Inside Employee Benefits is your go-to podcast for navigating the complex world of benefits, insurance, and workforce strategy.
Hosted by Cory Friedman and Sam Riley, each episode delivers practical insights on how smart benefits design can help organizations attract top talent, improve retention, and support employee well-being.
From healthcare trends and compliance updates to innovative plan design and cost-containment strategies, we break down what employers need to know—without the jargon. Whether you're an HR leader, business owner, or benefits decision-maker, this show is your inside track to creating a healthier, more resilient workplace.
Hosts
Cory Friedman
Podcast Co-Host
Cory brings a sharp, modern perspective to the world of employee benefits. With over 15 years of experience helping employers build smarter, more human-focused benefit strategies, Cory makes complex topics feel approachable and even—dare we say—fun. Cory is a Senior Partner at Alera Group and Managing Director of the Veterinary Division, where he leads health insurance and employee benefits strategy for hundreds of private organizations nationwide. Recognized as a top performer in the industry, Cory has earned honors including Insurance Business America’s Hot 100 (2024 and 2025), Insurance Business America’s Young Gun Award, and Employee Benefit Adviser’s Excellence in Benefits award.
Based in Chicago, he’s known for his quick wit, sharp style, and relentless curiosity about what’s next in the world of healthcare benefits. Off the mic, you’ll likely find him driving around in a vintage Land Rover, scoping out new restaurants, or deep in a conversation about the future of healthcare.
Samantha “Sam” Riley
Podcast Co-Host
Sam is a high-energy force in the benefits space, known for blending big-picture strategy with down-to-earth relatability. Her background spans corporate HR and consulting, giving her a unique lens on how benefits can drive culture, retention, and results. Now based in New York, Sam thrives on keeping things fresh—whether she’s interviewing industry leaders or decoding policy changes for listeners. Outside the podcast, she’s a spin-class regular, coffee snob, and a champion of women in the workplace.