Research Insights, a Society of Actuaries Podcast

July 2026 Classic Edition-A Primer on Generative AI 16.07.2026 22мин

In recognition of Artificial Intelligence Appreciation Day, this episode of the Research Insights Podcast revisits "A Primer on Generative AI." The discussion explores generative AI through an actuarial lens, examining what these tools are, what they can and cannot do, and how they can be used responsibly alongside actuarial judgment. It also covers practical applications, reliability, risk, and governance—key considerations as AI continues to reshape the way professionals work. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into actuarial practice and the broader business landscape, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to better understand both the opportunities and limitations of generative AI. Listen now to revisit this timely and insightful conversation.

2024 Retirement Risk Survey Series 25.06.2026 24мин

In this episode of the Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, discusses the 2024 Retirement Risk Survey Report of Findings with Griffin Lothrop and May Ling Hu of Deloitte. The conversation explores Americans' retirement concerns and preparedness, including retirement income, unexpected financial shocks, caregiving, family support, technology, inflation, and the evolving role of AI in retirement planning and financial decision-making. The survey includes more than 2,000 Americans ages 45 to 80, including both pre-retirees and retirees, and provides a broad view of the forces shaping retirement readiness and risk. Listeners will gain insights into how pre-retirees and retirees are navigating inflation, early retirement, financial challenges, family support expectations, and technology adoption. The episode also highlights important considerations around AI use, data security, and how financial and technology providers can help retirees engage with digital tools safely and confidently. Review the report: https://www.soa.org/resources/research-reports/2025/retirement-risk-survey-series/

The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark – Episode 5 24.06.2026 18мин

In this episode of The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark, Steve Siegel and Kara Clark share a practical roundup of what is new across the Society of Actuaries Research Institute's Aging & Retirement and Mortality & Longevity Strategic Research Programs. Steve Siegel, longtime SOA leader and contributor, provides updates from Aging & Retirement, including the 2024 Retirement Risk Survey Series, upcoming research launches, open calls, volunteer opportunities, and recent media or social mentions. Kara Clark highlights the latest from Mortality & Longevity, including the essay collection on obesity and its impact on mortality, upcoming launches, open requests for proposals, volunteer opportunities, and other key developments. Listeners will also hear about current opportunities related to AI and large language model tools in retirement, long-term services and supports, macroeconomic indicators for mortality forecasting, and population-to-insured mortality translation. Tune in for a concise briefing on the research, tools, and opportunities shaping longevity, retirement, and mortality work.

Beyond the Headlines: The 2025 Disaster Reshaping Risk 23.06.2026 16мин

In this episode of the Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, speaks with Rebecca Owen, FSA, MAAA, one of the authors of the SOA Research Institute report Beyond the Headlines: The 2025 Disaster Reshaping Risk. Their conversation explores the 2025 Alaska floods, an event selected by the Catastrophe and Climate Research Program for its important implications for climate and catastrophe risk. The discussion highlights how this disaster affected remote Alaska Native villages, exposed infrastructure vulnerabilities, and raised important actuarial considerations around historical loss data, catastrophe modeling, pricing, reserving, capital frameworks and long-term climate risk projections. Listeners will gain insight into why actuaries play a critical role in translating complex climate dynamics into actionable guidance for organizations, policymakers and communities preparing for emerging risks. To learn more, read the report: https://www.soa.org/resources/research-reports/2026/2025-disaster-reshaping-risk/

June 2026 Classic Edition -Dementia Neurology Deserts and Long-Term Care Insurance Claims Experience in the United States 10.06.2026 20мин

In recognition of Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, this episode of the Research Insights Podcast revisits "Dementia Neurology Deserts and Long-Term Care Insurance Claims Experience in the United States." The discussion explores how limited access to neurology specialists—often referred to as dementia neurology deserts—may correlate with long-term care insurance claims experience. Geography can influence the timing of diagnosis, access to treatment, and the progression of care needs, with meaningful implications for both health outcomes and financial security. As dementia affects individuals, families, and care systems alike, this episode offers important perspective on how gaps in specialty care intersect with long-term care planning. Listen now to revisit this timely and impactful conversation.

The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark – Episode 4 19.05.2026 18мин

In this episode of The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark, host Rose Northon of the Society of Actuaries Research Institute is joined by Steve Siegel and Kara Clark for a timely roundup of recent and upcoming research across the Aging & Retirement and Mortality & Longevity Strategic Research Programs. The discussion highlights newly published essay collections, including Impact of Family Structure on Aspects of Retirement and The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Retirement Professionals and Retirees, along with updates on upcoming projects, open calls, volunteer opportunities and recent research activity. Listeners will also hear what is "on the launchpad" and what is generating buzz across SOA Research Institute longevity-related work. Tune in for a quick, useful briefing on the research shaping conversations around aging, retirement, mortality and longevity.

Longevity Perceptions and Drivers: How Americans View Life Expectancy 15.05.2026 15мин

In recognition of Older Americans Month, this episode of the Research Insights Podcast revisits "Public Perception of Longevity and its Drivers." As Americans live longer, perceptions of longevity play an important role in shaping retirement planning, financial preparedness, and long-term security. This episode explores how individuals think about life expectancy, what influences those beliefs, and why those perceptions matter for individuals, families, employers, and public programs. Understanding longevity is more than tracking a demographic trend—it informs how we prepare for retirement, health needs, and financial resilience across decades. Listen now to revisit this timely conversation during Older Americans Month and beyond.

2026 - SOA Research Institute - Student Research Case Study Challenge 07.05.2026 21мин

In this episode of the Society of Actuaries Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the SOA Research Institute, speaks with the winning team of the 2026 Student Research Case Study Challenge from the University of New South Wales in Kensington, Australia: Vihaan Jain, Sarina Truong, Carol Zhang, Liya Ruan and Alan Steny. They are joined by Lisa Schilling, Director of Practice Research, who shares perspective on the development and coordination of the annual challenge. The conversation highlights how the winning team formed, what they learned from the experience, how they balanced the challenge with coursework and how they navigated the rigor of the competition. Listeners will also hear advice for future participants and gain insight into the volunteer-led effort behind the Student Research Case Study Challenge. Learn more about the SOA Research Institute's Student Research Case Study Challenge by visiting SOA.org, navigating to the Research Institute section and selecting Research Opportunities. There, listeners can explore finalist papers, participating teams, submissions and challenge materials.

From Actuary to Jeopardy! - No. 2 04.05.2026 31мин

In this episode of the Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, welcomes back Patrick Nolan, Senior Director of Experience Studies at the Society of Actuaries, for a lively conversation about Patrick's recent appearance on Jeopardy!. Patrick shares what it was like to compete against returning champion Jamie Ding during his 29-day winning streak, how contestants approach buzzer timing and wagering strategy, and what was going through his mind during key moments like the "San Marino" Daily Double and Final Jeopardy. Dale and Patrick also discuss the pacing, coaching, preparation and memorable behind-the-scenes elements of appearing on one of television's most iconic quiz shows. Listen in for a fun and insightful conversation about trivia, strategy, composure under pressure and the actuarial mindset on a national stage.

April 2026 Classic Edition - Environmental Risk Series 22.04.2026 27мин

In honor of Earth Day, this episode of the Research Insights Podcast revisits a timely discussion from the Climate Change and Environmental Risks Series. Originally published on April 5, 2021, the episode explores what environmental risk means today and why it matters for individuals, communities, and the organizations that serve them. From extreme weather to shifting climate patterns, these risks have growing implications for health, property, and economic security. For actuaries and risk professionals, understanding and translating environmental risk into actionable insight is increasingly essential. Listen now and reflect on the role of climate and environmental risk in shaping informed decisions—on Earth Day and beyond.

