Advertise on podcast: Beyond the Claim

What if the next leap in workers’ comp is not a new tool, but better conversations? Brandi Lewis says speaking the injured worker’s language and opening doors for new talent changes everything. Recorded live at WCI in Orlando, Florida, Marc Cunningham sits down with Brandi Lewis, founder of Health Plus Trans, to talk about building people-first services that remove friction for injured workers. She shares the personal story that shaped her mission and how tech paired with empathy improves outcomes. They also walk through her WRMC cohort model for bringing high school and college students into claims, risk, and managed care. In this episode: How translation, interpretation, and concierge support help injured workers understand care and move through recovery.The shifts Brandi sees across claims today, from smarter tech to fresh leadership, and what she is looking to spark at WCI.A practical playbook for the talent pipeline, including WRMC cohorts, outreach before college, and pathways that do not require a four-year degree.

What happens when a career built on claims and compliance turns into a mission to reshape the future of workers’ comp? Carlos Luna believes the answer is found in people, purpose, and bold new ideas. At WCI in Orlando, Marc Cunningham sits down with Carlos Luna, founder and CEO of Luna Link, to talk about his 20-year journey from the claims desk to entrepreneurship. Carlos shares the moment that gave him a deeper purpose for his work, why he launched Luna Link as a new model for connecting buyers and vendors, and how he sees the role of data, technology, and mentorship shaping the industry. This conversation brings forward the human side of leadership while tackling some of the biggest questions facing workers’ comp today. In this episode:How a single call from an injured worker changed Carlos’s perspective on insuranceThe Costco-inspired model behind Luna Link and why it matters for claims leadersBalancing AI, people, and mentorship to build a more resilient industry

What if the key to controlling workers’ comp costs isn’t cutting care, but doubling down on the human element? Marc Cunningham interviews Tamara Johnson, Vice President of Claim Cost Control at Lockton, about how communication and compassion are transforming workers’ compensation outcomes. Tamara shares how strategies like injury counseling, supervisor training, and early interventions create better recoveries for employees while reducing costs for employers. They also explore how AI and compliance considerations are reshaping the future of claims management. In this Episode:Why emphasizing communication and empathy leads to faster employee recovery and lower claim costs.The role of injury counselors and supervisor engagement in preventing litigation.How AI, data analytics, and ADA/EEOC compliance are changing the landscape of claims management.

What does it take to lead risk in one of the world’s most essential—and regulated—industries? In this episode, host Marc Cunningham talks with Beth Mineau, Director of Strategy, Sustainability and Risk Management at TriCal Group, live from RIMS RISKWORLD in Chicago.   Beth shares how she transitioned from insuring the company to becoming its embedded risk leader, and how her work helps protect people, land, and legacy across a global agricultural operation. They explore the role of risk leadership in protecting workers, supporting long-term family businesses, and creating safety-first cultures in complex environments. Join us as we discuss: The strategic role of risk in sustainable agricultureHow to build safety and compliance into operationsPreparing future claims leaders through better partnerships

Risk management in the restaurant industry is no longer just about minimizing claims. For Kurt Leisure, VP of Risk Services at The Cheesecake Factory, it’s about anticipating challenges, building strong industry partnerships, and knowing when to trust people over technology. In this episode, recorded live at RIMS 2025 in Chicago, host Marc Cunningham talks with Kurt about the lessons from 35 years in risk, the art of preventing litigation before it begins, and how Cheesecake Factory is blending AI with human insight to stay ahead. Join us as we discuss: How to work with carriers early to avoid courtroom surprisesWhy people skills still matter more than automation in complex claimsWhere AI fits in risk programs—and where it doesn’tWhat forward-thinking really looks like in enterprise risk management

Strong communication isn’t just a nice-to-have for risk leaders—it’s part of the job. Whether it’s a panel at a conference or a media interview on emerging threats, the ability to deliver your message clearly and credibly can set you apart in a crowded industry. In this episode, host Marc Cunningham talks with Beth Jarecki, Founder and CEO of Omnia, live from this year’s RIMS RISKWORLD in Chicago. Beth shares lessons from two decades of helping executives in insurance, law, and financial services sharpen their voice, lead with clarity, and turn expertise into influence. Join us as we discuss: How media training equips professionals for high-impact momentsWhy storytelling remains essential for risk and claims leadersThe value of preparation in elevating executive presence

What happens when high performance hides toxic leadership? As innovation accelerates, overlooking the human side of work can quietly erode even the strongest companies. In today’s episode, Marc Cunningham sits down with Michael Baumgartner—veteran HR strategist and founder of the Work Life Survival Center—to explore how talent, leadership, and culture intersect. Together, they tackle the hidden costs of poor management, why employee advocacy is non-negotiable, and how businesses can build environments where people and profits thrive. Join us as we discuss: The hidden dangers of promoting talent without people skillsHow promoting without empathy destroys cultureHow HR can become a true catalyst for culture change

This week, host Marc Cunningham speaks with Jeff Breskin, Commercialized Producer for Insurance Office of America, who was recently recognized as a 2024 Workers’ Compensation Power Broker. Jeff shares his unrivaled passion for client advocacy and holistic approach to risk management, highlighting personal anecdotes of how he’s gone above and beyond for clients. Marc and Jeff also explore emerging trends, challenges, and strategies within the industry that every ambitious and committed insurance professional should bear in mind. Join us as we discuss: The impact of generative AI on commercial insurance and workers' compensation pricingHow robust employee benefits programs can influence premiumsThe value of strong relationships with carrier partners and underwriters for achieving industry success.

