Giving Troy a bit of a break today, Jeremy welcomes special co-host, Jenn Lowry, Navigate's VP of Product and Strategy to the podcast today. Together, they sit down with Navigate's Mental Health Coach and licensed counselor, Katie Tarbill, for a fascinating chat about embracing mental health at work - such a big deal for everyone these days.  First up? They clear up "mental health" versus "mental well-being." Then it's all about workplace trends, leadership's role, what resources actually help people feel safe and good at work, and company policies. This episode really breaks down mental health. It’s not just clinical stuff - it’s also about building resilience and finding satisfaction. Our experts talk about the stigma, how tough it is to open up at work, and how important it is to create open, nonjudgmental spaces. Education, like Mental Health First Aid, gets a shout-out as do resources like EAPs, telehealth, findhelp.org and wearables. They also touch on holistic well-being, mindfulness, exercise, volunteering, and how company policies, like time off and mental well-being hours, show that employers care. It all helps build a workplace where mental health matters. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Why Managers Are Critical to Workplace Mental Health01:10 - Defining Mental Health vs Mental Wellbeing02:56 - Katie’s Journey From Teacher to Mental Health Coach04:33 - Rising Mental Health Trends05:59 - How COVID Transformed Mental Health Access Through Telehealth07:11 - Empowering Leaders to Spot and Support Mental Health Needs08:26 - Practical Resources to Build a Mental Health-Friendly Workplace10:15 - Inside Mental Health First Aid12:16 - Using Data and Tools to Improve Employee Mental Health15:13 - Reducing Stigma Across Generations and Creating Safe Workspaces17:31 - Holistic Mental Wellbeing20:47 - Building Mental Health Culture Through Policies, Education, and Leadership23:54 - Best Day Ever Key Takeaways: "Managers and leaders are the first line of defense in recognizing mental health needs. They work daily with employees, noticing signs and symptoms." "Mental health is a clinical term involving diagnosis and treatment. Mental well-being is broader, focusing on prevention and building resilience." "Holistic approaches to mental health, like mindfulness and journaling, are popular. People seek less invasive ways to cope and manage stress." "Covid shifted healthcare towards virtual spaces. Telehealth became more utilized, making mental health support more accessible." "Education and knowledge about mental health are paramount. Courses like Mental Health First Aid can equip individuals to help those facing challenges." "Removing barriers to mental health care, like through telehealth, is crucial. It makes support more accessible and reduces stigma." "Generational stigma around mental health is real. Younger generations are more open, but we must continue breaking stigma for all." "Connecting community purpose to work purpose through volunteer hours builds a greater sense of community and enhances mental well-being." "Leaders set the tone for mental health in the workplace. They must lead by example, practicing what they preach and taking time off." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing - https://info.navigatewell.com/roi-whitepaper

Joining Troy and Jay this week are some truly inspiring folks from Norton Healthcare in Louisville, Kentucky - System Director of Prevention and Wellness, Allison Ledford, and Data Analyst, Cameron Stelzig. They’re here to talk all about "N Good Health," Norton’s fantastic employee wellbeing program, providing a deep dive into how they're thoughtfully mixing company culture with clinical care, and using data for good. Our guests really dig into how their program is built on solid evidence and smart data, noting that they started by figuring out what their employees truly needed, especially encouraging those crucial primary care physician relationships. Tasked with tailoring that for over 30,000 people, Cameron and Allison share how they make it personal and meet diverse needs across their growing regional presence. Plus, they’re not shy about using health data responsibly to improve care quality and manage program costs. A lot of ground covered.  You’re going to want to hear how these two leaders are making a real difference. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Reducing ER Visits Through Data-Driven Care 01:08 - Making Primary Care the Center of Wellness 03:48 - Launching an Evidence-Based Wellness Program 05:30 - Customizing Wellness for a Regional Workforce 06:58 - Using Claims Data to Optimize Costs and Compliance 09:33 - Closing Care Gaps With Preventive Outreach 11:38 - Building a Secure, Scalable Wellness Data System 13:58 - Scaling Culture Change with 400+ Wellness Champions 17:03 - Designing Incentives That Feel Positive, Not Punitive 20:09 - Managing GLP-1 Costs with In-House Pharmacy Strategy 24:26 - Demonstrating ROI With Biometrics and Claims Analysis 26:43 - Achieving High Engagement Through Personalization 30:11 - Partnering on Custom Wellness Tech and Reporting 34:22 - Linking Wellness Participation to Clinical Quality Key Takeaways: "Wellness isn't a one-size-fits-all. We need a flexible platform to do the fine work of analyzing data and strategically tiering participation." "Our participants have higher utilization of preventive care services. They have more office visits and higher screening compliance than non-participants." "N Good Health is about wellness and a strategic imperative driven by data and a deep commitment to employee well-being." "We frame wellness incentives positively, not punitively." "Align wellness value with organizational values. The more aligned, the more stakeholders will be at the table." "Our participants have fewer inpatient admissions, lower ED visits, and fill fewer scripts than non-participants." "Data is the first step. Obtain data from internal departments and partners to incentivize engagement." "We use claims data to drive monthly well-being topics, ensuring programs are available for conditions on the rise." "A culture of well-being comes from grassroots efforts, creating a prestigious environment people want to be part of." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing - https://info.navigatewell.com/roi-whitepaper Norton Healthcare: https://nortonhealthcare.com/ Allison Ledford: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-ledford-1375a62b/ Cameron Stelzig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-cameron-stelzig-l2-l9-l9bb/

