62. You Don’t Need More Vendors — You Need Accountability

Tired of shiny pitches and vague promises? In this solo episode, we break down a practical, repeatable system for holding your benefits vendors accountable so your plan actually performs. From rock-solid RFPs to airtight contracts and respectful escalation, you’ll learn how to set clear expectations, track outcomes, and course-correct fast.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to design an RFP that prevents surprises later
• What to demand in contracts: performance guarantees, termination language, fees, BAAs, data sharing, and fiduciary status
• The must-ask questions about integrations, cybersecurity, conflicts of interest, and compensation
• A simple cadence for accountability meetings that gets results, not excuses
• Real examples of catching hidden fees and fixing slow vendor response times
• How to build team culture so your staff holds vendors accountable the right way

Who this is for:
Employers, HR leaders, CFOs, and anyone ready to transform a “set it and forget it” benefits program into a high-performing plan.If the truth is out there, are you ready to hear it?

Like, share, and subscribe for more no-BS guidance on benefits that serve your people and your P&L.

TimeStamps:

• 00:00 Intro and why accountability matters
• 02:10 Build a better RFP
• 07:35 Contract must-haves and red flags
• 13:25 Demo everything and verify claims
• 17:40 Meeting cadence and escalation that works
• 23:10 Real-world examples and fixes
• 28:30 Culture of accountability inside your team
• 32:10 Final takeaways and next steps

If this helped, like, subscribe, and share with a leader who needs to hear it. Tell us in the comments: What is the first change you will make to your benefits strategy?

Whether you're an HR professional, CFO, CEO, or just tired of rising healthcare costs, this is your call to rethink benefits strategy and finally take control.

Connect with Chelsea and Donovan:
Website: www.businessofbenefitspodcast.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethoseffectpodcast/
Chelsea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/
Donovan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovanryckis/