In this episode, we dive into a game-changing Ivy Exec article exposing the gap between flashy workplace perks and what employees truly value for retention and satisfaction—think flexibility, mental health support, and financial security over office ping-pong tables.

Core Shift in Benefits: Leaders waste budgets on trendy amenities while employees crave practical supports that ease daily stress, like usable PTO and hybrid work options.

Top Used Benefits: Comprehensive health coverage, retirement matching, and simple-access mental health resources top the list, with high adoption when they're straightforward and stigma-free.

Flexibility Wins: Predictable time off and work autonomy beat "unlimited PTO" policies that no one dares to use, directly impacting job choices.

Key Takeaways

Audit usage data to cut underutilized perks and fund high-impact areas like therapy stipends, debt assistance, and career coaching.

Normalize mental health days and financial wellness programs to build loyalty amid burnout trends.

Co-design benefits with employee input for relevance, plus clear communication to boost satisfaction.

Subscribe to The Breakfast Leadership Show for more on burnout-proof cultures. Share your top benefit in the comments—how does your workplace stack up?

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Source:

What Workplace Benefits Do Employees Actually Care ... https://ivyexec.com/career-advice/2025/what-workplace-benefits-do-employees-actually-care-about-and-use

Dr. Julie Wilson, a family physician in British Columbia, joined Michael to discuss her work in transforming healthcare workplaces. Her organization now manages 20 clinics and supports more than 100 healthcare providers across the province. Julie shared her motivation to expand access and improve the quality of care, especially as BC faces the dual challenge of an aging population and rapidly growing immigrant communities. She emphasized the essential role of primary care in offering trusted guidance and stability for patients. Michael noted that stronger healthcare systems support healthier communities, which ultimately strengthens economic productivity and quality of life.

Michael and Julie explored the global shortage of healthcare workers, particularly physicians, which is placing immense strain on clinics and care systems. They discussed how rising patient volumes without matching compensation or support lead to burnout, turnover, and reduced quality of care. Julie highlighted the importance of creating supportive environments where healthcare professionals can practice in ways that align with their strengths and patient needs, rather than being restricted by rigid schedules or outdated expectations.

Michael spoke about the importance of meaningful clinician–patient relationships, especially for individuals living with chronic conditions or complex medical histories. He reflected on the growing administrative burden clinicians face due to charting demands and documentation requirements, which often distract from patient care and contribute to burnout. Michael expressed optimism that AI integration into electronic health records could reduce these tasks and give clinicians more time with patients.

Julie and Michael discussed how AI can transform healthcare documentation. They noted that AI tools can improve the completeness and accuracy of patient records, reduce the hours clinicians spend on charting, and support better follow up and communication. Michael highlighted the potential for AI to uncover meaningful patterns in patient data that can ultimately improve outcomes. Both agreed that reducing administrative friction will allow healthcare professionals to focus more fully on the practice of medicine.

Julie shared her philosophy for running medical clinics, grounded in autonomy, trust, and respect. She emphasized the value of listening to staff, providing emotional and operational support, and fostering a positive work culture. Michael added a personal example of creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in one of his clinics, which aligned with Julie’s approach. Together, they underscored that when employees feel heard and supported, they deliver better care and maintain higher levels of engagement.

Website: https://terranovamedical.ca

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wilson-4a25b4214/