Research Insights, A Society Of Actuaries Podcast

This classic edition of the Research Insights Podcast, originally published in July 2020, revisits a timely discussion on the ethical use of artificial intelligence in actuarial work. Guest host Gwen Weng, FSA, speaks with the late Neil Raden—founder of Hired Brains and author of the featured report. We republish this episode in tribute to Neil’s thoughtful contributions to the profession. Neil Raden Obituary Questions or comments? Email us at researchinsights@soa.org  Report Landing Page:  Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence

In this special episode of the Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall, Managing Director of the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, honors the legacy of James C.H. Anderson—a pioneering actuary and visionary in the insurance world. Joining Dale are four esteemed guests who personally knew and worked with Jim: Jay Jaffe, FSA, MAAA, President of Reinsurance Administration, Ltd. Jim MacGinnitie, former Chief Economist of the American Council of Life Insurers Mike Tuohy, Managing Director at Tillinghast Ron Butkiewicz, CEO of First Penn Pacific Together, they reflect on Jim's groundbreaking contributions, including his revolutionary work in gross premium calculations, profit measurement, and the development of Universal Life products. From his early days at Abbey Life to influential consulting roles in London and Atlanta, Jim’s ideas reshaped insurance regulation, product development, and actuarial practice for decades to come. Further Resources to Explore James C. H. Anderson’s Legacy: Gross Premium Calcu

In Episode 6 of the Society of Actuaries Research Institute’s podcast series Long-Term Drivers of Future Mortality, Kara Clark is joined by Al Klein, Principal and Consulting Actuary at Milliman, and Erik Pickett, Actuary and Chief Content Officer at Club Vita, to discuss the pivotal role of health care in shaping future mortality outcomes. Drawing from the SOA Research Institute report presented at the 2023 Living to 100 Symposium, this episode dives into Chapter 6, which examines health care systems across the globe—from universal government-funded models to private nonuniversal systems—and their implications for access, treatment, prevention, and long-term outcomes. The conversation explores technological innovation, systemic disparities, and the actuarial lens on future health care challenges.

In honor of National Safety Month, the Society of Actuaries is re-releasing its very first Research Insights podcast — a foundational conversation that still resonates today. Dale Hall, FSA, CERA, MAAA, Managing Director of Research, introduces the episode, which highlights the findings from the 2017 SOA report, "Analysis of Opioid Overdose Death Trends in the United States." This conversation explores key mortality trends, risk factors, and how actuarial analysis can support public health efforts, especially in tackling the opioid crisis. It’s a timely reflection during a month dedicated to reducing preventable harm. Explore the original report here: https://www.soa.org/resources/research-reports/2017/2017-opioid-overdose-deaths-us/ Send us your feedback at ResearchInsights@soa.org

In this episode of the Society of Actuaries Research Insights Podcast, Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research and Lisa Schilling, Director of Practice Research, at the SOA Research Institute, are joined by the 2025 Student Research Case Study Challenge champions from the University of Waterloo—William Zhang, Ki Yan Chan, and Kevin Jiang. These future actuaries—competing as Team Factuarial—share their winning experience, from initial exploration of complex flood insurance datasets to delivering clear, policy-relevant recommendations. They reflect on their challenges, the insights gained through expert mentorship, and how the competition has shaped their perspective on actuarial work beyond numbers and into public policy. Learn more about the competition, review finalist papers, and discover how to get involved in next year’s challenge by visiting the landing page:  https://www.soa.org/research/opportunities/2025-student-research-case-study-challenge/ Send us your feedback at ResearchInsights@soa.org

In the fifth episode of the Society of Actuaries Research Institute's special podcast series on the Long-Term Drivers of Future Mortality, host Kara Clark, Senior Practice Research Actuary, is joined by Al Klein, Principal and Consulting Actuary at Milliman and co-author of the featured report, and Erik Pickett, Actuary and Chief Content Officer at Club Vita. This episode explores diseases as critical drivers of future mortality. Topics include chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer; mental health and neurodegenerative diseases; and the ongoing threats of infectious diseases and pandemics. The speakers highlight how evolving medical treatments, shifting demographics, and public health infrastructure influence mortality projections—and the implications these have for actuaries. This conversation is grounded in Chapter Five: Diseases from the report, Long-Term Drivers of Future Mortality, originally presented at the 2023 Living to 100 Symposium.

