Podcast
Research Insights, a Society of Actuaries Podcast
Hosted by Research Insights · EN
Research Insights, hosted by R. Dale Hall, FSA, MAAA, CERA, Managing Director of the SOA Research Institute and occasional guest hosts, highlights Society of Actuaries (SOA) Research Institute research. The podcasts include recently released research reports, research featured at SOA meetings, and other related items produced by SOA research.
35episodes
Episodes
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From Actuary to Jeopardy!
Apr 1700:19:12Tap to summarizeIn 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.
Transcribe →NAIC 2026 Spring Meeting Recap
Apr 1600:21:11Tap to summarizeIn 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
Transcribe →The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark – Episode 3
Mar 3100:10:18Tap to summarizeIn 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.
Transcribe →March 2026 Classic Edition-Predictive Analytics and Machine Learning
Mar 1400:20:26Tap to summarizeIn 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
Mar 1100:15:31Tap to summarizeIn 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.
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19th Annual Survey of Emerging Risks
Mar 1100:22:46Tap to summarizeIn 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
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International Women's Day - March 8, 2026
Mar 800:23:20Tap to summarizeIn 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.
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February 2026 Classic Edition - Retirement Planning and Decision-Making Among Early Middle-Aged Adults
Feb 1400:20:27Tap to summarizeFebruary 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.
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The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark - Episode 1
Jan 2300:16:14Tap to summarizeWelcome 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.
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Research at the SOA - A Gateway to Innovate, Influence, and Inspire
Jan 2100:41:43Tap to summarizeIn 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.
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