Podcasts about erisa

Could one outdated beneficiary form completely override your will, your divorce agreement, and everything you thought you had buttoned up? It sounds small. Administrative. Boring, even. But beneficiary designations are one of the most powerful and most overlooked pieces of your financial life. In this episode, Stacy and Natalie break down why updating beneficiaries after divorce (or any major life transition) isn't "housekeeping." It's a priority for protecting yourself, your kids, and the future. From ERISA plans to minor children inheriting assets to life insurance in divorce settlements, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the real-world mistakes and how to avoid them. You'll hear them discuss: Why beneficiary designations override your will and are first in line legally when assets are distributed Which accounts require beneficiaries (retirement accounts, life insurance, brokerage accounts, bank accounts with POD/TOD, and more) The difference between primary and contingent beneficiaries - and why not listing both can force assets into probate What happens if you die without a will or updated beneficiaries, including how state law may split assets in ways you never intended Why leaving assets directly to minor children can trigger court involvement, restrictions, and expensive legal oversight How trusts give you control over how and when children receive money and why they're not just for the ultra-wealthy How divorce impacts beneficiaries, including automatic revocation laws, ERISA plans like 401(k)s that follow federal rules, and how life insurance should be structured to protect child or spousal support Resources Natalie Colley on FrancisFinancial.com⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠ | Email Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | X(Twitter) | Email FrancisFinancial.com Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!

Most brokers pitch self-funding as a silver bullet for cost containment, focusing on administrative fees and stop-loss premiums. But they ignore the elephant in the room: the actual claims data. If you are only trying to shave 10% off the admin fee - which represents just 15% of the total cost - you are completely missing the opportunity to find massive savings in the 85% of the pie that actually matters.My guest, Jeff Borglund, Co-Founder of IntegroIQ, joins me to explain why forensic claims auditing is the ultimate wedge strategy to win and retain self-funded clients. We break down the difference between a targeted audit and a forensic review, and why employers are choosing "ignorance" despite mounting ERISA fiduciary lawsuits. If you want to differentiate your agency and offer a cost-containment strategy that requires zero employee disruption, this is the episode for you.▶▶ Sign Up For Your Free Discovery Callcompletegameu.com/agaKEY MOMENTS(00:00:35) The Sausage Salesman: Jeff's Unconventional Path to Insurance (00:02:19) The Forbes Article That Changed Everything (00:06:34) What is Claims Payment Integrity? (And Why is it a Blind Spot?) (00:07:33) Forensic Audits: Finding the $69,000 Mammogram Mistake (00:12:22) Shifting from "Identify and Recover" to "Identify and Prevent" (00:14:02) Fiduciary Ignorance: Why Employers Put Their Heads in the Sand (00:21:04) Fraud, Waste, and Abuse: The Most Common Billing Errors (00:25:05) How Brokers Use IntegroIQ as Their Back-Office Data Team (00:30:35) Jeff's Morning Routine: Coffee, Scripture, and High-Altitude HikingCONNECT WITH ANDY NEARY

In this episode of Friday Fiduciary Five, Eric Dyson talks about the pride and privilege of fiduciary duty, drawing parallels to Team USA's Olympic gold in hockey. He highlights the significance of the USA's gold medal win, emphasizing the team's unity and Coach Mike Sullivan's simple yet powerful message. Eric compares this to the fiduciary duty of ERISA professionals, urging them to see it as a privilege rather than a burden. Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information contained herein is general in nature and is provided solely for educational and informational purposes.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation of any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, financial advice, or legal advice.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan specific circumstances.

David J. Witz is a nationally recognized fiduciary governance expert with more than 44 years of experience in retirement plan consulting, ERISA compliance, and fintech solutions. He is the CEO and founder of Fiduciary Risk Assessment LLC, CEO of PlanTools, LLC, and co-founder and COO of Catapult HQ, Inc., where he leads executive management, product design, SaaS development, and fiduciary consulting. Over his career, he has served as an expert witness in major ERISA litigation, advised national financial institutions, authored and presented extensively on fiduciary risk and governance, and helped shape industry best practices through technology, education, and thought leadership.In this episode, Eric and David discuss:Using scorecards to filter, not decidePreferring consistency over hero-to-zero performanceMaking fiduciary decisions visible and defensibleRisk must be understood, not assumedKey Takeaways:IPS scorecards narrow the universe, but they don't tell you which “10 out of 10” is actually better. “Consistently Good Occasionally Great” (CGOG) steps in as an alternate but compatible filter to evaluate pattern, persistence, and risk consistency. Selection becomes intentional, not defaulting to the lowest cost or the best recent return.CGOG favors “singles and doubles” over volatile home runs and strikeouts. Rolling-period analysis reveals whether excess returns are repeatable or masked by boom-and-bust cycles. The goal is to minimize large losses and avoid unpleasant fiduciary surprises.Clear visuals and documented processes allow committees to understand risk and return without deep technical expertise. IPS, monitoring reports, and CGOG together create a repeatable decision framework. If challenged, the process—not hindsight—becomes the defense.Rolling data and deeper analysis reveal behavior that point-in-time returns can hide. Looking beyond recent performance leads to more intentional portfolio construction.“Your scorecard is great at whittling down, filtering the universe into a smaller group where you can go deeper, but utilizing the scorecard as a baseline for selecting your funds is not a good idea. It does not give you the ability to look under the hood and determine why one 10 is a better 10 than another 10.” - David WitzConnect with David Witz:Website: www.plantools.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-witz/ Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information and content of this podcast are general in nature and are provided solely for educational and informational purposes. It is believed to be accurate and reliable as of the posting date, but may be subject to change.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation for any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, investment advice, financial advice, tax, plan design, or legal advice (unless otherwise specifically indicated). Please consult your own independent advisor as to any investment, tax, or legal statements made.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan-specific circumstances.The opinions expressed by guests are not necessarily agreed by, or the same opinions of 90 North Consulting or of Eric Dyson.

Have a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 6, Episode 6 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into The Ongoing Proof Trap: When Improvement, Doctors, and Daily Activities Kill Your Long-Term Disability Claim.Securing ERISA Long-Term Disability benefits often hinges on a hidden danger: the ongoing proof required to keep them. Insurers don't just assess whether a condition exists - they look for signs of improvement, weigh treating physician opinions, and scrutinize everyday activities for evidence you can still work. Even minor changes in medical records, mixed messages from doctors, or routine daily tasks can quietly undermine a valid claim. In this episode, we break down how perceived improvement, physician dynamics, and lifestyle details are used to challenge continued eligibility. By the end, you'll understand why maintaining LTD benefits isn't just about proving disability once - it's about consistently documenting functional limits and avoiding the traps that lead to termination.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:One - When Improvement in Cardiac Function Can End Your BenefitsTwo - When Your Treating Physician's Opinion Doesn't Guarantee Your ClaimThree - Daily Activities That Can Kill Your ERISA Disability ClaimWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Listen to Our Sister Podcast:We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mindLINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefitsFREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

Eric Dyson, Executive Director of 90 North Consulting and one of the retirement industry's more active ERISA expert witnesses, joins the 401(k) Specialist Podcast for a practical conversation on how plan sponsors and advisors can reduce fiduciary risk—and be better prepared if the Department of Labor comes calling.Drawing on his experience testifying in more than a dozen ERISA cases, Dyson shares the most common mistakes he sees in litigation and investigations, why a DOL audit may be a bigger risk than a lawsuit for most plans, and what courts actually expect from fiduciaries. He tackles pressing questions around paying advisors and TPAs with plan assets, properly documenting QDIA selections to secure safe harbor protection, conducting RFPs and benchmarking at “reasonable intervals,” and crafting committee meeting minutes that protect rather than expose.Dyson also provides clear, actionable steps sponsors can take before their next committee meeting to strengthen governance, document prudence, and stay off the litigation radar, and reduce fiduciary risk.EDITOR'S NOTE: This podcast episode is part of our new “Deep Dive” special content package for Q1 2026 titled, “How Not to Get Sued.” You can find additional coverage in the links below, and more focused content will be available in the coming days.SEE ALSO:How Not to Get Sued in 2026: Part 1How Not to Get Sued 2026: Part 2

