The Benefit Whisperer

The Benefit Whisperer


Why Collateral Sucks (and Other Truths About Captives) with Phil Holowka, COO of Complete Captive (Ep. 22)

August 18, 2025

Captives are often pitched as the silver bullet for rising healthcare costs, but as Ralph Weber and Phil Holowka reveal, the truth is a lot messier. In this no-fluff episode, Phil, COO of Complete Captive, breaks down the real story behind collateral, risk pooling, and why most brokers are doing their clients zero favors.

We dig into:

  • Why collateral in most group captives is a trap

  • How bad structuring leads to massive leakage

  • What a clean, transparent captive should look like

  • How employers can finally take control of claims and cash flow

This is a must-listen for CFOs, HR leaders, and advisors tired of opaque promises and bloated renewals.