Community Connected Health

About Community Connected Health

Welcome to Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. Get ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better.

Publisher

Skip Lowe and Colton Storla

Category

business · education · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

29 Sept 2025

Latest episode

5 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   5 Oct 2026

   #13: Stop Buying Insurance and Start Buying Health Care

   A health plan can spend $133,000 less through better navigation—and still face resistance to changing how employees get care. On *Community Connected Health*, Skip Lowe and Colton Storla unpack the tension behind rising renewals, including a reported $40 million medical claim, surging GLP-1 costs, and employers who can’t access their own claims or pharmacy contract data. They share practical strategies—from transparent PBM contracts and direct primary care to helping employees find high-quality, lower-cost care—and explain why shifting costs onto workers may only postpone the problem. Before signing a 2027 renewal, what information should employers demand? This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice. - Rising employee health benefit costs and difficult renewal projections - Employer strategies for managing costs without relying solely on higher deductibles or employee contributions - Wellness programs and GLP-1 medications, including coverage decisions and potential costs - Managing high-cost medical claims through timely support and access to appropriate care - Greater transparency and access to health plan claims, pharmacy contracts, and pricing - Self-funded, level-funded, and captive health plan options - Pharmacy benefit manager transparency, rebate auditing, and independent PBMs - Direct primary care as a way to improve access and affordability - Care navigation to help employees find high-quality, lower-cost care - Questions employers should ask before approving health plan renewals Timestamps **Welcome and Fall Reflections (00:00:18)** Skip and Colton open the episode, discuss the busy fall season, and joke about Colton’s upcoming wedding. **Rising Benefit Costs and Renewal Anxiety (00:01:35)** They discuss rising premiums, stop-loss carriers exiting the market, and employers’ concerns about upcoming renewals. **Why Meaningful Health Plan Changes Take Work (00:03:01)** Skip and Colton describe the effort, data, and difficult conversations required to achieve savings and improve health plans. **Employer Priorities and Wellness (00:05:31)** They discuss employers’ varied priorities and compare wellness initiatives with optimizing health plans for more measurable savings. **Cost Shifting Versus Addressing Healthcare Costs (00:10:50)** They examine strategies such as higher deductibles and spouse surcharges, warning these can drive employees away without reducing underlying costs. **Employer Resistance and Trust (00:13:58)** They discuss employers’ attachment to familiar insurance brands, reluctance to make changes, and skepticism toward unfamiliar strategies. **GLP-1 Drug Spending (00:19:06)** They cover rising GLP-1 use and costs, coverage decisions, and the value of pairing weight-loss medications with supportive programs. **Managing High-Cost Claims (00:23:52)** They discuss catastrophic claims and ways to connect members with appropriate care and reduce plan costs. **Health Plan and Pharmacy Transparency (00:26:39)** They urge employers to demand access to claims data, pharmacy contracts, rebates, and independent audits. **Choosing Self-Funding and Challenging Brokers (00:29:02)** They describe self-funding options and encourage employers to seek advice beyond traditional insurance arrangements. **Pharmacy Benefit Manager Strategy (00:32:41)** They recommend transparent PBM contracts, full rebate access, claim-level audits, and careful vendor evaluation. **Direct Primary Care (00:35:12)** They discuss improving access and affordability through direct primary care and share examples of growing participation. **Healthcare Navigation (00:40:13)** They explain how navigation services help employees find suitable, high-quality care at lower prices. **2027 Health Plan Trends (00:44:02)** They predict greater demand for transparency, pharmacy scrutiny, cost-conscious care, and sophisticated funding strategies. **Questions to Ask Before Renewing (00:45:36)** Colton urges employers to review claims data, pharmacy contracts, and high-cost claims before approving renewal terms. **Closing Thoughts (00:46:09)** They encourage employers to focus on buying healthcare more strategically, rather than simply purchasing insurance.

2. 

   7 Sept 2026

   #12: Buying Health Insurance Shouldn’t Feel Like Shopping at Whole Foods (ft. Ben John of Self Fund Health)

   In this episode of Community Connected Health, hosts Skip Lowe and Colton Storla sit down with Ben John, VP of Sales and Partnerships for Self Fund Health, to discuss transforming how employers and employees purchase healthcare. Ben shares his journey from music to health insurance, emphasizing that rising costs stem from poor healthcare purchasing habits, not just inadequate coverage. The conversation highlights the power of direct primary care, nurse navigation, price transparency, and zero-tier provider networks in reducing costs. Ben stresses that lasting change requires cultural shifts within organizations, employer education, and aligned incentives—moving beyond traditional insurance products to truly empower consumers in making smarter healthcare decisions. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

3. 