Questions? Thoughts? Send a Text to The Optometry Money Podcast! We'll answer your question on the show.As an optometrist—especially a practice owner—you face real liability exposure from both your professional work and your business. So how well are your retirement accounts and investments actually protected if something goes wrong? In this episode, we walk through the different layers of liability protection available to ODs and dive into exactly which retirement and investment accounts are shielded from creditors, which ones aren't, and where the common gaps and misconceptions are.What You'll LearnFour common layers of liability protection available to optometrists (entities, insurance, titling, and federal/state law)Why umbrella insurance is one of the most common gaps in OD insurance planningHow ERISA law protects 401(k) and cash balance plans—and why it's the gold standardWhy solo 401(k) plans do NOT carry the same ERISA protection (a common misconception)How SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs fall short on liability protection compared to full 401(k) plansHow Traditional and Roth IRAs are protected in bankruptcy (and the current dollar limit)What happens to liability protection when you roll a 401(k) into an IRA—and a best practice for keeping those dollars separateHow HSAs, taxable brokerage accounts, and 529 plans are (or aren't) protectedSteps ODs should take now to review their liability exposureKey TakeawayNot all retirement accounts are created equal when it comes to liability protection. ERISA-covered plans like 401(k)s and cash balance plans offer the strongest, unlimited federal protection—making maxing those contributions both a tax strategy and a liability strategy. But accounts like solo 401(k)s, SIMPLE IRAs, and traditional/Roth IRAs don't carry that same blanket protection, and the gaps are highly state-dependent. Understanding where your dollars sit and how they're protected is an important part of your overall financial plan.ResourcesSubmit your questions for upcoming Listener Q&A episodes: OptometryWealth.com/podcastquestionReach out: podcast@optometrywealth.comWant a more proactive approach to your planning?You can schedule a no-commitment introductory call to discuss what's on your mind financially and learn how we help optometrists navigate those same decisions nationwide.

Have a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 6, Episode 5 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into The Language of Limitation: Russell Van Brocklen on What Dyslexia Research Teaches Us About Disability Claims.Understanding how cognitive and reading challenges show up in real work settings can determine whether a disability claim is fairly evaluated or misunderstood. Too often, Long-Term Disability decisions focus on diagnoses alone, overlooking how processing speed, reading accuracy, memory, and mental fatigue affect day-to-day job performance. Insurers may recognize a condition exists while still concluding work is possible - without fully accounting for sustained cognitive demands. In this episode, we examine what functional limitation really looks like when cognitive challenges are involved. Our guest, Russell Van Brocklen, shares research-driven insights into how reading and processing difficulties affect productivity, accuracy, and endurance at work. We cover three areas: connecting cognitive science to disability claims, translating research into usable claim evidence, and practical takeaways for attorneys, clinicians, and claimants. By the end, you'll see why cognitive limitations must be evaluated in real-world terms, and why linking science to functional impact is key to protecting Long-Term Disability benefits.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:One - Background and Context: Bridging Research and Disability ClaimsTwo - Translating Cognitive Science into Claim EvidenceThree - Practical Insights for Attorneys, Clinicians, and ClaimantsWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Listen to Our Sister Podcast:We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mindLINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefitsFREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

Have a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 6, Episode 4 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into Vocational Evaluators and ERISA Disability: How Your Skills and Residual Functional Capacity Shape Your Claim.Understanding how vocational evaluators fit into the ERISA disability process can be the difference between securing the Long-Term Disability benefits you paid for and having your claim unfairly denied. Disability carriers rely heavily on vocational experts, and their assessments often shape claim outcomes - sometimes in ways that don't accurately reflect a claimant's true functional abilities. Insurers don't rely on medical records alone. They analyze residual functional capacity, past job duties, and whether your skills could transfer to other work. If your work history, limitations, or skills aren't clearly documented, or if your occupation is misclassified, your claim can be delayed, reduced, or denied altogether. Vocational evaluations are especially decisive during the “own occupation” and “any occupation” phases of a claim. Small assumptions or errors in a VE report can have outsized consequences, making it critical to understand how these evaluations work and how they can be challenged. In this episode, we break the process down into three parts: what ERISA claimants need to know about vocational experts and transferable skills, why challenging the carrier's VE is often essential, and how competing vocational opinions can protect your benefits. By the end, you'll understand why winning an ERISA disability claim isn't just about diagnosis - it's about clearly presenting your functional limits and holding insurers' experts accountable.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:One - What Every ERISA Policy or Plan Holder Must Know About the Role of a Vocational Expert in Their Disability Insurance ClaimTwo - Why You Must Have an Experienced ERISA Disability Attorney Attack the Opinion of the Carrier's “Liar-for-Hire” Vocational Evaluator in Your AppealThree - The Hidden Battle of Experts - Your Vocational Evaluator vs. TheirsWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Listen to Our Sister Podcast:We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mindLINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefitsFREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

https://vimeo.com/1162894396?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci https://www.currentfederaltaxdevelopments.com/podcasts/2026/2/8/2026-02-09-another-former-spouse-ends-up-with-a-jackpot-when-her-ex-spouse-dies-due-to-erisa This week we look at: The "Charitable LLC" Tax Shelter Section 280E Bars ERC for Cannabis Businesses TEFRA Intervention by Majority Partners R&D Credit Substantiation Supervisory Approval of Penalties ERISA Beneficiary Designations

A lesson in making sure your beneficiaries are updated in ERISA covered plans following a divorce, the iRS issues guidance attacking a Charitable LLC shelter and more.

This week we look at: The "Charitable LLC" Tax Shelter Section 280E Bars ERC for Cannabis Businesses TEFRA Intervention by Majority Partners R&D Credit Substantiation Supervisory Approval of Penalties ERISA Beneficiary Designations

In this episode of Friday Fiduciary Five, Eric Dyson talks about the Employee Benefit Security Administration's January 29, 2026, proposal to enhance transparency into pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) fee disclosures. The proposal aims to provide ERISA plan fiduciaries with clearer information on PBM compensation, including direct and indirect revenue streams. If finalized, PBMs and associated brokers must disclose detailed compensation at regular intervals for the benefit of plan sponsors. Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information contained herein is general in nature and is provided solely for educational and informational purposes.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation of any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, financial advice, or legal advice.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan specific circumstances.The opinions expressed by guests are not necessarily agreed by, or the same opinions of 90 North Consulting or of Eric Dyson.

Comment on the Show by Sending Mark a Text Message.Have you ever felt the gut-wrenching anxiety of being fired or laid off? The uncertainty can be overwhelming, but what if you could turn that fear into an opportunity? In this enlightening episode of the Employee Survival Guide®, Mark Carey dives deep into the critical world of severance negotiations, equipping you with the knowledge you need to navigate this challenging terrain with confidence. Understanding severance agreements is crucial, especially when they're governed by ERISA, which can provide essential legal protections and benefits that many employees overlook. Mark breaks down the severance negotiation process, shedding light on key terms such as payment structures, release of claims, confidentiality clauses, and non-disparagement agreements that can significantly impact your future. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing your leverage during negotiations—after all, severance pay is often a powerful bargaining chip in exchange for signing a release. Are you aware of the implications of arbitration clauses? Mark discusses these in detail, reminding listeners that taking the time to thoroughly consider any severance agreement before signing is not just wise; it's essential. Throughout the episode, Mark encourages employees to push back against unfavorable terms and to seek legal counsel when necessary. You have the right to advocate for yourself and negotiate your severance agreement effectively. This episode serves as a vital resource for anyone facing the daunting prospect of job loss, providing actionable insights into employee rights and the intricacies of employment law. Whether you're dealing with workplace discrimination, navigating a hostile work environment, or simply trying to understand your rights in the face of termination, this episode of the Employee Survival Guide® is packed with valuable information. Join us as we empower you to take control of your career and equip yourself with the skills needed to survive and thrive in the ever-evolving world of work. Don't let fear dictate your future—listen now and discover how to turn severance negotiations into a powerful tool for your career survival. Remember, knowledge is your best ally in the fight for your employment rights!  If you enjoyed this episode of the Employee Survival Guide please like us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. We would really appreciate if you could leave a review of this podcast on your favorite podcast player such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Leaving a review will inform other listeners you found the content on this podcast is important in the area of employment law in the United States. For more information, please contact our employment attorneys at Carey & Associates, P.C. at 203-255-4150, www.capclaw.com.Disclaimer: For educational use only, not intended to be legal advice.

