefits due to the federal government shutdown. CMS sets rules on the use of artificial intelligence. And it's do or die for Charlotte FC in the playoffs after losing on Tuesday.

Subscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.Health Affairs' Jeff Byers welcomes Allison Oakes, Chief Research Officer of Trilliant Health, to the pod to discuss Trilliant's recent health care trend report highlighting the health economy and breaking down the big trends, including price and affordability, demographics and lifestyle, care settings and therapies, and more.Join us for this upcoming event:11/5: Health Benefits in 2025: Insights from the KFF Employer Health Benefits Survey (INSIDER EXCLUSIVE)Become an Insider today to get access to this event and our third trend report focusing on the influence of private equity in health care.Related Articles:2025 Trends Shaping the Health Economy (Trilliant Health) Subscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.

Virtual contrast supervision is reshaping teleradiology by addressing workforce shortages and cutting costs for imaging centers. Hear how CMS policy extensions, faster response times, and flexible scheduling are making remote radiologist oversight the new standard. Learn more at https://www.contrast-connect.com/blog/virtual-supervision ContrastConnect City: Las Vegas Address: 309 Queens Gate Ct Website: https://www.contrast-connect.com/

Industrial Talk is onsite at SMRP 2025 and talking to Gregorio Hadad, General Manager at Skyler about "3rd Party Asset Management Solutions". Scott Mackenzie and Gregorio Hadad discuss the evolution of asset management and reliability at the SMRP conference. Gregorio, General Manager at Skyler, highlights Skyler's IoT platform, which collects and analyzes vibration and temperature data to provide actionable insights for customers. Skyler's partnerships with maintenance and repair organizations enhance their ability to support customers effectively. The platform integrates with existing CMMS systems and uses AI to optimize maintenance processes. Gregorio emphasizes the importance of collaboration and human expertise in achieving reliability and efficiency in asset management. Action Items [ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Attend the SMRP conference in 2026 to connect with industry professionals and learn about the latest developments in asset management and reliability.[ ] Reach out to Gregorio Hadad to learn more about Skylar's solutions and explore potential collaboration opportunities. Outline Introduction and Welcome to SMRP Conference Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk Podcast, highlighting the focus on industry professionals and their innovations.Scott emphasizes the importance of the SMRP conference, describing it as a spectacular event that professionals should attend.Gregorio, thanks Scott for the invitation and expresses excitement about the conference.Scott and Gregorio discuss the positive atmosphere and the learning opportunities at the conference. Scott's Observations on Industry Renaissance Scott reflects on the evolution of asset management and reliability, noting a shift from being seen as a cost to a competitive advantage.Scott mentions the need for greater efficiency, insights, and optimization of human capital in the industry.Gregorio agrees, noting the changing perception of asset management from a cost to a competitive advantage.Scott and Gregorio discuss the importance of finding and supporting existing workforces to ensure success. Gregorio's Background and Role at Schuyler Gregorio shares his background, mentioning his origins in Argentina and his current role as General Manager at Skyler.Schuyler focuses on improving the reliability of end customers through various tools and partnerships.Gregorio explains Skyler's IoT platform, which includes hardware partners and in-house AI and analytics.Schuyler collects and analyzes data, providing actionable insights and detailed reports to end customers. Skyler's IoT Platform and Data Collection Scott and Gregorio discuss the data collection process, focusing on vibration and temperature data.Gregorio mentions the goal of including more data types in the future.The importance of partnerships with CMS companies is highlighted, with plans to integrate Skyler's platform with existing systems.Scott emphasizes the need for seamless integration to avoid additional work for end users. Partnerships and Collaboration in Asset Management Gregorio talks about Skyler's partnerships with maintenance and repair organizations, which are critical for success.These partnerships provide local support and understanding of customer pain points.Skyler's platform is designed to collaborate with other asset management solutions without friction.The importance of collaboration in the industry is reiterated, with a focus on avoiding additional systems for end...

Last month, the "Billing Boys"—Chris Jones and Phil Rodgers—joined the GeriPal podcast to demystify medical billing and coding in palliative care. This month, we're back with part two, shifting the focus to geriatrics. While billing and coding may not be the most exciting topic, they're essential for ensuring fair reimbursement for the complex care we provide and for supporting the work of our interprofessional teams, many of whom can't bill directly for their services. When we underbill or leave money on the table, we not only shortchange ourselves but also devalue the critical role of geriatrics in the healthcare system. This time, we're joined by experts Peter Hollmann, Ken Koncilja, and Audrey Chun to dive into key questions: Why does billing matter, and who does it benefit? What's the difference between CPT, E&M, and ICD-10 codes (if you need a refresher, check out our chat with the Billing Boys here)? We explore how to think about billing for complexity versus time, and unpack new and impactful codes like the Cognitive Assessment and Care Plan Services code (99483), advance care planning (ACP) billing codes, and G2211, which acknowledges the added work of managing patients with chronic conditions. We also highlight the new APCM G-codes for 2025, a set of HCPCS codes that could provide substantial financial support for interdisciplinary teams in geriatrics. Finally, we discuss the advocacy behind these codes. The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) plays a vital role on the AMA's RUC committee, helping to improve reimbursement for the complex care of older adults. Tune in to this week's GeriPal podcast for expert advice, practical strategies, and insights that will help you optimize your billing practices and sustain the future of geriatrics! Here are some of the resources we also talked about: The physician fee schedule look up tool Wwere you can find out CMS expected charge based off where you practice AGS's annual coding update Geriatrics at Your Fingertips, which has a one-pager on billing Medicare Claims Processing Manual

Janice sits down with Garrick Rochow, President and CEO of CMS Energy — a leading Fortune 500 energy company based in Michigan. Garrick reflects on his upbringing and the influence of his father on his leadership journey, offering insight into the challenges, values, and perspectives that shape the operation of one of America's top energy companies.Tags: janice, ellig, ceo, garrick, rochow, cms, energy, innovative, industry, technology, president, leader, michigan

