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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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

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 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.