Have a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 6, Episode 3 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of ERISA Disability Questions Answered: DOT, Sedentary Work, and Unemployment.ERISA disability claims often raise more questions than answers, and the way those questions are resolved can directly determine whether benefits are approved, delayed, or denied. Claimants are frequently left wondering how their past work is evaluated, what really changes when a claim moves from an “own occupation” standard to an “any occupation” standard, and how skills, limitations, or even outside benefits like unemployment factor into the carrier's decision-making. While these issues may seem secondary, insurers rely on them heavily to assess whether you meet the policy's definition of disability. In this episode, we unpack the most common questions that come up in ERISA disability claims. We explain how carriers analyze your work history, what they look for when assessing transferable skills, and how physical and mental restrictions are weighed against potential occupations. We also discuss how vocational evidence, functional assessments, and medical documentation are used together, and why gaps, inconsistencies, or vague information can undermine an otherwise valid claim. Additionally, we break down how other benefits and activities can intersect with your ERISA claim and influence how insurers interpret your ability to work. By the end of the episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of how ERISA carriers evaluate employability, why certain questions are asked during the claims process, and what evidence matters most. More importantly, you'll learn how understanding these issues can help you better position your claim, avoid common pitfalls, and protect your Long-Term Disability benefits.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:One - The Dictionary of Occupational Titles and Your ERISA ClaimTwo - Sedentary Work and Why It MattersThree - Unemployment Compensation and ERISA DisabilityWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Listen to Our Sister Podcast:We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mindLINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefitsFREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

In this episode of Friday Fiduciary Five, Eric Dyson outlines three common process hiccups he believes need to stop. He emphasizes that an Investment Policy Statement (IPS) is a binding plan document under DOL guidance and warns against including language that suggests it does not have to be followed, while still allowing for reasonable flexibility. Eric also advises fiduciaries to stop keeping meeting minutes too brief, stressing that minutes should clearly document decisions, rationale, and demonstrate prudence and loyalty. Lastly, he discusses the cautious but potential value of retaining AI-generated meeting summaries, suggesting their benefits may outweigh discovery concerns. Overall, Eric encourages fiduciaries to review these practices with advisors and ERISA counsel to strengthen compliance and governance.Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information contained herein is general in nature and is provided solely for educational and informational purposes.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation of any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, financial advice, or legal advice.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan specific circumstances.The opinions expressed by guests are not necessarily agreed by, or the same opinions of 90 North Consulting or of Eric Dyson.

In Re Quest Diagnostics Erisa Litigation

Have a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 6, Episode 2 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of Why Most Social Security Claims Matter to Your ERISA Disability Case.Most people don't realize how much their Social Security disability claim can shape the outcome of an ERISA Long-Term Disability case. While these are technically separate systems, ERISA carriers rely heavily on what's contained in your Social Security file to decide whether to pay benefits, reduce them, or deny them outright. Insurers aren't just looking at a diagnosis - they scrutinize medical records, treatment history, work background, daily activities, and the statements you made throughout the Social Security process, all with an eye toward consistency. In this episode, we break down why Social Security evidence plays such a critical role in ERISA disability claims. We explain what carriers look for in your initial application and reconsideration filings, identify the key documents within your Social Security file that insurers focus on most, and show how consultative exams, vocational opinions, or missing information can be used against you. We also discuss why timing matters - from when a claim is filed to how denials, approvals, and appeals can impact an ERISA review. By the end of the episode, you'll understand that securing your Long-Term Disability benefits isn't just about proving you're disabled - it's about documentation, alignment, and knowing exactly how insurers evaluate your Social Security record.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:One - What ERISA Carriers Look for in Your Initial or Reconsideration Social Security ClaimTwo - Congratulations, You Won Your Social Security Case! Now What?Three - How ERISA Carriers Use a Favorable Social Security Decision to Deny or Terminate BenefitsWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Listen to Our Sister Podcast:We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mindLINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefitsFREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on Social Security survivor benefits and the earnings test, share a listener PSA on Social Security timing and IRMAA, then cover ERISA protections for retirement rollovers and a PSA from Greg on lifetime unlimited long-term care policies.(9:45) Georgette asks whether she must still take her husband's required minimum distributions if he passes during his RMD year and how Social Security survivor benefits work, including whether she should claim a widow's benefit or wait to take her own.(50:45) A listener asks how the Social Security earnings test applies when someone retires before full retirement age and applies midyear, and how to avoid missing a month of income due to the timing of benefit payments.(55:00) The guys share a PSA about applying for Social Security and receiving benefits within days, which caused an unexpected IRMAA impact.(1:00:35) Jim and Chris discuss whether rolling Roth and pre-tax 401(k) assets into IRAs results in losing ERISA protections, or if separate rollover IRAs are needed to preserve those protections.(1:15:15) Greg, from our office, shares a PSA clarifying that some lifetime unlimited long-term care policies still exist. The post Social Security, ERISA, LTC: Q&A #2604 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

On this episode of Williams Mullen's Benefits Companion, host Brydon DeWitt is joined by Beryl Ball, principal financial advisor at CAPTRUST, to discuss key benefits industry trends expected in 2026. They examine anticipated Department of Labor rulemaking, evolving fiduciary obligations, ERISA litigation trends and the growing focus on participant outcomes. The conversation offers practical insights to help employers, benefits administrators and plan fiduciaries prepare for the year ahead.

040 What Is An Association Health Plan And What Can It Do For Me explains what kinds of associations can offer group health plans if Congress can pass along the same exemption from state insurance laws to associations that it already provides to employer, union and federal government groups through ERISA.Association Health Plans eliminate the problem of job-lock for people who wish o change jobs but cannot afford to lose their insurance. Association Health Plans align incentives to receive better care from associations and affinity groups that exist to serve them - not shareholders or corporate administrators.Association Health Plans offer an extremely wide variety of choices for people to seek health plans that best serve them at the price they can afford.Association Health Plans drive down prices due to fierce competition among a huge increase in available plans and from a huge increase in the number of suppliers.