   3 Aug 2026

   #11: From Surgery to Savings: Integrating Technology and Transparency (ft. Dr. Brett Miller)

   In this episode of Community Connected Health, hosts Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners speak with Dr. Brett Miller, orthopedic surgeon and President of OSMC Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center. Dr. Miller discusses the broken healthcare system, rising employer costs, and the lack of transparency in musculoskeletal (MSK) care. He introduces HURT!, his company offering 24/7 virtual orthopedic triage, digital rehabilitation, and a nationwide surgical network. Partnering with RosettaHealth, The OrthoForum, and HealthMe, HURT! delivers an end-to-end MSK solution designed to reduce unnecessary procedures, lower costs, and improve outcomes for employers and their employees. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

4. 

   6 Jul 2026

   #10: The Largest Independent Orthopedic Network (ft. Scott Argie of OrthoForum Value Network)

   In this episode of Community Connected Health, hosts Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners speak with Scott Argie, VP of Strategy and Network Development at the OrthoForum Value Network. Scott explains how over 160 independent orthopedic groups united to form the largest independent orthopedic network in the U.S., addressing rising healthcare costs and insurance complexities. The discussion highlights significant cost savings available through independent practices and ambulatory surgery centers, the importance of employer education, and how self-funded employers and brokers can leverage transparent, high-quality orthopedic care to meaningfully reduce musculoskeletal healthcare spending. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

5. 

   1 Jun 2026

   #9: EAPs - The Future of Employee Wellness (ft. Zach Schmit and Chad Charkowski of Covenant Workplace Solutions)

   In this episode of Community Connected Health, hosts Skip Lowe and Colton Storla welcome Zach Schmit and Chad Charkowski from Covenant Workplace Solutions to discuss Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). The guests explore how EAPs have evolved from minimal, underutilized benefits into comprehensive mental health and wellness resources. They address the growing demand for mental health support, strategies for driving employee utilization, and the importance of leadership buy-in in fostering a wellness-focused workplace culture. The conversation also highlights Covenant's innovative integration of mental health, primary care, and wellness services, offering employers a proactive, holistic approach to supporting their workforce year-round. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

6. 

   4 May 2026

   #8: Replacing the Status Quo (ft. Matt Ohrt of the Free Market Medical Association)

   In this episode of Community Connected Health, hosts Skip Lowe and Colton Storla welcome Matt Ohrt, Executive Director of the Free Market Medical Association (FMMA) and former HR leader. Matt shares his journey transforming employee health benefits at Merrill Steel by implementing Direct Primary Care, self-funding strategies, and bundled pricing models. He emphasizes the importance of replacing traditional, status-quo-driven advisors with transparent, aligned partners. Matt also discusses his two books on health care reform and the FMMA's mission to advance free-market health care solutions, encouraging employers to take incremental steps toward building more effective, cost-efficient health plans. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

7. 

   6 Apr 2026

   #7: Innovation Through Collaboration (ft. Rich Green of Des Moines Orthopedic Surgeons)

   In this episode of "Community Connected Health," host Skip Lowe is joined by Colton Storla and Rich Green, CEO of Des Moines Orthopedic Surgeons (DMOS). The discussion explores innovative, cost-effective orthopedic care models, including urgent injury clinics and ambulatory surgery centers, and the importance of employer-sponsored health plans. The hosts and guests highlight the value of transparent pricing, bundled payments, and local provider networks in reducing healthcare costs while improving patient outcomes. The episode emphasizes collaboration among brokers, employers, and providers to deliver high-quality, affordable care and shares practical strategies for health insurance professionals and employers. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

8. 

   2 Mar 2026

   #6: Turning Healthcare Challenges into Community Triumphs (ft. Dave Chase of Health Rosetta)

   In this episode of "Community Connected Health," hosts Skip Lowe and Colton Storla interview Dave Chase, co-founder of Health Rosetta. They discuss the systemic flaws in U.S. healthcare, focusing on how traditional health plans drive up costs and reduce value for employers and employees. Dave shares Health Rosetta’s mission to create transparent, affordable, and high-quality health plans, highlighting real-world examples of employers reclaiming healthcare dollars for their communities. The conversation emphasizes practical solutions, industry innovation, and the transformative impact of better health plan design on organizations and local economies. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

9. 