From Actuary to Jeopardy! 17.04.2026 19мин

In this special episode of the Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, speaks with Patrick Nolan, Senior Director of Experience Studies at the Society of Actuaries, about Patrick's upcoming appearance on Jeopardy! Stepping away from actuarial research and experience studies for a lighter conversation, Patrick shares the story behind his journey from trivia fan to contestant on one of television's most iconic quiz shows. He discusses how his interest in trivia began, what the audition process was like, how he prepared for the experience, and whether any actuarial skills helped along the way. Listeners will also hear Patrick reflect on what it was like to be on the Jeopardy! set and offer advice for others who may dream of appearing on a quiz show themselves. Tune in for a fun and engaging episode that highlights a different side of an actuarial professional and celebrates the curiosity, discipline, and enthusiasm that can lead to unexpected opportunities.

NAIC 2026 Spring Meeting Recap 16.04.2026 21мин

In this episode of the Society of Actuaries Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the SOA Research Institute, is joined by Geralyn Trujillo, Senior Director of Public Policy at the American Academy of Actuaries, for a recap of the 2026 NAIC Spring Meeting held in San Diego, March 22–25. Together, they discuss key highlights from the meeting and share insights from the SOA Research Institute's updates to NAIC committees, including experience studies, practice research, emerging risks, healthcare and long-term care topics, climate and weather-related research, and developments related to artificial intelligence and AI risk management. To explore additional highlights from recent NAIC meetings and other SOA Research Institute publications, visit SOA.org and review the Select Articles from SOA e-Newsletters page. Send us your feedback at ResearchInsights@soa.org

The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark – Episode 3 31.03.2026 10мин

In this episode of The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark, host Rose Northon is joined by Steve Siegel and Kara Clark from the Society of Actuaries Research Institute for a fast-paced update on the latest developments across the Aging & Retirement and Mortality & Longevity Strategic Research Programs. The conversation highlights recent research generating strong interest, including Impact of Climate Change Risk on Retirement: A Collection of Essays and International Reinsurance Landscape Overview for U.S. Life & Annuities. Steve and Kara also preview upcoming work on obesity's potential effect on future mortality trends, while sharing research opportunities, open calls, and ways for listeners to get involved. For actuaries, researchers, and industry professionals looking to stay current on emerging longevity, retirement, and mortality issues, this episode offers practical insights and a look at what is coming next from the SOA Research Institute.

March 2026 Classic Edition-Predictive Analytics and Machine Learning 14.03.2026 20мин

In this classic episode of Research Insights, the discussion centers around the growing impact of predictive analytics and machine learning in actuarial science. The episode explores how actuaries are applying these tools in real-world modeling scenarios to uncover insights, improve decision-making, and navigate complex data environments. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of what's possible with these technologies, as well as important considerations and potential pitfalls. Perfect for Pi Day—or any day you want to celebrate the power of numbers—this episode offers valuable takeaways whether you're a seasoned modeler or simply curious about how machine learning is shaping the business landscape. Tune in to revisit this insightful conversation and discover how data-driven innovation is transforming actuarial work.

The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark – Episode 2 11.03.2026 15мин

In this second episode of The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark, host Rose Northon of the Society of Actuaries Research Institute is joined by Steve Siegel and Kara Clark, who lead the Society of Actuaries Research Institute's Aging & Retirement and Mortality & Longevity Strategic Research Programs. They share a quick, practical briefing on what's new and what's next—highlighting momentum around the Long-Term Care Wellness Primer, interest in the Longevity Illustrator (a helpful way to explore longevity assumptions), and what's "closest to takeoff" across both research programs, including upcoming work such as Long-Term Services and Supports—A Collection of Essays. The episode closes with additional quick hits on open calls and volunteer opportunities.

