The Future of Insurance
For over a century, the Insurance industry has stood by people at the worst moments of their lives, and kept the risk of these moments from standing in the way of people pursuing their dreams. But the industry, and the demands of the people we serve, are changing. The Future of Insurance podcast brings you thoughts from leaders from across the industry to help inspire and inform how we can all help evolve into the future. Brought to you by Bryan Falchuk, industry veteran and author of the best-selling series, "The Future of Insurance: From Disruption to Evolution"
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The Future of Insurance – Chris Meredith, Candidate for OK Insurance Commissioner
07/01/2025
The Future of Insurance – Chris Meredith, Candidate for OK Insurance Commissioner
Episode Info Chris Merideth is a seasoned insurance industry professional, public policy strategist, and Republican candidate for Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner in 2026. With a career spanning agency operations, catastrophe response, and legislative advocacy, Chris brings a rare 360-degree view of the insurance ecosystem—having worked with agents, adjusters, consumers, and lawmakers from across the country. Currently serving in government affairs for a major national carrier, Chris has been on the front lines of some of the most pressing issues facing the market: skyrocketing premiums, litigation abuse, disappearing availability, and the urgent need for property resilience in a high-risk state like Oklahoma. Chris’s campaign is built on grassroots leadership, free-market reform, and a clear promise: make insurance work for people again. His bold policy agenda includes reducing reinsurance pressure, incentivizing fortified home construction, streamlining regulatory red tape, and launching transparency tools like a Prior Authorization Report Card and a Claims Complaint Scoreboard. Known for his energy, grit, and straight talk, Chris is leading a grassroots movement of agents and consumers to restore trust and accountability in the insurance system—before it’s too late. Follow his campaign at Episode Summary The video features a conversation with Chris Meredith, a candidate running for the position of Commissioner of Insurance in Oklahoma. The discussion centers around the challenges and solutions related to insurance and fortified homes in the state. Here are the key points covered in the video: Background and Motivation: Chris emphasizes that their campaign is not about politics but about protecting people and doing the right thing. He has extensive experience in the insurance industry, having worked across various states and attended national meetings. Insurance Challenges: There is a nationwide issue with insurance affordability, where people struggle to afford insurance, and carriers find it economically challenging to provide coverage. The frequency and severity of storms, particularly hailstorms, are increasing, making it more likely for homes to be hit. Fortified Homes Initiative: Chris advocates for fortified homes, which are designed to withstand severe weather conditions. This includes using hail-resistant shingles and securing roof decking. They highlight the success of similar programs in Alabama and stress the need for Oklahoma to adopt these best practices. Legislative and Grassroots Efforts: Chris discusses the importance of legislative changes and grassroots efforts to push for fortified home initiatives. He emphasizes collaboration over conflict, urging local agents, roofers, and contractors to work together to influence legislative priorities. Future Plans and Commitment: Chris is committed to implementing these initiatives if elected, drawing on private funding and legislative support. He expresses a personal connection to the cause, having witnessed the impact of insurance in disaster recovery. OverallOverall, the interviedw highlights Chris's vision for improving insurance practices in Oklahoma through fortified homes and collaborative efforts. This episode is brought to you by book series () from Bryan Falchuk. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Rick McCathron, President & CEO, Hippo Insurance – LIVE from ITI NYC 2025
06/24/2025
The Future of Insurance – Rick McCathron, President & CEO, Hippo Insurance – LIVE from ITI NYC 2025
Episode Info Over the last decade, the insurtech landscape has rapidly evolved, transitioning from a space dominated by startups innovating at the fringes to becoming a thriving industry amassing huge investment and innovation. But how did we get here, and more importantly, where do they go next? Hippo CEO, Rick McCathron, joins Bryan Falchuk for this conversion, titled, "A Decade of Insurtech: From Startup to Success Story in 10 Years," recorded live from the main stage of ITI NYC 2025. Rick reflects on a decade of progress at Hippo, exploriing the strategies that have propelled insurtechs from industry disruptors to established market players, offering insights into what it takes to scale, sustain growth, and maintain operational excellence. Episode Summary This episode provides insights into effective sales and networking strategies for those selling to insurance companies. It challenges conventional sales tactics and emphasizes the importance of personalized and informed approaches. Industry Challenges and Adaptation Rick emphasizes the dynamic nature of the business world, noting that successful companies are those that can pivot and adapt quickly to new learnings, data, and shifts in consumer appetites. He shares insights on the importance of making decisions with imperfect information and the need to adjust those decisions as more information becomes available. Financial Performance and Future Outlook Hippo has successfully met and exceeded its financial metrics, and Rick expresses confidence in the company's ability to continue this trend. He mentions an upcoming presentation to the investment community to outline their future plans. Customer Experience and Industry Transformation The discussion touches on the need for the insurance industry to improve customer experience, drawing parallels to Amazon's customer-centric approach. Despite progress, Rick believes there is still room for improvement. Transparency and Management Rick highlights the importance of transparency and ownership in management, acknowledging past mistakes and the need for change. He credits Hippo's management team for their ability to adapt and overcome challenges. Collaboration and Industry Opportunities The conversation also covers the need for collaboration within the industry, emphasizing that there is ample opportunity for different companies to succeed without a winner-takes-all mentality. OverallThe interview provides a comprehensive look at Hippo Insurance's strategies, challenges, and future plans, along with broader insights into the insurance industry's evolution. This episode is brought to you by book series () from Bryan Falchuk. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Bryan Falchuk with Sales Advice for Vendors
06/17/2025
The Future of Insurance – Bryan Falchuk with Sales Advice for Vendors
Episode Info After a series of conferences where I saw some sales tactics that were having the opposite effect from what the person employing them would have wanted, I thought I'd use an episode to share some of the advice I give to companies I've advised over the years. It's informed by my direct experience having been an executive at insurance companies who got sold to, and running the sales function for a B2B SaaS insurtech solution provider. Hopefully this is valuable to anyone trying to sell into the insurance industry (and to those of us on the receiving end of those sales efforts!). Episode Summary This episode provides insights into effective sales and networking strategies for those selling to insurance companies. It challenges conventional sales tactics and emphasizes the importance of personalized and informed approaches. Key Points: Personalized Outreach: Avoid blanket approaches like mass emails or messages. Instead, invest time in understanding if the recipient is a genuine prospect. Tailor your messages to address specific needs and demonstrate genuine interest. Challenges with Conventional Tactics: Many sales playbooks advocate for reaching out to everyone, but this often leads to brand damage and wasted efforts. The video argues that the insurance industry requires a different approach due to its unique nature. Effective Networking: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn for meaningful connections rather than relying solely on event apps, which are often underutilized. Be mindful of social etiquette, such as not interrupting ongoing conversations or meetings. Building Relationships: Focus on being informed and culturally aware to foster genuine relationships. The goal is to reach a point where the prospect feels understood and sees you as a potential solution to their challenges. Practical Advice: Spend a few moments researching potential clients to ensure they are the right fit. Be upfront about your intentions to avoid wasting time on both sides. This episode is brought to you by book series () from Bryan Falchuk. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Luca Russignan, Head of Insurance, Capgemini Research Institute
06/10/2025
The Future of Insurance – Luca Russignan, Head of Insurance, Capgemini Research Institute
Episode Info Luca Russignan is an insurance expert with more than 15 years of experience with industry-leading consultancies and insurers. At Capgemini, he enables CxO conversations in the insurance sector through data-driven thought leadership to shape insurance business strategy focusing in particular on North America and Europe. He holds an MBA in Strategy and Finance from Hult International Business School. Episode Summary The interview discusses the future of the insurance industry, focusing on demographic changes and the role of technology, particularly AI, in shaping this future. Overall, the interview provides a forward-looking analysis of the insurance industry, urging stakeholders to consider demographic trends and technological advancements in their strategic planning. Key Points: Demographic Shifts: The interview highlights a significant demographic shift where the population pyramid is flipping, meaning there will be more older people than younger ones. This change is expected to fundamentally alter who buys insurance, the risks they face, and how these risks interconnect. Actionable Insights: The discussion emphasizes the importance of making insights actionable. The goal is not just to provide new information but to explain why it matters and how to start acting on it. This involves connecting future forecasts with present-day actions. Role of AI: AI is seen as a silver lining, offering opportunities to address challenges like a shrinking workforce and climate change. It is viewed as a tool that can enable successful aging of the population and unlock productivity gains. Strategic Conversations: The interview stresses the need for integrating demographic considerations into strategic conversations today. This integration is crucial for preparing for future challenges and opportunities. Future Projections: The interview looks ahead to 2050, considering how current trends will evolve. It encourages taking "no regret" actions today that will be beneficial regardless of how the future unfolds. This episode is brought to you by book series () from Bryan Falchuk. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Debbie Brackeen, Chief Innovation & Corporate Development Officer, CSAA Insurance Group