Today’s episode features host Marc Cunningham’s conversation with Angela Iannetta, Senior Vice President of Alternative Risk Solutions at HUB Inernational, which took place at this year’s RIMS RiskWorld conference. Angela shares her thoughts on the ever-evolving landscape of the insurance industry—with a focus on alternative risk solutions and cross-border insurance. Join us as we discuss:The growth of captives and alternative risk markets in Canada and offshoreAdvancements in actuarial pricing and predictive modelingThe limitations of current data collection methods in the insurance industry

This week, Wayne Brand, Head of Corporate Client Practice at Crawford & Company, speaks with Stephen Lathrope, Senior Vice President of Solutions at ICEYE, live from the RIMS RISKWORLD 2024. Stephen talks with us about Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and how the technology is being harnessed in satellite constellations to revolutionize disaster risk assessment and management. Join us as we discuss: The benefits of SAR-generated imagery over optical imageryHow government agencies are utilizing SAR-equipped tech in their disaster responsesHow satellite data is enabling innovative risk management

This week, host Marc Cunningham speaks with Kara Sepulveda, Senior Corporate Risk & Insurance Manager at Lithia, whom he caught up with at RIMS RISKWORLD 2024. Kara shares her thoughts on employee care, industry misconceptions, and the strategic role of case management—particularly her commitment to proactive communication and continuous training in order to prevent client dissatisfaction and enhance relationships. Join us as we discuss:How proactive problem-solving from account managers positively impacts client retentionUsing field case managers early in an injury claim processThe role of personalization when engaging with injured employees

This week features host Marc Cunningham’s conversation with Paul King (Chief Client Officer at myMatrixx), which took place at this year’s RIMS RISKWORLD2024 conference. Paul covers all things Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM)—from implementation to challenges to benefits. Join us as we discuss:How clinical edits fit into the PBM processThe concept of benefit neutrality and treating whole-person healthUsing virtual healthcare platforms in managing conditions like COPD, asthma, and obesity

If you’re a reporting entity, there’s a good chance you have October 11, 2024 circled on your calendars, as it’s when Medicare’s Section 111 becomes applicable following the effective date of December 2023. Naturally, questions remain for many regarding what effective compliance looks like—and when companies need to fully comply by. Given the hefty penalties that come along with the guidelines, most companies truly can’t afford to be left in the dark. This week, we’re joined by Suzanne Jordan, Compliance Manager at Broadspire, who helps break down Section 111 and demystifies the various dates, forms, processes, and acronyms companies that all manner of companies need to know.  Join us as we discuss: The process for registering and recertifying with Medicare as a responsible reporting entity (RRE)The various challenges for meeting Medicare reporting standardsThe claim review process and the relevant deadlines for reporting entities

Just how valuable is the human touch? And how necessary is it? More and more, it seems like the winning recipe for success in the Risk & Claims Management industry involves harnessing cutting-edge trends and technology without making your clients or team members feel like they’re dealing with an organization run by analytics and machines. It’s a challenge—but also an opportunity. On today’s episode, we’re joined by Crystal Sanderson, National Director of Strategic Partnerships and Placement at McGriff Insurance. Crystal harnesses more than two decades in the insurance industry—as well as experiences in many different areas—to continuously redefine and sharpen what effective internal collaboration and client support looks like. Join us as we discuss: The role of market dynamics and internal company culture in shaping strategic vision.How unifying cultures and expanding into new industry verticals can excite and rejuvenate an organization.The value of non-linear career growth and exploration.

The importance of partnerships and collaboration isn’t limited to product-driven spaces. In fact, they hold just as much weight in the program space. Making sure you work with top-of-the-line partners in mutually beneficial agreements can help build a strong brand across the high-competition program marketplace. But how are partnerships and M&As decided in the modern MGA environment? We’re joined by Brad Isaacson, Senior Vice President, Program Development at Amynta Group, who shares all things program — from new trends, best practices and success stories, Brad’s insights and experiences can help you shape a top-tier program with the right partners and cutting-edge strategies. Join us as we discuss:The MGA space and business segments at AmyntaThe impact of hardening in the program industry Current state and emerging trends across the program industry