We talk with Jared Pierce about why many provider networks run on outdated contracts and why that breaks trust for providers, members, and plan sponsors. We dig into how Unity builds a primary, provider-aligned network for self-funded plans that protects access while still driving real savings. 
• Jared’s early start building PPO networks at 17 and how it shaped his view of the system 
• Why legacy PPO networks “live off old paper” and what that means for pricing and trust 
• How reference-based pricing can create confusion, appeals, and members turned away 
• What “RBP-level reimbursement with real contracts” looks like in practice 
• Using historical claims data and member nominations to build a customized network 
• Why clear, simpler contracts improve provider participation and reduce noise 
• Bootstrapping growth without private equity and staying independent longer 
• Where Unity is seeing adoption and what advisors should watch next 
• The future network model tied to member incentives and smarter plan design