   3 Feb 2026

   #5: Understanding Self-Funded vs. Fully Insured Health Plans

   In this episode of "Community Connected Health," hosts Colton Storla and Skip Lowe discuss the escalating costs and complexities of health insurance for employers. They highlight the limitations of fully insured plans, the growing appeal of self-funded and level-funded options, and the importance of transparency, data access, and customization. Drawing on personal experiences and industry insights, they emphasize the need for ongoing education and strategic partnerships to help employers control costs, improve benefits, and keep healthcare dollars within their communities. The episode encourages employers to seek expert guidance and proactive solutions. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

10. 

    5 Jan 2026

    #4: The Hidden Costs of Pharmacy Benefits - What Every Employer Needs to Know

    In this episode, hosts Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of Community Connected Health interview Amy Wadstrom, President of Vivid Clear Rx, a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM). They discuss the challenges of traditional PBMs, including lack of transparency, spread pricing, and poor pharmacy reimbursement. Amy shares how Vivid Clear Rx, created by Hy-Vee, offers a transparent, pass-through PBM model focused on patient care and cost control. The conversation covers contract clarity, biosimilar strategies, employer education, and the importance of customer service. The hosts emphasize the value of innovative, transparent PBMs for employers of all sizes seeking better pharmacy benefit solutions. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

11. 

    1 Dec 2025

    #3: The Hidden Costs of Traditional Health Insurance

    In this episode of "Community Connected Health," hosts Skip Lowe and Colton Storla discuss innovative, employer-sponsored health plans that prioritize transparency, direct primary care (DPC), and the elimination of unnecessary middlemen like PBMs and traditional carriers. Through case studies from healthcare, public sector, and manufacturing employers, they illustrate how custom plans—featuring independent TPAs, incentive networks, and DPC—lower costs, improve employee satisfaction, and enhance care quality. The hosts emphasize collaboration with local providers and community-focused solutions, demonstrating measurable savings and better outcomes for both employers and employees. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

12. 

    3 Nov 2025

    #2: Navigating the Healthcare Maze ft. Dr. Jon Van Der Veer, DO

    In this episode, Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners interview Dr. Jon Van Der Veer, DO, founder of Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care, to discuss the benefits of direct primary care (DPC). They explore how DPC’s membership model improves patient access, transparency, and preventive care, while reducing costs and administrative burdens for employers. The conversation highlights real-world examples, the importance of strong patient-provider relationships, and the challenges of traditional insurance. The hosts share their own experience implementing DPC in employer health plans, underscoring its potential to transform healthcare delivery for businesses and employees. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

13. 

    6 Oct 2025

    #1: Reimagining Healthcare - From Confusion to Connection

    In the inaugural episode of "Community Connected Health," health insurance professionals Skip Lowe and Colton Storla introduce their backgrounds and discuss the challenges facing today’s healthcare system. They highlight the financial burdens on families and employers, the limitations of traditional insurance, and the growing appeal of direct primary care (DPC) models. Emphasizing collaboration among providers, employers, and patients, the hosts advocate for innovative, community-focused solutions to improve healthcare access and affordability. The episode sets the stage for future discussions with industry leaders, aiming to educate and inspire positive change in healthcare delivery. This is Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners, and new episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. If you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place. The opinions expressed within this podcast and any related content are those solely of the hosts and guests respectively and do not necessarily represent the position or opinion of North Risk Partners or any other entities. Additionally, the information and opinions expressed on this show should be taken as such and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.

14. 

    29 Sept 2025

    Trailer: Season One - Community Connected Health

    Welcome to Community Connected Health, the podcast where we explore how employers, healthcare innovators, and advisors are transforming the way healthcare is delivered — right in their own communities. This podcast is hosted by Skip Lowe and Colton Storla of North Risk Partners. Together, they're purposeful about helping businesses take control of their healthcare spend while improving the well-being of their people. This show is for CEOs, CFOs, and HR leaders who are tired of the status quo. We’ll bring you real stories from employers, providers, and changemakers who are reimagining healthcare. Each episode features practical insights, case studies, and conversations with leaders who are proving that better care and lower costs can go hand in hand. New episodes release on the first Monday of each month on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you find your podcasts. You can also connect with the hosts through LinkedIn or via email. So if you're ready to rethink your health plan, empower your employees, and build something better — you're in the right place.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Contact Community Connected Health

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.