Success in post-acute care depends on more than meeting CMS requirements—it's about closing documentation gaps, following up within 7–14 days to prevent readmissions, and keeping both outcomes and contracts strong. In this episode, our guests break down the latest compliance expectations, share practical strategies for aligning clinical and administrative teams, and highlight how technology can help standardize documentation, reduce risk, and strengthen payer relationships.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Implementing a seamless Content Management System that is able to grow alongside the firm in the long-term should be a top priority within law firms digital strategies. Through extended team collaboration, firms can create a shared vision for suitable future marketing technology, ensuring flexibility and scalability, while also boosting efficiency and SEO.   Today on the Passle CMO Series Digital Masterclass Podcast, we're diving into CMS for the legal sector, a crucial part of a firm's marketing and business development toolkit.   Carrie Dyer, Digital Account Director at Appius, a company with deep experience in the legal market, with clients including Freshfields and Ashurst, joins us to discuss how firms can choose the right CMS. Carrie shares her insights on: Appius' experience and high reputation within the legal market The critical importance of creating an effective CMS Various main CMS platforms and their different offerings The key factors and processes to consider when selecting a CMS Common pitfalls many firms continue to face Her expert takeaways for implementing a successful CMS

In this episode we review key CMS regulations agents must follow to stay compliant during Medicare sales. Bonus? These steps also help educate and inform your clients!   Read the text version   Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.   Resources: Fact vs. Fiction: Examining the Medicare Part B Premium Giveback Formularies & Covered Drugs – Knight School Training How to Check Medicare Extra Help Eligibility for Your Client How to Help Clients Avoid Medicare Late Enrollment Penalties How to Help Your Clients Get the Most Out of Their Medicare Advantage Plans Insurance Agents as TPMOs: What CMS Compliance Regulations Mean for You Medicare Grievances & How Insurance Agents Can (Try To) Prevent Them MA & PDP Compliant Sales Checklist PDF Download SNPs: The Secret to Surviving Lock-in The 2026 Medicare Part D Redesign Updates Agents Should Know The Beginner's Guide to C-SNPs The Beginner's Guide to D-SNPs The Difference Between Medicare & Medicaid: What That Means for Insurance Agents What Agents Can't Say During Medicare Sales Appointments What to Know About SOAs in Medicare Health and Prescription Drug Plan Sales   References: “Agent and Broker Training & Testing Guidelines.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/cy2025-agent-broker-training-testing-guidelines.pdf. Accessed 14 Oct 2025. “Agent and Broker Training & Testing Guidelines.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/cy2026agentbrokertrainingtestingguidelinespdf.pdf. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025. “Costs.” Medicare, www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/medicare-costs. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025. “Contract Year 2025 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule (CMS-4205-F).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2025-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-final-rule-cms-4205-f. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025. “Contract Year 2026 Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage Program, Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program, Medicare Cost Plan Program, and Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (CMS-4208-F).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-medicare-advantage-program-medicare-prescription-final. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025. “Emergency Department Services.” Medicare.Gov, Medicare, www.medicare.gov/coverage/emergency-department-services. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025. “Medicare Communications and Marketing Guidelines (MCMG) Date: 02/09/2022.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-communications-marketing-guidelines-2-9-2022.pdf. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025. Seladi-Schulman, Jill. “Medicare IRMAA: What Is It and When Does It Apply?” Healthline, Healthline Media, 22 Apr. 2025, www.healthline.com/health/medicare/what-is-irmaa. “Medicare and Medicaid Programs; CY 2025 Payment Policies Under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Changes to Part B Payment and Coverage Policies; Medicare Shared Savings Program Requirements; Medicare Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program; and Medicare Overpayments.” Federalregister.Gov, Federal Register, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/07/31/2024-14828/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-cy-2025-payment-policies-under-the-physician-fee-schedule-and-other. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025. “Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Contract Year 2026 Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage Program, Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program, Medicare Cost Plan Program, and Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly.” FederalRegister.Gov, Federal Register, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/04/15/2025-06008/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-to-the-medicare. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025. “Out-of-Pocket Maximum/Limit.” HealthCare.Gov, www.healthcare.gov/glossary/out-of-pocket-maximum-limit/. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025.   Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance     Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

A single, accurate medication list can prevent harm, yet it's often the messiest part of home visits. We unpack how to turn a kitchen-table pile of bottles into a clear, living record that protects patients, reduces polypharmacy, and keeps agencies compliant. Drawing on decades at the bedside and in surveys, we walk through the moments where discrepancies hide—transitions between providers, “as needed” meds, herbals and supplements, dose tweaks after a clinic visit—and show how to bring everything into alignment with orders and what's actually in the home.View CHAP's new resource: Medication Reconciliation in Home-Based Care We get specific about what good medication reconciliation looks like in home health and hospice: verify at every visit, include non-covered and OTC products, and escalate discrepancies to the prescriber right away. You'll hear why misalignment across the home list, the medication profile, and facility records is a top CMS deficiency and how it can escalate to immediate jeopardy when safety is at risk. We also dig into the April 2024 Home Health CoP interpretive update that lets agencies define who performs medication reviews based on scope and policy, while underscoring the nonnegotiable goal: a timely, accurate, and complete list.Education and tools make the difference. We share practical strategies for teach-back, multilingual materials, and adapting for hearing or vision limits. We cover the Beers Criteria for older adults, ISMP resources, safe storage and disposal, and tech that improves adherence—delivery services, synchronized refills, pre-filled packs, and smart dispensers. Expect actionable checklists, questions to ask on every visit, and a reminder to have patients carry a current list to appointments and during any transition of care.Visit our websiteConnect with us - LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, FacebookMake Lives Better

This week I Talk About Using GeoIP [powerpress]

Between new developments on a rebate pilot program, discussions of possible cuts to Medicare payment for 340B drugs, and new action in states nationwide, this fall has been a jam-packed season for 340B. We sit down with 340B Health President and CEO Maureen Testoni to break down the latest.Questions Remain About January's 340B Rebate Pilot After the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) released 340B rebate pilot program guidance over the summer, all nine manufacturers of the 10 drugs subject to Medicare price caps applied to HRSA to implement rebates for the drugs starting in January. Testoni says we expect to find out which plans are approved in early November, as drugmakers need to give eight weeks of notice so covered entities can prepare for the change. Testoni says questions remain about the rebate pilot, but information that the drugmakers' rebate vendor has released so far provides enough detail for hospitals to start preparing for both rebates and price caps.Potential Medicare Cuts Expected To Target 340B HospitalsEarlier this year, the Trump administration released an executive order directing the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to survey hospitals on drug acquisition costs with the goal of using the results to set payment rates for Medicare Part B drugs starting in 2027. Testoni says she is concerned the proposed survey will lead to CMS targeting only 340B drugs for cuts that could bring payment rates down to actual acquisition costs, which would be a steeper cut than what the agency imposed during the first Trump administration.States Keep Moving on Contract Pharmacy Protections, 340B MandatesNearly 20 states have contract pharmacy protection laws in place and a small number of drugmakers have sued to block all these statutes. But Testoni says so far, courts have denied those requests and the laws have stayed in effect despite significant opposition advocacy by drugmakers. An increasing number of states also have enacted laws requiring 340B hospitals to report substantial data on their 340B costs and savings, and some are looking to limit how hospitals can use those savings.Resources:Senate Hearing Features Both Bipartisan Support for 340B and Calls for ReformsRead Our Comments on CBO's 340B Growth ReportReview Our 340B Rebate Pilot and IRA ResourcesBeacon Shares New Details on 340B Rebate Pilot Implementation

