Faculty Publications

Episode 37: Decoding Benefit Packages

Document Type

Podcast

Keywords

benefits, benefit packages, compensation

Journal/Book/Conference Title

The Next Step Podcast: Adulting 101

Issue

37

Abstract

On this episode, Nikki interviews Wartburg College alumni and Senior Area Vice President at Gallagher, Aaron Loan. First, Aaron details his career journey from political science/PR major, to a Washington DC Senate internship, radio sales, to financial services as an advisor where he moved from Cedar Rapids to Milwaukee and finally Philadelphia. He returned to Iowa before the historic 2008 floods and ended up helping to rebuild the family sod farm. Later, he joined Acumen before the team joined Gallagher, where he now advises employers on benefits. Nikki and Aaron discuss why benefits vary by industry, workforce health, claims experience, and competition, and why total compensation matters beyond salary. Aaron describes the client process involving data review, employee feedback, network analysis, and multiple meetings leading to renewal and open enrollment. Aaron highlights key choices for new grads: networks, co-pay vs high-deductible plans with HSAs, employer education tools, and annual ability to change selections.

Department

Department of Communication and Media

Original Publication Date

9-3-2026

Link to Full Text

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