Our Team

Hi, my name is Joe Donovan and I am the Chief Executive Officer at The Difference Card.  

I ended up in the Insurance Industry because, like many people graduating college, I needed a job. Back then, UnitedHealthcare had a training program called “group school” and I was lucky enough to get accepted. Little did I know that once you start in the insurance business it’s very hard to ever leave.  

I was drawn to The Difference Card because of the innovative nature of the company. Since its inception, The Difference Card has been an industry leader in designing creative funding strategies to achieve savings for employers and their employees.  

My favorite part of the job is the people I get to work with. Both my Difference Card Teammates and what I view as the most forward-thinking Brokers within the brokerage community.   

My proudest accomplishment is playing a role in creating our Difference Guarantee Savings Solution. Since we first rolled this product out in 2018, it has helped organizations across the country save hundreds of millions of dollars.  I am motivated by competition – I love to win and I believe strongly that building a winning culture is important.   

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker I was born in Philadelphia, PA, but grew up in Westchester County, NY.  I attended Syracuse University and currently reside in Armonk, NY with my family. 

Rosa Garcia Rinder is the Chief Operating Officer and joined The Difference Card in 2020.

Rosa joined The Difference Card because they are an organization that is innovative, diverse and helps employers save money on insurance while retaining high level of benefits for their employees. Rosa’s main objectives at The Difference Card are to deliver an amazing experience for our client partners, grow so that our teams can share in that, and be a great place to work.

Rosa started her career in this industry at Choice Strategies in 2005. Rosa joined the Choice team as a member service representative and employee number 20; and within a few years rose to Director of Operations. As Director of Operations, Rosa was responsible for a team of over 100 employees and functions including, Member Services, Claims, Client Services and Implementation and Enrollment functions.

In 2012, Choice was acquired by WageWorks and Rosa stayed on for another two years, working to bring the Choice team into the WageWorks Family. In 2015, Rosa joined Alegeus where she held roles including Director Solution Architecture and Director of Strategic Accounts. At Alegeus, Rosa worked with dozens of administrators and some of the largest carriers in the United States, helping bring to market their CDH solution.

Rosa is originally from Queens, and grew up between there (Go Sunnyside!) and Madrid, Spain. Rosa went to college in Vermont, graduating from the University of Vermont. She loved it so much, she stayed in the Green Mountain State for 20 years- hiking, skiing, swimming! Currently, Rosa resides in Arlington, Massachusetts where she is raising a wild and fierce daughter, Ava Luna (yes, adaptation of Eva Luna from the book!). Rosa loves to learn, loves to run, loves to travel, loves her nieces and nephews and spending as much time with family and friends.

Hi, my name is Chris Calderone and I am the Chief Revenue Officer at the Difference Card. I got my start in the insurance business a little differently than most people. The head of maintenance at the school I worked in was family friends with an Aetna Sales Director. That Aetna contact was married to my 3rd grade teacher, and we had gone to the same University, so we had a few connections. I enrolled in the Aetna Group School to learn the insurance business. I was drawn to The Difference Card because after working for Aetna and Anthem BCBS, I saw first-hand the excess margin on the insurance carrier side.

The Difference Card was disrupting the middle market by giving back premium to the employer and providing great benefits for employees. My favorite part about working for The Difference Card is the commitment to the entrepreneurial spirit. Our team is constantly improving processes to make the customer experience outstanding. My proudest accomplishment is helping one of our large non-profit customers to save $5 million off their health insurance policy in their first year with The Difference Card. I am motivated by our customers. I love to learn about our customer’s business and help them to solve complex insurance problems.

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I was born in New York, NY and I currently reside in Mamoroneck, NY with my wife Erica, two children, Stella and Cooper, and our wire-haired Dachshund, Rigatoni. I attended the University of Notre Dame and was the captain of the club boxing team. Every year we would host an annual charity boxing tournament called the Bengal Bouts with all proceeds funding a mission in Bangladesh. My first job was a cleaner in the New York City public schools. I can still give any floor a great shine! Growing up, my favorite movie was The Mighty Ducks and I played on a travel street hockey team.

Hi, I’m Jun Choi, Chief Financial Officer at The Difference Card. I joined the team in 2023 and was immediately drawn to the company’s innovative approach to helping employers manage healthcare costs without sacrificing employee benefits. Throughout my career, I’ve enjoyed working at the intersection of finance, strategy, and growth, helping organizations navigate change and create opportunities for long-term success. At The Difference Card, I’m fortunate to collaborate with an incredible group of people who are committed to delivering meaningful value to our clients and members every day. I take pride in supporting a mission that not only drives business results but also helps make healthcare more affordable and accessible for the people who rely on it.

Hello, I’m Richard Perrin, the Chief Technology Officer at The Difference Card.