You've worked hard all year to prepare for AEP, but you're not at the finish line yet! Listen to this installment of the Agent Survival Guide Podcast for tips on how to maximize your success this AEP.   Read the text version   Meet your personal AI assistant: Ask Integrity   Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.   Resources: 4 Ways PlanEnroll Will Make This Your Best AEP Yet Announcing the Launch of IntegrityCONNECT Ask Integrity Content Library: Mastering Medicare Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder How Insurance Agents Can Use AI Tools How to Better Market Yourself How to Prepare for AEP Like a Pro Secure a Bigger, Better Business with Ancillary Products The Insurance Agent's Guide to Establishing Successful Affinity Partnerships FREE eBook The Survivor's AEP Checklist What Agents Forget to Do When Preparing for Appointments   References: “Medicare + Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (MFWA) Online Course.” AHIP Medicare Training, https://www.ahipmedicaretraining.com/page/login. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025. “Medicare Open Enrollment.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/priorities/key-initiatives/medicare-open-enrollment-partner-resources. Accessed 13 Oct. 2025.   Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://x.com/RitterIM and YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance     Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/   Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

In this episode of the Digital Signage Today podcast Kathy Isaacs, VP of sales at 22Miles, an all in one content management system platform, talks with Judy Mottl, editor of Digital Signage Today on digital signage content management.Isaacs is a seasoned digital signage industry professional who has been leading projects at 22Miles for over eight years. She works closely with clients to identify needs; develop tailored proposals; coordinate with partner vendors; manage projects to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery; and provide ongoing service to support long-term client success.Content as everyone in the digital signage world knows, is king when it comes to digital signage strategies. Yet oftentimes brands and organizations don't choose the best CMS tech initially, leading to frustration and unmet expectations.In the podcast, Isaacs share insight and her expertise on a wide range of digital signage CMS aspects, from what an enterprise needs to know before choosing a CMS partner to selecting a partner (the vetting process) and why assessment and evaluations play into a good CMS decision.

Would you like access to our advanced agency training for FREE? https://www.agencymastery360.com/training Ever wonder how much your agency's growth is limited by staying too broad? Or what could happen if you picked one niche and went all in? Today's featured guest didn't set out to run a food service marketing agency; He followed the opportunities, learned from a few hard lessons selling door-to-door, and eventually discoverd the power of focus. He'll share how niching down, rebranding, and embracing flexibility helped him grow his agency into a specialized agency serving some of the biggest names in food service and the ways in which he and his team refined the agency's positioning. Tyler Smith is the president and owner of Matato, a brand strategy and creative marketing agency focused on food and beverage brands in the food service and “away from home” space. His agency helps those brands reach restaurant operators, chefs, and food service directors with smarter, more intentional marketing. In this episode, we'll discuss: The power of positioning. The difference choosing a niche made for his agency. Flexible selling and empathy in action. Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio Sponsors and Resources This episode is brought to you by Wix Studio: If you're leveling up your team and your client experience, your site builder should keep up too. That's why successful agencies use Wix Studio — built to adapt the way your agency does: AI-powered site mapping, responsive design, flexible workflows, and scalable CMS tools so you spend less on plugins and more on growth. Ready to design faster and smarter? Go to wix.com/studio to get started. How Selling Vacuums Led to a Food Service Marketing Agency Tyler laughs about it now, but his first “sales training” involved knocking on doors and demoing carpet cleaners that cost more than most people's first cars. While studying advertising, Tyler was sure he wanted to be a graphic designer or copywriter, and while that door-to-door sales job started as a way earn extra beer money, it ended up being a crash course in marketing psychology. He learned how to capture attention, demonstrate value, and handle rejection — all skills that would later serve him as an agency owner. After college, the 2009 recession hit, and finding a creative job in advertising wasn't easy. So when an agency owner offered him a commission-only sales role, he jumped in. Within a few months, Tyler was closing enough deals to get brought on full-time. Fast forward a decade, and he's now the sole owner of that same agency, rebranded as Matato, now leading a team of specialists helping food brands grow smarter. The Smart Positioning and Rebranding Transformed the Agency When Tyler took full ownership, he knew the agency needed an identity that reflected its niche and direction. The old name didn't quite fit anymore. So he created Matato, a playful twist on “tomato, tomato, potato, potato.” It was something memorable, food-related, and (importantly) trademarkable with a clean domain to match. More than a name change, that rebrand was a signal that the agency was doubling down on food service marketing as their core focus. This was a big move for Tyler as he stepped up as the face of the agency. If you can't own your brand, both emotionally and digitally, you can't expect your clients to trust that you'll own theirs. From Generalist to Specialist: Why Niching Down Drives Growth For years, Matato worked with all kinds of B2B and B2C clients. But as they grew, Tyler noticed the most rewarding and most profitable projects were always in food service. So they made the call to go narrow to grow big. That meant focusing on the brands serving restaurants, distributors, and institutions. Tyler's team helps these brands move from a sales-heavy approach to a true marketing strategy, teaching them how to speak to chefs and operators, not just consumers. Now, their content strategy includes things like their annual Food Service Marketing Playbook, a killer lead magnet that doesn't just promote Matato's expertise , it teaches. Some brands use it to DIY their marketing, others see the value and hire the agency. Either way, Tyler's team wins. What Got You Here Won't Get You There Tyler's secret to getting new business in the early days was just “all grind, no strategy.” Cold calls, trade shows, follow-ups; just pure hustle. But as the agency matured, that changed. They stopped trying to “do everything” and started refining how they show up. After repositioning more firmly in the food industry, their new game plan is rooted in generosity and authority, giving away insights, teaching the industry, and positioning themselves as the go-to experts for food service brands. Their annual Food Marketing Playbook has gotten them great results, and he has also been dabbling in podcasting, an effort that he admits still lacks consistency. All these changes to the brand and how they approach their audience have been a great way to reinvigorate the business and demonstrates his team understands that you can't just tell people to hire you; you've got to show them why. Empathy and Flexibility: The Secret to Long-Term Client Relationships One of Tyler's biggest lessons when it comes to sales is to stay flexible and empathetic. Instead of rigid packages or pushy closes, he focuses on what the client actually needs and finds ways to make it work. That adaptability has helped him build long-term trust (and some very loyal accounts). Sure, early on it led to a few over-committed budgets and sleepless nights, but over time it became one of Matato's superpowers. Tyler calls it “on-the-fly problem solving”, a willingness to adjust, improvise, and make the deal work without losing sight of the big picture. Why Every Specialized Agency Should Start a Podcast Tyler's got deep expertise and connections in his niche. He has noticed podcasting could be the fastest way to build authority and create a content engine without relying on written blogs that no one's reading anymore. It's not just about attention; it's about access. When you interview potential clients and peers in your industry, you're building relationships that open doors. As Jason put it, “It's the number one thing I ever did for my business.” How Curiousity Keeps Your Agency Evolving Looking back, Tyler can see that curiosity helped Matato survive and evolve, especially during the pandemic. When food service came to a standstill, his team didn't sit idle. They experimented, collaborated with chefs and influencers, and tested new lead-gen angles. Things are constantly changing and what got you to this point won't get you there. So his message to agency owners is to stay curious and willing to try many things. Otherwise, you'll be doomed to fail.