In today’s episode, Troy and Jay welcome listeners to a discussion close to their hearts - the vital topic of supporting school employees, the educators and staff responsible for shaping young minds.  Their special guest is Lindsay Waechter, the Staff Wellness Coordinator for Iowa's fast growing Waukee School District, who shares the innovative work being done for the district's nearly 2,500 employees. Lindsay vividly explains the challenges and successes of prioritizing staff wellbeing. Troy and Jay learn how investing in school staff is not just beneficial, but essential. Lindsay explains how Waukee recognized this necessity, leading to the creation of her dedicated role to address the specific wellbeing challenges facing educators and support staff today. She details the district's shift from a standard, one size fits all wellness program to a more personalized, adaptable approach through Navigate. This strategy focuses on meeting employees where they are, addressing issues from teacher burnout and custodian back pain to mental health needs and connecting staff with local resources, all while supporting staff retention. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Why Teacher Wellbeing Is Key to Student Success 01:17 - Staff Wellness as a Retention and Recruitment Tool 03:15 - Building Wellness Programs for a Rapidly Growing District 05:17 - Getting Leadership Buy-In for Wellbeing Initiatives 06:37 - How Personalization Boosts Engagement and Outcomes 10:10 - Addressing Mental Health and Burnout in Education 13:09 - On-Demand Resources and Coaching for Staff 14:34 - Prioritizing Women’s Health in School Wellness 16:24 - Using Committees and Data to Shape Wellness Strategy 22:55 - Extending Wellness Support Year-Round 25:20 - Making Wellness Inclusive for All School Roles 29:31 - Collaborating with Nurses to Support Whole-School Health 30:45 - Best Day Ever Key Takeaways: "We need our teachers to be happy and well. They shape our future."     "Moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach prioritizes the health of educators." "Innovation in education is crucial. It's not just about the environment, but being innovative across the board." "We want educators to live healthy and well lives into retirement." "The pressures of educators are immense. Work-life balance and burnout are key issues." "Personalized programs lead to better engagement and health outcomes." "Mental health resources must address stigma and provide support for high stress." "Teaching is hard and getting harder. We prioritize health to support our educators." "Data-driven decisions in wellbeing programs help allocate resources effectively." "Reaching diverse audiences requires tailored solutions for different work roles." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing - https://info.navigatewell.com/roi-whitepaper Lindsay Waechter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-waechter-169b81b6/

Troy and Jeremy’s vital conversation here today features Ben Schultz, Navigate's own People and Culture Lead, whose experience in building a "Great Place to Work" makes him the perfect guest to discuss burnout, a challenge so many face. This episode isn't just for those feeling the burnout crunch themselves - if you're a leader, a teammate, anyone who supports others, expect takeaways, truly. Let's get real about burnout. Ben, Troy, and Jeremy are not skimming the surface here, they’re getting into the nitty-gritty of burnout in today's workplaces. How is it different from plain old stress? This episode breaks it down. Creating safety? Encouraging honest chats? Essential. And it's not all on the company, either. What about those external pressures, the financial worries, the family stuff? Those count too.  As you will hear, a holistic wellbeing program gets it. It acknowledges all sides of a person, not just their job title. Armed with these insights, our panel demonstrates how to create workplaces where wellbeing isn't a perk, but the very foundation in the battle against burnout. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - What Burnout Is and How It Differs From Workplace Stress   01:09 - Leadership’s Responsibility in Preventing Burnout   03:34 - Recognizing Early Signs of Burnout in Employees   06:09 - Building a Culture of Psychological Safety and Open Communication   07:16 - Empowering Managers With Training and Tools to Support Teams   10:00 - Growth, Development, and Career Pathways as Burnout Prevention   11:21 - Addressing Personal Stressors With Holistic Wellbeing Support   14:50 - Turning Employee Feedback Into Meaningful Action   17:28 - Consolidating Resources for Better Employee Access   18:37 - Implementing People-First Policies That Actually Work   22:32 - Recognition, Incentives, and Transparent Compensation   26:05 - Supporting Work-Life Balance Through Flexibility and Time Off   33:29 - Three HR Strategies to Combat Burnout 36:11 - Best Day Ever  Key Takeaways: "Burnout is an overwhelming feeling. Even the smallest tasks feel burdensome. It's a struggle to think creatively." "Burnout isn't just workplace stress. It's a debilitating state of exhaustion affecting every life aspect." "A culture that combats burnout must be led from the top down. It can't just be an HR initiative." "Differentiate workplace stress from burnout. Stress is seasonal; burnout is ongoing and hard to define." "Know your people. Everyone shows up differently. Recognize signs of burnout by understanding individual behaviors." "Active listening and responding to employee concerns are crucial. Ensure they're heard and addressed." "Managers must prioritize people over metrics. Support them with training, tools, and mentorship." "Encourage growth and development. Understand what motivates employees and work with them for a successful work-life balance." "Pulse surveys and open dialogue help identify potential issues before they escalate. Prioritize employee wellbeing." "Recognition is key. Appreciate employees sincerely and thoughtfully. It builds a cohesive, motivated team." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing - https://info.navigatewell.com/roi-whitepaper Ben Schultz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-a-schultz/

