Broken Benefits · 2026-05-05 · 49 min
In this episode of Broken Benefits , we’re joined by Chris Deacon , a leading voice in healthcare reform known for her direct, no-nonsense approach to fixing a system that too often fails the very people it’s meant to serve. With experience spanning both the public and private sectors - including leading one of the largest public health plans in the country - Chris brings a level of insight that few can match. Her work has consistently centered on one thing: demanding transparency, accountability, and real outcomes in healthcare. This conversation takes a hard look at the current state of the system, the structural issues that continue to drive inefficiency, and the opportunity employers have to take a more active role in shaping better solutions. If you’re tired of excuses and ready to think differently about healthcare and benefits, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 1:45 - Change is accelerating 5:58 - Tactical approaches in 2026 14:06 - How do we push back? 20:18 - Examining high-cost claims 26:02 - Fiduciary obligation to shareholders 37:53 - Cleaning up messes vs. new things 44:13 - What can I do right now? 48:10 -
Beyond Borders: What Global Healthcare Can Teach Employers72 / 100From Accounting to Innovation: A Different Mindset for Better Benefits (Feat: Brian Duclos)Beyond the Status Quo: Unlocking Opportunity in Benefits & Healthcare (Feat: Milt Ezzard)Breaking the Trend: How Innovation Kept Healthcare Costs Flat for Decades (Feat: Todd Bisping)Creating Value and Visibility For Your Operation (Feat: Jason Dinerman)