Welcome to Fundamental
The podcast series will engage with thought leaders, industry experts and combine the inspiring, personal stories of real people to provide unique perspectives on the issues that matter to NYSIF and its mission. Podcast episodes will explore worker safety, climate change, mental wellness, finance, technology and more.
Episode One: Welcome to Fundamental with Gaurav Vashist
Guest: Gaurav Vashist, Chief Executive Officer, NYSIF
NYSIF Fundamental podcast hosts, Sita Fey and Jamie Buck sit down with NYSIF CEO, Gaurav Vashist to give an overview of NYSIF – its impact, history and outlook going forward.
Episode Two: Sustainability in Healthcare
Guest: Dr. Muoi Trinh, Medical Director of Sustainability, Mount Sinai Health System
Discussion with Dr. Muoi Trinh, Medical Director of Sustainability at Mount Sinai Health System. Dr. Trinh discusses the health care sector’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and Mt. Sinai’s results-oriented efforts to reduce them.
Episode Three: DREAM: How Kim Hill Ridley is Transforming Job Access in New York
Guest: Kim Hill Ridley, Chief Disability Officer, NYS
As New York State’s first ever Chief Disability Officer, Kim Hill Ridley is leading the hiring of disabled workers while setting the standard for other US states. She spoke to us during Disability Rights Employment Awareness Month (DREAM) about a vision shared by NYSIF, which is to increase the recruitment, hiring and advancement of people with disabilities in our workforce.
Episode Four: Insurance Innovation, Impact and What's Next with Bryan Falchuk
Guest: Bryan Falchuk, Founder & Managing Partner, Insurance Evolution Partners
Bryan Falchuk joins NYSIF to discuss innovation in the insurance industry. Topics touch on the importance of culture, continuous learning, and leveraging technology such as generative AI.
Episode Five: Fairness, Fraud, and the Future of Insurance with Jessica Silver
Guest: Jessica Silver, NYSIF Director of the Division of Confidential Investigations (DCI)
This episode features Jessica Silver, NYSIF Director of the Division of Confidential Investigations (DCI). Jessica shares insights on combating insurance fraud, its impact on workers’ compensation, and how technology—including AI—is reshaping investigative practices.
Episode Six: NYSIF Delivers on Affordability to Support New York’s Workforce
Guest: Kristin Marwicka, Director of Disability Benefits and Paid Family Leave at NYSIF
Kristin discusses how NYSIF is delivering on the promise of insurance affordability for New York’s workforce. This includes a 28% reduction in Disability Benefit (DB) rates at the start of 2026, as well as unique pricing where employers pay the same premiums for employees regardless of gender.
Along with affordability for DB comes empathy and compassion, which Kristin highlights as guiding themes in her life as well as her role at NYSIF. It’s all about helping people in need, which Kristin says is the most rewarding work of all.
Podcast Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered legal, health, tax, or professional advice. Always consult a licensed professional for specific advice related to your situation. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not constitute professional advice. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or applicability of the content. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host organization or the management. The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the management. This podcast and all its content, including but not limited to audio recordings, show notes, artwork, and branding elements, are protected by copyright laws. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission from the copyright holder.