In this episode, Jeremy and Troy are joined by Christy Smith, Navigate's SVP of People and Growth Strategy, and Jim Barclay, SVP of Operations, to explore the crucial connection between organizational values and employee wellbeing.  Together, they discuss the value of cultivating supportive company cultures that boost engagement and productivity, embedding values for purpose, connecting engagement strategy with wellness programs, and leveraging technology to personalize wellbeing initiatives. Our panel also goes on to emphasize that a strategic approach to wellbeing that utilizes data and personalization ultimately empowers employees' total health and career growth, leading to positive business outcomes.  The message of today’s episode is crystal clear: prioritizing values-driven wellbeing enables companies to generate a virtuous cycle of employee flourishing and organizational success. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - How Organizational Values Drive Workplace Wellbeing 00:56 - Building a Culture of Belonging and Engagement 03:45 - Aligning Wellbeing and Employee Experience 07:44 - Using Technology for Personalized Wellbeing Programs 12:56 - Turning Employee Feedback into Actionable Change 16:40 - The Role of Incentives in Driving Engagement 18:24 - Customizing Wellbeing Programs for Business Goals 22:21 - Measuring Success: Data-Driven Wellbeing Strategies 25:40 - Supporting Employees’ Readiness for Change 28:12 - Removing Barriers to Wellbeing and Mental Health Support 30:02 - The Power of Recognition, Competition, and Connection 32:38 - Best Day Ever Key Takeaways: "Creating a culture around core values fosters belonging. This drives engagement and impacts business outcomes." "Wellbeing and engagement strategies shouldn't be separate. Both impact the person showing up to work." "Aligning company values with employees' personal values is an X factor. It enhances satisfaction and purpose." "Personalization in wellbeing programs boosts engagement. It connects employees to the organization's culture." "Listening is key. Collect data, make it actionable, and build programs around it for real impact." "Our platform helps highlight hidden resources. Employees find support they didn't know existed." "The ‘Great Place to Work’ survey guides us. Feedback becomes strategic priorities for people and culture." "Comprehensive wellbeing programs reduce absenteeism by 25%. They enhance engagement and business outcomes." "Change in wellbeing vendors can be daunting. Trust is built by showing up and doing what you say." "Innovation and inspiration drive our wellbeing strategy. We connect dots across holistic health and organizational values." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing - https://info.navigatewell.com/roi-whitepaper Christy Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christy-smith0777/ Jim Barclay: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-barclay-14856a7/

Anne Wright, Benefits Manager at JE Dunn, offers her unique perspective on building a thriving workplace culture here today as she joins Troy and Jeremy for a deep dive into this inspiring company and how it truly embodies the "people first" ethos. Together, they explore how JE Dunn has leveraged its guiding principles to create a nationally recognized wellbeing program, demonstrating that prioritizing employees is not just ethically sound – it's a powerful business strategy. Our dynamic trio explores the ways in which JE Dunn seamlessly integrates its core values into every aspect of its employee experience, from incentivizing community service to fostering a culture of mental wellbeing. They also go on to examine the model JE Dunn has created - providing valuable lessons for any organization - and highlight the strategic partnerships and data-driven decisions that have propelled JE Dunn's program to the forefront of the industry.  Join Anne, Troy and Jeremy for this remarkable story of resilience, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to putting people first. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - The Legacy of JE Dunn’s Culture 01:30 - Growth and Expansion of JE Dunn 03:23 - Leadership’s Role in Employee Wellbeing 04:03 - Aligning Benefits with Company Values 06:07 - Personalizing Wellbeing Programs for Employees 07:59 - Challenges of Changing Wellbeing Vendors 08:43 - Finding the Right Partnership for Employee Wellness 10:29 - Transitioning 5,000+ Employees to a New Platform 11:09 - Importance of Strong Vendor Relationships 14:52 - Enhancing Employee Experience with Technology 17:27 - Building a Culture-Driven Wellbeing Program 21:14 - Using Employee Data for Better Health Programs 23:16 - Real-Time Data Analytics for Wellbeing Insights 25:21 - Adapting Wellness Programs with Data 26:39 - Understanding Employee Engagement Preferences 29:06 - Connecting Healthcare Partnerships with Employee Wellbeing 32:42 - Mental Health Advocacy in the Construction Industry 36:07 - The Role of Technology in Personalized Wellbeing 39:07 - Serving Employees Through Holistic Wellbeing 40:40 - Destigmatizing Mental Health in Construction 44:29 - The Story of JE Dunn’s Wartime Sacrifice 45:17 - Key Takeaways for Designing Effective Wellbeing Programs 48:13 - Employee Engagement Strategies for Wellbeing 50:14 - The Impact of Corporate Volunteerism 51:10 - Future of Employee Wellbeing and Company Growth Key Takeaways: "Leadership engagement is crucial. It drives program growth, evaluates year-over-year, and supports employee culture through wellbeing." "Ask your people. Listen to their feedback. Use it to design a program that aligns with their needs." "Data is paramount. It helps us understand employees, find opportunities, and push strategic initiatives." "We believe in health and wellbeing. It's on every wall, in every office. It's a guiding principle." "Engage leadership, communicate effectively, align with culture, and utilize champions. These are keys to driving engagement." "The construction industry ranks high in suicide risk. We focus on mental health, supporting employees and their families." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing - https://info.navigatewell.com/roi-whitepaper JE Dunn: https://jedunn.com/ Anne Wright: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-wright-cbp-4a52ba119/