Send us a textWill the $50 billion rural transformation fund save rural hospitals or hasten their demise?  In this episode of CareTalk, hosts David E. Williams and John Driscoll debate whether CMS's plan to reshape rural healthcare can actually work.

Dr. Saria Saccocio, Chief Medical Officer at Essence Healthcare, is using AI to enhance care and services for patients who are enrolled in Medicare Advantage programs. One application is to analyze data related to health equity, care authorization, and to address biases. Their AI agent is being used to interact with patients, offering them the option to access a human. Integration with wearables, such as the Oura Ring, focuses on identifying clinically useful information to prevent physicians from being overwhelmed by data. Saria explains, "Medicare Advantage plans are absolutely that. It's an advantage because of the additional benefits that exist and the opportunity to connect with our members is rather unique. In fact, what I'll share with you and the audience is that AI has been a focus for us and a priority as we continue to expand the focus on quality and engagement with our members so that they have their best quality life possible to them. AI is a major piece of this work to make that happen. I can give you a couple of examples. In fact, when it comes to health equity, CMS has recently required Medicare plans to ensure that we are analyzing our data through a health equity lens. This year, in fact, we're focused on authorizations, authorizations of care. We want to make sure that it is critical to our members and AI. I see an opportunity to recognize any blind spots or implicit bias."   "I think that every human being has a capability for technology. And what's critical is that we meet them where they are, that we understand what they want, what they need out of technology. I think that works as well as providers. As you see all of these AI developers starting up companies and solving problems, the conversation that we're having every day at Lumeris and at Essence Healthcare is what does the patient want? What does that member need for quality of care? And then engage and include the providers in that conversation. What makes their job easier? Because one of the challenges with new technology is that we can also reach a point of technology exhaustion. So I'll give an example of our relationship with Oura ring, the wearable device that tracks for sleep, for health, for heart rate, and a number of different measures."    #EssenceHealthcare #MedicareAdvantage #HealthAI #OuraRing #DigitalHealth essencehealthcare.com Listen to the podcast here

Dr. Saria Saccocio, Chief Medical Officer at Essence Healthcare, is using AI to enhance care and services for patients who are enrolled in Medicare Advantage programs. One application is to analyze data related to health equity, care authorization, and to address biases. Their AI agent is being used to interact with patients, offering them the option to access a human. Integration with wearables, such as the Oura Ring, focuses on identifying clinically useful information to prevent physicians from being overwhelmed by data. Saria explains, "Medicare Advantage plans are absolutely that. It's an advantage because of the additional benefits that exist and the opportunity to connect with our members is rather unique. In fact, what I'll share with you and the audience is that AI has been a focus for us and a priority as we continue to expand the focus on quality and engagement with our members so that they have their best quality life possible to them. AI is a major piece of this work to make that happen. I can give you a couple of examples. In fact, when it comes to health equity, CMS has recently required Medicare plans to ensure that we are analyzing our data through a health equity lens. This year, in fact, we're focused on authorizations, authorizations of care. We want to make sure that it is critical to our members and AI. I see an opportunity to recognize any blind spots or implicit bias."   "I think that every human being has a capability for technology. And what's critical is that we meet them where they are, that we understand what they want, what they need out of technology. I think that works as well as providers. As you see all of these AI developers starting up companies and solving problems, the conversation that we're having every day at Lumeris and at Essence Healthcare is what does the patient want? What does that member need for quality of care? And then engage and include the providers in that conversation. What makes their job easier? Because one of the challenges with new technology is that we can also reach a point of technology exhaustion. So I'll give an example of our relationship with Oura ring, the wearable device that tracks for sleep, for health, for heart rate, and a number of different measures."    #EssenceHealthcare #MedicareAdvantage #HealthAI #OuraRing #DigitalHealth essencehealthcare.com Download the transcript here    

Important Updates on Medicare Cards and Eligibility Changes: Special Training with Humana Experts Join Gina Hawks from the Alliance alongside special guests Kevin and Melissa from Humana for an essential training session. This video discusses significant changes in 2026 related to clients qualifying for Medicare food cards, utility cards, and other benefit cards. Learn about the new requirements, including the necessity for clients to have critical conditions to qualify for these benefits. The session also covers the specifics of the new CMS changes, tips for ensuring client satisfaction, and insights into how Humana's procedures align with these updates. Ensure your clients are well-informed and avoid potential complaints by understanding these critical updates.

