The Generous Benefits Podcast

On this episode Bret Brummitt breaks down easily overlooked benefits compliance items—POP (Section 125) plan documents, COBRA administration, and Medicare Part D creditable coverage notices—explaining what they are, why they matter, and common employer mistakes. Bret outlines practical steps to fix gaps, how vendors and brokers can help, and other quick compliance items to track (Form 5500, PCORI...

In this episode Amanda Brummitt and health insurance industry expert Beverly Norman break down the difference between illustrative, conditional and final rates, and explain small-group funding options like fully insured and level-funded plans. Beverly covers how underwriting and pharmacy data influence quoted rates, why accurate census information matters, and what can change between firm quotes a...

Welcome to the Generous Benefits Podcast, where we help employers create meaningful people-first benefits that make a real impact. Join host Amanda Brummitt and special guest Bret Brummitt, founder of Generous Benefits, as they dive into the complexities of rising insurance premiums. Discover the factors driving these increases and explore actionable strategies to manage costs effectively. From un...

In this episode of the Generous Benefits Podcast, host Amanda Brummitt explores the transformative potential of hospital financial assistance programs under IRS 501(r). Joined by healthcare advocate Justin Leader, they delve into how nonprofit hospitals are mandated to offer financial support to eligible patients. Discover why many people are unaware of these benefits, and learn practical steps to...

Join Amanda Brummitt in the Generous Benefits Podcast as she delves into the complexities of workplace dynamics with HR expert Becky Goldsmith. Together, they explore the challenges of managing difficult personalities in the workplace, from chronic complainers to passive-aggressive peers, and offer practical strategies for improving workplace culture and relationships. Discover how Becky's unique...

In this episode of the Generous Benefits Podcast, host Amanda Brummitt is joined by Topher Reynoso, the founder of Kept , a company dedicated to transforming the off-boarding process into a moment of clarity and compassion. They explore the intricacies of post-employment transitions, focusing on the often-overlooked aspect of employee benefits when someone leaves a company. Topher offers insights...

Leadership isn't about having all the answers—it’s about showing up with respect, courage, and a willingness to grow. On the latest episode of the Generous Benefits Podcast, our host reconnects with Chris Davis, SHRM-CP—a longtime friend and one of her first-ever bosses. Today, he’s a respected HR leader, coach, and champion for people-first leadership—and the wisdom he shared is well worth a list...

Heidi Rasmussen, CEO and co-founder of freshbenies, joins Amanda Brummitt to talk about the real reason employees tune out benefits messaging. And how to fix it. From “trust collapse” and culture misfires to the power of simplicity, repetition, and internal marketing, Heidi shares actionable tactics to help HR leaders and CEOs communicate benefits with clarity, consistency, and a little fun. If yo...

Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) influence a significant portion of how employers handle prescription drug costs, yet many leaders still don’t fully understand how they operate behind the scenes. In this candid conversation, Amanda Brummitt sits down with longtime collaborators and friendly competitors Bret Brummitt and Alex Dampf to explore what PBMs are, how they make money, and the conflicts of...

Not all TPAs are created equal. In this candid conversation, Amanda Brummitt sits down with Matthew McCuen of Imagine360 to unpack what a third-party administrator actually does, why employers might choose one over a traditional insurance carrier, and how transparency, flexibility, and strategy make all the difference. If you’ve ever wondered whether TPAs are just claim processors or if they can h...

In this candid and refreshingly unscripted episode, Amanda Brummitt sits down with longtime friends (and supposed competitors) Josh Butler and Bret Brummitt to talk shop and call out the worst offenders in the world of employee benefits. From predatory insurance products to opaque broker compensation, no sacred cow is safe. The trio breaks down what employers need to know about ICHRAs, PBMs, commi...