Have a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 6, Episode 1 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of The Gold in Your Social Security File: How Disability Carriers Use It Against You.Most people assume Social Security Disability and ERISA Long-Term Disability benefits operate independently. While they are separate systems, what happens in one can significantly affect the other. Insurers don't focus solely on diagnosis - they closely examine medical records, treatment history, daily activities, and statements made to Social Security to decide whether a claim meets the policy's definition of disability. In this episode, we examine how Social Security intersects with ERISA disability claims. We explain why carriers seek access to your Social Security file, what key evidence it contains, and how inconsistencies, consultative exams, or vocational opinions can be used to reduce, deny, or terminate benefits. We also discuss why timing matters, from SSDI approval to ongoing reviews and appeals. By the end of the episode, you'll understand that protecting your disability benefits isn't just about your medical condition - it's about strategy, documentation, and timing.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:One - Setting the Stage: Why Your Disability Carrier Wants Your Social Security FileTwo - Inside the File: What Medical Material Can Lead to an ERISA DenialThree - Timing Is Everything: The Four Times Your Carrier Wants Your Social Security FileWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Listen to Our Sister Podcast:We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mindLINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefitsFREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

In this episode of Wealth Management Invest, host David Bodamer sits down with Anya Coverman, president and CEO of the Institute for Portfolio Alternatives, to open 2026 with a discussion on key regulatory and policy developments affecting private markets, including ERISA modernization, 401(k) access, accredited investor definitions and the impact of state-level regulation. Anya outlines the IPA's role in representing the alternatives ecosystem and shares insight into how access to private markets has evolved, why individual investors remain under allocated compared to institutions, and how innovation in fund structures, fintech infrastructure and industry partnerships is reshaping the wealth channel. Key takeaways: Individual investors remain under allocated to private markets compared to institutions New fund structures, fintech platforms and partnerships are expanding advisor access to alternatives Policy developments around ERISA, 401(k)s and accredited investors will shape future access Durable, thoughtful regulation is essential to responsible growth in private markets Education and collaboration are critical as alternatives play a larger role in portfolios Connect With David Bodamer: david.bodamer@informa.com  Wealth Management LinkedIn: David Bodamer LinkedIn: Wealth Management Connect With Anya Coverman: Institute for Portfolio Alternatives LinkedIn: Anya Coverman Resources: Listen to the Wealth Management Invest Podcast on Wealth Management Listen and Subscribe to the Wealth Management Invest on Apple Podcasts Listen and Subscribe to the Wealth Management Invest on Spotify

Kristen Deere is a Director in the Employee Benefit Plan Audit Services practice at Weaver & Tidwell, LLP. With over 20 years of experience in public accounting, she has specialized in auditing employee benefit plans throughout most of her career. Kristen leads audits for both private and public plan sponsors, covering a wide range of plan types, including defined contribution (401(k), 403(b), ESOP, 11-K), defined benefit, and health & welfare plans. Kristen has led audits for plans ranging from under $1 million to over $45 billion in assets, ensuring compliance with complex ERISA, DOL, and SEC compliance requirements. Her industry expertise spans not-for-profit organizations, government entities, financial services, energy, and a diverse portfolio of employee benefit plan administrators. She also champions technology innovation initiatives that enhance audit quality and efficiency. In this episode, Eric and Kristen Deere discuss:Understanding why benefit plan audits existUsing technology to reduce audit burdenPreparing proactively for smooth auditsFollowing the plan document above all elseKey Takeaways:Department of Labor audits are required for large plans to confirm that operations follow the plan document. Their goal is to protect participants and ensure promised benefits are delivered accurately. Audits may surface issues or risks, but they are not designed as fraud detection guarantees.Employee benefit plan audits rely heavily on payroll, census, and record-keeper data. Audit software, structured spreadsheets, and direct system access improve accuracy and efficiency. When used well, technology makes audits less disruptive for plan sponsors.Successful plan sponsors stay organized throughout the year, not just during audit season. They maintain clear documentation, communicate changes early, and reconcile data regularly. This preparation prevents last-minute scrambles and repeated audit findings.Most audit issues trace back to operations drifting from the written plan document. Payroll, record keepers, and processes must all align with what the plan actually says. Reading, understanding, and following the document is the strongest safeguard against errors.“They can outsource the function, but they can't outsource the responsibility.” - Kristen DeereConnect with Kristen Deere:Website: https://weaver.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-derryberry/ Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information and content of this podcast are general in nature and are provided solely for educational and informational purposes. It is believed to be accurate and reliable as of the posting date, but may be subject to change.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation for any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, investment advice, financial advice, tax, plan design, or legal advice (unless otherwise specifically indicated). Please consult your own independent advisor as to any investment, tax, or legal statements made.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan-specific circumstances.The opinions expressed by guests are not necessarily agreed by, or the same opinions of 90 North Consulting or of Eric Dyson.

Each month, a panel of constitutional experts convenes to discuss the Court’s upcoming docket sitting by sitting. The cases covered in this preview are listed below.Chevron USA Inc. v. Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana (January 12) - Federal Officer Removal Statute; Issue(s): (1) Whether a causal-nexus or contractual-direction test survives the 2011 amendment to the federal-officer removal statute, which provides federal jurisdiction over civil actions against "any person acting under [an] officer" of the United States "for or relating to any act under color of such office"; and (2) whether a federal contractor can remove to federal court when sued for oil-production activities undertaken to fulfill a federal oil-refinement contract.West Virginia v. B.P.J. (January 13) - Fourteenth Amendment; Title IX; Issue(s): (1) Whether Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prevents a state from consistently designating girls' and boys' sports teams based on biological sex determined at birth; and (2) whether the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment prevents a state from offering separate boys' and girls' sports teams based on biological sex determined at birth.Little v. Hecox (January 13) - Fourteenth Amendment; Title IX; Issue(s): Whether laws that seek to protect women's and girls' sports by limiting participation to women and girls based on sex violate the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment.Galette v. New Jersey Transit Corporation (January 14) - Sovereign Immunity, Federalism & Separation of Powers; Issue(s): Whether the New Jersey Transit Corporation is an arm of the State of New Jersey for interstate sovereign immunity purposes.Wolford v. Lopez (January 20) - Second Amendment; Issue(s): Whether the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit erred in holding that Hawaii may presumptively prohibit the carry of handguns by licensed concealed carry permit holders on private property open to the public unless the property owner affirmatively gives express permission to the handgun carrier.M & K Employee Solutions, LLC v. Trustees of the IAM National Pension Fund (January 20) - ERISA; Issue(s): Whether 29 U.S.C. § 1391’s instruction to compute withdrawal liability “as of the end of the plan year” requires the plan to base the computation on the actuarial assumptions most recently adopted before the end of the year, or allows the plan to use different actuarial assumptions that were adopted after, but based on information available as of, the end of the year.Trump v. Cook (January 21) - Federalism & Separation of Powers, Administrative Law; Issue(s): Whether the Supreme Court should stay a district court ruling preventing the president from firing a member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.Featuring:Bradey A. Benbrook, Founding Partner, Benbrook Law GroupStephanie L. Freudenberg, Counsel, Schaerr Jaffe LLPJacob H. Huebert, Senior Litigation Counsel, New Civil Liberties AllianceRyan D. Walters, Deputy Attorney General, Legal Strategy, Texas(Moderator) Tiffany H. Bates, Associate, Consovoy McCarthy PLLC

In this episode, Chase Cannon and Suzanne Spradley discuss a recent wave of litigation centered on ERISA's fiduciary obligations for health and welfare plan sponsors. Suzanne begins with an explanation of the lawsuits and how the voluntary benefit plan exception from ERISA is core to the lawsuit allegations. Suzanne and Chase continue with a close look at the exception and the criteria employers should consider to meet the exception. The two close with a discussion on employer takeaways for ERISA fiduciary and voluntary plan exception purposes.

Bob Miller: Partner/Vice President of Business Development of MidwestEmail: bmiller@erisaservices.comPhone: (865) 966-1225Mobile: (515) 306-9468Adam Olson, CFP 402-379-6745adam.olson@mutualofomaha.com Most business owners think the most they can save pre-tax is their 401(k).That's not even close.In this video, I sit down with Bob Miller from ERISA Services to break down one of the most powerful—and underutilized—tax strategies available to high-income business owners: Cash Balance Plans.If you:Make strong incomeHate overpaying taxesAre 45+ (especially 55–65)Want to accelerate retirement savings…this strategy could allow you to shield $150,000 to $300,000+ per year from taxes—on top of your existing 401(k).

In this episode of Friday Fiduciary Five, Eric Dyson talks about seeking more plan sponsors as podcast guests to provide valuable insights to other committee members and peers, service providers, advisors, and other professionals in the ERISA retirement and healthcare sectors. Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information contained herein is general in nature and is provided solely for educational and informational purposes.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation of any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, financial advice, or legal advice.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan specific circumstances.The opinions expressed by guests are not necessarily agreed by, or the same opinions of 90 North Consulting or of Eric Dyson.

In this episode of Williams Mullen's Benefits Companion, host Brydon DeWitt sits down with Amy Hollis, CEO of Employees First, for a candid and eye-opening conversation about voluntary benefits—an area with associated risk many employers offer but few truly understand. Brydon and Amy pull back the curtain on what actually happens to employees' premium dollars once they leave the paycheck, why voluntary benefits often carry significantly higher broker commissions, and how these behind-the-scenes mechanics impact cost, value and transparency for employers and employees alike. Editor's Note: Since this episode was recorded, a significant ERISA development has occurred. A brief postscript has been added to address the implications of recently filed litigation, underscoring the growing legal risk in this area.

This episode features CII General Counsel Jeff Mahoney covering the top 10 important events affecting institutional investors from December 2, 2025 – January 6, 2026. Some of the topics addressed in this episode include: President Donald Trump's executive order relating to proxy advisors; provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 that were approved by Congress and signed into law by President Trump; and CII's letter to SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins regarding the Rule 14a-8 process.

Episode 95 of Astonishing Healthcare features six previous guests on the show who share astonishing observations from 2025 and some bold predictions for the New Year! Industry veteran Jeffrey Hogan, our General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer, Lloyd Fiorini, ERISA law expert Nick Welle, two of our clinical leaders – Sarra Izadi, PharmD, Chief Clinical Officer, and Bonnie Hui-Callahan, PharmD, CDCES, Sr. Director, Clinical Programs, and our Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder, Ryan Kelly, joined us for this round-robin discussion that's packed with insightful reflections and optimism about the future. We won't ruin it in the show notes, but based on what we saw in 2025: Everyone has finally had enough of the costs and opacity of the U.S. healthcare system – a $70k family premium is truly astonishing It's surprising that, despite the lawsuits, warnings, and reform efforts, the proverbial hammer didn't drop on anyone for not being a good health plan fiduciary The speed and impact of AI have broadly been more positive than expected The rise of cardio-diabesity How GLP-1s helped shift the balance of power in the pharmaceutical supply chain And in 2026, we may see: Employers fight back – they take agency over their plans, and for first movers that started with transitioning to aligned PBMs, it's “game on” for the rest of their health plans The cash price – or acquisition cost – of drugs in the U.S. becomes the baseline – i.e., we finally see a real change in how drugs are priced ICHRAs and other alternative models become more popular Employers look to new clinical programs and models that demonstrate a return on their spending AI become more important for clinical workflows (not decision-making, at least not yet) Pharmaceutical manufacturers find themselves with increasing bargaining power vs. traditional PBMs A new Stanley Cup champion, and a Super Bowl ring for… Related Content Judi Health Policy Pulse: 2025 Regulatory Roundup, the Push for PBM Reform Replay - Unifying Medical and Pharmacy Benefits: The Blueprint for Better Employee Health and Wellness AH094 - How Unified Claims Processing Evolved from Pharmacy: Improving Member Care & Operating Efficiency Health Benefits 101: The Importance of Clinical Programs How to obtain Rx data and what to do with it For more information about Capital Rx and this episode, please visit Judi Health - Insights.

In today's episode, David McKnight breaks down the creditor protection rules for Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s, as well as why more and more Americans are turning to tax-free accounts to insulate themselves from creditors… and the Government itself. In theory, under Federal Law, all IRAs traditional or Roths receive a certain level of bankruptcy protection under the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005. However, that protection is specifically tied to bankruptcy proceedings. If you're sued in civil court, the Federal bankruptcy statute doesn't automatically apply, state law takes over… By pointing out differences between states like Texas, Arizona and Florida on one end, and California and Montana on the other, David explains that whether your Roth IRA survives a potential lawsuit intact depends largely on the state in which you reside. Roth 401(k)s play by a different set of rules, as they fall under the 1974 Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). David notes that "ERISA is the big Federal law that governs most employer-sponsored retirement plans, and it comes with some of the strongest creditor  protection available anywhere in the financial world."  According to David, it's not hard to see why the Federal Government is going to need huge infusions of new revenue in the very near future. Wondering how they will be raising that capital? By targeting the nearly $45 trillion in tax-deferred retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k). In other words, while your retirement accounts may indeed be largely immune to lawsuits, they're entirely exposed to the impact of rising tax rates. David points out that contributing to 401(k)s or IRAs is like going into a business partnership with the IRS – every year, they get to vote on what percentage of your profits they get to keep. Remember: a well-planned Roth strategy doesn't just shield you from tomorrow's higher tax rates, it can also serve as a fortress protecting your wealth from outside claims.     Mentioned in this episode: David's new book, available now for pre-order: The Secret Order of Millionaires David's national bestselling book: The Guru Gap: How America's Financial Gurus Are Leading You Astray, and How to Get Back on Track Tax-Free Income for Life: A Step-by-Step Plan for a Secure Retirement by David McKnight DavidMcKnight.com DavidMcKnightBooks.com PowerOfZero.com (free video series) @mcknightandco on Twitter  @davidcmcknight on Instagram David McKnight on YouTube Get David's Tax-free Tool Kit at taxfreetoolkit.com Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA)

Summary  In this episode of the Jabot podcast, host Kathryn Rubino chats with Sandra Cohen, co-managing partner at Cohen & Buckmann. Sandra shares her journey from HR to law, specializing in executive compensation and employee benefits. Discover the challenges and rewards of running a boutique law firm and gain insights into the niche legal field of ERISA. It's a must-listen for those curious about dynamic law careers and the evolving landscape of boutique legal practices!. Episode Highlights 00:34 - Why Sandra Cohen pursued law. 02:55 - Transition from Big Law to personal practice. 05:07 - The elusive work of corporate lawyers. 06:34 - Complexities of executive compensation. 08:39 - Navigating tax and ERISA specializations. 10:59 - Founding a boutique law firm. 13:09 - Teaming up with small/boutique firms. 16:19 - The importance of smart hiring. 18:58 - Networking as making friends, not just connections. 22:14 - Promoting a law firm's unique strengths. Episode Resources Sandra W. Cohen — Cohen & Buckmann, P.C. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandracohenesq/ Keywords Jabot podcast   Kathryn Rubino   Sandra Cohen   Above the Law   Cohen & Buckman   legal industry   law school   human resources   organizational psychology   big law   Wall Street firm   co-managing partner   executive compensation   employee benefits   corporate law   transactional attorney   ERISA   M&A transactions   tax lawyers   litigators   boutique law firm   businesswoman   mentoring   networking   elite boutique trend   legal talent   mentorship   specialized practices   law firm ecosystem  