After 15 years in Software Engineering and Product leadership in retail and supply chain, I found my way into the Insurance industry.  Like most people, I didn’t start my career saying this is the path. But more interesting than how I got into the industry, is why do I stay in it for the past 7 years? The answer, I feel genuinely good about helping people be able to see the doctor when they need it and saving companies and employees money in the process.

I was drawn to The Difference Card because of the unique challenges presented in the business.  Health insurance is complex; any way you slice it.  And I’ve always enjoyed taking the complex, breaking it down and simplifying it, all in the pursuit of helping employees and companies have better more affordable access to healthcare.  Also, once I met the team, I was sold that this is a group that I want to work with.

My favorite part of the job is building the team and collaboratively designing and implementing efficient technology solutions towards solving problems and reducing friction in the insurance industry. Getting on a whiteboard with the team, defining a challenge and then designing the solution and then driving that to completion still gets me going each day!

My proudest accomplishment is growing our Engineering and Product team 4X in my first 6 months on the job. It’s been a joy to watch everyone learn and growing together and we’re all super excited to start cranking out some work.

I’m originally from a small farming town in Michigan, and attended Indiana University (Hoo Hoo Hoosiers!) and graduate school at Syracuse University .  I currently reside in Zionsville, IN with my family.

Hi, my name is Heather Crovo and I am the Vice President of Human Resources at The Difference Card.

I enjoy working in HR because I believe people strategy is business strategy. Over the past 15+ years, I’ve partnered with leaders to build high-performing teams, strengthen culture, and support business growth across several industries, including financial services, consulting, and global tradeshow and events. The most rewarding part of my career has been helping organizations scale by aligning talent, culture, and business strategy.

I was drawn to The Difference Card because of its entrepreneurial culture, strong leadership team, and the opportunity to build a modern, scalable people function during an exciting stage of growth.

My favorite part of my role is partnering with leaders across the business to attract great talent, develop future leaders, and create an exceptional employee experience. I enjoy helping build the teams and culture that drive our success.

One accomplishment I’m particularly proud of is helping build the HR foundation to support The Difference Card’s next phase of growth. In my first few months, I launched a company-wide engagement survey, modernized key HR processes, strengthened compliance, and helped position the organization to scale. Looking forward to much more!

I was born and raised in Westchester, New York, and earned my degree in Business Administration from the University of Connecticut, where I served as Captain of the UConn Cheerleading Team – Go Huskies! Today, I live in Florida with my husband and our two young boys.

Hi, my name is Olivia Allison and I’m an Operations Manager at The Difference Card. Some of the things I love most about working here is the supportive people-first culture, and the chance to lead and contribute to meaningful operational improvements. I’m most proud of the opportunity to mentor teammates and support their growth into new roles. Watching someone I’ve coached thrive and take on more responsibility is incrediblly fulfilling.

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I’m originally from New York City and now live in Delaware. Prior to The Difference Card, I worked in a variety of healthcare and customer-focused roles, where I developed a deep appreciation for service excellence and building strong relationships, which gave me a strong foundation in process improvement and team development. Outside of work, I’m a proud dog mom to a mini Goldendoodle named Ginger! Some things I am passionate about is mental wellness, leadership growth, and empowering others.

Hi, my name is Adrien Darbouze and I have truly enjoyed my career in Employee Benefits. Meeting with employers across the Southland and sharing that they will be able to save 18% off their medical spend gives me a lot of satisfaction. Helping employers save all the while attracting and retaining employees in their industry is a daily motivator for me.  As part of an organization of innovative thinkers and problem solvers, it is rewarding to be the change employers are seeking.

As Market Director – West, I work with a team of sales representatives whose sole focus is to make an impact on employers. We collaborate with brokers & consultants to help build solutions to address the challenges of increasing healthcare costs.

I love to travel and often hear stories of how disappointed people are with their medical providers. I know there is many many challenges in the healthcare arena but working with The Difference Card, makes me feel like there will always be an approach in heatlhcare that no one else has thought of to help employers save costs and still deliver access to one of the best healthcare systems around.

Hi, my name is Ashley Dube, and I am the Senior Director of East Markets at The Difference Card. I ended up working in the insurance business because I completed an internship with Northwestern Mutual when I was in college. Initially, I was focused on personal financial planning, but then received an opportunity to work in the Employee Benefits Department. The rest is history.

I was drawn to The Difference Card because I love being able to offer a unique health insurance funding product to companies who are struggling to contain costs or looking to improve benefits. My favorite part about working for The Difference Card is working with a diverse and very talented team. My proudest accomplishment is how the New England Market has grown over the past seven years. I am motivated by competition. I am an extremely competitive person. I always strive to finish first in any aspect of my life.

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I was born in Providence, RI and I currently reside in Cumberland, RI with my husband, Steve, and our two children- Brady, who is 6 and loves sports and Brooklyn, who is 4 and loves unicorns and princesses. I graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a major in Business Management & Marketing. I loved living off campus (“down the line”) in a beautiful beach house with an ocean view. This is when I fell in love with the cute beach town of Narragansett, RI. Growing up my first job was as a Food Runner at a local restaurant when I was 15.

