18-Minute Experts

People Corporation
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Welcome to 18-Minute Experts, a podcast for advisors and we’re talking group benefits. Join us as we tap into bite-sized stories, insights, and actionable advice from everyday experts that will empower and enrich you to do what you do best.  

  1. JAN 6

    Episode 16: Reflecting on 2025 and the books that influenced us

    In the final episode of 18-Minute Experts for 2025, hosts Michael Kettner, Jeff Bremner, and Matthew Butters come together for an end-of-year conversation reflecting on the business books that shaped their thinking this year.  Their discussion explores the relentless pace of today’s news cycle and the growing challenge of separating facts from fiction in an era of AI-generated content. Against this backdrop, they underscore the enduring value of books as tangible, trustworthy sources of insight. Books featured in this conversation:  Disney War, by James Stewart  A deep dive into corporate strategy and leadership.  Shoe Dog, by Phil Knight  Behind the scenes of Nike’s rise to global prominence.  Never Split the Difference, by Chris Voss   Practical techniques for effective negotiation.  The Mind of the Strategist, by Kenichi Ohmae  Frameworks for strategic problem-solving.  The Surprising Power of Liberating Structures, by Henri  Lipmanowicz & Keith McCandless  Innovative formats for more engaging meetings.  Tune in for a conversation that explores why learning never stops and how to turn insights into real-world impact. Discover practical ways to make books, podcasts, and conferences as part of your growth journey.  Want to hear more? Subscribe on your favourite podcast platform, leave us a review, and visit peoplecorporation.com/18minexperts to learn more!

    23 min

  2. 12/09/2025

    Episode 15: Mastering Quebec’s group benefits for growth

    In this episode of 18 Minute Experts, host Jeff Bremner sits down with Benoit Dulong, Vice President of Brokerage Distribution at People Corporation in Quebec, for a deep dive into the unique landscape of group benefits in the province. From licensing requirements and RAMQ regulations to cultural nuances and market opportunities, Benoit shares expert insights every advisor should know before entering Quebec's benefits space.  Whether you're an advisor expanding into Quebec, a plan sponsor managing a multi-province workforce, or just curious about how group insurance works in la belle province, this episode offers practical guidance and real-world examples to help you navigate the complexities with confidence.  Some of the topics covered include:  Key differences in Quebec's group benefits regulations  RAMQ and mandatory drug coverage  Licensing challenges and mentorship requirements  Cultural and regional variations in plan design  How out-of-province advisors can collaborate effectively  Join us for a compelling conversation that redefines conventional thinking and delivers practical strategies for evolving your benefits approach.  Like what you hear? Subscribe using your favourite podcast platform, leave us a review, and visit us at peoplecorporation.com/18minexperts to learn more!

    25 min

  3. 10/30/2025

    Episode 14: Rethinking generational assumptions in group benefits design

    In this episode of 18 Minute Experts, host Matthew Butters sits down with Taylor Valee, VP of Client Management at People Corporation, to explore a timely and thought-provoking topic on how generational assumptions shape and sometimes distort the design of group benefits plans.  Taylor shares insights from nearly a decade of experience working with large plan sponsors across industries, offering a fresh perspective on how to build benefits programs that are both cost-effective and genuinely valuable to employees.   In this discussion, they delve into:  Why employers should avoid making generational assumptions in benefits planning  What it really means to "modernize" benefits for deeper relevance  How advisors can stand out by taking a thoughtful, data-driven approach rather than following a rigid "rule book."  Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges the status quo and offers actionable strategies for modernizing benefits programs.  Like what you hear? Subscribe using your favourite podcast platform, leave us a review, and visit us at peoplecorporation.com/18minexperts to learn more!

    20 min

  4. 09/18/2025

    Episode 13: Breaking the ice on cross-border group benefits

    In this episode, Michael Kettner speaks with Ned Havern, President of Havern Benefit Strategies, to explore the often-overlooked world of cross-border group benefit plans.   Drawing from Ned’s unique journey from professional hockey to insurance, the conversation covers the complexities of advising Canadian-owned companies entering the U.S. market in addition to offering valuable insights for advisors looking to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape.  Some discussion points include:   The cost differences between Canadian and U.S. benefits  Navigating complex healthcare networks  Understanding the ins and outs of state-specific legislation, enrollment   How companies with under 50 employees face unique challenges in benefits  The importance of building strong cross-border partnerships  Discover practical strategies you can implement immediately to make a meaningful impact for your clients and their people.

    31 min

  5. 07/29/2025

    Episode 12: Helping employees reclaim purpose with better disability management

    In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that affects advisors, employers, and employees alike: disability management.  Disability claims, both short-term and long-term, can be complex and costly. But what if we shifted from reactive handling to proactive, compassionate strategies that support sustainable return-to-work outcomes?  Joining us is Liz Scott, CEO of Organizational Solutions Inc., a People Corporation company and North American leader in disability management. Liz brings data-driven insight, operational expertise, and deep empathy to help organizations navigate absence and accommodation.  Tune in for practical advice you can apply today to support your clients and their employees more effectively.  Like what you hear? Subscribe using your favorite podcast platform, leave us a review, and visit us at peoplecorporation.com/18minexperts to learn more!

    26 min

  6. 06/27/2025

    Episode 11: Weight loss medications and plan design: Finding the right fit for your clients

    Ozempic, Wegovy, and other GLP-1 weight loss drugs are gaining attention, and clients are asking more questions. For advisors and plan sponsors, the conversation is shifting from whether to include these medications to how to design benefits plans that manage cost, support health outcomes, and deliver long-term value.   In this episode, wellness experts Judy Plotkin and Allison Rew from People Corporation break down the science behind GLP-1s, their role in employee wellness, and what smart, sustainable plan design looks like. From cost management to ROI and member support, you will hear what every advisor should know when navigating weight loss drug coverage.   Loved the episode? Hit subscribe and leave us a review! Learn more at peoplecorporation.com/18minexperts

    20 min

  7. 05/22/2025

    Episode 10: Advising through change: How to support clients when the future feels unclear

    With a new federal government and rising global tensions, many Canadian businesses face uncertainty, and they’re turning to their advisors for support. In this bonus episode, Paul Ingram, Partner at Silverberg Group, shares how group benefits advisors can lead through change with trust, value, and proactive guidance. Like what you hear? Hit subscribe and leave us a review! Visit ⁠peoplecorporation.com/18minexperts⁠ to learn more. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, the podcast, or People Corporation.

    22 min

  8. 04/28/2025

    Episode 9: How a smarter LTD plan design sets you apart as an advisor

    Are you treating LTD as just another checkbox on the benefits plan? It’s time to rethink that. Disability is the biggest risk your clients face, and without the right coverage, advisors are missing a key opportunity to add value. This month, we had the opportunity to chat with Kelly Little, Principal at Hamilton and Partners (a People Corporation company) and one of Canada’s leading disability specialists with 30+ years of experience. Kelly shares why cookie-cutter LTD plans fall short and how her Combo LTD solution helps advisors enhance coverage, contain costs, and give clients more control. If you're ready to move beyond standard renewals and deliver real, lasting value, this episode is a must-listen.

    22 min
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About

Welcome to 18-Minute Experts, a podcast for advisors and we’re talking group benefits. Join us as we tap into bite-sized stories, insights, and actionable advice from everyday experts that will empower and enrich you to do what you do best.  

Information

  • Creator
    People Corporation
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © People Corporation
  • Show Website
    18-Minute Experts