In this special classic episode of Research Insights, we revisit a powerful discussion from May 2020, when the world was grappling with the mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Five years later, this conversation is still as relevant as ever. As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, we're spotlighting how actuarial research intersects with mental health trends—and why those insights still matter today.  Whether you're in the actuarial field or simply someone who values mental well-being, this episode offers a thoughtful, data-informed perspective on the challenges we continue to face. For mental health support, visit MentalHealth.gov or call or text 988. Visit the Landing Page:  Mental Health Trends and COVID-19

Hello and welcome!   We have a great episode for you today. Our guest is Geralyn Trujillo, Senior Director of Public Policy at the American Academy of Actuaries. She and our host, Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, will be walking us through key takeaways from the recent NAIC 2025 Spring Meeting, held in Indianapolis from March 23 to March 26. If you’re looking for a clear and thoughtful recap, you’re in the right place. Let’s get started! SOA e-Newsletter:  NAIC Spring 2025 Meeting Recap Send us your feedback at ResearchInsights@soa.org 

Welcome to the April edition of Research Insights Classic, where we revisit some of our most impactful discussions. In this episode, we delve into the findings from two 2017 reports on climate, weather, and environmental sources. These comprehensive studies explore the intricate relationships between climate patterns and their effects on various sectors, providing valuable insights for researchers and policymakers alike. Join us as we re-release this enlightening conversation, shedding light on the critical data and methodologies that continue to shape our understanding of climate risks and opportunities. Climate, Weather and Environmental Sources for Actuaries Climate Sources for Actuaries Send us your feedback at RsearchInsights@soa.org

Good afternoon Listeners!  We have a great Research Insights Podcast Classic to bring to you today. In honor of International Women’s Day, which is observed on March 8 every year, we thought it fitting to bring to you our first International Women’s Day podcast which aired on March 8, 2024.  Listen to Jenny Haid and Elieen Luxton talk about their interesting professional and personal journeys and the women who inspired them along the way!  Enjoy this Research Insights Podcast Classic!   Send us your Feedback!  ResearchInsights@soa.org

Unlock the secrets to optimizing your organization's retirement plans with our latest Research Insights Episode!

Episode 2 of our podcast series "Long Term Drivers of Future Mortality" is now live!

Good afternoon Listeners!  We have a great Research Insights Podcast Classic to bring to you today. In observance of American Heart Month, we thought it fitting to bring to you "Modeling and Forecasting Premature Cardiovascular Mortality:  The Role of Obesity and Education," which was originally released on April 19, 2024.  Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death and so has a significant impact on overall mortality and life expectancy trends in the population.  Enjoy this Research Insights Podcast Classic!   Report Landing Page:   https://researchinsights.libsyn.com/modeling-and-forecasting-premature-cardiovascular-mortality   Send us your Feedback!  ResearchInsights@soa.org

Calling all Listeners!  Join us on a thought-provoking journey through Long Term Drivers of Future Mortality – A Podcast Series with Al Klein and Erik Pickett. Each episode dives into a chapter of this insightful paper, making complex mortality trends accessible and engaging. Perfect for actuaries, underwriters, insurers, and anyone interested in the future of public health. Tune in monthly for expert discussions and interactive learning.   Landing Page: https://www.soa.org/resources/research-reports/2025/longterm-drivers-futuremort-podseries/   Send us your feedback:  ResearchInsights@soa.org

The Society of Actuaries (SOA) Research Institute holds an annual Student Research Case Study Challenge, which provides an opportunity for teams of students to apply their actuarial skills on a real-world problem in a business setting.  The 2025 Student Research Case Study has just been released!  If you are up to the challenge, review the materials, listen to the podcast, and get to work! Visit the Case Study Challenge landing page today:  https://www.soa.org/research/opportunities/2025-student-research-case-study-challenge/ 

Hello Listeners!  In this classic episode, we heard from two esteemed actuaries: John Bertko, FSA, MAAA, an independent actuarial consultant serving as the Chief Actuary with Covered California, and Steve Goss, ASA, MAAA, the Chief Actuary at the Social Security Administration discussing the implications of a new U.S. administration on actuarial practice.  This podcast originally published in January 2021, capturing the thoughts and perspectives of our experts during a pivotal time of transition. We hope you enjoy this insightful discussion and find it as relevant today as it was when it first aired.  Sit back, relax and enjoy this Research Insights Classic!