Hi my name is Jourdan Englert  and I’m  Manager of Client Success for the West Markets. My favorite parts of the job are getting the chance to coach my team and help them become the best professionals that they can be, while connecting with our clients and working through creative strategies to help keep client costs down while maintaining incredibly rich benefits. My proudest accomplishment at The Difference Card is building the team that I currently get to lead every day. The drive, attention to detail, and passion for our clients and their success is contagious amongst my account executives, making coming to work a very easy thing to do.

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I was born, raised, and still reside in Pittsburgh, PA with my wife Loren and our three children, Jameson, Macallan, and Emerson, along with our two dogs, Stella and Sadie. I began my professional journey as an educator, teaching 8th grade American History and earning my M.Ed in Education Leadership. After five years in the classroom, I felt the need to take my experience and transition into a career where I could take more control of my professional path. This led me to UPMC Health Plan as a Sales Support Specialist, where I learned the ins and outs of the health insurance industry, learning a lot from my Sales Executives along the way.

After a quick 18-month stint with UPMC, I was recruited by a representative from White Plains, NY to discuss an opportunity with The Difference Card as a Renewal Consultant. After meeting with Rachel Wilburn and Josh Pyzik, I was very interested in the role. When I shared this opportunity with my wife Loren, it came up in conversation between her and my father-in-law about me looking into a new job with “the difference something.” He quickly asked, “The Difference Card?” and continued, “Our company has The Difference Card and we love it!” Needless to say, he has made some good decisions in his life, (allowing me to be his son-in-law, of course), and I decided to jump onboard as well!

I’m Andrea Giaco and for the past few years I have been the Director of Implementations at The Difference Card. I started at The Difference Card working in Account Management back in March of 2011. I feel incredibly fortunate to work for an organization that prides itself on delivering cost savings to employers and at the same time great out of pocket benefits to employees. From an employer standpoint being part of a growing organization who not only values our products and services but also our own employees have been a true highlight and aligns with my intentions as leader.

Without a doubt I can express the admiration for my colleagues and enjoyment of being able to work along side them.

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

Born in Manhattan, NY, raised in Carmel NY – also where I currently reside with my 2 young daughters, 2 cats and 2 dogs. Attended Johnson & Wales University in Providence Rhode Island, where my love for New England especially RI started. I’ve dappled in workers compensation, personal lines of insurance and ultimately found my calling and passion in the employee benefits world with The Difference Card.

Hi, my name is Maria Gamb, and I’m the Sales Enablement Manager at the Difference Card. I was drawn here because this company isn’t just talking about making healthcare more affordable – it’s actually doing it. That mission speaks to both my head and my heart.

What sealed the deal? The people. From day one, I’ve been surrounded by collaborative, sharp, and genuinely passionate teammates who bring both humor and hustle to the table.

One of my proudest accomplishments so far has been reimagining our onboarding experience and launching the first Difference Card Sales Bootcamp—an immersive, practical learning journey now built into every new sales hire’s experience. I’m motivated by the opportunity to remove friction, streamline tools, and create systems that help our team win faster and more confidently.

Before I Was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I’m a native New Yorker, now living in the mid-Atlantic with my husband, a cancer survivor whose journey deeply shaped my path into healthcare. That experience showed me how life-changing access to great care can be—and why the work we do here matters.

Before joining the Difference Card, I ran my own learning and development company, partnering with clients across industries—especially insurance. I’ve always loved building systems that make people’s lives easier and careers stronger.

I’ve completed a Certificate in Learning Design from NYU’s School of Professional Studies, further deepening my focus on practical, high-impact learning experiences. Whether I’m designing a training, coaching a new hire, or mapping out a smarter process, I lead with heart, clarity, and a deep respect for the people doing the work.

Adam Gehris is an accomplished Client Success and Account Management leader based in Tampa, Florida, with over a decade of experience in the CDH and COBRA industry. Throughout his career, Adam has built a strong reputation for leading high-performing account management teams and delivering exceptional service to employers and broker partners.

Adam is passionate about building and maintaining trusted relationships, believing that long-term success is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and proactive communication. His leadership style emphasizes team development, operational excellence, and a client-first mindset, ensuring both internal teams and external partners achieve their goals.

With deep industry expertise and a relationship-driven approach, Adam consistently helps navigate complex benefits administration challenges while fostering strong, lasting partnerships with clients and brokers.

Hi, I’m Matt Hegarty, and I’m excited to join The Difference Card as the new Vice President of Underwriting. As healthcare costs continue to rise, employers are looking for smarter, more creative ways to protect their employees without blowing up their budgets. I was drawn to The Difference Card not only for its innovative approach to solving this challenge, but also for the exciting momentum across the organization—new ideas, expanded capabilities, and a continued focus on using technology to better serve small- to mid-sized employers. It’s an energizing time to be here, and I’m thrilled to be part of what’s ahead.