CMS has updated its stance on Medicare payments during the federal shutdown, confirming that only certain claims will be held—reversing earlier guidance that hinted at a wider pause. But what does this mean for Telehealth and other temporary policies that expired on October 1? Terry breaks down the latest developments, what's at risk, and what […] The post What the Shutdown Means for Medicare and Telehealth appeared first on Terry Fletcher Consulting, Inc..

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services appears to be quietly considering Palantir to support its yearslong efforts to build a national provider directory for health care providers and patients across the country. Federal spending records show Palantir to be one of four recipients to receive awards from the Department of Health and Human Services and CMS containing the phrase “national provider directory” and “proof of concept.” The four separate contracts, made public Sept. 30, award $1 to each company and are set to expire Nov. 13. Two sources familiar with the efforts told FedScoop these contracts are for a prototype product with CMS. One source confirmed the prototype is for the agency's national provider directory, an effort the agency has been exploring for years. CMS has suggested the directory could serve as a centralized data hub for health care provider and facility information nationwide. The move marks the latest sign of civilian agencies' growing interest in Palantir, which offers extensive data integration and analytics capabilities. The Department of Energy is requesting proposals for the buildout and maintenance of AI data centers and energy generation infrastructure in and around Oak Ridge National Laboratory. In an RFP published last week, the national lab's site and environmental management offices said they are seeking proposals from entities interested in entering into long-term leases in Oak Ridge, Tenn. The work on those DOE sites would include “designing, financing, permitting, developing, constructing, installing, owning, maintaining, operating, and decommissioning AI data center and/or energy generation infrastructure,” per the posting. For those sites, Oak Ridge is specifically seeking construction of data center facilities with specialized computing equipment, cooling facilities, infrastructure for energy supply, transmission and storage, and other related equipment and facilities. The DOE said entities responding to the RFP could be private-sector companies with experience in the development and operation of AI data centers, advanced computing facilities or energy storage. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

This week I Talk About Saying Yes, No, Maybe [powerpress]

As CMS continues to expand value-based care programs, one stands out for its focus on supporting some of our most vulnerable patients—and their caregivers. The GUIDE model (Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience) is designed to improve care for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's, while providing essential resources and support for the family members and caregivers who support them. In this episode of Value-Based Care Insights, host Daniel J. Marino is joined by Seth Hyman, Co-Founder and Partner at JVS Health. Together, they explore the goals of the GUIDE model, why CMS is prioritizing dementia care, and how health systems can prepare to implement and benefit from this transformative initiative.

Would you like access to our advanced agency training for FREE? https://www.agencymastery360.com/training What would happen if one client lawsuit, one hacked account, or one missed renewal completely wiped out your agency? Have you ever stopped to think about how exposed your business really is even if you're “doing everything right”? Today's featured guest started his career working in the insurance industry and eventually found a love for marketing. He talks about the side of agency life most people ignore: protecting what you've built, and breaks down how to safeguard your business with the right insurance, why every agency should have cyber liability coverage, and how a “give first” mindset has helped him land major clients like Daymond John, Chris Voss, and Dr. Benjamin Hardy. Draye Redfern is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of Redfern Media and FractionalCMO. Over the past decade, he's built and sold multiple companies, including a $40M insurance agency acquired by one of Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway subsidiaries. With 15 years in risk management and a passion for modern marketing, Draye now helps businesses scale smarter while protecting their downside. In this episode, we'll discuss: How “Growth Blindness” Can Hurt Your Business. The Hidden Risk Most Agencies Ignore. Why You Probably Need a Cyber Liability Insurance. How to Get Big Clients by being in the Right Rooms. Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio Sponsors and Resources This episode is brought to you by Wix Studio: If you're leveling up your team and your client experience, your site builder should keep up too. That's why successful agencies use Wix Studio — built to adapt the way your agency does: AI-powered site mapping, responsive design, flexible workflows, and scalable CMS tools so you spend less on plugins and more on growth. Ready to design faster and smarter? Go to wix.com/studio to get started. The Unlikely Path From Insurance to Marketing Draye grew up in a household where entrepreneurship was a way of life. His dad owned a business, and by age 12, Draye was doing the grunt work: filing papers, scanning documents, and learning what it really meant to keep a company running. He had a front-row seat to the chaos and grit of small business. Over time, Draye realized he had a knack for marketing. His early ideas sometimes outperformed everyone else's, and by his early 20s, he was leading the marketing division of a $28 million firm. Under his direction, they scaled past $40 million in annual revenue. That success led to the company's eventual sale to none other than one of the Berkshire Hathaway companies. Stop Being Growth Blind and Start Protecting the Downside While most marketers are obsessed with lead flow and growth, Draye brings a completely different mindset to the table: protect the downside first. After spending 15 years insurance and the risk management world, he learned that too many businesses are “growth blind.” They're chasing top-line numbers while leaving themselves totally exposed if something goes wrong. For his part, Draye thinks about how to mitigate downside risks first and then, once he has that locked down, then he starts thinking about growth. Admittedly, it's backwards from how most people do it, but it's what makes the most sense to him.  The Hidden Risk Most Agencies Ignore Why does Draye prioritize mitigating downside growth? Most agencies don't think about errors and omissions (E&O) insurance until it's too late. One poorly worded ad, a leaked password, or a miscommunication with a client could lead to a lawsuit that costs hundreds of thousands—if not millions—in legal fees. That's why he recommends a basic “risk protection stack” for agency owners: General Liability – Covers physical damages or slip-and-fall type issues. Employment Practices (EPLI) – Protects against HR-related claims. Errors & Omissions (E&O) – Covers mistakes or oversights in your work. Cyber Liability – Protects against data breaches and hacks. As Draye puts it, marketing agencies hold the keys to dozens of client kingdoms. If you get hacked, they get hacked. Protect yourself first, then scale. Why Every Agency Owner Needs Cyber Liability (and What Happens If You Don't) Most agency owners assume general liability insurance has them covered. Slip-and-fall in the office? Sure. But what about when a client's site gets hacked because one of your team members reused a password? Or when a campaign you ran unintentionally exposes customer data? That's not covered: this is where cyber liability and errors & omissions (E&O) insurance come in. Here's where most people go wrong: they forget to renew. Unlike car or home insurance, E&O and cyber liability policies are “claims-made” policies. That means you're only covered if the policy is active when the claim is filed, not when the incident happened. So if you let your policy lapse, even for a few weeks, you could lose coverage for everything that happened in previous years. That's why many experienced owners “tail out” their policies when they sell or sunset a business. Tail coverage locks in past protection for a set number of years. It costs more upfront but prevents millions in potential exposure later. Keep your coverage active, review it annually, and don't cut corners to save a few hundred bucks. Think of it as part of your agency's operating system, not an optional add-on. Lessons From Selling to Berkshire Hathaway When Berkshire Hathaway came calling, he learned just how deep corporate due diligence can go. “They fly out all their MBAs and basically give your business a financial colonoscopy,” he joked. But that process forced him to see business from a different lens—as an asset, not a job. He walked away with not just a successful exit, but also a new appreciation for how structure, systems, and compliance create enterprise value. How to Get Big Clients: Ask Questions, Be in the Room, and Give First Draye's agency has publicly traded companies in its current client roster, with some notable names including Dr Benjamin Hardy and Chris Voss, and almost all of those brands came to his agency because Draye was in the right rooms to strike up conversation. As he puts it, successful people like to hang around other successful people. To him, his job in the agency at this point is figuring out how to get invited into the room with the right people, which includes joining masterminds and attending events. Even with big clients, Draye recommends offering value first without expecting anything in return. I'll give them an idea of the work you do and, if they like it, they'll have you in mind the next time they need agency services. For instance, after attending a talk by Dr. Benjamin Hardy, Draye had the chance to chat with him and learned he was pulling in over 30,000 email opt-ins a month but wasn't monetizing them. Instead of pitching a retainer, Draye built him a simple funnel — for free — that started generating $10,000 a month in passive revenue. A few months later, Hardy came back and asked, “What else can you do?” That turned into a long-term partnership and a roster of launches that ran for years. How to Stand Out and Make People Feel Seen Draye's other secret weapon is personalization. Not the lazy kind where someone drops your name into a cold email template. Real personalization. When a prospect says they're interested, his team clones a landing page, updates the name in the headline (“Welcome, John!”), and records a 30-second video personally greeting them. The whole process takes fifteen minutes, but it makes people feel like they matter, and that's the part most agencies forget. That simple touch has led to multiple referrals, long-term clients, and lasting loyalty. As Draye puts it, “People don't want to feel like a number. They want to feel like they matter.” This type of simple gesture is usually something clients talk about non-stop, because the more automated the world gets, the more human connection stands out. Old School Is the New Advantage While everyone else is obsessing over AI and inbox deliverability, Draye see a lot of potential on a forgotten channel: direct mail. “People's inboxes are full, but their mailboxes are empty,” he explained. “So, when something real shows up, it stands out.” He's seen massive ROI from direct mail, especially when paired with personalized URLs (PURLs) and custom video. It's more expensive upfront, sure, but it cuts through the noise. Something to keep in mind for agency owners trying to stand out at a time when your client's emails are probably inundated with the same offers everyone is sending out. From his own experience, he says “if I were to look at our client base across the various businesses, the vast majority came from direct mail.” Protect Your Business and Hang Out in Different Rooms Draye shares two pieces of advice for agency owners: You never know what's around the corner, so protect your business. Spend the couple thousand bucks on proper coverage. Don't risk your agency's future over something preventable. Change your rooms. If you only hang out with other marketers, you're limiting your reach. Take Jay Abraham's advice and go fishing in someone else's swimming hole. Attend events for other industries, add value, and you'll be amazed at who you meet. In short, Draye's philosophy blends practical protection with proactive growth. Be bold enough to give first, smart enough to protect what you've built, and intentional enough to show up where the right people are. Do You Want to Transform Your Agency from a Liability to an Asset? Looking to dig deeper into your agency's potential? Check out our Agency Blueprint. Designed for agency owners like you, our Agency Blueprint helps you uncover growth opportunities, tackle obstacles, and craft a customized blueprint for your agency's success.

Public RSS Feeds vs Private RSS Feeds for Best Podcast SEO Distribution Practices with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.In this podcast episode, Favour provides an extensive comparison between public podcast RSS feeds and private podcast RSS feeds, offering guidance on how to choose the appropriate option for one's needs, particularly for business growth. A public podcast is openly accessible on various platforms and directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, serving as a powerful tool for brand building, content marketing, and increasing accessibility. Conversely, a private podcast is characterized by requiring authentication for access, making it suitable for exclusive content, internal corporate training, or paid subscription communities, with platforms like Supercast and Hello Audio recommended for this purpose. Favour stresses that consistent content publication and maximizing RSS feed distribution to various directories are crucial for public podcast success, while noting that starting with a public podcast is often advisable before transitioning to a private, often monetized, model.The Public RSS Feed: Maximizing Reach and DiscoverabilityA public podcast RSS feed is a publicly listed show available on third-party platforms and directories. It is designed for open access and broad distribution.• Definition: A public feed is accessible to anyone on podcast players and websites without requiring a login or payment. It operates on a one-to-many distribution model, where a single RSS feed from a hosting platform is submitted to numerous podcast directories.• Analogy: The structure is comparable to a website, which has a backend hosting provider (e.g., GoDaddy, Hostinger) and a front-facing content management system (CMS) or website that users interact with. 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Users pay a fee to access a database of proprietary content. A private podcast operates on the same principle, offering exclusive audio or video content to a select audience.• Mechanism of Access: Access is granted only after a specific action is taken by the user, typically involving payment or registration. This makes it a powerful tool for delivering premium content, courses, internal communications, or community-specific updates.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need SEO Services? 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Choose a Hosting Platform: The recommended starting point is creators.spotify.com (formerly Anchor.fm) because it is free and provides a straightforward entry point.2. Create SEO-Driven Content: Focus on producing episodes with clear, searchable titles and detailed descriptions that answer potential listener questions.3. Distribute Widely: After setting up the podcast, use a service like pod.link to find a comprehensive list of directories and submit the RSS feed to all of them to maximize potential reach.4. Publish Consistently: Momentum is built through consistent publishing. Reaching milestones like 12, 24, or 48 episodes helps establish a presence and build a library that encourages new listeners to stay.I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode and learned something new about public and private podcast RSS feed distribution!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI has existed for decades, but modern deep learning is finally delivering precision decisions in clinic. Dr. Spratt details how ArteraAI's predictive biomarker—validated on long-term randomized data—can spare roughly two-thirds of eligible men from ADT without compromising outcomes. We unpack ADT's quality-of-life trade-offs, practical training and nutrition strategies to preserve muscle, and where AI is headed next (post-surgery models, higher-risk disease). You'll also hear a clear framework for shared decision-making so men are treated as people, not just numbers.Key Points✅ AI meets prostate cancer. ArteraAI, developed by Dr. Daniel Spratt's team, is now part of the NCCN guidelines—helping doctors know which patients truly benefit from hormone therapy.✅ Two-thirds can skip ADT. Long-term data from the RTOG 9408 trial show most men can avoid the side effects of hormone therapy without affecting outcomes.✅ Quality of life first. Treatments should improve survival or well-being—if they don't, they shouldn't be used.✅ Lifestyle still matters. Exercise, protein, and resistance training help men on ADT preserve muscle and energy.✅ The future is personalized. New AI models will soon guide therapy for higher-risk patients and integrate full-body health data for truly tailored care.⏱️ Time-Stamped Highlights00:00 – Why AI in prostate cancer now? From buzzword to bedside with ArteraAI.01:30 – Deep learning vs. “human-defined” inputs; beyond Gleason to hundreds of slide features.03:10 – Landmark validation: RTOG 9408 and how the model predicts who benefits from ADT.05:00 – ADT trade-offs: longevity vs. libido, energy, bone/muscle; treat only if it improves life or survival.07:15 – “Exercise is medicine”: the 10-minute rule, protein targets, and resistance training on ADT.09:00 – Current indication: primarily intermediate-risk (Gleason 7) men receiving radiation.10:45 – What's next: models for higher-risk and post-prostatectomy patients; shorter-course ADT questions.13:00 – “Black box” & explainability: why robust external validation matters for trust.15:10 – Access & coverage: ordering via online portal; CMS coverage; what patients can ask their doctors.17:20 – Shared decision-making: reduce PSA anxiety; treat the person, not the number.___________________________________

