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The Generous Benefits Podcast Episode #2: Exploring the True Role of Third-Party Administrators

Written by Bret Brummitt | 6/16/25 7:07 PM

Episode 2: The True Role of Third Party Administrators

Third-party administrators (TPAs) tend to get a bad reputation in the employee benefits world. Employers complain about clunky processes, poor service, and confusing contracts. Is that reputation always fair or is there more to the story?

 

In Episode 2 of The Generous Benefits Podcast, Amanda Brummitt sits down with Matthew McCuen of Imagine360 to dig into one of the most misunderstood areas of healthcare benefits. With more than 30 years of experience in the self-funded space, Matt brings insight, candor, and a much-needed perspective shift to the conversation around TPAs.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • What a TPA actually does (hint: it’s more than just processing claims)
  • How the TPA market has evolved and why consolidation might be a good thing
  • Why the right TPA can offer more flexibility, transparency, and cost control than traditional carriers
  • How TPAs and brokers can work together to create long-term strategies for employers
  • What questions CFOs and HR leaders should ask when vetting a TPA partner

Matt and Amanda also explore the growing demand for customized healthcare strategies, the role of pharmacy benefit managers, and why high-touch service and data access matter more than ever.

Who Should Listen?
If you're an employer trying to regain control over healthcare costs, an HR leader curious about self-funding, or a broker looking for ways to offer more strategic value to your clients, this episode is for you.

Watch Episode #2: 

 

And if you missed Episode #1, “Predatory and Parasitic Benefits Practices,” you can catch up here: https://generousbenefits.podbean.com/e/predatory-and-parasitic-benefits-practices/