In this conversation of Glen Merzer and Ken Beckman, an actuary with over 30 years of experience in health insurance, shares his journey towards adopting a whole food plant-based diet and how it has influenced his professional life. He discusses the challenges within the insurance industry regarding health claims and the lack of financial incentives for companies to promote healthier lifestyles. Beckman emphasizes the importance of community engagement and education in promoting plant-based nutrition, as well as the potential for significant health improvements through dietary changes. He advocates for a system that rewards healthcare professionals for helping patients achieve better health outcomes through nutrition.
Read Ken's paper here: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6311606/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ken Beckman and His Journey
01:29 The Actuarial Profession and Health Insurance Challenges
06:09 Personal Transformation Through Plant-Based Nutrition
10:18 Implementing Plant-Based Initiatives in Insurance
14:32 Insurance Companies and the Financial Incentives
18:05 The Role of Self-Insured Employers
20:06 Community Engagement and Veganism in Omaha
22:28 Transitioning to a Plant-Based Lifestyle
27:43 Advocacy and Education in the Actuarial Community
32:30 The Need for Accurate Health Data
34:37 The Impact of Plant-Based Diet on Health
40:37 Incentive Systems for Health Improvement
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Get my new book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ
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To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248
DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.