A Year of Change
Insurance Leadership Podcast
Markets moved fast, technology moved faster, and leadership had to keep pace. In this roundtable conversation, Casey Combest, Ryan Eaton, and Ben Markland reflect on the defining trends that shaped 2025—from digital transformation and carrier exits to AI innovation and developing the next generation of talent. The trio shares how brokers and carriers are adapting to a more data-driven, technology-forward marketplace while staying rooted in relationships, mentorship, and integrity. Whether you’re leading a team, managing partnerships, or navigating the changing insurance...
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Millionaire Milestones
Insurance Leadership Podcast
What if the key to financial freedom isn’t just about earning more—but preparing for the moment you won’t love your job anymore? In this episode, host Casey Combest sits down with Sam Dogen, better known as the Financial Samurai, to talk about his new book Millionaire Milestones: Simple Steps to Seven Figures. Sam shares practical strategies on forecasting your misery, managing inconsistent income, celebrating wins without losing focus, and investing with perspective in uncertain markets. Whether you’re a sales professional juggling commission, a leader steering a team...
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Vision Benefits in the Digital Age
Insurance Leadership Podcast
In this episode, Ben Markland sits down with Terry Ward, Senior VP of Sales at United Vision Plan, live from the ICMG Conference in Tampa, Florida. With over 40 years of experience in the vision benefits industry, Terry shares his journey and how technology, consumer expectations, and transparency are reshaping the way benefits are delivered. From the evolution of vision care to the rise of digital platforms, Terry offers a fresh perspective on leadership, adaptability, and meeting today’s industry challenges head-on.
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From Entrepreneur to Insurance Leader
Insurance Leadership Podcast
In this episode, Ben Markland talks with Dustin Moseley, Head of Distribution & Partnerships at Guardian Life, about his journey from entrepreneurship to the insurance industry. Dustin shares insights on building strategic partnerships, trends in the gig economy, and opportunities in the retiree market. He also discusses the importance of perseverance, staying informed, and how to navigate today’s evolving insurance landscape. Tune in for valuable advice and industry insights.
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From ER to Advocacy
Insurance Leadership Podcast
What happens when someone with firsthand experience in both clinical chaos and corporate healthcare decides to challenge the status quo? In this episode of the Insurance Leadership Podcast, host Ryan Eaton sits down with Tiffany Rider—health policy expert, NFL cheerleader alum, ER clinician, and founder of 20+ ventures—to explore her unconventional journey from rural Louisiana to national healthcare reform advocate. Tiffany opens up about the defining moments that shaped her mission to empower patients, expose inefficiencies in the system, and bring transparency to the broker-employer...
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CEO & Founder of Thatch
Insurance Leadership Podcast
Welcome back to the Insurance Leadership Podcast! Chris Ellis, CEO and Founder of Thatch, joins co-host Ben Markland for a powerful conversation recorded live at the ICMI Conference in Tampa. From his early days in cancer research at MIT to launching a company built to empower brokers, Chris shares how a deep understanding of healthcare and a passion for solving real problems led him to create one of the most promising platforms in the benefits space.
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From News Desk to Distribution
Insurance Leadership Podcast
Welcome back to the Insurance Leadership Podcast! Alisha Pequeno, Head of Distribution and Broker Partnerships at Zurich North America, joins co-host Ben Markland to share leadership lessons from the carrier side. She discusses building strong partnerships, leading with authenticity, and creating a culture that drives growth. Tune in for practical insights to help you lead, adapt, and build lasting success.
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Reinventing Leadership After the Uniform
Insurance Leadership Podcast
Welcome back to the Insurance Leadership Podcast! What happens when the uniform comes off—but the mission isn’t over? Army veteran and entrepreneur Adam Peters joins co-host Casey Combest to talk life after service, rebuilding identity, and leading with authenticity. From combat zones to boardrooms, Adam shares how discipline, vulnerability, and purpose helped him launch Stronghold—a thriving community supporting veterans in transition. This episode is packed with leadership insights for anyone navigating change, redefining success, or learning to lead from who...
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Leadership and Longevity
Insurance Leadership Podcast
Welcome back to the Insurance Leadership Podcast! In this engaging episode of the Insurance Leadership Podcast, co-host Ben Markland welcomes Warren Laird, a seasoned leader in the insurance and vision care industry. With nearly three decades at VSP Vision Care, Warren shares invaluable insights on leadership, company loyalty, and fostering a workplace culture that stands the test of time. We explore the key lessons he’s learned throughout his career and how they apply to today’s ever-evolving business landscape.
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Simplifying Benefits
Insurance Leadership Podcast
Welcome back to the Insurance Leadership Podcast! In this episode, Co-host Casey Combest opens today’s episode with Luke Aslesen, Founder of INFRMD, a leader in revolutionizing how employees engage with their benefits. Luke shares his fresh approach to simplifying complex insurance concepts and discusses innovative programs like Benefits Boot Camp, designed to transform employee education in the industry.
info_outlineWelcome to the Insurance Leadership Podcast, hosted by Ryan Eaton. In this week's episode of the Insurance Leadership Podcast, we are joined by Eric Silverman, a prominent figure and catalyst for change in the realm of enhanced employee-funded benefits. Eric's expertise and innovative approach have significantly impacted the insurance industry. He provides a fresh perspective on employer benefits and marketing strategies that will challenge conventional thinking.
During the podcast, Eric engages in a conversation with Ryan about his journey into the insurance industry, which began after his college graduation. This experience has played a pivotal role in shaping the life he leads today. He delves into his unique business model, which he developed in response to identified gaps within the insurance market. Eric also emphasizes his philosophy on renaming voluntary benefits to better convey their value to employees. Additionally, he sheds light on the crucial elements of effective marketing for insurance products.
This episode promises a wealth of insights that will reshape your understanding of insurance and benefits. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge from Eric Silverman's perspective on the Insurance Leadership Podcast.