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I grew up in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania and now live in Blue Bell, just outside of Philadelphia, with my wife, our three energetic children (ages 6, 5, and 2!), and two huskies—so life is always busy and never boring. I earned my degree in Actuarial Science and Statistics from West Chester University of Pennsylvania and have spent my career across a wide range of roles in the healthcare industry. My experience includes international underwriting for the Blues, serving as a Behavioral Health Actuary at Aetna, and most recently helping drive the growth and success of the stop-loss startup Granular.

Hi, my name is Renee Hoppes, and I am the Operations Manager for the Member Services Contact Center at The Difference Card. I joined The Difference Card because I’m passionate about helping our members receive the best in healthcare, and I wanted to be part of a team that’s actively working to address the challenge of rising healthcare costs.

My favorite part about working here is the people. You won’t find a more dedicated, hardworking, and caring group of individuals who come together every day to solve problems. This team is deeply committed to creating a world-class experience for our members.

One of my proudest accomplishments is helping to create future leaders. Supporting their growth and watching them reach their full potential is incredibly rewarding. I’m constantly inspired by this team and the innovative solutions we’re building to make healthcare more affordable.
I was born and raised in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. A small town where my grandmother owned the first grocery store. Today, I live in Louisville, KY, with my husband. We have 6 children and 8 wonderful grandchildren, all of whom my husband and I, lovingly known as Mammie and Pop Pop, spoil rotten.

We also have 3 fur babies: Jaxson (a Pitt), Salem (a Shepherd), and Tiger (our cat). Family means everything to me, and their support is what allows me to do what I love every day. I grew up with one brother and one sister. I’m the baby of the family, but today, they jokingly call me the “family matriarch”.

Oh, and one more thing: I’m a true Kentuckian – Go Wildcats!

Hi, my name is Joshua Horn, and I’m the Director of Data & Integration at The Difference Card. I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Business Information Systems and, like many people, never expected to end up in the insurance industry. I was looking for a role that would be both fulfilling and challenging, while still allowing me to apply my technical background – which ultimately led me to The Difference Card.

Over my five years with the company, I’ve advanced from Data Analyst II to my current role by applying a forward‑thinking mindset and a willingness to push boundaries. The Difference Card is filled with people who challenge the status quo while keeping our clients at the center of everything we build and improve. My proudest accomplishment has been building the team I work with today. The people here are what make The Difference Card successful and a truly great place to work and none of what we do would be possible without them. Outside of work, I enjoy anything that gets me outdoors and into nature.

I am Tom Koebel, Southeast Market Director at The Difference Card. I joined The Difference Card because it offers a unique opportunity to help employers address one of their biggest challenges – managing rising healthcare costs while continuing to provide valuable benefits to their employees. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about building strong client relationships, developing innovative solutions, and leading teams that deliver meaningful results.

With extensive experience in healthcare, insurance, and business services, I have built my career around driving growth, developing strategic partnerships, and creating value for clients. I have had the privilege of building and leading top-performing sales teams across multiple regions and have earned President’s Club recognition several times throughout my career. I am proud to be part of an organization that is helping employers rethink healthcare benefits and achieve better financial outcomes for their businesses and employees.

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I was born and raised on Long Island, New York, and graduated from New York Institute of Technology. Throughout my career, I have held leadership roles with EyeMed, Versant Health, Cigna, and Aetna, where I focused on driving growth, building strategic partnerships, and leading high-performing teams across the healthcare and benefits industry.

These experiences gave me a deep understanding of the marketplace and ultimately led me to The Difference Card, where I help employers find innovative ways to manage healthcare costs while improving the employee experience.

I am happily married to my wife, Carolina, and together we have three wonderful children, ages 30, 29, and 24. One of our greatest recent joys has been welcoming our first grandchild, Henry James, into our family.

Outside of work, I am an avid sports fan and enjoy getting out on the golf course whenever my schedule allows. Carolina and I also love traveling internationally and making memories together as Disney World annual passholders.

Hello, my name is Kenneth Pekarek and I am the Director of Client Success at the Difference Card.  I am passionate about building strong teams, enhancing client experience, and delivering sustainable business results. After nearly two decades at Flores & Associates, where I was leading cross-functional teams, scaling operations, and driving growth in benefits administration and payment solutions – I saw enough clients and brokers ask about a M.E.R.P. solution that I knew I had to learn more about how The Difference Card did it, and was happy to join the team in 2025. I joined The Difference Card because of the remarkable alignment between providing better outcomes for members and opportunity for the team! I love the work I do – helping people understand their benefits, make informed intelligent decisions, and ultimately saving everyone money (except large insurers and the government, but everyone seems OK with that).

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I was born in Chicago, IL and I currently reside in Charlotte, NC with my wife and two boys who love to spend time at the beach.  I am a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and before that became an Eagle Scout.  I remain an active volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America and still love the outdoors!