Episode 138 -Value-Based Care in Action: CMS's GUIDE Model for Caregiver Support As CMS continues to expand value-based care programs, one stands out for its focus on supporting some of our most vulnerable patients—and their caregivers. The GUIDE model (Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience) is designed to improve care for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's, while providing essential resources and support for the family members and caregivers who support them. On this episode Dan is joined by Seth Hyman, Co-Founder and Partner at JVS Health. Together, they explore the goals of the GUIDE model, why CMS is prioritizing dementia care, and how health systems can prepare to implement and benefit from this transformative initiative. To stream our Station live 24/7 visit www.HealthcareNOWRadio.com or ask your Smart Device to “….Play Healthcare NOW Radio”. Find all of our network podcasts on your favorite podcast platforms and be sure to subscribe and like us. Learn more at www.healthcarenowradio.com/listen

This past summer CMS, more specifically CMMI, announced a six-year Medicare Part A demonstration that would require hospitals in six states to submit claims for prior authorization (PA) approval by non-medical, CMS-contracted, 3rd party entities using enhanced technologies, i.e., AI, for 17 medical items and services. Private/commercial Medicare or Part C Medicare Advantage plans have for years extensively used PAs though data suggests Medicare Advantage PA use has been excessive, e.g., a very high percentage of PA denials are reversed upon appeal) and widely viewed as a tool to enhance profit taking. CMMI-contracted tech/AI companies will be compensated based on a share the money saved from PAs contractors' deny though subject to meeting quality criteria. The WISeR demo has attached a fair amount of criticism, e.g., 12 Senate Democrats and 17 House Democrats each wrote letters to HHS/CMMI noting their concerns that include the demo will present patient roadblocks, cause some patients to abandon care, risk denying necessary care, inflict substantial administrative burden on clinicians, perversely incent AI contractors and they argued Americans do not want AI involved in their healthcare decisions. The July 1 Federal Register WISeR notice is at: https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2025-07-01/pdf/2025-12195.pdf.The CMS/CMMI WISeR website is at: https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/wiser.Liu and Wadhera's NEJM Perspective essay re: the WISeR demo is at: https://www.nejm.org/doi/abs/10.1056/NEJMp2510451. Don Berwick and Andrea Ducas's STAT opinion essay re: the WISeR demo is at: https://www.statnews.com/2025/07/25/medicare-advantage-prior-authorization-cms-innovation-center-wiser-project/. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thehealthcarepolicypodcast.com

Subscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.Health Affairs' Jeff Byers welcomes Senior Editor Kathleen Haddad back to the pod to take a look at the recent government shutdown, how health policy plays into it, HHS layoffs, the Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, the ACA marketplace, and more.Join us for this upcoming event:11/5: Health Benefits in 2025: Insights from the KFF Employer Health Benefits Survey (INSIDER EXCLUSIVE)Become an Insider today to get access to exclusive events and our upcoming third trend report.Related Articles:Judge pauses shutdown layoffs at more than 30 federal agencies (NPR)Medicare backs off plan to pause doctor payments amid shutdown (STAT)White House: Shutdown layoffs will be ‘north of 10,000' (Politico) Subscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.

On previous episodes of Plain Talk, North Dakota Insurance Commisisoner Jon Godfread and Chris Jones, the former head of the state Department of Health and Human Services who is just wrapping up a stint as an adviser in President Donald Trump's administration, argued that health care pricing is opaque. They said that lack of transparency contributes to spiraling health care costs, and thus the rising cost of health insurance. Godfread, specifically, pointed to research his office has done in North Dakota -- he's called it a "secret shopper" study -- showing wide disparities in pricing for routine procedures between the state's hospitals. In some cases, the price difference is as much as 600%. For his part, Jones said that spiral prices for care, driving spiral prices for insurance, are bringing us "precipitously close to having a significant issue with access to health care." What do the people who charge those prices have to say about it? Tim Blasl, the president of the North Dakota Hospital Association, said that while care providers do make prices available, that's usually not what those providers actually charge. "Typically we don't collect those charges," he said on this episode of Plain Talk. "I would say 90 to 93% of our payments that we receive, whether it's from the federal government and CMS, or state Medicaid, or commercial, those have been sort of predetermined already. So even though we have a charge, we are not collecting what we charge." "We do have to establish a charge," he continued, "but, again, if you have insurance in this country, you are not paying what that charge is. You're paying that negotiated rate that's been determined between the payer and the provider." As for the secret shoppers? Blasl wondered if some of the differences could be the different ways hospitals calculate prices. A single procedure could require care from different groups within a hospital -- anesthesiology, radiation, etc. -- and when some hospitals provide a quote, they might be including prices for the entire bundle of care that procedure requires or just one part of it. During the legislative session earlier this year, Rep. Jared Hendrix, a Republican from Fargo, introduced House Bill 1594, which would have implemented new state-level requirements for price transparency from hospitals. Why did Blasl's organization oppose it? Because it was duplicative. "The state wanted to make it a requirement, you know back in the last session, and we felt that was just another layer, because it mirrored what the federal government was doing," Blasl said. "If you look at what that bill required hospitals to do, it's the same thing as what CMS requires us to do today," he continued. "We just felt like it's a federal requirement now, why should we be spending state dollars to monitor it on the state level when the feds do it already?" he added. If you want to participate in Plain Talk, just give us a call or text at 701-587-3141. It's super easy — leave your message, tell us your name and where you're from, and we might feature it on an upcoming episode. To subscribe to Plain Talk, search for the show wherever you get your podcasts or use one of the links below. Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Pocket Casts | Episode Archive

Would you like access to our advanced agency training for FREE? https://www.agencymastery360.com/training What do you do when your career takes an unexpected left turn? And how do you know when it's time to stop hustling like a freelancer and start leading like a CEO? Today's featured guest found herself in that situation and made the bold choice to go from career misstep to becoming an agency owner. She'll dive into what it really takes to go from a one-woman shop with dial-up internet to leading a team with vision, systems, and staying power. From handwritten letters with a 15% close rate to breaking free from client dependency and leveraging AI without losing the human touch, she shares the hard-earned lessons every agency owner needs to hear. Kriston Sellier is the President and Founder of Id8, a specialized branding agency based in Atlanta. With more than 25 years in the business, she's built a reputation for helping food, beverage, and manufacturing brands stand out and thrive. Kriston is passionate about research-driven branding, cultivating strong communities, and proving that the human side of leadership is just as critical as the strategy. In this episode, we'll discuss:                                    Starting over after being fired. Outgrowing freelance mode. What do agency owners need to grow? Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio Sponsors and Resources This episode is brought to you by Wix Studio: If you're leveling up your team and your client experience, your site builder should keep up too. That's why successful agencies use Wix Studio — built to adapt the way your agency does: AI-powered site mapping, responsive design, flexible workflows, and scalable CMS tools so you spend less on plugins and more on growth. Ready to design faster and smarter? Go to wix.com/studio to get started. Thriving in the Agency World After Being Fired Kriston didn't step into agency ownership with a clean, corporate plan. She was fired. After leaving IBM to co-found an agency, she found herself pushed out after a handshake deal gone wrong. At 20-something, she was suddenly unemployed and staring down two options: get another job or finally chase her dream of starting her own shop. It wasn't easy, but that leap turned out to be the right one. Starting out with no clients, she set a modest goal of making $35,000 in her first year. Instead, she closed out her first nine months with $90,000. That was the moment she knew she wasn't just freelancing; she was building something real. From Cold Calls to Handwritten Letters: Building the First Client Base Kriston started with just a basement office and dial-up internet. Since this was the 90s, if her husband picked up the phone line upstairs it would disconnect the whole system. She started out making cold calls to every food and beverage brand in the Yellow Pages. Additionally, she also sent handwritten letters pitching her services, yielding an impressive 15% close rate. In today's digital-first world, that kind of return sounds impossible, but back then it got her first wave of clients. It's a reminder that persistence and a personal touch can cut through the noise, even if the tools have changed. Outgrowing Freelance Mode and Thinking Like a CEO Like many agency owners, Kriston spent the early years acting more like a freelancer than a CEO. That all changed in 2006 when one client made up 75% of her business. The sleepless nights and anxiety from being handcuffed to a single account forced her to rethink everything. A colleague recommended working with a business consultant, so Kriston hired one and for four years, she worked with a full-time consultant who helped her transition from operator to CEO. That shift meant putting systems in place, committing to sales, and most importantly, diversifying her client base. Within the first year of working with her consultant, she added 25 new clients and broke free from the one-client trap. What Agency CEOs Need to Grow? Kriston strongly believes that CEOs should surround themselves with subject matter experts. Every agency owner needs a good advisory board that tells them the truths they doesn't necessarily want to hear, which is why she recommends relying on financial, HR, and sales consultants that can help you look at things from a different perspective. Regarding her role as CEO, Kriston definitely sees herself as more of a coach than a manager. For her, leadership is about helping team members uncover the real issues behind their challenges and guiding them to their own solutions. Likewise, the best team members are those who show they're coachable and open to feedback. She doesn't see failure as the end of the road but as a symptom of something deeper. Her job is to help her team ask the right questions, recognize the root cause, and take ownership of the fix. That shift from micromanaging tasks to coaching outcomes not only freed her up as a leader but also empowered her team to make better decisions without her constant oversight. AI, Research, and the Future of Agencies Running a research-based agency, Kriston is a big fan of Perplexity, a research-focused AI she uses 20–40 times a day for everything from writing stronger emails to analyzing massive datasets. But she's quick to point out that AI isn't a replacement for agencies—it's an enhancer. Where some fear AI will eliminate agency work, Kriston agrees that companies will still want experts to navigate the complexity and not DIY everything themselves. Clients may use AI for certain tasks, but they'll still rely on agencies for strategy, creativity, and execution.. AI + human expertise is the winning formula. And with large organizations outsourcing more marketing again, Kriston believes the future is bright for agencies that bring innovation, research, and personal connection to the table. Cooperation Over Competition Kriston wants agency owners to stop treating each other like competitors and start seeing each other as collaborators. She believes the industry's future depends on agency owners being open, honest, and willing to share both wins and lessons learned. Most agency owners see every other shop as a threat when they're starting out, fearful of competition instead of open to collaboration. At some point, however, through masterminds and peer groups, they come to realize the real growth comes when owners start to build community and create strategic partnerships. For Kriston, it all comes back to community, the same mission she set when she started ID8 decades ago. Build the community, and the business will follow. Do You Want to Transform Your Agency from a Liability to an Asset? Looking to dig deeper into your agency's potential? Check out our Agency Blueprint. Designed for agency owners like you, our Agency Blueprint helps you uncover growth opportunities, tackle obstacles, and craft a customized blueprint for your agency's success.