Jennifer Giannini brings more than 30 years of experience leading independent audit engagements for corporate clients across a wide range of industries. Throughout her career, she has developed deep expertise in employee benefit plan audits, making this a primary focus area. After many years of working at Baker Tilly, a national CPA firm, Jennifer recently joined LJB CPA to lead the firm's audit practice. Passionate about building strong client relationships, Jennifer returned to a smaller firm to work more closely with clients and deliver a personalized, value-added experience. Her experience at both mid-sized and national firms gives her a unique ability to tailor services to meet each client's specific needs and complexities. In her years of auditing employee benefit plans, she has pretty much seen just about everything- and enjoys helping plan sponsors navigate the tough issues that keep them up at night. In this episode, Eric and Jennifer Giannini discuss:Protecting participants through disciplined plan auditsMaking audit readiness a year-round responsibilityOwning fiduciary controls that cannot be outsourcedAvoiding costly errors through informed governanceKey Takeaways:Plan audits protect participant assets and confirm the plan follows its governing documents. They ensure contributions, matches, distributions, and eligibility are applied consistently. They also help identify fraud or embezzlement risks early.Audits run smoothly when preparation happens throughout the year. Developing processes that represent a living checklist keeps documentation complete. Retaining internal records prevents gaps that auditors will flag.Some fiduciary duties remain with the plan sponsor at all times. Regular reconciliations and documented committee oversight demonstrate prudence. Simple tracking helps surface issues before they escalate.Operational errors often stem from payroll misalignment with plan terms. Early engagement with experienced ERISA auditors reduces surprises. Committees must weigh cost, complexity, and fiduciary risk together.“The early bird always gets the worm. The earlier you start that process with your auditor, the better.” - Jennifer GianniniConnect with Jennifer Giannini:Website: https://ljbcpa.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jennifer-giannini-875071a Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information and content of this podcast are general in nature and are provided solely for educational and informational purposes. It is believed to be accurate and reliable as of the posting date, but may be subject to change.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation for any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, investment advice, financial advice, tax, plan design, or legal advice (unless otherwise specifically indicated). Please consult your own independent advisor as to any investment, tax, or legal statements made.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan-specific circumstances.

If you take health insurance as payment, then choosing good payers makes sense. How do you figure out which payers to contract with? It's a logical question that has a very involved, sometimes not so logical answer. My guest today helps his clients work successfully with insurance companies, including which ones to contract with, and he'll share some tips with us.David Zetter is the founder and President of Zetter HealthCare, LLC in Mechanicsburg, PA and has over 24 years of operational and healthcare experience. David is nationally recognized for his speaking, presentations and healthcare business expertise. He is well versed in regulatory requirements, revenue cycle management, credentialing and contracting, compliance, and coding and documentation. He is considered an expert on Medicare, not only by his clients, but also through consultant colleagues and healthcare attorneys across the country. David is an expert on ERISA regulations, which protect over 80% of the claims in the US. He knows how to stop payor recoupments dead in their tracks, and what is legal and illegal in many payor contracts. In this episode Carl White and David Zetter discuss:How to decide which insurance companies and plans to contract withHow to evaluate the payor, their contract, their reimbursement rates and other criteria for participationAdditional tips that can be done to properly evaluate payor and plan proposals?Want to be a guest on PracticeCare®?Have an experience with a business issue you think others will benefit from? Come on PracticeCare® and tell the world! Here's the link where you can get the process started.Connect with David Zetterhttps://zetter.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/zetter-healthcare/https://www.facebook.com/zetterhchttps://www.instagram.com/zetterhealthcare/Connect with Carl WhiteWebsite: http://www.marketvisorygroup.comEmail:  whitec@marketvisorygroup.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/marketvisorygroupYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD9BLCu_i2ezBj1ktUHVmigLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/healthcaremktg

Have a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 5, Episode 43 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of "Living Well With POTS: A Conversation With Nutritionist and Advocate Jill Brook."Most people hear POTS or dysautonomia and assume they're rare, poorly understood conditions with few treatment options. For patients living with them, however, the reality is far more complex - and deeply shaped by lived experience, nutrition, and daily management. In this episode, we examine POTS and dysautonomia through the lens of nutrition. Our guest is Jill Brook, MA, a nutritionist, researcher, and long-time advocate in the dysautonomia community. After a 17-year delay in receiving her own diagnosis, Jill transformed that experience into a mission to improve awareness and care. She is co-founder of PatientsCount.org, a former nutrition consultant to Dysautonomia Clinic, and host of The POTScast. We begin with Jill's personal journey into the POTS community and the lessons learned from years of missed diagnosis. We then explore how nutrition (often overlooked) can play a meaningful role in managing symptoms. Finally, we discuss practical strategies for living well with POTS, from navigating healthcare systems to adapting daily routines. By the end of the episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of POTS and dysautonomia - and why experience, nutrition, and thoughtful management are essential to better care.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:One - Understanding POTS and Jill's JourneyTwo - Nutrition and Managing POTSThree - Strategies for Living Well with POTSWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Listen to Our Sister Podcast:We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mindLINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefitsFREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

In this episode, Matthew is joined by Eversheds Sutherland partner David Kaleda to unpack ESG investing, regulatory and political shifts and emerging opportunities from creativity in investment processes to potential ERISA litigation reform.

Have a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 5, Episode 42 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of "Winning Disability Claims: Lessons From Denials, Appeals, and Carrier Games."Most workers assume an ERISA disability claim is straightforward - that if a medical condition keeps you from working, your insurer will pay. But under ERISA, benefits hinge on far more than a diagnosis. Carriers scrutinize the timing of your disability, gaps in treatment, the clarity of your medical records, and even your daily activities. A missing form, vague progress note, or inconsistent timeline can trigger a denial or termination, even when the disability is obvious. ERISA also hides procedural traps. Many policies require continuous proof of disability, and insurers police deadlines and documentation aggressively. Some even reshape the narrative - manipulating the onset date, treating routine activities as evidence of work capacity, or using minor lapses in care to cut off benefits. In this episode, we break down how these claims really unfold. We start with a case where Short-Term Disability was denied right before Long-Term Disability was set to begin - and the key steps to take before filing suit. Then we examine a physical therapy assistant with serious spinal injuries whose disability benefits were terminated, and how she reversed the decision by strengthening her medical evidence. Finally, we look at how carriers like MetLife play games with disability dates, and what you can do to stay ahead. By the end, you'll see that winning an ERISA disability claim requires more than medical proof - it takes timing, documentation, and strategy to protect the benefits you rely on.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:One - Short-Term Disability Benefits Denied One Week Before the Benefits Switched to Long-Term Disability – Ten Things to Do Before Filing a LawsuitTwo - Physical Therapy Assistant Wins Reliance Standard Disability Claim After Termination of BenefitsThree - Moving the Goal Line and the Games That Disability Carriers Like MetLife Play With the Date of DisabilityWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Listen to Our Sister Podcast:We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mindLINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefitsFREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

Episode DescriptionMeet Jodi Runger—a spunky Southern Belle lawyer with over 21 years of legal practice experience who's discovering her creative side after decades of pushing it down. In this honest conversation, Jodi shares her journey from corporate burnout to launching her own podcast, setting boundaries that actually stick, and learning that being a lawyer doesn't have to define who you are. If you're a high-achieving woman attorney who feels stuck, burned out, or like you're waiting for permission to want something different—this episode will remind you that you're not alone, and there IS another way.About Jodi RungerJodi Runger is a lawyer with over 21 years of experience in healthcare insurance, creditors' rights, ERISA, Medicare, and med spa law. After spending years representing major healthcare insurance companies and navigating personal injury cases, Jodi now helps injured individuals keep their settlement money by resolving complex healthcare reimbursement disputes. Beyond her legal expertise, Jodi is passionate about helping women step into their confidence and is embracing her creative side through content creation, decorating, styling, and her new podcast, Top Three Things with Jodi. She's proof that it's never too late to rediscover yourself and build a life that feeds your soul.Key Topics CoveredThe reality of lawyer burnout and why it happens earlier than you thinkWhy your career shouldn't define who you are as a personHow to set boundaries when you work from home (without the guilt)The creative side of lawyers that gets pushed down for decadesWhy confidence looks different at 47 than it did at 27The fear of judgment and how it keeps high-achievers stuckWhy women need to stop sitting on their hands and speak upHow coaching helps you see what you can't see on your ownThe importance of community and collaboration over competitionConnect with Jodi RungerInstagram: @shopwithjodi (Jodi with an "I")Facebook: Jodi RungerPodcast: Top Three Things with Jodi (coming soon!)Want to chat with Jodi about med spa law, healthcare reimbursement, or just connect? DM her on Instagram—she's an open book!Connect with ErinInstagram: @eringernerLinkedIn: Erin GernerWebsite: www.eringerner.comBook a Call: Powerhouse Connection CallCall to ActionIf this episode resonated with you, share it with a woman lawyer who needs to hear it. Tag Erin and Jodi on social media and let them know what hit home for you.Ready to get unstuck and start building a career and life you actually love? Book a free Powerhouse Connection Call with Erin and let's figure out if working together makes sense.Don't forget to subscribe to the Powerhouse Lawyers podcast so you never miss an episode.