Troy and Jeremy are back this week along with special guests Jim Barclay, Senior Vice President of Operations, and Brooke Ossenkop, Vice President of Marketing, for a year-end review as well as a look ahead to 2025. Together, they explore Navigate's key initiatives, including personalized well-being programs, data-driven insights, and a holistic approach to employee health, along with exciting new features coming soon to the Navigate platform.  Delving into the importance of personalization in employee well-being, they emphasize that it goes beyond generic solutions, and discuss how data plays a crucial role in tailoring these experiences and driving positive change. Throughout the episode, our panel focuses on how a holistic approach, incorporating all eight pillars of well-being, fosters a truly supportive and effective program.  Tune in to discover how Navigate is revolutionizing workplace well-being and empowering organizations to create a culture of health, engagement, and lasting positive impact. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Driving Change in Organizational Wellbeing 00:26 - Reflecting on Navigate’s 2024 Success 01:34 - Personalization in UX 03:10 - Client Excitement and Personalization at Scale 04:47 - 2025 Vision: People-First Wellbeing Strategies 06:43 - Closing the Gap 07:02 - Hyper-Personalization in Health and Wellness Programs 09:11 - Aligning Teams to Support Personalized Wellbeing Journeys 10:53 - Streamlining Resources for a Tailored Employee Experience 11:32 - Removing Barriers to Wellbeing 13:30 - The Role of Coaching in Behavior Change 15:15 - Health Coaches as Personalized Accountability Partners 16:28 - Holistic Wellbeing Through Organizational Values 18:26 - Strategies for Incentivizing Long-Term Wellbeing 20:26 - Simplifying Employee Access to Wellbeing Resources 21:17 - Challenges Focused on Building Long-Term Habits 22:08 - Addressing Loneliness in a Hybrid Workforce 23:59 - Why Traditional Wellbeing Platforms Fail Employees 24:56 - Leveraging Real-Time Data for Fast Decision-Making 27:55 - Case Study: Reducing Financial Barriers to Wellbeing 29:10 - Using Data to Address Root Causes of Employee Health Issues 31:55 - Simplifying Communication for Wellbeing Success 33:41 - Future UI/UX Enhancements Focused on Personalization 35:36 - Integrating Wellbeing into the Employee Lifecycle 36:52 - Choice-Based Recognition and Employee Appreciation 38:20 - Career Development as a Form of Wellbeing Recognition 40:13 - Enhancing Innovation in Wellbeing Programs 41:46 - Leveraging Technology to Connect Remote Workforces 44:05 - Fostering a Culture of Empathy and Communication 45:35 - Best Days Ever Key Takeaways:   "Changing the culture of wellbeing doesn't happen overnight. It requires resources and investment."    "Navigate's mission is to personalize the wellness experience for each participant. It's about understanding needs and motivations." "The data doesn't lie. Our clients see consistent improvements. It's working." "Our mission is to ensure participants get a tailored experience. It's not one size fits all." "Coaching is an extension of personalization. It's a one-on-one targeted program about you." "People first wellbeing means giving actionable steps to move from struggling to succeeding." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing - https://info.navigatewell.com/roi-whitepaper

Today’s special episode is hosted by Navigate Brand Experience Specialist, Kinzy Gillespie, and features Alysa Goethe, Miss Iowa 2023, as she shares her inspiring story of advocacy, resilience, and community impact. Opening up about her journey with Type 1 diabetes and how it fueled her passion for making a difference, Alysa discusses navigating the challenges of being a public figure, including dealing with societal expectations and protecting her mental well-being in the face of online scrutiny.  Alysa's story is one of empowerment that demonstrates how to transform personal challenges into opportunities for growth and positive change - a timely reminder of the importance of gratitude, kindness, and using our platforms for good on this day of Thanksgiving. 🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [47:34]: "Always choose kindness and always choose to invest in yourself... Whatever it is that will ultimately better yourself is always worth it." Learn how to make a difference and prioritize personal growth as Alysa shares her insights on kindness, self-care, and pursuing your passions. ⚠️ WAKE-UP CALL [5:10]: "I was so afraid that all of the goals I had set for myself, all of the dreams I wanted to accomplish, were suddenly vanishing before my eyes." Hear Alysa's vulnerable account of being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 11 and how she overcame the fear and bullying to become an advocate. ✨ GROWTH OPPORTUNITY [09:20]: "I now had that outlet of service... that I could use to help others, help myself, and still get to do all the fun things." Discover how Alysa transformed her personal challenge into a platform for good, using the Miss America program to advocate for diabetes research. ⚡ QUICK WIN [43:12]: "Just do it... and do it scared…If you wait until you're ready, that may never happen." Get inspired to take action and pursue your dreams, even when faced with fear and uncertainty. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Insights from Alysa’s journey 02:28 - Exploring hidden talents and unexpected facts 04:50 - Empowering future generations 06:17 - Creating thriving communities 07:24 - Breaking stereotypes about the world of pageantry 08:19 - Navigating life with diabetes 10:42 - Turning grief into purpose 14:45 - Overcoming bullying 16:59 - Strengthening yourself during adversity 19:23 - The path from local stages to the Miss Iowa crown 23:00 - Rediscovering Iowa’s hidden beauty and vibrant landscapes 24:17 - Debunking myths about pageantry 28:58 - Transitioning from beauty-focused competitions to leadership roles 29:16 - Prioritizing mental health in demanding roles 31:50 - Protecting mental peace while navigating social media challenges 34:22 - Using music as a medium for solace and self-expression 38:15 - Starting small and creating big impact in diabetes advocacy 40:44 - Inspiring youth through representation and shared stories 43:11 - Stepping out of comfort zones and taking action 46:00 - Balancing full-time advocacy with professional aspirations 47:16 - Building connections through kindness and self-investment CONNECT WITH ALYSA GOETHE: Website: https://alysa-goethe.square.site/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/not-your-type/id1622513102 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alysa-goethe-5671741b9/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notyourtypicalt1d/ #MissIowa #DoGoodThings #MakeADifference 

