Research Insights, a Society of Actuaries Podcast

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  Developing and Evaluating Behavioral Health Solutions 09.09.2026 10dk

  Behavioral health is increasingly recognized as an important part of overall health—and an area where health plan sponsors, providers and actuaries have opportunities to improve outcomes. In this episode of the Research Insights Podcast, Kara Clark, Senior Research Actuary at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, is joined by Joan C. Barrett, FSA, MAAA, author of the report Developing and Evaluating Behavioral Health Solutions. Their conversation explores the connection between behavioral and physical health, how behavioral health disorders are diagnosed and treated, and the barriers patients may face when seeking care. Joan also discusses emerging opportunities, including digital health applications, advances in treatment and genetics, evolving provider strategies, and the growing role of health plan sponsors in addressing behavioral health. The episode also examines how actuaries can evaluate behavioral health solutions from both financial and stakeholder perspectives, with the goal of lowering total cost of care, improving quality of care and improving quality of life for patients and caregivers. Tune in to learn more about the challenges, opportunities and evolving strategies shaping behavioral health today. Series Landing page:  https://www.soa.org/resources/research-reports/2026/behavioral-health Feedback at [email protected]
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  Quantifying Mortality and Morbidity Impacts from Climate Risks: A Practical Framework for Decision-Making 01.09.2026 23dk

  How can actuaries assess mortality and morbidity risk when historical experience may no longer fully reflect a changing climate environment? In this episode of the Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, welcomes Carlos Arocha, FSA, SCR, and Jérôme Crugnola-Humbert, SAV, IA, authors of the report Quantifying Mortality and Morbidity Impacts from Climate Risks: A Practical Framework for Decision-Making. Carlos and Jérôme discuss how climate hazards, population exposure and vulnerability can translate into life and health outcomes and ultimately affect actuarial decision-making. They explore why historical mortality and morbidity data alone may be insufficient in a changing risk environment, how climate-related variables can be incorporated into mortality modeling, and what a case study examining France, Italy and Spain can teach actuaries about interpreting forward-looking scenarios. The conversation also examines the "streetlight effect" and the "quantitative fallacy," along with practical considerations for life and health insurers seeking to better understand and prepare for climate-related risks. Listen to the episode and explore the full report, accompanying actuarial toolkit, and additional research from the Society of Actuaries Research Institute by visiting SOA.org and navigating to the Catastrophe & Climate research area. Read the Report:  https://www.soa.org/resources/research-reports/2026/climate-mortality-morbidity-framework/
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  NAIC 2026 Summer Meeting Recap 26.08.2026 28dk

  The 2026 NAIC Summer National Meeting brought a wide range of actuarial and regulatory issues into focus, from mortality and expense assumptions to long-term care, artificial intelligence, catastrophe risk, insurance affordability and more. In this episode of the Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, is joined by Geralyn Trujillo, Senior Director of Public Policy at the American Academy of Actuaries, for a recap of the meeting in Columbus, Ohio. Together, they explore key developments across the life, health and property and casualty practice areas and discuss what these evolving issues could mean for actuaries, regulators, consumers and the broader insurance system. The conversation examines SOA Research Institute experience studies and emerging research, the Generally Recognized Expense Table (GRET), long-term care and combination products, the growing use and regulation of artificial intelligence in insurance, catastrophe risk, affordability, resilience and the increasingly interdisciplinary role of actuaries. Listen to hear which developments from the NAIC Summer National Meeting may have the most momentum through the remainder of 2026—and what actuaries should keep on their radar.
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  Evaluating Representativeness in Healthcare Claims Data: A Framework for AI Fairness in Actuarial Applications 21.08.2026 20dk

  In this episode of the Research Insights Podcast, Lisa Schilling, Director of Practice Research at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, speaks with Dr. Rob Lieberthal, lead author of Evaluating Representativeness in Healthcare Claims Data: A Framework for Representativeness-Based Fairness in Actuarial Applications of AI. Their discussion explores why strong overall model performance does not necessarily mean an AI or machine learning model performs equitably across populations. Dr. Lieberthal explains how gaps in healthcare claims data can affect rural, lower-income, underdiagnosed, and other populations—and why actuaries should examine representativeness before relying on model results. Listeners will learn about the report's three-stage bias assessment covering input bias, model bias, and application bias; examples involving geographic representation, missing data, and intersectionality; and practical approaches for evaluating subgroup performance. The episode also highlights the companion Model Card Generator and Decision Assist Tool, which are designed to help actuaries document model limitations, compare model alternatives, and apply professional judgment throughout the modeling process. Explore the full research report and companion resources through the Society of Actuaries Research Institute at SOA.org, and discover practical ways to strengthen fairness, transparency, and informed decision-making in actuarial applications of AI. https://www.soa.org/resources/research-reports/2026/dei127-represent-hc-data/
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  August 2026 Classic Edition-2025 - SOA Research Institute - Student Research Case Study Challenge 12.08.2026 22dk

  In recognition of International Youth Day, this episode of the Research Insights Podcast revisits the 2025 Case Study Challenge Winners. The discussion highlights the winning team's approach to the challenge, including how they analyzed the case, developed their recommendations, and presented their findings. The episode also offers insight into the skills, collaboration, and creative thinking that helped distinguish their work. International Youth Day celebrates the ideas, contributions, and potential of young people around the world. This conversation reflects that spirit by showcasing emerging actuarial talent and the fresh perspectives these students bring to complex real-world problems. Listen now to hear from the 2025 Case Study Challenge winners and learn more about their award-winning work.
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  July 2026 Classic Edition-A Primer on Generative AI 16.07.2026 22dk

  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.
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  2024 Retirement Risk Survey Series 25.06.2026 24dk

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

  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.
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  Beyond the Headlines: The 2025 Disaster Reshaping Risk 23.06.2026 16dk

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

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

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

  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.
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  2026 - SOA Research Institute - Student Research Case Study Challenge 07.05.2026 21dk

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

  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.
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  April 2026 Classic Edition - Environmental Risk Series 22.04.2026 27dk

  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.
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  From Actuary to Jeopardy! 17.04.2026 19dk

  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.
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  NAIC 2026 Spring Meeting Recap 16.04.2026 21dk

  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 [email protected]
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  The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark – Episode 3 31.03.2026 10dk

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

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

  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.