Comment on the Show by Sending Mark a Text Message.Ever feel like everyone else got the manual for office politics and you're improvising in a storm? We unpack a practical survival playbook to protect your job, build leverage, and navigate messy power dynamics without losing your edge or your voice. The theme is simple: awareness plus preparation beats fear.We start by sharpening situational awareness—how to watch your back, read tells, and set boundaries so you spot risks early. Then we break down the real rules of engagement: what discrimination and retaliation look like, how non‑competes and wage issues show up, and why vocabulary matters when you talk to HR. From there, we go deep on negotiation as a career engine, not a last resort. You'll learn how to prepare your asks, map counterpart incentives, and negotiate even in at‑will roles by trading clarity, scope, and protection for performance and accountability.Documentation becomes your quiet superpower. We show you how to turn emails and journals into a timeline that anchors your narrative when stakes rise. You'll also learn to play the room—holding composure, asking pointed questions, and avoiding traps that push you into reactive mode. We draw a hard line between self‑advocacy and whining, and we explain why service to others quietly compounds your influence over time. Finally, we demystify severance negotiations: ERISA plans, contractual rights, and leverage built from a fact‑based story that employers can't ignore. We close by reframing your mindset: think like a boss, manage risk like an owner, and carry yourself like the next leader.If you're ready to trade fear for skills—spot issues faster, document smarter, negotiate stronger, and lead yourself with calm—this one is your toolkit. Subscribe, share with a colleague who needs a backbone boost, and leave a review with the one skill you'll practice this week. If you enjoyed this episode of the Employee Survival Guide please like us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. We would really appreciate if you could leave a review of this podcast on your favorite podcast player such as Apple Podcasts. Leaving a review will inform other listeners you found the content on this podcast is important in the area of employment law in the United States. For more information, please contact our employment attorneys at Carey & Associates, P.C. at 203-255-4150, www.capclaw.com.Disclaimer: For educational use only, not intended to be legal advice.

Have a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 5, Episode 41 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of "When Policy Limits Collide - Navigating Mental Nervous and Musculoskeletal Conditions in Long-Term Disability Claims."Most people think a Long-Term Disability claim is decided by the diagnosis alone - that if you're struggling with a mental health condition, chronic pain, or cognitive impairment, your insurer should simply recognize it. But LTD claims hinge on far more than the condition itself. Carriers scrutinize how your symptoms affect daily functioning, the consistency of your treatment, and how your providers document limitations. Even then, many claims get funneled into restrictive policy clauses that quietly cap benefits at two years. In this episode, we break down the medical side of LTD claims involving mental nervous and musculoskeletal limitations - an area full of misconceptions and insurer tactics that can derail legitimate claims. We start with caregiving responsibilities and daily activities, and how routine tasks can be used to undermine a mental nervous claim. Then we explore the blurry divide between physical and psychological impairments, using post-concussive syndrome to show how insurers reclassify conditions to fit benefit caps. Finally, we examine musculoskeletal limitations and how vague policy language lets carriers argue that chronic pain, spine conditions, or soft-tissue injuries don't qualify for ongoing benefits. By the end, you'll see why navigating these claims requires more than treatment - it demands precise documentation, strategic communication, and a clear understanding of how insurers evaluate evidence. This episode gives you the tools to protect your benefits and anticipate the carrier's playbook.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:One - How Taking Care of Your Spouse Can Destroy Your Mental Nervous Disability ClaimTwo - When Physical Injuries Get Reclassified as Mental DisordersThree - The Hidden Risk of the Musculoskeletal Disorder LimitationWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Listen to Our Sister Podcast:We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mindLINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefitsFREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

In this episode of Friday Fiduciary Five, Eric Dyson expresses gratitude to his podcast audience, which includes ERISA advisors, service providers, and listeners. He highlights the importance of committee members and plan sponsors as guests, noting that episodes featuring them are the most popular. Dyson also thanks his production team at Turnkey Productions for their hard work. He encourages listeners to suggest guests and emphasizes the significance of basic life comforts, using a humorous anecdote to illustrate the abundance most Americans experience. Dyson concludes by wishing his audience a happy Thanksgiving and encouraging them to be thankful for their blessings.Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information contained herein is general in nature and is provided solely for educational and informational purposes.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation of any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, financial advice, or legal advice.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan specific circumstances.

Richard Clarke is the chief insurance officer at Colonial Surety. With more than three decades of experience, he leads insurance strategy and operations for the expansion of Colonial Surety's SMB-focused product suite, building out the online platform into a one-stop shop for America's SMBs.In this episode, Eric and Richard “Dick” Clarke discuss:Understanding ERISA safeguardsDistinguishing required and optional coverageReviewing and strengthening insurance layersCollaborating and acting proactivelyKey Takeaways:ERISA governs all employee benefit plans and requires fidelity bonds for protection. Coverage must equal ten percent of plan assets with specific federal limits in place. Knowing these basics sets the foundation for every other insurance decision.With the baseline set, organizations must separate required bonds from optional insurance. Fiduciary liability coverage protects decision makers from personal responsibility. Understanding both layers prevents blind spots in compliance and leadership risk.Once the insurance types are clear, each policy must be examined for sufficiency. Adequate limits, full inclusion of parties, and clear cyber provisions are essential. This careful review ensures protection keeps pace with evolving responsibilities.These evaluations work best when risk teams, counsel, and providers move together. Shared tools and coordinated reviews uncover gaps that one group might miss. Since no single formula applies, proactive teamwork becomes the safest path forward.“The specific answer to the question on the fidelity is that it is absolutely required. You have to have it. The brutal truth is, if you don't have it as an employer, you are in technical violation of federal law, because ERISA is a federal law.” - Richard ClarkeConnect with Richard Clarke:Website: https://www.colonialsurety.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dick-clarke-cpcu-cic-rplu-605b13a/ Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information and content of this podcast are general in nature and are provided solely for educational and informational purposes. It is believed to be accurate and reliable as of the posting date, but may be subject to changeIt is not intended to provide a specific recommendation for any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, investment advice, financial advice, tax, plan design, or legal advice (unless otherwise specifically indicated). Please consult your own independent advisor as to any investment, tax, or legal statements made.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan-specific circumstances.

