Wild West Healthcare Symposium Sparks Strategy, Innovation, and Connection in Billings

This annual event serves as a strategic summit for HR leaders, benefits professionals, and industry experts committed to shaping the future of employee well-being. Over three days of insightful sessions, networking, and collaboration, participants explored emerging trends, shared innovative ideas, and strengthened connections across the Captive community. 

Day One: Opening Perspectives & Networking at the Yellowstone Art Museum 

The symposium opened with Simone Wilkinson, Executive Director of Employee Benefits, whose presentation “From Crisis to Continuum” examined the lasting impact of COVID-19 on healthcare costs, utilization trends, and employer-sponsored plans. Simone highlighted the evolving role of HR and benefits leaders in developing resilient, data-driven, and people-centered health strategies, setting a thoughtful and forward-looking tone for the days ahead. 

That evening, attendees gathered at the Yellowstone Art Museum for a welcoming reception featuring cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and vibrant conversation. The setting provided an inspiring backdrop for connection and reflection, surrounded by local art and the spirit of collaboration. 

Day Two: Emerging Risks and Whole-Person Health 

The second day featured an intensive lineup of sessions focused on emerging health risks and holistic well-being. 

• Dr. Michael Fenster introduced the future of AI in culinary medicine, exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping nutrition and human biology. 

• Dr. Iyaad Hasan addressed the health and financial risks of workplace vaping, offering evidence-based strategies and policy interventions for employers. 

Both speakers reconvened for a lively panel Q&A lunch discussion, where participants engaged in meaningful dialogue around technology, behavior, and the evolving responsibility employers hold in supporting whole-person health. 

Day Three: Strategic Vision and Industry Leadership 

The final day of the symposium featured a powerful keynote from Mike Ferguson, President & CEO of SIIA, whose session on self-insurance industry trends was a cornerstone of the event. He explored policy developments, transparency mandates, and the growing role of self-funding and AI in benefits administration—offering critical insights for employers navigating regulatory shifts and operational complexity. 

Additional highlighted speakers included: 

• Michael S. Leavitt – Chief Sales Officer, Leavitt Group: Served as event MC, sharing Leavitt Group’s foundational principles, workforce strategy, and forward-looking talent considerations. 

• Erin Weenum – Vice President of Employee Benefits Strategy, Leavitt Great West: Showcased the Tribute Captive’s history and scalable model, offering strategic approaches to benefits design. 

• Eslyn Byarm – Berkley Accident & Health: Discussed cancer as a workforce risk, screening trade-offs, and the equity challenges in early detection. 

• Allied Investment Advisors – Sarah Siderius, Kellie Hirsch, Tyler Crennen, and Ty Elkin: Guided attendees through Secure 2.0, common retirement pitfalls, and creating a personalized retirement vision. 

• Jody Ferestad, RN, & Melissa Pfeffer – Stillwater Hospice: Offered a compassionate overview of hospice philosophy, bereavement support, and emotional care at the end of life. 

• Dr. Megan Hunsaker – Momentum Psychological Health: Detailed the diagnosis and treatment of insomnia using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). 

• Gus Schaff – Healthy Is Wellness: Emphasized muscle health as a foundation for longevity and productivity, sharing practical coaching strategies. 

• Jarrod Weenum – TPA Operations Leader: Shared methods to enhance TPA performance through accountability, transparency, and plan oversight. 

Sponsors Who Made It Possible — and Memorable 

This event was powered by generous sponsors who believe in the value of education, innovation, and community in employee benefits. 

Titanium Sponsor 

• Berkley Accident & Health 

Platinum Sponsors 

• Boon Chapman 

• SmithRx 

Gold Sponsors 

• HealthJoy 

• Healthy Is Wellness 

• Mutual of Omaha 

• UnitedHealthcare 

Silver Sponsors 

• Allied Investment Advisors 

• Cancer Expert Now 

• FEDlogic 

• Inspira 

• MASA 

• Springbuk 

• Take Control 

Educational Sponsor 

• PacificSource 

Their support helped create an environment where ideas could flourish, partnerships could grow, and the employee benefits community could thrive. 

Why It Matters 

As healthcare and employee benefits continue to evolve at a rapid pace, staying informed and connected is essential. The Wild West Healthcare Symposium reflects Leavitt Great West’s commitment to empowering employers both in and outside of a Captive model through education, collaboration, and strategic foresight. 

By bringing together the brightest minds and strongest partnerships in the industry, LGW ensures that employers committed to health benefit excellence remain equipped, informed, and inspired to meet the challenges of tomorrow.