19th Annual Survey of Emerging Risks 11.03.2026 22мин

In this episode of the Society of Actuaries Research Institute's Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall speaks with Michael Bean, FSA (also a member of the Casualty Actuarial Society and the Canadian Institute of Actuaries) about the 2026 Emerging Risk Survey Results. Drawing on input from 100+ senior risk leaders—including Chief Risk Officers, Chief Actuaries, lead consulting partners, and other C-suite decision-makers—Michael shares what risk executives see as most impactful in 2026 and what they believe could matter three or more years out. Listeners will hear why economic and geopolitical risks are driving near-term concern, why technological risks (especially adverse AI outcomes) dominate the longer-term view, and which risk combinations (like cyber + AI and financial volatility + AI) leaders believe could create the toughest scenarios to manage. 2026 Emerging Risk Survey Results

International Women's Day - March 8, 2026 08.03.2026 23мин

In this special International Women's Day episode of the Society of Actuaries Research Institute's Research Insights Podcast, host Kara Clark, Senior Practice Research Actuary, speaks with Adina Ciobotea, Partner and Switzerland Actuarial Service Leader at Oliver Wyman (Zurich, Switzerland). Together, they explore Adina's professional journey—her early influences, the women who have inspired her, the challenges she has faced, and the mindset and strategies that helped her navigate obstacles and grow as a leader. Listeners will also hear practical advice for young women pursuing ambitious goals and building meaningful careers in the actuarial profession.

February 2026 Classic Edition - Retirement Planning and Decision-Making Among Early Middle-Aged Adults 14.02.2026 20мин

February is often associated with Valentine's Day—a time when many people reflect on partnerships, shared goals, and planning for the future together. In this classic Research Insights episode, the conversation revisits how those themes show up in real life through retirement planning and decision-making among early middle-aged adults. The episode explores what research reveals about balancing individual priorities with shared household goals, how couples and families navigate joint financial choices, and why decisions made during these years can have a lasting impact on long-term financial security and well-being. Tune in to hear key takeaways from the research—and consider how these insights can inform better planning and conversations at home.

The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark - Episode 1 23.01.2026 16мин

Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark—a new podcast series from the Society of Actuaries Research Institute designed to give listeners a periodic "sneak peek" at what's ahead in the Aging & Retirement and Mortality & Longevity Strategic Research Programs. Host Rose Northon, Research Communications Coordinator at the SOA Research Institute, is joined by two familiar voices: Steve Siegel, Senior Practice Research Actuary and head of the Aging & Retirement Strategic Research Program, and Kara Clark, Senior Practice Research Actuary and head of the Mortality & Longevity Strategic Research Program. In this kickoff conversation, Steve shares highlights from recent work—including findings from the Retirement Risk Survey, research on "solo agers," caregiving, and what's coming next (including new survey work and opportunities to get involved). Kara discusses key developments in mortality and longevity research, including updated socioeconomic mortality work, the SOA Longevity Illustrator's visibility, the Quarterly Mortality Monitoring Report, and upcoming research focused on older-age mortality and cardiovascular health. Tune in to hear what's gaining attention now—and what's on the horizon in longevity research.

Research at the SOA - A Gateway to Innovate, Influence, and Inspire 21.01.2026 41мин

In this episode of Research Insights, we revisit a conversation originally featured in the Young Professional Advisory Council (YPAC) Podcast Series. Host Tasso Buntivas, Vice Chair of YPAC, speaks with Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute. Dale provides an in-depth look into the SOA's research initiatives—from experience studies and practice research to emerging topics such as artificial intelligence, climate risk, and longevity modeling. He also explains how the SOA's research informs public policy, shapes industry practices, and delivers societal value. This engaging discussion offers valuable insight for both early-career and experienced actuaries interested in contributing to or better understanding the impact of actuarial research. Dale shares the many ways actuaries can get involved, regardless of background or experience level. Whether you're curious about how research priorities are set or seeking ways to contribute, this episode offers a compelling look at the people, process, and purpose behind SOA research.