Plan sponsors have a lot to do – and a lot to do withhelping Americans prepare for retirement – and a lot of things that help them do so.  In this episode, Nevin (Adams) and Fred (Reish) share their lists of things plan sponsors should be thankful for this holiday.There's obviously a LOT to be thankful for, not the least ofwhich is that plan sponsors are often doing what they do for retirement planning in the midst of an array of other pressing concerns.  That said, there have been any number of innovations andevolutions over the years – and as we come to that time of the year when we're inclined to give thanks – well, here are our lists:- The 401(k) - how was America going to retire without it?- ERISA 404(c) -participant directed investments safe harbor (without it, plan fiduciaries are responsible for ALL participant investment decisions (even the dumb ones) - EGTRRA (Economic Growth Tax Relief and Recovery Act of 2001) - which, among other things, lifted the harsh contribution limits of TRA86, gave us Roth option.- Target-date funds – making it easier for participants to benefit from professional money management. - PPA (Pension Protection Act of 2006) – which “sanctioned” (via safe harbors) automatic enrollment and qualified default investment alternatives (QDIA) – including the afore-mentioned target-date funds.  Created FLOORS, not ceilings for retirement savings.- Index funds – helping provide a cost-effective investment structure, first via various share classes, and now via collective investment trusts. -  SECURE 2.0 (the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022) – which provided 90+ OPTIONS for improved retirement savings that plan sponsors can choose from (or not).    Lots of options in SECURE 2.0 that are OPTIONAL.-  The plaintiffs' bar – well, some of them anyway.-  ERISA's preemption provision – one set of federal laws that trump various state rules and regulations, and give us a single set of (admittedly complex) federal rules.And one more – but you'll have to listen to find out!Happy Thanksgiving!-         Nevin E. Adams, JD

In this episode of Friday Fiduciary Five, Eric Dyson discusses the importance of clear and specific investment policy statements (IPS) for ERISA plans and non-ERISA plans like 403(b) and 457(b). He emphasizes that IPSs should not include language that suggests the committee or advisor is not bound by the terms, as this undermines the purpose of having an IPS. Dyson references the Department of Labor's Interpretive Bulletin 2016-1, which states that IPSs are documents governing the plan and must be followed by investment managers. He advises against vague IPSs and suggests including concrete rules while still allowing for discretion.Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information contained herein is general in nature and is provided solely for educational and informational purposes.It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation of any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, financial advice, or legal advice.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan specific circumstances.

In this episode, Steve Fretzin, Tim Semelroth, Casey Grabenstein, and Neil Dishman discuss:Treating business development as essentialUsing systems and empowering teamsBuilding a culture of growthLearning through resilience and honesty Key Takeaways:Integrating business development into daily routines and tracking it like billable work ensures steady growth. Making it non-negotiable builds consistency and prevents unpredictable cycles.Leveraging CRM tools, spreadsheets, and point systems keeps outreach organized and accountable. Involving junior lawyers in relationships and strategy builds future rainmakers.Firms that reward, support, and normalize business development create sustainable success. Encouragement at every level strengthens engagement and results.Focusing on process over outcome turns setbacks into lessons and maintains momentum. Honest communication and reflection foster better relationships and continuous improvement. "For me, making myself feel satisfied that I've put in enough in that week to get good results, and then not worrying about whether the results come in… Try to stop worrying about the results and focus on the process is the best that I can do." —  Casey Grabenstein Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don't miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/Legalverse Media: https://legalversemedia.com/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Tim Semelroth: Tim Semelroth is Iowa's only board-certified truck accident attorney and a partner at RSH Legal. With over 25 years of experience, he provides trusted expertise in trucking litigation and collaborates with attorneys statewide and beyond. Known for his strategic approach and commitment to fairness, Tim offers consultation to help chart the best course for complex truck accident cases. Connect with Tim Semelroth: Website: https://www.timsemelroth.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/ About Casey Grabenstein: Casey Grabenstein is a litigation partner at Saul Ewing LLP, handling complex commercial disputes and class actions involving securities, consumer fraud, and ERISA. He also advises clients in the cannabis and litigation funding industries, serving as both due diligence and primary counsel. A frequent writer and speaker, Casey brings deep insight into emerging issues in litigation finance and commercial law. Connect with Casey Grabenstein: Website: https://www.saul.com/professionals/casey-grabensteinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-grabenstein-a375094/ About Neil H. Dishman: Neil H. Dishman is a principal at Jackson Lewis P.C. in Chicago, where he helps employers prevent and resolve workplace disputes. His practice spans discrimination, retaliation, and wage-hour compliance, with extensive experience across multiple industries. A sought-after speaker and published author, Neil is known for his practical guidance on employment law and risk management. Connect with Neil H. Dishman: Website: https://www.jacksonlewis.com/people/neil-h-dishmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timsemelroth/Email: Neil.Dishman@jacksonlewis.com  Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Ready to explore thoughtful, research-driven ways to help plan for financial confidence and fulfillment in retirement? In this episode of The Retire Sooner Podcast with Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase, the hosts unpack timely topics around housing trends, investment considerations, and purposeful living—helping listeners make informed, values-based decisions for their next chapter. • Review current housing market trends and how shifting buyer and seller dynamics may be influencing property values across the U.S. • Identify regions where housing supply and demand are changing, and how local factors might shape opportunities for homeowners and prospective buyers. • Clarify the relationship between Federal Reserve rate changes and mortgage rates, and understand the broader economic influences that affect borrowing costs. • Compare the considerations of maintaining retirement assets in a TSP versus transferring to another investment platform, including factors like plan flexibility, fees, and ERISA protections. • Evaluate ways to balance cash, bonds, and equities in a diversified portfolio when interest rates fluctuate, keeping long-term goals and risk tolerance in focus. • Discuss how Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) and TIPS ladders might function as inflation-aware options within a retirement income strategy. • Explore the potential role of dividend-paying stocks in retirement portfolios, recognizing both their income potential and market risk factors. • Reflect on the story of a 58-year-old who joined a college football team, illustrating how personal growth and purpose can possibly remain central at any stage of life. • Hear examples of retirees finding meaning in second careers, creative work, and volunteer efforts, highlighting how purpose may support emotional and financial well-being. • Consider how partnering with a fiduciary financial advisor can sometimes help you evaluate choices, understand trade-offs, and create a plan that aligns with your family's priorities. Stay informed and intentional as you think through what your own version of a fulfilling, financially confident retirement could look like. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for thoughtful discussions on investing, financial planning, and attempting to live a happier, more purposeful life in retirement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when setting a boundary means completely starting over?In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Restructured, I sit down with my friend and fellow boundary advocate Jennifer Wiczynski, an ERISA attorney who made a life-changing decision to rebuild her life from the ground up.Content note: This episode includes discussion of an unsafe relationship and may be difficult for some listeners. Please take care while listening and skip ahead a few minutes if needed.We talk about the moments that push us to draw the line, the difference between setting rules and setting real boundaries, and how both of us have learned to protect our peace while running businesses in a demanding industry.It's a conversation about courage, change, and choosing yourself — even when it's hard.Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn about Melissa's Keynote Presentation

In Episode 491, Stacey Richter interviews Elizabeth Mitchell, CEO of the Purchaser's Business Group on Health (PBGH), about the PBGH Transparency Demonstration Project. They discuss the project's aim to provide jumbo self-insured employers with transparency in healthcare costs, quality, and safety data. Collaborating with Milliman and Embold and funded by the Peterson Center on Healthcare, PBGH's project reveals no correlation between higher prices and quality in healthcare services. The episode highlights the impacts on TPAs, consultants, and clinical organizations, and underscores the importance of employers using this new transparency data for strategic advantage and compliance with the Consolidated Appropriations Act. Richter and Mitchell delve into the broader implications for creating high-value networks and fostering market competition based on quality and affordability. === LINKS ===

SummaryIn this episode of the Compliance Guy podcast, Sean M Weiss welcomes Don Self, a veteran in the medical billing industry, to discuss his extensive experience and insights. They explore Don's two recent books, touching on topics such as medical office management, evaluation and management services, and the importance of understanding ERISA. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by healthcare providers in documentation and billing, as well as the need for better practices in the industry. Personal anecdotes and reflections on mentorship add depth to the discussion, making it both informative and engaging.TakeawaysDon Self has over 40 years of experience in the medical billing industry.The importance of mentorship in professional growth is emphasized.Don's books are accessible and filled with practical advice.Evaluation and management services continue to challenge providers.Documentation practices have become more complex and subjective.Healthcare systems in other countries can offer valuable lessons.Local coverage determinations are crucial for understanding payment policies.ERISA provides significant protections for employees and providers.Many providers are unaware of their rights under ERISA.The conversation encourages proactive engagement with insurance carriers.