06/03/2025
The Future of Insurance – Debbie Brackeen, Chief Innovation & Corporate Development Officer, CSAA Insurance Group
Episode Info Debbie Brackeen leads CSAA Insurance Group in strategy, partnerships, innovation and venture investing. She has more than 25 years of experience and leadership at innovative high-tech companies, including Apple, Sun, HP, and eBay, and, most recently, serving as the global head of innovation at Citigroup. She has served as an adviser to the Astia Technology Committee since 2008, and was an adviser on the corporate board of the National Venture Capital Association. Ms. Brackeen earned a degree in American Studies from Stanford University and has completed executive programs at the Northwestern Kellogg School of Management, INSEAD and the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Highlights from the Show The video features a discussion with David, who has over 35 years of experience in the insurance industry, focusing on casualty underwriting and management. He currently serves as the Head of Casualty at Argo Group, where he oversees various liability lines, including primary and excess casualty, environmental liabilities, construction liabilities, and workers' compensation. The conversation highlights Argo's niche focus on the U.S. market, with some operations in Bermuda, and its recent acquisition by Brookfield Wealth Solutions. David shares insights into the challenges faced by the Casualty insurance sector, such as social inflation, litigiousness in the U.S., and the economic viability of Casualty lines. He discusses the importance of capacity management and the need for insurance carriers to be nimble in managing their portfolios. The conversation also touches on the impact of distracted driving on auto insurance claims and the necessity for the industry to adapt to changing conditions. The video concludes with a discussion on the future of the insurance industry, emphasizing the need for innovation and the importance of attracting new talent to sustain the industry. David expresses optimism about the industry's ability to adapt and continue providing necessary coverage despite current challenges. Episode Summary The video features a discussion on the strategic implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within a corporate setting, specifically focusing on the insurance industry. The conversation is led by Debbie Brackeen, who heads innovation and corporate development at CSAA Insurance Group, a part of the AAA insurance companies in the US. Key Points AI Strategy and Implementation: The focus is on harnessing the power of Generative AI (Gen AI) to transform business operations and create sustainable business value. The strategy involves embedding AI as a strategic capability within the company to gain a competitive advantage. AI in Insurance: The conversation highlights the potential of AI to revolutionize the insurance industry by improving efficiency and accuracy in claims processing and underwriting. The use of AI is seen as a way to manage both structured and unstructured data more effectively. Challenges and Opportunities: There is an acknowledgment of the challenges posed by AI, such as the need for governance, controls, and regulatory compliance. However, the potential benefits, such as faster claims processing and better customer service, are emphasized. Future Outlook: The discussion reflects optimism about the future impact of AI, comparing its transformative potential to that of the Internet. There is a belief that AI will lead to new job roles and opportunities, rather than just eliminating existing ones. Overall, the video provides insights into how AI is being strategically integrated into business processes to enhance efficiency and create new opportunities within the insurance sector. This episode is brought to you by book series () from Bryan Falchuk. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – David Corry, Head of Casualty, Argo Group
05/27/2025
The Future of Insurance – David Corry, Head of Casualty, Argo Group
Episode Info David Corry joined Argo Group in September 2020. As Head of Casualty, he is responsible for leading Primary Casualty, Excess Casualty, Construction, Environmental, Rockwood, and Bermuda Casualty. Corry previously served as Senior Vice President, Head of Environmental at Argo Group. He has in-depth experience in all lines of casualty insurance, having served as Senior Director at Markel Specialty and Vice President at Liberty Mutual. He also held senior positions at Chubb and Crum & Forster. Corry is a veteran of the armed forces, having served for 29 years in the Air National Guard, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Highlights from the Show The video features a discussion with David, who has over 35 years of experience in the insurance industry, focusing on casualty underwriting and management. He currently serves as the Head of Casualty at Argo Group, where he oversees various liability lines, including primary and excess casualty, environmental liabilities, construction liabilities, and workers' compensation. The conversation highlights Argo's niche focus on the U.S. market, with some operations in Bermuda, and its recent acquisition by Brookfield Wealth Solutions. David shares insights into the challenges faced by the Casualty insurance sector, such as social inflation, litigiousness in the U.S., and the economic viability of Casualty lines. He discusses the importance of capacity management and the need for insurance carriers to be nimble in managing their portfolios. The conversation also touches on the impact of distracted driving on auto insurance claims and the necessity for the industry to adapt to changing conditions. The video concludes with a discussion on the future of the insurance industry, emphasizing the need for innovation and the importance of attracting new talent to sustain the industry. David expresses optimism about the industry's ability to adapt and continue providing necessary coverage despite current challenges. Key Points: Challenges in Casualty Insurance: Social inflation and increased litigiousness in the U.S. Economic viability of casualty lines. Importance of capacity management and nimbleness in portfolio management. Impact of Distracted Driving: Significant effect on auto insurance claims. Necessity for the industry to adapt to changing conditions. Future of the Insurance Industry: Need for innovation and attracting new talent. Optimism about the industry's ability to adapt and provide necessary coverage despite challenges. This episode is brought to you by book series () from Bryan Falchuk. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – InsurTech Rap Takeover with Nick Lamparelli
05/20/2025
The Future of Insurance – InsurTech Rap Takeover with Nick Lamparelli
Episode Info The Insurance Industry is facing a number of challenges today. And yet the number of strategies tools we can use to overcome those challenges is equally numerous. That's the spirit of the conversations my good friend and I get into whenever we talk, and now, you get to hear what we talk about because we got together to take over 's a couple of weeks ago, and I am releasing that episode on my show for all of you! Highlights from the Show The interview delves into the current challenges and innovations within the insurance market, focusing on the years 2023 and 2024. Key issues discussed include the impact of inflation, tariffs, and natural catastrophes on the industry. The conversation highlights the structural changes in the market, particularly the broken cycle of rate adjustments post-crises, and the ongoing struggle to balance profitability with affordability for both carriers and consumers. Regulatory challenges, such as difficulties in obtaining rate approvals, are examined, alongside the industry's frustration with continuous rate increases. The discussion also explores innovative solutions like parametric insurance, which offers a viable alternative to traditional models, and emphasizes the importance of diversification in business models, especially for mutual insurers. The interview touches on the economic effects of tariffs on trade flow and currency attractiveness, as well as the long-term cost of capital. Audience interaction enriches the conversation, providing additional insights into market challenges and potential solutions. The session concludes with gratitude towards participants and a teaser for future discussions on community-based insurance solutions. Key Points: Market Dynamics and Challenges: The conversation explores the structural changes in the insurance market, emphasizing the broken cycle of rate adjustments following crises. Challenges in finding a balance between profitability and affordability for carriers and consumers are highlighted. Regulatory and Rate Issues: The difficulty in obtaining rate approvals and the impact of regulatory actions on market dynamics are discussed. The conversation touches on the frustration within the industry regarding continuous rate increases and the need for alternative solutions. Parametric Insurance Solutions: The rise of parametric insurance as a viable alternative to traditional models is explored, noting its benefits and cost implications. Diversification and Innovation: The importance of diversification in business models, especially for long-standing mutual insurers, is emphasized. The potential for creative solutions like reciprocal models and community-based insurance solutions is discussed. Impact of Tariffs and Economic Factors: The conversation delves into the effects of tariffs on trade flow, currency attractiveness, and the long-term cost of capital. This episode is brought to you by book series () from Bryan Falchuk. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Dr. Christy Lane & Laura McDonald, Co-Founders of Flora Fertility