Hi, I’m Josh Pyzik, Vice President of Sales at The Difference Card. Since joining the company in 2012, I’ve been passionate about helping employers rethink healthcare benefits and implement strategies that reduce costs while preserving the quality coverage their employees depend on. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with brokers, employers, and internal teams across the country, building strong partnerships and helping organizations achieve meaningful savings through innovative benefit solutions.

As Vice President of Sales, I enjoy collaborating with clients and colleagues to develop customized approaches that address each organization’s unique goals and challenges. One of the things I value most about The Difference Card is our commitment to innovation, exceptional service, and putting people first. Seeing the positive impact our solutions have on businesses and their employees—while helping make healthcare more affordable and accessible—is what continues to motivate me every day.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, exploring U.S. National Parks, and spending time with my dog, Ivy. Whether I’m discovering a new destination or enjoying the outdoors, I’m always looking for opportunities to learn, connect, and make the most of every adventure.

I am Shaun Reilly, Corporate Controller at The Difference Card. I joined the organization for two key reason: the mission of providing clients and their employees significant savings on the ever increasing costs of healthcare; and the passion and culture maintained by leaders to see everyone grow and succeed.  With 20+ years of combined experience working in various audit, accounting and finance related capacities, largely in the real estate industry, the opportunity at The Difference Card presented an opportunity to challenge myself in a new industry and apply skillsets to the advancement of the accounting and finance functions with a fast growing company.

Before joining The Difference Card, I began my career within the audit and assurance group at Deloitte & Touché LLP after graduating from Temple University’s Fox School of Business.  From there, I held a Senior Accountant role at Morgan Properties where I was heavily involved in the company’s IPO reporting efforts.  Next, I held the position of AVP & Portfolio Controller at AR Global for their only globally invested commercial REIT (Global Net Lease Inc), overseeing all aspects of the accounting and reporting functions, including various acquisitions, financings, listing on the NYSE, and implementation of SOX compliance.  Lastly, I became the Corporate Controller for Workspace Property Trust during their attempted IPO and was heavily involved in all aspects of transactional accounting and reporting for acquisitions, refinancing, and PE exits.

Outside of work, I am the proud husband of wife, who owns her own wedding planning business, and proud father of three children, two boys and one girl.  I am a huge sports fan, particularly for my Philadelphia teams and US soccer.  I love working on cars, my favorite pets are dogs, and I try spending time outside and at the beach as much as I can.

Hi, my name is Terry L. Robinson, and I am the Senior Manager of Client Success for the East Region at The Difference Card.

I came to the insurance industry through an unexpected path. Early in my career I was a STEM teacher with the New York City Department of Education. When program funding was eliminated, an opportunity at The Difference Card was shared with me and I decided to take a chance on something new. That decision introduced me to an industry where innovative thinking can meaningfully change how employers and employees experience healthcare benefits.

I was drawn to The Difference Card because the organization challenges the traditional way health benefits are delivered. The ability to disrupt the status quo while helping employers manage rising healthcare costs and still provide strong benefits for their employees is incredibly motivating work.

My favorite part about working at The Difference Card is the people I get to collaborate with and the opportunity to build high-performing teams. I enjoy guiding strategic decisions with brokers and clients, leading change management initiatives, and helping develop future people-leaders within our organization.

One of the accomplishments I am most proud of personally was celebrating ten years of marriage with my wife Andrea in 2025. Her partnership and support have been foundational to everything I do professionally and personally.

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I was born on an Air Force base in Hampton, Virginia and currently live in Dallas, Texas with my wife and our three children. I attended the City College of New York. One of the most difficult but formative roles early in my benefits career was working in a call center as a Member Services representative. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for the importance of service, empathy, and solving problems for people in moments when they truly need support.

I am Sean Sharkey, a Director of Underwriting at the Difference Card. I joined The Difference Card because it is a unique opportunity as an underwriting leader to help our clients achieve significant savings on their ever-rising healthcare costs. Previously a carrier underwriter, I have a unique perspective on the significant premium rate increases organizations must manage on an annual basis. Underwriting our unique MERP product allows my team to be part of the solution instead of part of the problem. I’m proud to be a leader of such a dedicated and hardworking team that believes strongly in the value proposition provided by The Difference Card!

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I was born in Dayton, Ohio and after graduating from Miami University, I began my career in underwriting at Anthem at their Ohio headquarters. There I renewed 51+ enrolled large groups and learned important underwriting practices I still carry through my career today. I moved to Indianapolis to work on maintaining a small book of business with a regional TPA and then eventually moved to IU Health Plans where I would essentially work for a start-up health insurance plan for the next decade.

I’m a proud Uncle to 2 nieces and 4 nephews. I love live music and comedy, great film and TV, video games, and sports of all sorts. I’m always actively learning about the latest technology in games, TV’s, speakers, phones and more!

Hi, I’m Loretta Silecchia, Senior Director of Operations at The Difference Card. I joined the organization in 2010, drawn by the incredible company culture and the opportunity to work alongside a team of smart, passionate, and inspiring individuals. As someone who’s a helper at heart, our mission of service deeply resonates with me—healthcare can be confusing and overwhelming, and I see my own family in the customers we support. I take pride in helping create a seamless experience that makes accessing care easier for our members.

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I’m a native New Yorker from Long Island, where I grew up enjoying summers on the beach, building snowmen in the winter, and jumping into leaf piles in the fall. Influenced by both Italian and Irish heritage, I’ve been fortunate to grow up in a large, close-knit family that values tradition, music, and creating lasting memories. Early in my career, I worked in medical and dental office administration, which gave me valuable hands-on business experience while I pursued my college education. Today, I live in New Fairfield, Connecticut with my husband and our two young children. We cherish our time together whether it’s cozy movie and game nights at home or sunny adventures at the beach or lake. My family is the core of what drives and inspires me each day.

Hi, I’m Ashley Walbrecher, Director of Underwriting (East) at The Difference Card. I was excited to join the company as an opportunity to expand my knowledge in a different healthcare space all the while making a positive financial impact on people’s lives. In addition to the meaningful work, the chance to play a hands-on role in driving the organization’s growth is extremely energizing.

Before the Difference Card, I grew up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, moving to the Baltimore area after college, where I now live with my husband and 3 children. There’s never a dull moment in this household! I started my insurance career at Liberty Mutual, and in 2014 moved to a specialized executive reimbursement company. For over a decade, I had the privilege of assisting in developing and pricing new product lines, building positive relationships with different carriers, and positioning the book of business for profitability and long-term success.

Away from work, I’m usually cheering from the sidelines or spending time at a sporting event. My family enjoys all kinds of sports, though we’re especially fond of visiting minor league baseball parks. When there’s no game on the schedule, you’ll likely find me immersed in a good book preferably with a beach view.

Hi, I’m Stephanie Schmeltzer, Product Manager at The Difference Card. I joined the organization in 2016, inspired by the opportunity to help make healthcare more accessible, engaging, and easier to navigate for members. With a background in public health and a passion for innovation, I enjoy finding creative solutions that enhance the member experience and improve the way our teams serve clients. Throughout my time at The Difference Card, I’ve had the opportunity to lead cross-functional initiatives, launch new products and programs, and collaborate with colleagues across the organization to drive meaningful results. What motivates me most is knowing that the work we do helps individuals and families better understand and utilize their healthcare benefits, ultimately making a positive impact on their well-being.

Scott has 30+ years’ experience representing top-tier insurance companies and their complete portfolios of employee benefit programs – Medical, Dental, Vision, Life/AD&D, STD, LTD, Business Travel, and Voluntary and Worksite Benefits; including extensive experience in alternative medical funding through a Medical Expense Reimbursement Program.

Andrew Boyle is a Sales Consultant at The Difference Card. He has worked with The Difference Card for three years as an Account Executive and Sales Consultant. Andrew covers the Midwest Market, focusing mainly on Michigan, Indiana, and Iowa. Andrew previously worked for an insurance carrier but always felt a deeper calling to offer better solutions for employers and their employees. He enjoys working at Difference Card because it gives him that exact platform to deliver better benefits at a better price.

Lee has been in the insurance industry for 30+ years selling Group Medical/Ancillary products and services throughout that timeframe.  He is based in Chicago, IL and works closely with his broker-partners wherever they have business throughout the country, selling business from the Northeast to the Southeast to the West and all throughout the Midwest geographic areas.   Lee likes providing a better financial solution that benefits employers and their employees, including making suggestions that can help the employer attract and retain their employees with creative/enhanced plan designs.

Rick Boyd is an employee benefits and healthcare cost-containment professional with more than 20 years of experience helping employers improve the value of their benefits programs. He partners with brokers, consultants, and business leaders to develop innovative healthcare funding strategies that lower costs, enhance employee experiences, and drive long-term sustainability. His expertise includes medical plan strategy, reimbursement-based benefit solutions, alternative funding models, employee engagement, and business development. Throughout his career, Rick has been recognized for building strong partnerships, delivering measurable results, and helping organizations navigate the evolving healthcare landscape with confidence.

Harry Batalingaya has newly joined the Sales team as a Sales consultant! Since graduating from the New School in New York City Harrys professional career has included being a licensed real estate agent and then later a life insurance agent which led him into health insurance last year. Harry has worked diligently over the past six months in Affordable Care Act sales and was ecstatic to hear about a role where he could broaden his capabilities in health insurance sales. Harry is also a huge sports fan, an avid reader, a Hip-Hop superfan, and a movie connoisseur!

With over 13 years of experience in the employee benefits space, Amy supports Brokers throughout the Central, South & West Texas regions. She’s committed to being a reliable, knowledgeable resource for brokers who are looking to drive results and provide long-term value for their clients. Amy enjoys helping employers provide better benefits at a better price. Amy finds joy in working at The Difference Card because it provides continuous opportunities to help employers save money on their healthcare spend while providing better benefits for the members.

Emily is a Senior Consultant at The Difference Card, serving the Northeast Market. She began her career with The Difference Card in 2014 as an Account Manager and later transitioned into sales—initially focusing on client retention, and since 2019, driving new business growth.

Originally from Long Island, she now reside in Fairfield County, Connecticut with her husband, Colin – a former Difference Card sales team member, and their beloved Labrador Retriever, Penny.

Oldemar has 30+ years’ experience representing fortune 300 insurance carriers and their complete portfolios of employee benefits programs, working with consultants & brokers.  Extensive experience in medical, alternate funding programs and ancillary products.

Mia Dues brings three years of experience in the insurance industry to her role at The Difference Card, where she supports the Florida market. She is driven by a passion for helping clients make informed, meaningful benefits decisions. Originally from Dayton, Ohio, Mia now resides in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she continues to build trusted relationships and deliver value to her clients.

Chris joined the Difference Card in March 2024, and is a Senior Sales Consultant serving the Southern California and Southwest territories. Over his 15+ year career in the insurance and healthcare space, Chris’s robust prior experiences include working for a broker, multiple carriers, and a benefit administration technology company. As a Difference Card Difference Maker, he is passionate about helping his broker partners deliver optimal benefit solutions and savings to their mutual clients.

Laura Gelnett is a Senior Sales Consultant at The Difference Card focusing on new business sales in the New England and upstate NY markets. Laura started her insurance career with Humana Insurance working on ancillary benefits in the Boston market. She moved to United Healthcare as a Field Account Manager for their Key Accounts in RI and MA. She joined the Difference Card, in July of 2018 as a renewal consultant and moved into sales in July of 2023.

Alexander Gredysa leads business development and broker partnership expansion at The Difference Card across the Mountain Midwest Region. He is driven by solving complex problems, building lasting partnerships, and contributing to a mission-driven organization that’s changing the way employers think about healthcare. He also thrives on collaborating with forward-thinking brokers and consultants to implement smart, cost-containment strategies through MERPs.

Jilbert brings more than 25 years of experience in the employee benefits industry, representing leading insurance carriers and delivering comprehensive benefit solutions in the Los Angeles market. His expertise spans a full suite of programs, including Dental, Vision, Life, Disability, and Voluntary and Worksite Benefits. Jilbert has an in-depth understanding of broker and client dynamics and how to establish and maintain strong partnerships in his market.

Richard is a Senior Consultant serving the New York market at The Difference Card. He began his career with the organization in 2017 following his graduation from Monmouth University. His initial role was as a Renewal Consultant, where he was responsible for client retention by supporting plan design and structure during the renewal process. In 2022, he transitioned into a sales-focused role, where he now concentrates on expanding The Difference Card’s client base throughout the New York area.

With over a decade of experience in the insurance industry, Ed has a proven track record of developing innovative solutions to meet client needs. Passionate about problem-solving, he excels in navigating complex challenges and delivering results. Ed’s commitment to building strong relationships and delivering positive outcomes has been a defining feature of his career in the New York City Metropolitan Area.

Harrison Lambert is a Senior Sales Consultant at The Difference Card, where he has spent the past five months helping employers unlock savings through innovative benefit strategies. He oversees the Midwest market, with a primary focus on Kansas and Missouri. With a career rooted in the employee benefits industry, Harrison has always been passionate about alternative solutions that deliver greater value. What he enjoys most about his role at The Difference Card is the opportunity to help clients provide better benefits at a lower cost.

Steve Marquis is a Senior Sales Consultant at The Difference Card, helping group insurance brokers and their clients unlock savings through innovative benefit strategies. He oversees the North Carolina and South Carolina market. With his background in the employee benefits industry, Steve has always been passionate about unique and creative solutions that deliver greater value. What he enjoys most about his role at The Difference Card is the opportunity to help his brokers grow their business and retain quality clients.

John is a Senior Consultant at The Difference Card, serving Massachusetts. John has worked in the Health Insurance space for 25+ years. He will leverage his carrier experience with BCBSMA to help provide creative solutions for both Employers and Employees.

Sheri brings over 25 years of experience in the broker distribution channel.  She has a comprehensive background specializing in employee benefit sales which include medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, life, voluntary benefits, and analytics.  She is driven by a mission to lower healthcare costs.  She has a deep understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, including payer, provider and broker dynamics and its evolving landscape.  Sheri is a Past Georgia President of the National Association Brokers and Insurance Professionals.

With over 18 years of Difference Card experience, Stephanie McNellis is a trusted expert in The Difference Card and its role in solving today’s most challenging health insurance renewals. Her extensive knowledge spans plan design, underwriting strategy, implementation, and client education, allowing her to confidently position the Difference Card as a long‑term solution. Stephanie partners closely with brokers and employers to ensure strategies are both financially sound and sustainable.