Troy Vincent is honored to welcome Senator Tom Harkin, a pivotal force behind the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Dr. Matthew Reed, Executive Director of the Harkin Institute, for a conversation here today that is equal parts informative and moving. Beginning with Troy’s story of his father's inspiring journey of overcoming disability, our panel goes on to explore Senator Harkin’s personal experiences with disability, the evolution of the ADA, and the significance of preventive healthcare. Emphasizing the value of supporting employees beyond work and showcasing how this approach benefits businesses, they also highlight the Harkin Institute’s efforts to create a more inclusive world, focusing on mental health, community engagement, and the importance of hiring individuals with disabilities. This very special episode is a compelling reminder that investing in inclusivity and well-being is not just beneficial—it’s essential for a thriving future. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Importance of Supporting Employees Beyond Work Hours 01:05 Introduction to Senator Harkin and Dr. Reed 02:19 Inspiring Story of Overcoming Adversity 03:53 Recognizing Senator Harkin's Impact on Disability Rights 04:55 Influences Behind Senator Harkin’s Focus on Disability Inclusion 08:54 Evolution of Closed Captioning for Accessibility 10:00 A Game Changer for Accessibility 11:16 Shifting Focus to Preventive Healthcare 13:22 Role of Prevention in the American Healthcare System 15:05 The Harkin Institute’s Role in Promoting Inclusivity and Wellness 17:30 Addressing Youth Anxiety and Isolation Through Community Engagement 18:58 Removing Sugary Drinks and Promoting Nutrition in Schools 23:29 Expanding Access to Fresh Produce in Schools Nationwide 24:33 Tackling Food Deserts with Fresh Options in Rural Areas 26:17 Mental Health Support for Kids in Schools 28:04 Project Uplift Supporting Low Income Families in Iowa 29:54 Research on Health Impacts of Industrial Animal Farming 32:03 Addressing Environmental and Health Impacts of Factory Farming 34:11 The Role of Businesses in Supporting Whole Person Wellness 37:45 The Business Benefits of Hiring People with Disabilities 40:04 Workplace Flexibility and Self Care Practices Boosting Retention 45:39 Employment as a Key to Independence for People with Disabilities 46:08 Finding Positivity Through Nature and Community 47:42 Celebrating Personal Achievements and Impactful Moments Key Takeaways: "Senator Harkin's ADA work is one of the most important civil rights laws in U.S. history." "In America, we don't have a healthcare system. We have a sick care system." "Businesses that focus on employee health and well-being are the most successful." "A healthy workforce is the foundation of thriving organizations and communities." "Prevention and wellness save lives and money, but we focus on patching and curing." "The value of hiring people with disabilities is not just goodwill. It's about better business outcomes." "Businesses that care for the whole person have the highest productivity and best profit margins." "The whole person approach is now a priority for 55% of HR professionals, a shift from 15 years ago." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing - https://info.navigatewell.com/roi-whitepaper Senator Tom Harkin: https://www.tomharkin.com/ The Harkin Institute: https://harkininstitute.drake.edu/