05/13/2025
The Future of Insurance – Dr. Christy Lane & Laura McDonald, Co-Founders of Flora Fertility
Guest Bio This episode featured the co-founders of a first-of-its-kind fertility insurance solution called . Dr. Christy Lane, President and Co-Founder Dr. Christy Lane is global leader of InsurTech, an investor, founder and award-winning health scientist with expertise in AI, digital health, and wearable devices. Dr. Lane is the Co-Founder of Flora Fertility, the Stanford Wearable Health Lab, as well as Founder and former CEO of Vivametrica. Dr. Lane is also a Venture Partner with IA Capital, an InsurTech/fintech venture firm in New York. Dr. Lane has built her career in women’s health research since the 90’s, and is blazing a new path forward to combine critical components of wearable tech to help inform insurance policy to make fertility treatments more accessible. As a mom of 3, Dr. Lane has gone through IVF herself and deeply understands the emotional and financial challenges of treatment. She has been recognized as Top 40 Under 40 in Calgary, Female Founders of Insuretech Winner and Top 20 Women in Tech. Laura McDonald, CEO and Co-Founder Laura McDonald is the Co-Founder of Flora Fertility, the first individually-owned insurance solution for fertility and women's health. She formerly founded, scaled, and sold Canada's largest financial media company focused on women and wealth and is passionate about educating women about financial freedom and helping them achieve those goals. She has guided product wholesaling for a major insurance company and helped scale a DTC AI model in the e-commerce space to have global market adoption across 100+ countries. She is a mother of four and the author of two best-selling personal finance books and a former media personality in the financial sector. Highlights from the Show The interview discusses the innovative approach of Flora Fertility, a company co-founded by Christy Lane and Laura McDonald. The company focuses on providing individually owned private insurance coverage for fertility, aiming to address the high demand and financial burden associated with fertility treatments. The discussion highlights the prevalence of fertility issues, with statistics indicating that one in six people may require fertility treatment, a figure recognized by the World Health Organization as a global health issue in 2023. Flora Fertility's insurance product is designed to be accessible and affordable, targeting women aged 20 to 34 with policies ranging from $15 to $70 per month, offering up to $50,000 in coverage for fertility treatments. The founders emphasize the importance of community and education, aiming to create a supportive environment for policyholders that includes perks, benefits, and educational resources. The episode also touches on the broader implications of women's health and the need for more investment and innovation in this area. It highlights the potential for Flora Fertility to change perceptions of insurance among younger generations and to serve as a gateway for other insurance products. The founders' personal experiences with infertility and their professional backgrounds in healthcare and entrepreneurship are key drivers behind the company's mission. Key Points: Innovative Insurance Solution: Flora Fertility offers a unique insurance product specifically for fertility treatments, addressing a significant gap in the market. Global Health Issue: Fertility issues affect one in six people globally, as recognized by the World Health Organization in 2023, highlighting the importance of accessible fertility treatment options. Affordable Coverage: The insurance policies are designed to be affordable, with monthly premiums ranging from $15 to $70, providing up to $50,000 in coverage. Target Demographic: The primary target audience for these policies is women aged 20 to 34, a demographic that can greatly benefit from early and proactive fertility planning. Community and Education: Flora Fertility emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community for policyholders, offering educational resources and additional benefits. Broader Implications for Women's Health: The initiative underscores the need for more investment and innovation in women's health, potentially reshaping perceptions of insurance among younger generations. Founders' Motivation: The personal experiences of the founders with infertility, combined with their professional expertise in healthcare and entrepreneurship, drive the mission and vision of Flora Fertility. This episode is brought to you by book series () from Bryan Falchuk. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance Podcast – Darren Wood, Founder, Recoop Disaster Insurance
05/06/2025
The Future of Insurance Podcast – Darren Wood, Founder, Recoop Disaster Insurance
Guest Bio Darren Wood is the founder of , a first-of-its-kind, multi-peril disaster insurance product. Darren is an insurance industry veteran, with over 25 years of experience. He previously served as the division president for Holmes Murphy, a top 25 insurance broker, where he was responsible for the delivery of value-added solutions to insurance clients. He also held senior project management and operational leadership roles with Marsh Consumer (now Mercer), focusing on the delivery of employee benefit and affinity solutions to consumers through Fortune 1,000 clients. Darren received his degree in Accounting from Simpson College, earned his Project Management Professional (PMP) designation, and is a veteran of the United States Army. Highlights from the Show In this episode, we cover the challenges and solutions related to insurance coverage, particularly in the context of natural disasters and underinsurance. The conversation highlights the following key points: Background and Motivation: Darren shares personal experiences from the Gulf War, emphasizing the importance of addressing resource shortages and providing solutions for those in need. Insurance Gaps and Solutions: The discussion focuses on the inadequacies of traditional insurance policies, which are often outdated and not suited to current exposure contexts. Darren is interested in exploring new solutions that can address these gaps effectively. Product Offering: Recoop offers a multi-peril disaster product that provides a lump sum solution to customers. This product is designed to complement existing insurance policies by covering gaps that traditional policies do not address. Distribution and Reach: Recoop has partnered with 22 distribution partners, providing access to approximately 140 million Americans. They are also working with independent agents and larger insurers to expand their reach. Challenges and Perseverance: Darren discusses the perseverance required to succeed in this field, drawing parallels to their military experience. They emphasize the importance of continuous effort and building a strong policy base to increase exposure and coverage. Future Outlook: The conversation concludes with optimism about the future and the potential for new solutions to fill existing gaps in insurance coverage. Darren expresses a commitment to helping others in the industry and addressing the real problems faced by people. Overall, the conversation underscores the need for innovative insurance solutions that can adapt to modern challenges and provide comprehensive coverage in the face of increasing natural disasters and underinsurance issues. This episode is brought to you by book series () from Bryan Falchuk. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance, Paul VanderMarck, Chief Technology & Innovation Officer, SageSure
04/29/2025
The Future of Insurance, Paul VanderMarck, Chief Technology & Innovation Officer, SageSure
Paul VanderMarck is the Chief Technology and Innovation Officer of SageSure, leading the development of its proprietary technology platform and adopting new technologies to continue to advance the user experience. Previously, Paul was a managing director at boutique investment bank Financial Technology Partners, where he worked with a wide range of high-growth businesses across the insurtech landscape on capital raising and mergers and acquisitions. He previously spent 25 years as Chief Product Officer and as a member of the leadership team that grew Risk Management Solutions (RMS) from a startup into a $300 million revenue business while creating an entirely new market and transforming the way that the global insurance industry manages catastrophe risk. He holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s degree in structural engineering, both from Stanford University. Episode SummaryThis interview discusses innovative strategies in the insurance industry, particularly focusing on proactive customer engagement and the use of technology to enhance claims processing. Here are the key points: Proactive Outreach: The company emphasizes the importance of reaching out to customers after catastrophic events, rather than waiting for claims to be filed. This approach aims to provide timely assistance and mitigate potential damages. Use of Technology: The integration of AI and aerial imagery allows the company to identify damaged properties quickly after disasters. This technology enables them to prioritize outreach to affected customers, even those who may still be evacuated. Claims Management: The discussion highlights the need to eliminate inefficiencies in claims processing, often referred to as "leakage." By using innovative solutions, the company aims to reduce unnecessary costs while ensuring that customers receive fair treatment during the claims process. Market Adaptation: The company has successfully navigated challenging market conditions, including inflation and increased reinsurance costs, by providing valuable products to agents and maintaining a strong growth trajectory. Customer Satisfaction: The video underscores the importance of customer satisfaction, particularly in claims handling. Engaging with customers during claims processes can lead to higher satisfaction rates, which is crucial for the company's reputation and success. Overall, the episode presents a forward-thinking approach to insurance, focusing on technology, customer engagement, and operational efficiency to improve service delivery and maintain competitiveness in a challenging market. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – David Worldon, Accelerated Innovation
04/22/2025
The Future of Insurance – David Worldon, Accelerated Innovation
David Worldon is the Founder of , a boutique management consultancy specialising in insurance innovation. Last year they saved Australia’s largest insurers half a million dollars in fees and shaved a full year off their growth timelines. David has recently published the 2025 General Insurance Innovation Report, assessing and ranking how Australia’s largest insurers are innovating to address key industry challenges such as climate change, underinsurance, and rising premiums. His goal is to save leaders $20m in fees and 40 years of waiting to get shit done. David is also the host of Accelerated Innovation's Innovation Insider podcast, which is available at Episode SummaryThe video features a discussion centered around the Australian insurance market, highlighting its unique dynamics, challenges, and opportunities for innovation. Here are the key points: Market Dynamics: The Australian insurance market is characterized by a high level of concentration, with a significant portion of the market share held by a few major players. This concentration influences competition and innovation within the industry. Regulatory Environment: The industry is highly regulated, with recent interventions aimed at addressing systemic issues, particularly following a Royal Commission that scrutinized the sector for malpractice. This has led to a culture of risk aversion among insurers. Innovation Focus: There is a growing emphasis on innovation, particularly in risk mitigation and preparing for natural disasters. Insurers are shifting their strategies to not only rebuild after disasters but to enhance infrastructure and resilience for future events. Collaboration and Growth: Insurers are beginning to collaborate more effectively with each other and with government entities to address challenges such as underinsurance and protection gaps. This collaborative approach is seen as a pathway to strengthening the market. Future Outlook: The discussion suggests a positive outlook for the next five to ten years, with expectations of increased appetite for risk and innovation. The market is viewed as ripe for new entrants, particularly global digital players, which could disrupt traditional distribution models. Personal vs. Commercial Lines: Innovation is more pronounced in personal lines of insurance, particularly through direct sales channels. The commercial lines are slower to innovate, focusing primarily on enhancing broker experiences. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Dave Wechsler, Principal, OMERS Ventures
04/15/2025
The Future of Insurance – Dave Wechsler, Principal, OMERS Ventures
As one of the first Insurtech operators turned investor, Dave leads OMERS Ventures Insurtech portfolio which includes investments in well-known players such as Clearcover, Foresight, WeFox and Joyn. Most recently at Hippo as VP of Growth, Dave oversaw the company's execution and strategy around Smart Home and emerging products. Dave's journey in Insurtech started in 2017 while at Comcast Xfinity where he designed a distribution partnership with Hippo to sell homeowners insurance to Comcast’s 30M+ customers. In that role Dave secured his P&C license and set up a national agency. Dave was also part of the team at Comcast that led Hippo’s $25M Series B in 2018. Additionally, Dave has founded and led several technology startups giving him a deep understanding of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs. Dave is passionate about the intersection of technology and insurance and is a firm believer that we are in the early stages of what will be a watershed moment for the sector. He is an active writer and speaker on the industry. Dave also is a Board Director of Joyn Insurance and a Board Observer for Clearcover, Foresight and WeFox as we well multiple Fintech investments. Dave has a BA in Policy Studies from Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA. He is also a licensed P&C insurance agent. Episode Summary
In this episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of InsurTech with insights from Dave Wechsler, a seasoned entrepreneur and venture capitalist. The discussion covers the challenges and opportunities within the insurance industry, particularly in the context of technological advancements and market dynamics.
Guest Background: Dave's journey through various startups and their transition into the venture capital world. Insights into the role of technology in transforming traditional insurance practices. Dave started the weekly podcast because of his feeling of the importance of networking and collaboration among industry professionals. Current Trends in InsurTech: The impact of AI and machine learning on underwriting and claims processing. Discussion on the shift from legacy systems to modern, tech-driven solutions. Embracing Experimentation: The willingness to experiment and learn from failures is crucial for success in the InsurTech space. As [Guest Name] noted, traditional companies often lack the flexibility to innovate, making it essential for startups to leverage their agility. The Role of AI: Artificial intelligence is reshaping the landscape, offering new tools and capabilities that can enhance underwriting processes and customer engagement. However, it also presents challenges as new entrants can disrupt established players with more advanced solutions. Challenges for Entrepreneurs: Navigating the complexities of entering new markets and the importance of adaptability. The significance of building a strong brand and community in the InsurTech sector. Future Outlook: Predictions for the InsurTech landscape in the coming years, including the role of blockchain and smart contracts. The necessity for established companies to innovate and embrace new technologies to stay competitive. Resources Mentioned: Join the show live every Thursday at 2 PM EST for more discussions on InsurTech trends and insights. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance AI Panel – Live at the 2025 PLRB Claims Conference
04/08/2025
The Future of Insurance AI Panel – Live at the 2025 PLRB Claims Conference
What will the future of our industry look like, and what does that mean for today's Claims professionals? How can adjusters and others prepare for changing dynamics and increasing complexity? Join Bryan Falchuk as he hosts a panel featuring audience questions on the dynamics and technology shaping where insurance is headed. The panel includes: Erik Bahnsen, Director, Industry Analytics, CCC Intelligent Solutions Ramón Lopez, President, Claim Assist Solutions David S. Milton, Founder & CEO, TelaClaims This discussion was recorded live on April 1st at the 2025 PLRB Claims Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana, and was held right after the panelists shared this views on how things like AI are changing the ways claims can be handled – not just in the future, but right now. Episode SummaryThe panel discussion explores the integration of AI in the insurance industry, particularly in claims processing and adjuster workflows. It highlights AI's role in enhancing efficiency and accuracy while acknowledging the challenges of implementation, such as sentiment analysis. The discussion emphasizes AI as a supportive tool that allows adjusters to focus on complex decision-making, ultimately transforming their roles without replacing human expertise. Key Points AI Integration in Claims ProcessingAI is being increasingly integrated into claims processing to enhance efficiency and accuracy. It helps in tasks such as peer review of claims, identifying overlaps, and performing complex calculations, which traditionally required manual effort. Challenges and OpportunitiesAI offers significant potential, there are challenges in its implementation. For example, attempts to use AI for sentiment analysis in customer interactions were not successful, highlighting the complexity of accurately interpreting human emotions. Future of Adjuster RolesThe role of adjusters is expected to evolve with AI taking over routine tasks, allowing adjusters to focus on more complex decision-making. This shift is anticipated to lower entry barriers and enable more people to enter the field. Policyholder ExpectationsThere is a continuous increase in policyholder expectations, which AI can help meet by providing faster and more accurate service. However, the industry still faces challenges in fully aligning technology capabilities with these expectations. AI as a Tool, Not a ReplacementAI is viewed as a tool to assist rather than replace human decision-making. It operates within set guidelines and is used to support decisions, especially in high-stakes scenarios like large claims. ConclusionOverall, the discussion highlights the transformative potential of AI in the insurance industry while acknowledging the ongoing challenges and the need for human expertise in complex situations. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Sarah Russell, Managing Director of Bellwether at Alphabet x
04/01/2025
The Future of Insurance – Sarah Russell, Managing Director of Bellwether at Alphabet x