With 15+ years of experience in sales Tara focuses on aligning producers and employers around innovative funding strategies that reduce healthcare costs while preserving comprehensive, accessible benefits for employees.  Passionate about meaningful relationships and practical solutions, Tara helps organizations achieve sustainable savings without sacrificing the quality of their benefits programs.

Cassidy Lutosky Meyer is a dedicated sales consultant specializing in and passionate about delivering improved health insurance benefit plans while reducing costs. With a strong background in sales, nonprofits and fundraising, she has passion for helping organizations optimize their benefits offerings for employees while providing savings. As a Sales Consultant, Cassidy collaborates with brokers to understand their clients unique needs and provides tailored solutions that enhance employee satisfaction and drive cost savings. Her expertise lies in presenting innovative strategies that align with organizational goals.

Alexander Polyezos  is a seasoned benefits professional based in Florida, currently serving as a Consultant. With nearly two years at the company, Alexander leverages his industry expertise to help clients design innovative, cost-effective healthcare benefit solutions. His strategic insights and client-first mindset make him a valuable asset to organizations navigating today’s complex insurance landscape.

Jennifer Revell is a Senior Sales Consultant III is at The Difference Card. Jennifer has worked with The Difference Card for over seven years, working in the Midwest Market covering Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. Jennifer has worked for several insurance carriers over the course of her career and prides herself in the trust her insurance consultants put in her. Jennifer enjoys working at The Difference Card because it gives her the opportunity to not only help employers provide benefits at a better price, but allows members save money on their health insurance.

Rachel Wilburn is a Senior Consultant III and is the Difference Card top salesperson for 2024!  She has worked in the insurance industry for 27 years, bringing deep expertise and a client-focused approach to every engagement.  She helps clients and her broker partners to navigate complex benefits solutions. Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Rachel supports clients across Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. Her extensive knowledge and regional insight make her a trusted advisor in lowering the cost of healthcare for employers.

With 15+ years in the health insurance industry, D’Mohnte’ specializes in crafting cost effective health plans. His focus is on integrating meaningful cost containment strategies and stop-loss protection to help businesses save while ensuring employees gain access to better, more affordable health benefits. He is passionate about building meaningful relationships with those who are on a mission to improve the healthcare industry.

Zac has been in the Insurance industry since 2013 working with multiple carriers and technology companies. He brings a vast knowledge base of value-based solutions and selling strategies. Zac currently resides in Delaware and has always serviced the Greater Philadelphia Area.

Mark Wylie is a Senior Sales Consultant, where he has been reinventing health insurance in the Texas region for the past three years. With a strong focus on delivering cost-effective benefit plans, Mark helps organizations optimize their healthcare offerings while improving employee satisfaction. His consultative approach and deep understanding of the insurance landscape make him a trusted partner for businesses seeking smarter healthcare solutions.

Hi, my name is Taylor Britt and I am the Senior Director of Marketing + Sales Media at the Difference Card. I was drawn to The Difference Card because I loved the idea of joining a team that is working to solve the problem of the rising cost of healthcare. My favorite part about working for The Difference Card is the people- I think some of the funniest, hardworking, creative & dedicated individuals work for The Difference Card! My proudest accomplishment is building a successful and growing Marketing Department. I am motivated every day by the good work that we do.

Before I was a Difference Card Difference Maker

I was born in Chattanooga, TN and I currently reside in Nashville, TN with my husband, 2 young children and our dog Nola, a 13-year-old chocolate lab. I attended Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) and graduated with a degree in Public Relations and Marketing. My first job was at Cracker Barrel where I worked as a server to pay my way through college. I can still recite the daily specials! I have many fond memories of growing up, but my favorite is of riding bikes at my grandmother’s house. When I was little, we would ride “big wheel” trikes down a giant grassy hill in the backyard at breakneck speeds.

Sam has over 6 years experience in the educational child care industry, specializing in translating the voice of a brand into meaningful, purpose-driven messaging that expresses a company’s “why.” She is passionate about personal and professional growth, and is committed to helping individuals and teams reach their full potential.

Sofia Toccalino is the Social Media Marketing Specialist at The Difference Card, where she brings the brand to life through engaging content and creative social media strategies. She loves finding new ways to connect with audiences, build brand awareness, and tell meaningful stories across digital platforms. With a passion for creativity and communication, Sofia is dedicated to growing The Difference Card’s online presence and fostering authentic connections with clients, partners, and followers.

Shelby Tyler has over 6 years of experience with the organization and currently serves as Marketing Manager, where she plays a key role in driving brand awareness, engagement, and strategic marketing initiatives. Shelby is passionate about creating impactful marketing campaigns that connect with audiences and support business growth. Known for her collaborative approach and creative mindset, she is dedicated to strengthening brand presence, fostering meaningful relationships, and delivering results that make a lasting impact.