Episode SummaryHow can HR leaders turn employee benefits into a powerful tool for culture building and talent retention? In this episode of Built by People, host Dave D’Angelo sits down with Harrison Newman, Senior Vice President at Corporate Synergies, to explore the strategic power of benefits planning. With 15+ years in the space, Harrison shares how a career that started with a Craigslist ad turned into a passion for employee advocacy and cultural transformation through HR.You’ll hear Harrison’s personal story of navigating layoffs and career pivots, how he made long-term decisions in the face of short-term pressure, and why being both intentional and flexible is critical for growth. From lifestyle accounts to the impact of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Harrison unpacks emerging trends reshaping the benefits landscape. Whether you're an HR leader planning for open enrollment or a business leader focused on retention, this episode offers tactical and strategic value in equal measure.Key Timestamps[00:42] – Harrison shares his unconventional journey into employee benefits[02:07] – A pivotal career move and the value of long-term thinking[02:59] – Overcoming challenges with intentionality and flexibility[04:42] – Harrison’s decision-making framework: balancing short-term vs. long-term goals[06:28] – How benefits can build culture and attract top talent[09:14] – Emerging trends: lifestyle accounts and GLP-1 medications[11:26] – Harrison’s legacy: being a culture builder through benefits[12:22] – Final advice for HR leaders: strategy meets flexibilityActionable TakeawaysUse benefits as a cultural tool, not just a compliance checklistBalance short-term gains with long-term goals when evaluating career or benefit strategy decisionsKnow your people, your data, and your options — Harrison’s “three nos” for building stronger benefits plansExplore lifestyle accounts to support diverse employee needs without breaking the budgetWeigh ROI beyond finances: Consider the cultural impact when making high-cost decisions, like GLP-1 coverageBe intentional but flexible: Adapt your strategy while staying aligned with long-term goalsOur SponsorPrevi is an employer network that provides private pricing for employees. Joining the Previ network allows employees to save on necessities they already pay for, such as cell phone service and insurance. Previ saves the average employee $2,200/year. ⁠Join at no cost to the company.⁠

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