America's Benefit Specialist December 2023

A CONVERSATION WITH JESSICA BROOKS-WOODS

Jessica Brooks-Woods : Visiting our chapters and engaging with our members has been an incredibly energizing expe rience. The standout observation from these interactions is the palpable energy and enthusiasm amongst our members. They are deeply engaged, connected and committed to supporting not just their local chapters but also our national efforts. This sense of camaraderie and a collective desire to succeed in the marketplace is truly inspiring and something I’m honored to be a part of. There’s a clear recognition and excitement about the need for change. Our members understand that change is not just inevitable but necessary for growth and adaptation in our dy namic industry. This collective eagerness for transformation fuels my drive and enthusiasm as we look to the future. A recurring theme in my conversations has been the importance of demonstrating the value NABIP brings to its members. It’s evident that we need to enhance how we communicate and showcase this value, ensuring that every member fully understands and utilizes the benefits and support we offer. On the regulatory and legislative front, there’s a growing concern, particularly around the Medicare sector and the essential role our members play in assisting our aging popu lation. With the demographic shift of Baby Boomers turning 65, there’s a critical need for our expertise in navigating the complexities of Medicare and healthcare choices. Our mem bers are essential in protecting seniors from the increasing risks posed by bad actors in the marketplace. We need to work closely with lawmakers to help them understand the indispensable role our members play and mitigate any unin tended consequences of new policies. Inclusivity is another key area of focus. Some of our chapters are pioneering efforts in this domain, like working closely with the Department of Insurance, introducing new demograph ics to the industry, or translating materials into Spanish to better serve diverse communities. These initiatives exemplify our commitment to broadening our reach and ensuring that NABIP is inclusive and reflective of the communities we serve. The overarching sentiment is that our members truly value their roles, their peers and the impact they make. There’s a strong sense that by working collaboratively, we can amplify our impact and continue to be trailblazers in the healthcare space. This collective belief and commitment to our mission is incredibly energizing and sets the tone for the exciting path ahead for NABIP.

We’ve been hearing buzz about some of the innovative ideas you have for NABIP’s Capitol Conference and Annual Convention. Could you share a sneak peek of what’s in store? Jessica Brooks-Woods : Absolutely! For me, it’s all about crafting unforgettable experiences. We’ve always been recog nized for our robust content, but now we’re aiming to elevate that to a whole new level. Both the Capitol Conference and the Annual Convention will be reimagined as a showcase of what healthcare is and, more importantly, what it can be. We want our members to leave these events not just informed but inspired, with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement about the future of healthcare. Expect to see this transformative energy in every aspect, from the app engage ment and exhibit hall interactions to our speaker lineup and content. Our goal is for each event to be an elevated encoun ter, starting with the Capitol Conference. We’re setting a new standard for excellence and inspiration in every NABIP event. That sounds exciting! Outside of your busy work schedule, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? Jessica Brooks-Woods: My time away from work is largely family-focused. With a family of six, there’s always something going on, from soccer games to gymnastics meets. Being involved in my children’s activities is a big part of my life. Professionally, I’ve recently ventured into authorship with book collaboration Race Forward: The Health Equity Guide for Employers , released in the summer of 2023. It’s a topic I hold close to my heart, dovetailing with my advocacy work, especially as a board member of the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance. Having personally experienced post partum depression, I’m committed to amplifying voices in healthcare and ensuring that families feel supported and understood, both by employers and policymakers. And for fun, I keep active. I’ve been really getting into pick leball lately. It’s a fantastic way to unwind and stay fit! Jessica, thank you for taking the time to share your insights and vision with us today. We’re all looking forward to the exciting developments under your leadership. Jessica Brooks-Woods : It’s been my pleasure. The journey ahead for NABIP is one filled with promise, innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I’m thrilled to be part of this journey and can’t wait to see the impact we will collectively make on healthcare and the lives we touch. Thank you.

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