Robin Bouvier, Vice President and Wellbeing Subject Matter Expert at Aon, shares details of her own personal health transformation and insights from her 25+ years of expertise in driving organizational health strategies with Troy today, as together they dive into the evolving trends in employee wellbeing for 2025. Their discussion highlights the barriers to making healthy choices, the growing emphasis on mental health, and how data can drive more effective employee engagement and cost management. Robin and Troy also emphasize the critical role of leadership in creating a culture of care, aligning wellbeing with business goals, and fostering environments where employees feel supported. The importance of personalized wellbeing programs, the impact of financial wellness on mental health, and the increasing need for addressing workplace stress and burnout are discussed as well. As you will hear, today’s episode truly showcases how organizations can use holistic approaches to boost employee satisfaction, reduce healthcare costs, and create a competitive advantage in talent retention. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Barriers to Making Healthy Choices 00:36 Robin Bouvier’s Role and Personal Wellbeing Journey 03:48 Trends in Employee Wellbeing for 2025 04:53 Aligning Wellbeing with Business Goals 06:24 Mental Health as a Top Employer Focus 06:48 Tackling Workplace Stress and Burnout 11:19 Addressing Social Isolation in Remote Work 16:09 Employer Strategies to Reduce Healthcare Costs 24:21 Personalizing Employee Wellbeing Programs 27:29 Wellbeing's Role in Engagement and Retention 30:27 Integrating Wellbeing into Company Culture 31:19 Using Data to Improve Wellbeing Investments 36:01 Wellbeing Challenges for Growing Mid-Sized Companies Key Takeaways: "If you were to ask the average consumer what gets in the way of you making healthy choices, number one, it's time, number two, it's effort. And number three, it's money." "People need to get their head in the game so that their body can follow." "Having a best friend at work is a way for employees to feel not only that sense of connection, but also to really feel engaged with their employer." "One in five employees in the US right now feels that their employer truly cares about their total wellbeing. That's not okay." "Organizations can have an impact by thinking about the things that stress employees out and looking at the root causes of stress." "Creating an environment that helps to address the top three barriers to wellbeing success is really where the magic happens." "We need to make sure that we are taking care of ourselves and showing up as our best self in order to be there to help others." "When employees are happy with their organization, not only will they stay when given the opportunity to leave, but they will also recommend their organization." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing - https://info.navigatewell.com/roi-whitepaper Get to know Robin Bouvier better - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-bouvier-3539967/ Discover what Aon has to offer - https://www.aon.com/en/

Julie Develin, Senior Partner at UKG’s HCM Advisory, joins Troy and Jay to explore the crucial role of workplace culture in driving business success.  Their discussion emphasizes the importance of employee engagement, leadership evolution, and creating environments where individuals can thrive. Julie advocates for moving beyond outdated practices, promoting a culture of accountability, transparency, and authentic communication. She highlights the growing role of HR as internal consultants, the importance of psychological safety for retention, and the lessons business leaders can learn from sports.  Today’s informative episode underscores the need for investing in employee development and adapting to shifting trends, showing how data-driven decision-making and a people-centric culture can boost satisfaction and performance, positioning companies as industry leaders. Episode Highlights: 0:00 Introduction 01:11 Embracing a Passion for HR and People-Centric Workplaces 04:19 Role of HR in Workplace Culture and Evangelism 06:09 Reaffirming Employer Commitment to Employees and Communities 06:59 Sports as a Metaphor for Workplace Dynamics 08:27 The Impact of the Olympics on Work and Team Building 12:53 Sports Lessons for Leadership and Teamwork in Business 14:39 Integrating Pop Culture with Workplace Engagement 15:39 Shifting Workplace Trends and Employee Psychological Safety 19:00 The Importance of Cultural Fit and Employee Purpose 21:02 Challenges of Managerial Leadership and HR Support 23:25 Need for Unified Management Practices and Communication 24:53 Challenges of Over-Reliance on Email Communication 26:45 Preparing for Pendulum Shifts in Employer-Employee Power Dynamics 30:08 Importance of Learning, Development, and Employee Wellbeing 31:56 Key Characteristics of a Great Place to Work 34:27 Using Data to Drive Business Decisions in HR 41:59 Trends to Watch in 2025 AI, Education, and Workforce Development 45:51 The Importance of Confidence and Networking in HR Key Takeaways: "Workplace trends won't revert to how they were. Embrace the change to understand employee expectations." "Employers need to recognize that people often won't just find their purpose; they need to be told why they matter." "Human Resources departments are becoming internal consultants for managers, playing an educator role." "The importance of data is continuous, but it must be the right data that can be trusted and acted upon." "Culture of accountability: People should feel okay admitting mistakes without fearing job loss." "Not everybody learns the same way. Our perception is our reality, shaped by our experiences." "AI is not going away. It's about what AI can do to make life easier and ethical education around it." "Transparency and good communication are essential for building trust and psychological safety at work." "Networking in HR is crucial. Recognizing you're not alone and nobody has it all figured out is important." "HR needs to be seen as a strategic partner, not just a cost center. Their experience matters too." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing Keep up with Julie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdevhr/