Sarah Russell is the founder and managing director of Project Bellwether. Her career has evolved from healthcare into technology more broadly. She is a startup founder, tech executive, and practicing physician working at the nexus of business, planetary health, and machine learning. After founding her first company, she spent the next decade transitioning between entrepreneurial roles and executive management in large organizations such as the VA and Google. Currently, she is focused on understanding our changing natural world and the implications for businesses, states, and communities. At X, The Moonshot Factory, she leads a team of senior-level experts working on complex machine learning problems, using earth observation data and imagining new categories of business. Highlights from the Show Understanding Climate Risks The impact of climate change on severe weather events. The insurance industry's responsibility in addressing these challenges. Focus on Wildfires The growing concern of wildfires and their implications for insurers. Development of targeted solutions to manage wildfire risks. Innovative Products Bellwether Predict A forecasting tool for severe weather probabilities. Bellwether Rapid Response Aerial imagery technology for quick damage assessment post-disaster. Bellwether Insure A product designed to help insurers understand and manage wildfire risk accumulation. Absolute Risk Scores Introduction of absolute risk scores for more accurate risk assessments. Comparison with traditional relative risk categorizations. Future Aspirations Vision for predicting interactions between the natural world and built environments. The role of advanced data analytics and machine learning in transforming risk management. Collaboration in the Industry The importance of collaboration among insurers to effectively tackle climate risks. Potential benefits of an integrated approach for communities facing natural disasters. Conclusion: This episode highlights the significant challenges climate change poses to the insurance industry, particularly regarding wildfires. We explored innovative solutions like advanced forecasting tools and rapid response technologies that enhance disaster preparedness. By utilizing absolute risk scores and data analytics, insurers can make informed decisions to better protect communities. Collaboration within the industry is essential for effectively addressing these challenges and building a more resilient future. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Chris Luiz, CEO, Scout InsurTech
03/25/2025
The Future of Insurance – Chris Luiz, CEO, Scout InsurTech
Chris is the CEO of Scout InsurTech, a premier network connecting insurance professionals, startups, and innovators to shape the industry's future. Scout's mission is to drive a comprehensive understanding of the companies impacting P&C, Life, and Health and to identify, engage, and profile these innovative companies as they evolve from early concepts to high-growth players. Chris is a multi-time founder with a background that spans the physical sciences, high-tech product development, and the development and delivery of modern AI solutions across the insurance industry. He is also a frequent speaker on innovation, AI, and insurance technology. When not working, Chris can be found at one of Scout’s many networking events at the local CrossFit gym, or at home with his wife and four children, lost in a book. Highlights from the Show The mission of Scout focuses on building private paid membership communities across various cities to foster local engagement and innovation in the insurance sector. Community Engagement: Scount organizes events in different cities, aiming to connect local professionals and provide opportunities for deeper community engagement. Each community hosts an annual event to facilitate networking and collaboration among industry leaders. Startup Support: Chris explains Scout's startup program, which helps early-stage companies connect with major carriers and brokerages. The program includes virtual showcases and opportunities for startups to present their innovations to industry stakeholders. Building Relationships: The conversation touches on the significance of community and purpose in business, contrasting it with transactional models that may lack engagement. Chris expresses his commitment to fostering a supportive environment for innovation and collaboration within the insurance ecosystem. Scout is hosting their two-day conference in Columbus, Ohio on June 17-18, 2025, where various startups will showcase their solutions. Conclusion:
This episode provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the insurance industry and the role of community in driving innovation. Tune in to learn more about how Scout is shaping the future of insurance through collaboration and engagement. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Melbourne O'Banion, Co-Founder & CEO, Bestow
03/18/2025
The Future of Insurance – Melbourne O'Banion, Co-Founder & CEO, Bestow
Melbourne O’Banion is Bestow's CEO and co-founder, guiding the company’s vision to modernize the life insurance industry. Melbourne is also a co-founder of BeautyBio and a founding member of Presidio Title, Texas's leading title insurance agency. He serves on the National Advisory Council for BYU’s Marriott School of Management and Southern Methodist University’s Tate Lecture Series board. Melbourne earned a degree in Finance and Ancient Near Eastern Studies from BYU and resides in Dallas, Texas, with his family. Highlights from the Show Founding Vision: Bestow was founded with the goal of bringing modern technology to the life insurance sector, which has historically lagged behind other insurance types in terms of digitization. Market Evolution: The rapid modernization of property and casualty insurance compared to life insurance, emphasizing the potential for growth in cross-selling and bundling products. Strategic Shifts: The company initially focused on direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales but pivoted to enterprise solutions, recognizing a larger market opportunity in partnering with established carriers. Technology as an Enabler: How technology is transforming the underwriting process, making it more efficient and allowing carriers to launch products faster. Role of Agents: Contrary to fears of agents being replaced by technology, Melbourne believes that agents will continue to play a crucial role, especially as tools become more sophisticated and user-friendly. Future of Life Insurance: The conversation touches on the future of life insurance, with a focus on specialization and the need for carriers to modernize their offerings to meet evolving consumer needs. Overall Takeaways Importance of Adaptation: Companies in the insurance space must adapt to technological advancements to remain competitive and meet customer expectations. Collaboration Over Competition: Partnering with technology providers can enhance a carrier's capabilities and streamline operations, rather than trying to build everything in-house. Consumer-Centric Approach: Understanding the consumer journey is vital for developing effective insurance products and services. Growth Potential: There is significant room for growth in the life insurance market, particularly through innovative digital solutions that simplify the purchasing process. Conclusion: This episode provides valuable insights into the intersection of technology and the insurance industry, highlighting how companies like Bestow are leading the charge in modernizing life insurance for a new generation of consumers. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Daniel Aldrich, Professor of Security & Resilience Studies, Northeastern University
03/11/2025
The Future of Insurance – Daniel Aldrich, Professor of Security & Resilience Studies, Northeastern University
Daniel P. Aldrich was born in upstate New York and spent his childhood (and much of his adult life) traveling and living abroad. While living in Tokyo, Japan, he began to wonder how Japan - the only country to suffer the effects of atomic weaponry - could have built up such an advanced nuclear power program. He wrote up his observations in the book SITE FIGHTS published by Cornell University Press. In 2005 he and his family had their home, car, and all of their material possessions in New Orleans destroyed by Hurricane Katrina and began studying what makes communities and neighborhoods more resilient. He published BUILDING RESILIENCE to share these insights on the role of friends, neighbors, and social cohesion after crisis. After Japan was hit by the devastating triple disasters of an earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear meltdown, Aldrich wrote BLACK WAVE about the factors that helped people and communities bounce back. Highlights from the Show Understanding Resilience: Daniel Aldrich discusses the concept of resilience, particularly in the context of community recovery after disasters. He emphasizes the importance of community involvement in recovery efforts, rather than solely relying on market or state solutions. Market and State Dynamics: The conversation explores the interplay between market forces and state interventions in disaster recovery. Aldrich highlights the failures of traditional insurance models in the face of increasing disaster frequency due to climate change. Impact of Climate Change: The episode addresses the rising frequency and severity of meteorological disasters, linking them to climate change. Aldrich presents data showing a shift from years between significant events to mere months, indicating a new norm in disaster occurrences. Community Networks: Aldrich shares personal experiences that shaped his understanding of resilience, particularly how community networks provided support during crises when institutional help was lacking. Behavioral Shifts in Insurance:The discussion touches on how rising insurance costs are leading to behavioral changes among homeowners, with many opting to drop coverage due to affordability issues. This trend could lead to a cascading failure in the insurance market. Future of Disaster Preparedness: Aldrich emphasizes the need for innovative approaches to disaster preparedness, including rethinking zoning laws and construction practices to better suit the realities of climate change. Overall Takeaways Community Resilience is Crucial: Effective recovery from disasters relies heavily on community support and involvement, rather than just market or government solutions. Insurance Models Need Reform: Current insurance models are inadequate for the increasing risks posed by climate change, necessitating a reevaluation of how insurance operates in high-risk areas. Rising Disaster Frequency: The data indicates a significant increase in the frequency of disasters, which requires urgent attention and action from both policymakers and communities. Behavioral Changes in Coverage: Homeowners are increasingly dropping insurance coverage due to rising costs, which could lead to broader market failures. Innovative Solutions Required: There is a pressing need for new strategies in urban planning and disaster preparedness to address the challenges posed by climate change effectively. Conclusion: This episode provides valuable insights into the intersection of technology and the insurance industry, highlighting how companies like Bestow are leading the charge in modernizing life insurance for a new generation of consumers. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Andrew Horton, Group CEO, QBE
03/04/2025
The Future of Insurance – Andrew Horton, Group CEO, QBE
Andrew joined QBE as Group Chief Executive Officer in September 2021. With a strong focus on bringing the enterprise together, Andrew has driven performance consistency and progress towards QBE’s vision to become the most consistent and innovative risk partner. He was previously the CEO, and before that the Finance Director, of Beazley Group, a specialist international insurer based in the United Kingdom. Prior to this, he held various senior finance roles in ING, NatWest and Lloyds Bank. Andrew’s career in insurance and banking spans more than 30 years and he has extensive experience across international markets. Highlights from the Show Sustainable Profitable Growth Andrew emphasizes the importance of sustainable growth in the insurance industry, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to risk and pricing models. He discusses the pitfalls of rapid growth without considering long-term consequences, stressing that growth should be managed sensibly. Innovation and Client Focus The conversation touches on the necessity for the insurance industry to listen to clients and innovate based on their needs. Andrew mentions QBE's commitment to integrating innovation within the company, ensuring that all teams are aligned with customer needs. Mitigation Strategies Andrew discusses the need for the insurance industry to adapt to new normals, particularly in the context of natural disasters【4:2†source】. He advocates for building back better after catastrophic events, rather than simply restoring properties to their previous state. Market Viability and Affordability The episode explores the challenges of maintaining market viability amidst rising costs and the need for affordable insurance. Andrew reflects on the balance between providing coverage and ensuring that it remains accessible to clients. Diversification and Growth Opportunities Andrew discusses the importance of diversification in insurance offerings, particularly in niche markets. He highlights QBE's strategy of exploring smaller, specialized markets that can contribute to overall growth. Overall Takeaways Balance is Key: Sustainable growth in insurance requires a careful balance of risk management and innovation. Client-Centric Approach: Listening to clients and adapting to their needs is crucial for long-term success in the insurance industry. Proactive Mitigation: The industry must focus on proactive strategies to mitigate risks associated with natural disasters and changing environments. Affordability Matters: Ensuring that insurance remains affordable is essential for maintaining market viability. Embrace Diversification: Exploring niche markets and diversifying offerings can lead to meaningful growth opportunities. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Bonus Episode – Project 55
02/25/2025
The Future of Insurance – Bonus Episode – Project 55
is a community that empowers both individuals and organizations to proactively improve mental health outcomes in the workplace. By providing actionable information, insightful discussions, and collective learning; we empower individuals to prioritize their well-being and build inclusive workplaces that challenge the stigma of mental health struggles. Co-founders Justin Goodman and Brenden Corr join the show to talk about how they're working to support employee mental health within and around the insurance industry. Highlights from the Show We dive deep into the critical topic of mental health within the insurance industry, featuring Brendan Core and Justin, the founders of Project 55. They share their personal journeys, the inspiration behind Project 55, and the importance of fostering open conversations about mental health in the workplace. Project 55 has a mission to change the perception of mental health in the insurance industry. Brendan shares his personal story of sobriety and how it shaped his perspective on mental health. Justin shares his experiences and the challenges he faced with mental health, leading to the creation of Project 55. The stigma surrounding mental health discussions in the workplace and the need for open dialogue. The lack of resources and training for agency owners and employees to address mental health issues effectively. The importance of creating a supportive environment where employees feel safe to discuss their struggles. The upcoming launch of mental health first responder training and how it aims to equip individuals with the tools to support their colleagues. The role of community in mental health recovery and the creation of a supportive online platform for individuals to connect and share experiences. Brendan and Justin emphasize the importance of addressing mental health openly and creating a culture of support within the insurance industry. Their commitment to Project 55 aims to make a significant impact on the lives of many individuals struggling with mental health issues. Visit , A platform for resources, community support, and upcoming training information. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Tim Dillahunt, Head of Personal Lines UW, The Hanover
01/21/2025
The Future of Insurance – Tim Dillahunt, Head of Personal Lines UW, The Hanover
Tim Dillahunt is the head of personal lines underwriting at the Hanover Insurance group. He is diverse insurance professional with an Underwriting, Marketing and Sales leadership background. Over 25 years of experience at some of the country's leading P&C Companies. Highlights from the Show When a pipe leaks, a hose breaks or some other preventable source of water damage to your home leads to a claim, you can rebuild, but you can never fully recover because of the likely loss of things like family photos and other personally valuable items. And while your insurer can cover the cost of fixing the damage, the emotional toll of being out of your home and dealing with the situation and uncertainty around it is also not something you can recover. That’s why Tim talks not just about the clear financial savings of using water leak detection and shutoff sensors, but also the innumerable personal savings that come with it. Stopping claims by identifying water leaks proactively saves money for everyone. It can reduce the size of claims, reducing costs for insurers and helping insureds keep their rates from increasing. It keeps businesses open because they don’t need to close their facilities due to water damage or construction. And it reduces the overall cost to insure a pool of risks, helping keep rates lower for everyone. Tim talks about the many ways people and businesses can save from the use of simple water leak detection devices and help control one of the few forms of property claims we cannot easily control, unlike things like wind, flood, hail and wildfire. What kinds of tools can you use to reduce your risk of having a homeowners claim because of a leak or burst pipe? Tim shares ideas from the most basic – a simple sensor that clips onto a pipe and can spot whether you have a slow leak or more catastrophic failure. You may be aware of a burst pipe without the sensor, but slow leaks often happen behind walls and in other hidden places you only notice once they’ve really spread, and may have lead to mold and other issues that are harder to contend with. And you could have avoided the whole thing with a simple solution. What happens with a pipe bursts in a home or business? What about a museum. Tim shares their first hand experience when a museum that had leak detection sensors installed was able to act immediately when a pipe burst, shutting off the water and mopping up what got out before it ruined any of their extremely valuable artwork and other items. And while there may be a monetary value to the lost items, many may be irreplaceable – like family photos or heirlooms if the same thing happened in your home. Water leak detection sensors can be simple and low-cost. A typical home may need $100 in sensors and $100 in monitoring services for those sensors. But what about the cost of a pipe or washing machine water hose leaking in your home? The Hanover sees that these claims average $7,000-10,000 or more, and could have all been avoided. Why does Tim say, “Water sensors are the new smoke alarms”? About 40% of non-weather loss costs are caused by water. It is the single biggest cause of loss than any other non-weather cause. And yet less than 17% of homes have any type of water sensor, while 80%+ have smoke alarms despite those homes being 6-7x more likely to have a water loss than a fire. Because of all of this, Tim is on a mission to educate people to change that 17% and stop people from suffering these losses. Tim wants everyone to look at the educational resources they've made available on their site at This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Ryan Vigus, EVP, Personal Lines Product Management, CSAA Insurance Group
01/14/2025
The Future of Insurance – Ryan Vigus, EVP, Personal Lines Product Management, CSAA Insurance Group
Ryan Vigus leads CSAA Insurance Group’s personal lines products, including auto, home, umbrella, and pet. His team develops and manages insurance products and product experiences that serve the needs of AAA Members. Ryan’s responsibilities include Product Strategy and Development, Product Management, Actuarial, and Data Science. CSAA Insurance Group is a AAA insurer that serves AAA Members in 23 states and the District of Columbia. Ryan has served on the board of directors and various committees for the Insurance Institute for Business and Homes Safety (IBHS) since 2018 and currently serves as the chair of the board of directors. He has a master’s degree in applied mathematics from Bowling Green State University (Ohio) and is a Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society. Highlights from the Show California is a massive economy that has had a history of difficult insurance situations. Back in the day, Auto Insurance became a problem, with rates jumping and profitability suffering. California’s insurers looked to Homeowners to make up the difference to remain profitable. And then the wildfire situation changed dramatically, putting great pressure on the industry, leaving many with the need to dramatically increase rates, pull out of the state, or both. Homeowners Associations often put in place rules to govern how homes in the development look to uphold standards and consistency across homes. But what happens when those standards are at odds with the decisions that make a home more resilient to things like hail, hurricanes or wildfire? Can you install a better roof, plant different vegetation (or remove it), etc., if it means your home will still be standing when others may not? Colorado has made laws that ensure HOAs cannot restrict a homeowner from doing something that makes their home safer from losses like hail or wildfire. If your home falls victim to a flood or hail damage, and your insurer pays to repair the damage, what if there was a way to enhance how you rebuild so your house is less likely to suffer a loss in the future? Wouldn’t the time to make such upgrades be when you’re working on those items anyway, like upgrading the type of roofing materials you use when replacing a roof destroyed by hail? That’s not how insurance works today. But what if it could be? Ryan shares an interesting perspective as we discussed ways to combat the spiraling cost of buying homeowners insurance by homeowners and providing it to them by insurers. What can you do to materially impact the chance a home suffers a loss in a weather-related event like a hurricane, flood, hail storm or wildfire?At PLRB, we see the impact of better building codes on losses, and many areas have seen the benefit in how newer construction stands up to these weather events. Ryan discusses one hold up to making your home more resilient at a cost to the homeowner is the availability of subsidized insurance through state FAIR plans that allows people to still get coverage at a low enough cost to discourage investing in hardening your home to loss. This may be contributing to some of the issue states like California have in insurance affordability and viability. What is the long-term solution to making insurance affordable to buy and viable for insurers to sell? Do we have an insurance affordability problem? In California, Ryan believes we don’t. Instead, he says we have a “homes burning down” problem, and we in the insurance industry need to stretch beyond our traditional role of paying after a loss to thinking about how we stop the losses upfront and facilitate that. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Dawn Walker, Associate Director, DUAE, AM Best
01/07/2025
The Future of Insurance – Dawn Walker, Associate Director, DUAE, AM Best
Dawn Walker is an associate director, Industry Relations (DUAE) in AM Best’s Strategy and Communications department. Dawn has more than 15 years of insurance industry and risk management experience, and joined AM Best in 2022, initially serving as a senior financial analyst, conducting performance assessments for Delegated Underwriting Authority Enterprises. Previously, Dawn as a senior risk management analyst at MacAndrews & Forbes Inc., a global mergers and acquisitions firm in New York City. She also previously served as a senior account executive for Alliant Insurance Services, serving its ultra-high net worth book of business. Dawn received her MBA degree with a concentration in Enterprise Risk Management at St. John’s University. She graduated Cum Laude earning a Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Arizona. She holds a Property & Casualty and Life & Health Broker’s license, has earned an Associate in Risk management (ARM) designation and is actively pursuing a Charter Property Casualty Underwriter’s designation. Highlights from the Show AM Best is known for many things, but mainly for the assessments and ratings they perform on players across the insurance industry. For the Delegated Underwriting Authority Enterprise (DUAE) space in particular, they are bringing transparency to help drive continued growth not only of the DUAE segment, but the product innovation that goes on within it. The level of growth in the delegated underwriting authority space has been huge, getting to $77B in the US alone, and making up 10% of the P&C market globally. The key areas they look at when assessing DUAEs includes Operations, UW Capabilities, Governance and Controls, Financials and Corporate Structure. This analysis helps bring transparency to the sector to help facilitate partnerships while also giving DUAEs a blueprint for how to optimize their operations for growth, stability and, ultimately, success Why do insurers work with Delegated Underwriting Authority Enterprises (DUAEs), like MGAs and MGUs? Can’t they just compete in the market directly? DUAEs bring expertise in niches and market segments that incumbent carriers may not be able to build efficiently given their scale, and the relative size of these niches being too small to support the operational cost of a carrier. DUAEs often come with expertise and distribution in the segment, allowing carriers working with them to access new spaces efficiently, quickly and profitably. What can support or stand in the way of the success of a Delegated Underwriting Authority Enterprises (DUAEs), like MGAs and MGUs? AM Best performs assessments of these entities to bring transparency to key success factors insurers would look at when deciding whether to work with a DUAE or not. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Curtis Goldsborough AKA LO$$ Ratio
12/17/2024
The Future of Insurance – Curtis Goldsborough AKA LO$$ Ratio
Curtis Goldsborough is the President of National Insurance Inspection Services, an evolving technology and field service provider for P&C underwriting, based in Fresno, CA. He cut his teeth in insurance as an agency owner with Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan, where he became acutely aware of the friction and pain points associated with underwriting inspections. In 2013, he joined National Insurance Inspection Services on a quest to forge a better path forward for personal lines underwriting. Curtis was instrumental in the development and launch of the NIIS self-inspection app and workflow, which is now in production environments with over 18 carriers and MGAs around the country, including three of the top ten P&C carriers in the United States. In his not-so-spare time, Curtis produces insurance video content on LinkedIn under the moniker of LO$$ RATIO, with a goal to engage, educate, entertain and inspire insurance professionals around the world. Highlights from the Show Curtis shares about his work to increase education and understanding through his content is trying to help. His main work is as President of National Insurance Inspection Services, who not only helps carriers by performing underwriting inspections, but also developed a self-inspection app that carriers have embraced to increase their understanding of the risks they write and help homeowners reduce the risk they face. Insurers don’t get it right on every claim. Yet Curtis believes the industry as a whole does not systematically or intentionally get it wrong, despite the popular narrative in the media. There is a general lack of understanding and education out there that is degrading the general public’s sense of the insurance industry and the role it plays in the economy driven by the widespread, negative narrative that is not unlike the narrative that drives engagement in so many other areas. Negativity gets eyeballs and keeps them much better than positivity. Regardless of what drove the current situation with the cost of homeowners insurance and the insufficiency of rates, blame won’t solve the problem. That’s been the driving force behind the work Curtis does under the name “LO$$ RATIO”, including his viral raps and memes. As homeowners continue to struggle to find and afford coverage in many parts of the US and carriers struggle to sell insurance at an economically viable rate, Curtis hopes more understanding and conversation helps change the situation. What if insurers allocated even a small proportion of the overall ad spend of the industry to educate consumers and help improve some of the public perception of the insurance industry, and the knock on effect that has on issues like social inflation. That’s the dream Curtis has to help drive the necessary shift in the negative dynamic we are struggling with today. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Andres Diaz, Ventures Associate, Plug and Play (Live from ITC 2024)
12/10/2024
The Future of Insurance – Andres Diaz, Ventures Associate, Plug and Play (Live from ITC 2024)
At Plug and Play, Andres has directed his passion for innovation towards P&C Insurtech. Helping some of the largest carriers and brokers navigate the technology ecosystem and bringing projects to life. Having participated in multiple investments, he focuses on creating value through infrastructure, optimization, and digitization. With a unique background in world-class restaurants as a former 3 Michelin star chef and having launched 2 startups, Andres brings a keen eye for detail, unquestionable creativity, and a passion for bringing projects from 0 to 1. Andres holds a master’s degree in entrepreneurship by Uppsala University and a BSc in Gastronomic Sciences and Culinary Arts from Mondragon University. Graduating Cum Laude and top 5% percentile in both of them. Highlights from the Show Andres shares what Plug and Play does for startups. Beyond just investing, they run programs to help startups find commercial success, even if they aren’t portfolio companies and without having to give up equity – both of which are critical to new companies trying to build their business in the insurance industry. AI is obviously a specific topic Plug and Play is looking at, whether that’s at ITC or outside of it. Rather than going after the type of buzz generating solutions we hear about like Anthropic or OpenAI, they are specifically thinking about different layers of the tech stack. That includes the foundation layer, like one of their portfolio companies, Archetype, built the foundation for an IoT solution. Andres shared some tips for founders, the biggest one centering around Patience. The speed of change (and sales cycles) in insurance is very long, so you need to have the patience and runway to survive if you want to build something in the industry. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Mark Holweger, CEO, Legal & General America (Live from ITC 2024)
12/03/2024
The Future of Insurance – Mark Holweger, CEO, Legal & General America (Live from ITC 2024)
Mark Holweger is President and CEO of Legal & General America’s insurance division, which includes operating companies Banner Life Insurance Company and William Penn Life Insurance Company of New York. He is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the business, ensuring service excellence, continued distribution expansion and achievement of the digital transformation strategy. In 2011, he joined Legal & General Group in the UK where he held a number of senior level positions including Managing Director, Partnerships for Legal & General Insurance and Director of Broker and Intermediary for Legal & General’s General Insurance business. In 2018, Mark relocated to the US as Executive Vice President of Distribution and Marketing for Legal & General America. Prior to joining Legal & General, Mark was a co-founder of Coverwise.com, an International digital insurance broker, and held various senior roles at other insurers including RSA Insurance Group UK where he was Distribution Director for Emerging markets and AXA Insurance UK where he was Director of Corporate Partnerships. Mark is an economics graduate and Chartered Insurer. He lives with his wife Rachel in Potomac, MD and has two daughters. Highlights from the Show Note This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance Podcast – Magda Ramada, Global Insurtech Innovation Leader, WTW (Live from ITC)
11/19/2024
The Future of Insurance Podcast – Magda Ramada, Global Insurtech Innovation Leader, WTW (Live from ITC)
Magdalena is a Senior Director and Global InsurTech Innovation Leader at WTW’s Insurance Consulting and Technology (ICT). She leads ICT’s inorganic growth strategy as well as its interaction with the external insurtech ecosystem globally. She joined the firm as a Senior Economist at Watson Wyatt’s Research and Innovation Center in 2005. She has 20+ years of experience in R&D and international strategy consulting and was WTW’s Global Head of Research and Analytical Services. Magda holds a M.Sc. in math. Finance and a PhD in Quantitative Economics and Finance. She also holds a professional certificate on Innovation from the MIT Professional Education Program. For the past 10 years she has been solely focused on innovation and strategic consulting for the Insurance Industry, especially around digital transformation, advanced analytics, blockchain, emerging risks and #insurtech. She was among the first to publish and discuss blockchain in the context of insurance and has focused almost exclusively on helping the insurance industry to understand and deploy new technologies since 2014. She is a well-recognized thought leader in insurtech and the implications of new technologies for the risk transfer industry. She has been a prolific public speaker in the past 10 years and in the past couple of years alone, Magda has had over 100 public speaking engagements specific to insurtech and blockchain at various international conferences and summits. She has also published multiple articles, blogs, interviews and audio/visual media on the topic. She sees herself as a blockchain and technology governance crusader and devotes significant time to educational activities, ranging from workshops for executives to sessions at elementary schools and trainings to empower #womenintech. Her main areas of expertise include blockchain, technology and innovation, advanced analytics, MNC internationalization and innovation strategies, emerging markets, global governance, macroeconomic and socio-political risks. Further, Magdalena has 14 years of teaching experience at European (Germany, UK) and Latin American universities. She also led many research projects for multilateral organizations on microinsurance, financial inclusion and innovation, including pre-2009 projects on alternative currencies. Highlights from the Show Note This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Wesley Pergament, Co-Founder & CEO, Sola, Live from ITC Vegas 2024
11/12/2024
The Future of Insurance – Wesley Pergament, Co-Founder & CEO, Sola, Live from ITC Vegas 2024
Wesley is CEO and Co-Founder of Sola Insurance based in Atlanta, GA. Wesley comes from a tech background and jumped into the insurance industry at a flood insurance startup where he was tasked with working on the data side with private and FEMA flood maps. Realizing this data was telling us exactly where the damage is, Wesley became obsessed with how data can be used to automatically trigger an insurance claim payout. Sola is starting with supplemental tornado coverage for homeowners but plans to expand into every type of natural disaster to help people cover their deductible and immediate expenses. Sola has already been approved in 15 states as the first ever admitted personal lines parametric product, is fully reinsured through Lloyd’s of London, and has partnered with hundreds of insurance agencies across the Midwest and Southeast. Highlights from the Show Wesley to share more of Sola's story, so be sure to listen to that for more background They recently launched a Wind & Hail product that like a hybrid Parametric/Indemnity proiduct in that it is data-triggered, but has validation of the loss through on-site inspection Their product speaks directly to an issue many insurers and homeowners are facing where providing traditional coverage is no longer financially viable yet homeowners are struggling to afford even high-deductible offerings that leave them excessively exposed – and mortgage lenders aren't comfortable with the coverage gap being created Sola's Wind & Hail product is cheaper than the money most homeowners would save by increasing their Wind & Hail deductible if they live in a hail-prone area, meaning they can get back to more complete coverage while saving money over what that coverage would have cost otherwise This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Dennis Ellis, GM of Insurance, Intuit Credit Karma
11/05/2024
The Future of Insurance – Dennis Ellis, GM of Insurance, Intuit Credit Karma
Dennis is general manager of insurance at Intuit Credit Karma, where he oversees the company’s fast-growing business unit that encompasses auto, life, home and renters insurance for Credit Karma’s more than 120 million U.S. members. Dennis joined Credit Karma through the acquisition of Zendrive, which will enable Credit Karma to accelerate Karma Drive, the company’s usage-based insurance product. At Zendrive, Dennis served as CEO where he oversaw the team and company strategy in pursuit of making roads safer through the power of data and analytics. Dennis is a seasoned technology professional, having held leadership roles at LiveRamp, Bertram Capital and Google X. Dennis holds an MBA from Stanford Business School and a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech. Highlights from the Show Dennis joined Intuit Credit Karma through their acquisition of ZenDrive, where he was CEO With credit being such a huge part of Auto insurance, it makes sense for a business like Credit Karma to be focused on the space, and help consumers manage their auto insurance rates and coverage as their credit score changes Credit Karma is not exclusively set on Auto insurance, but thinks instead of areas where consumer education and support in navigating something complex can yield better outcomes for them, so there are other possibilities for the business in insurance down the road One key thing to manage will be the issue of Privacy, which has been especially fraught in telematics and IoT-based coverage; Credit Karma thinks transparency and clarity are critical to be sure consumers always know where they stand when it comes to their data This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – Bobbie Collies, Chief Insurance Officer, Coterie (Live from ITC Vegas 2024)
10/29/2024
The Future of Insurance – Bobbie Collies, Chief Insurance Officer, Coterie (Live from ITC Vegas 2024)
Bobbie is Chief Insurance Officer at Coterie - prior to this role, she was Coterie’s first VP of Distribution, and Chief Growth Officer. At Coterie, Bobbie oversees underwriting, capacity, distribution, marketing and agency experience. Prior to Coterie, Bobbie was the VP of Strategic Distribution at Grange Insurance, cultivating successful strategic partnerships with established, new and emerging distribution partners – with a strong focus on strategy and innovation. Bobbie started her insurance career as a Commercial Lines underwriter and manager at Society Insurance, and held leadership positions at QBE, SECURA, and Grange Insurance. Bobbie holds a BBA in Marketing & Human Resources from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. Highlights from the Show Coterie is a Small Business-focused MGA offering core P&C products via agents, founded by , who was earlier in their journey to share their story Bobbie Collies joined to lead up distribution, and her responsibilities expanded into her current position as Chief Insurance Officer She gave an update of Coterie's business, including: Evolved distribution efforts that are more focused, scalable and effective, with them now having onboarded 40,000 agents Success in deploying APIs throughout the process, with 50% of transactions happening over API today (and growing) The continued use of AI and ML in their business, which has always been very data and analytics-focused, but they look at new and better ways to evaluate risk and operate the business Growth in average premium from $800 to $1800 over the past couple of years ITC is a great chance for Coterie to meet with a lot of their agent partners to talk about planning for the year ago and to keep a pulse on new technologies and innovations that could move the market and support their business going forward. This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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The Future of Insurance – David Embry, CEO of Mylo (Live from ITC Vegas 2024)
10/22/2024
The Future of Insurance – David Embry, CEO of Mylo (Live from ITC Vegas 2024)
David Embry, CEO of Mylo, a digital, independent insurance broker that uses AI and people to connect clients with the right coverage for their needs. He is responsible for the overall vision and financial performance of the business as well as developing strategic partnerships. As a seasoned entrepreneur with 20+ years of experience leading financial and insurance companies, David brings deep expertise and innovation to Mylo. Previously President of SelectQuote Benefit Solutions and Managing Director at J.P. Morgan. Highlights from the Show Mylo is a digital broker that was built from within a big, national broker, and today uses technology to match small business and individual insurance customers with coverage They currently write about $4m in premium per month; 65% being small commercial, and the rest being personal lines, plus benefits for small businesses They use AI to keep up with changes in coverage and appetite in real-time rather than having to manually recode their algorithms through some regular review process This episode is brought to you by thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of , available to stream or download on , , and and more.
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