Summary

In this conversation, Ryan and Mike interview Marshall Darr, co-founder and CEO of Stretch Dollar, about the challenges small businesses face in providing affordable health benefits. They discuss the complexities of the healthcare system, the innovative solutions offered by Stretch Dollar, and the importance of making health insurance more accessible and understandable for employees. Marshall shares his journey in the startup world, the process of raising funds, and the future aspirations for Stretch Dollar as they aim to improve the lives of small business employees.

Takeaways

• Health insurance is complicated and expensive.
• Small businesses struggle to provide affordable health benefits.
• Stretch Dollar offers a fintech alternative to traditional health plans.
• The healthcare system in the US is a leading cause of bankruptcy.
• Navigating health insurance requires support and guidance.
• Raising funds for a startup involves facing many rejections.
• The goal is to make small businesses the best place to work.
• Innovative solutions are needed to address healthcare challenges.
• Employees should have the freedom to choose their health plans.
• The future of healthcare may involve more modular and flexible options.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:15 Overview of Stretch Dollar

04:16 Challenges of the US Healthcare System

06:43 Personal Frustrations with Healthcare

09:14 The Cost and Coverage of Stretch Dollar

14:59 The Limitations of Employer-Based Coverage

19:36 The Incentives of Health Insurance Companies

22:25 The History of Health Insurance in the US

25:23 The Future of Healthcare in the US

30:06 Building Stretch Dollar

32:21 The Mission of Stretch Dollar

36:55 Raising Money and the Decision to Seek Funding

40:54 How Stretched Off Works

43:34 Future Ambitions of Stretched Off

50:15 The Evolution of Medical Care and Insurance

56:29 The Importance of Offering Health Benefits for Small Businesses

01:02:16 Conclusion and Contact Information

Credits:

Hosted by Michael Smith and Ryan Roghaar

Produced by Ryan Roghaar

Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

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