In today’s very special episode, Troy and Jeremy guide listeners through the recent Navigate Summit at the glorious La Cantera Resort in San Antonio, reviewing the crucial themes and lessons learned at this thoroughly energizing event. Recounting the themes around the importance of client interaction and the rejuvenating effect of diverse viewpoints from public, labor, and manufacturing sectors, our hosts note how continuous listening and a personalized approach to wellbeing increase engagement and build trust. They also delve into leadership's essence, focusing on gratitude, resilience, and holistic wellbeing's interconnectedness before finishing up by discussing the innovative user experience redesign as well as the importance of maintaining human connections in a digital age. Rest assured, an amazing Navigate Summit experience makes for an equally amazing episode - you do not want to miss this one! Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction 00:31 Summit Recap: Personalization and Connection 01:08 Client Interaction: Impact and Refreshment 02:02 Diverse Perspectives: Public, Labor, and Manufacturing 03:07 Continuous Listening: A Year-Round Process 05:29 Personalized Approach: Success Metrics 05:41 Case Studies: Building Trust 06:54 Leadership Mindset: Gratitude and Resiliency 08:12 Leadership Philosophy: Getting Things Done 11:37 Interconnectedness: Summit Conversations and Inspiration 13:41 Empowerment: Cross-Section of Sports and Leadership 15:01 Panel Discussions: Sharing Best Practices 15:53 Future of HR: Diversity, Inclusion, and Innovation 17:26 Trends and Multi-Generational Workforce 20:17 Women's Health: Advocacy and Personalization 22:19 UX Redesign: Improving User Experience 24:38 Development and Communication: Team Effort 26:23 Summit Highlights: Educational and Social Experiences 27:47 Give Back: Community Support 29:21 Community and Networking: Building Connections 29:51 Listener Engagement: Personal Connection Key Takeaways: "Hearing new ideas at a conference triggers something in your head, making you think, 'This is something we should address.'" "Connecting those dots really does fill up my cup and hearing different perspectives is revitalizing." "Listening to clients should be second nature to every business out there." "A personalized approach to wellbeing works. Our data shows a 32% increase in engagement." "Gratitude and resilience are key leadership qualities. They help build trust and interconnectedness." "Understanding gratitude and practicing it can unleash opportunities in your personal and professional life." "Listening to diverse voices triggers new ideas and avenues for content." "A personalized approach to benefits, healthcare, and wellbeing meets every individual where they are." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing

Given the fact that “it's the first time in history that five generations are in the workforce”, Troy and Jay are incredibly excited to welcome Ali Payne, President of ethOs, to the podcast today to share her vast amount of expertise in managing such a multigenerational workforce.  Together, they explore the importance of understanding the diverse needs of today’s employees to create a more engaging work experience. Ali goes on to emphasize the value of moving beyond "engagement" to focus on the overall employee experience with personalized approaches and better communication. Highlighting the need for deeper workforce insights, meaningful experiences, and empathetic leadership, she explains how companies can use technology to connect employees with the right resources.  Noting that Millennials seek purpose-driven work and flexibility, today’s episode demonstrates that through leveraging data and focusing on well-being, companies can foster better collaboration and engagement. The episode wraps up with a focus on personalization and effective inclusion strategies, rounding out Ali’s invaluable insights for companies navigating a diverse and evolving workforce. Episode Highlights: 0:00 Start  0:43 Introduction 1:20 Ali Payne and ethOs 5:13 Understanding the needs of different generations 7:36 How multiple data sets affect the employee experience 9:38 Mentoring connecting multiple generations 13:39 Using wellbeing and data to create collaboration 15:10 Helping managers communicate with other generations 19:35 Fostering trust and collaboration across occupations and generations 21:09 Leveraging emotional intelligence 23:59 Sustaining communications with multiple generations 29:11 What Millennials look for in the employee experience 31:27 Inclusion strategies for a diverse and dispersed workforce 33:58 Career development across generations 36:16 Career evolvement 37:53 Prioritizing personalization 40:44 Communication modes 41:32 Best/Vest Day Ever Key Takeaways: "Engagement is overused. Focus on experience, which leads to better engagement results." "Employers must change how they communicate and deliver resources to different generations." "Most employers know their workforce's average age and gender split but not much else." "Listening and understanding employees is key to providing the right resources at the right time." "Effective leaders say what they're going to do and actually do it." "Millennials want purpose, flexibility, and recognition, not just a paycheck." "Personalization is expected in today's world. Employers must adapt to this trend." "Every organization needs to define what inclusion looks like for them." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing Find out more about Ali and ethOs at: https://www.yourethos.com/

Ellen Pillay, Manager of Health Coaching at Navigate, joins Troy and Jeremy today to take an in-depth look at the empowering potential of health coaching to foster a healthier workforce. Beginning with Ellen’s inspiring journey from wellness enthusiast to seasoned health coach, the episode goes on to explore the innovative strategies behind Navigate’s health coaching model. Navigate’s three coaching types, the development of their flexible, personalizable platform, and the importance of building trust and creating a supportive company culture through health coaching are all discussed. Our trio also highlights how Navigate’s values assessment personalizes coaching sessions, and identifies common barriers to implementing health coaching, and how its comprehensive, all-in-one platform overcomes these challenges.  The broad scope of Navigate’s health coaching, which covers holistic well-being, including financial wellness and stress management is examined throughout today’s episode as it reinforces the crucial fact that personalized health coaching not only reduces healthcare costs and improves health outcomes but also significantly enhances company culture and productivity. Episode Highlights: 0:00 Start 0:37 Introduction 1:05 Ellen’s health coaching background 2:41 Navigate’s health coaching strategy 5:42 What sets this strategy apart from others 8:00 The business benefits of the Navigate health coaching model 10:57 The coaching model’s impact on culture 12:32 Navigate’s values assessment 14:33 Establishing a successful health coach relationship 16:16 The breadth of coaching Navigate provides 18:01 Overcoming barriers to health coaching 22:03 The member experience 24:18 Navigate’s Tobacco Cessation program 26:50 Their comprehensive coaching all-in-one platform 28:39 Navigate’s improved chronic conditions results 31:56 Ellen’s excitement about health coaching 33:06 Key factors for successful health coaching 35:12 Vest Day Ever Quotes: “Health coaching is about making it ridiculously easy to just sit down and have a conversation.” “Confidentiality is key to building trust in health coaching.” “We want to make sure that there's a user experience that is efficient and that everything is under one roof.” “Behavior change is really difficult, but small tweaks can lead to big strides.” “A personalized approach is essential to making health coaching effective and engaging.” “Our coaching program is designed to drive value not just for the business but also for the individual’s overall well-being.” “Leading by example is crucial for the success of health coaching initiatives.” Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing

Troy and Jeremy are joined today by Prisma Health's Director of Team Member Wellbeing, Stephanie John, for a vibrant discussion on holistic employee wellness strategies. Together, they review Prisma’s partnership with Navigate, as well as its multifaceted approach to wellbeing that goes well beyond the gym - weaving mental, financial, and emotional health into their organizational fabric. Diving into Prisma Health's unique challenge of merging two distinct health systems' cultures into a singular, robust wellness strategy, our panel highlights the innovative wellness survey designed to combat fatigue and personalize health pathways, showcasing the value of choice and adaptability in catering to diverse employee needs. Today’s episode demonstrates Prisma Health's commitment to a comprehensive health strategy and forecasts a future where personalized, data-informed wellness programs are the norm. It’s a compelling narrative of how creating an engaging, supportive environment can redefine employee wellbeing, providing an enlightening look at how wellness can be as fun and accessible as it is integral within work culture. Episode Highlights: 0:00 Start 0:53 Introduction 2:06 Stephanie’s background 3:52 Merging two cultures together 6:13 Creating a survey addressing all health dimensions 9:16 Interoperability of data 11:02 Prisma Health’s team 13:33 Establishing trust 17:03 Transitioning to Total Health 20:45 The uniqueness of the Prisma data 23:47 Prisma’s other partners’ perspective 26:38 Prisma’s internal approach 30:03 Prisma’s community engagement 35:02 Addressing financial wellbeing 38:47 The future of the wellbeing industry 45:40 Vest Day Ever Quotes: "Wellness is not just about asparagus and exercise, but it also encompasses relationships, mental health, financial wellness, and all those other dimensions." "It's like a kid in a candy store working for a health system because there are so many experiences happening every day." "We wanted to offer our team members choice and recognize the diversity of our workforce." "It's not just asking about height and weight, but it also addresses things like nutrition and mindfulness." "My top favorite thing about the Total Health Survey is that it also gives you an idea of readiness to change." "Being able to point to the data and show the outcomes to our team makes them expect good things now from the portal and they're just excited about what we can do next." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing Visit the good folks at Prisma: https://prismahealth.org/

Navigate's Director of Product and Strategy, Jennifer Lowry, joins Troy and Jeremy here today to not only reveal her Karaoke go-to’s, but to also share her vast experience and wisdom within the realm of employee engagement and wellbeing programs. Throughout this fascinating conversation, Jennifer underscores the pivotal role of engagement in nurturing thriving work environments and establishing sustainable wellbeing practices.  Our special guest also highlights the significance of identifying and leveraging key engagement drivers like effective communication and data-driven personalization to tailor programs to employees' needs. As the discussion progresses, she delves deeper into the importance of addressing diverse needs and readiness levels, advocating for tailored resources and comprehensive toolkits across all aspects of wellbeing.  Together, our trio emphasizes the crucial role of leadership support and active participation in driving engagement while also celebrating successes and sharing best practices to inspire others. Together, they stress the necessity of embracing a holistic approach to wellbeing, encompassing mental, financial, and social dimensions. Join our team today as they share the key components that empower organizations to create impactful engagement initiatives, shaping brighter and healthier futures in the workplace.  Be sure to stick around to the very end of the podcast for a moving tribute to one of Navigate’s most highly valued team members in the wake of his recent passing. Episode Highlights: 0:00 Start 0:36 Introduction 1:10 Jenn’s professional history 1:47 Karaoke icebreaker 3:07 Wellbeing programs, engagement drivers, and qualitative measures 6:24 Communication regarding programs 8:25 Personalization and variety 9:28 The employee experience and creating a positive support environment 11:57 Interpersonal wellbeing 12:23 Comparing engagement and participation 14:28 Incentives and engagement 18:47 Holistic wellbeing and Navigate’s 8 Pillars of Wellbeing 22:44 Total Health 24:26 Comparing engaged to highly engaged 28:11 Ways to drive engagement 30:07 Best Day Ever 32:02 Paying tribute to the late Brian Lackey Quotes: "Wellbeing engagement is really that first step to getting people to start creating habits, establishing habits, and those habits turn into improving overall wellbeing." "Personalization is key... meeting the person where they are with that data-driven personalization." "The line between what was wellbeing and what is the employee experience is being blurred." "Participation is, ‘I am doing this because I have to’... With engagement, they are actually intentionally moving in that program." "In the wellbeing space, we have to make sure that the content is fresh, relevant, and available in multiple modes.” "Wellbeing programs were never meant to be one size fits all. We’re all unique in our challenges, our opportunities." "Engagement is growing, and there are more variables there... We can help employees set personal goals." - Troy Vincent "The one tactic, the one strategy that really stood out... was leadership support." "His spirit will live on with us... Brian always led with kindness." Resources: Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com  Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing