The Connected Podcast

Alan Demers and Stephen Applebaum

Co-curated by Alan Demers and Stephen Applebaum, The Connected Podcast is a daily scan of all the happenings in the world of Insurance & InsurTech News.

  1. 2H AGO

    Are ‘Moderate’ Hurricanes Getting Squeezed Out of the North Atlantic?

    In this episode of The Connected Podcast, the spotlight is on the evolving challenges and opportunities within the insurance ecosystem. The discussion kicks off with the 2025 North Atlantic hurricane season, noteworthy for the absence of moderate hurricanes and an increase in high-intensity storms. Experts Scott St. George and James Done link this trend to warming ocean temperatures, prompting insurers to rethink traditional risk assessment models to address the financial implications.   The conversation then shifts to the urgent need for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into business operations. Despite 92% of companies planning to boost AI investment, only 1% have successfully integrated it. With McKinsey's report emphasizing the immediate need for action, the insurance sector is encouraged to leverage AI to distinguish themselves in a competitive landscape. Moreover, the rising number of legal claims related to AI, as predicted by Gartner, highlights the necessity for new insurance products to mitigate associated risks. Legal leaders are urged to proactively explore AI insurance policies to safeguard their organizations from potential liabilities.   The episode also addresses the looming "silver tsunami" workforce crisis, as numerous insurance professionals near retirement. Norm Hudson advises against sole dependence on AI solutions, advocating for targeted training programs to retain and attract new talent. Finally, the burgeoning demand for insurance in data center construction is identified as a significant growth opportunity. With potential market expansion up to $10 billion by 2026, surpassing the global aviation insurance market, insurers are encouraged to develop specialized products for this sector.   Overall, the episode underscores the pressing need for innovation and adaptation in response to these dynamic industry shifts.   In a recent episode of The Connected Podcast, the focus was on significant trends and developments within the insurance ecosystem, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry. AI's incorporation into insurance practices, especially in underwriting and regulatory compliance, is poised to boost productivity by reclaiming time spent on routine tasks, thereby letting underwriters concentrate on complex risk evaluations and client relationships. This shift is prompting a change in the skills required for successful underwriting, with a growing emphasis on expertise, strategic judgment, and relationship-building rather than routine processing.   Moreover, AI's role is no longer confined to large carriers or specialized IT departments. Smaller, independent agencies are increasingly integrating AI into their operations, as evidenced by two-thirds of agencies planning to expand their AI use, according to the Big "I" Agents Council for Technology's Tech Trends Report. AI is proving invaluable in activities like managing renewals more efficiently and maintaining critical client knowledge.   The podcast also delves into the overlooked connection between chronic health conditions and workers' compensation claims. The case of Marie, who unknowingly suffered from Fibromyalgia, highlights how invisible chronic conditions can affect workplace safety and recovery times. The industry is encouraged to recognize these health issues, as they play a significant role in managing claims and ensuring comprehensive employee health support.   In a recent episode of The Connected Podcast, several pivotal developments within the insurance ecosystem were discussed. Sedgwick has launched an innovative national Accident Response Team specifically for the commercial trucking sector to manage accidents more efficiently. This 24/7 rapid response service deploys adjusters to the sce

    13 min

  2. 1D AGO

    US naval blockade deepening insurance crisiscted'

    In the latest episode of The Connected Podcast, we dive deep into the current news and events shaping the insurance ecosystem, with a particular focus on the profound impacts of geopolitical tensions and technological advancements.   The episode begins by delving into the escalating hostilities involving the US, Israeli forces, and Iran. The tensions, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, have initiated significant ripple effects beyond military concerns, emphasizing the critical role of the insurance industry in global trade. Following initial airstrikes, marine insurers swiftly canceled coverage and significantly increased war risk premiums, transforming geopolitical tensions into an economic blockade, which led to an 80% reduction in tanker traffic. This scenario highlighted the insurance industry's latent power to influence commercial navigation during geopolitical crises.   We also explore the downstream industry impacts, such as the collision repair sector, which is grappling with higher oil prices and reduced driving habits, leading to fewer collisions. Supply chain disruptions, notably in raw materials like aluminum and helium sourced from the Gulf, are exacerbating production constraints in the automotive and semiconductor industries, impacting costs and repair timelines.   On a broader scale, a recent report by JP Morgan indicates that the reinsurance sector remains resilient. Reinsurers are strategically positioned to handle market softening due to lower-than-usual catastrophe losses expected for Q1 2026. This preparedness underscores the importance of strategic foresight in navigating global uncertainties.   The discussion transitions to significant legislative changes in California's home insurance laws, prompted by frequent and destructive wildfires. State Senator Steve Padilla leads efforts to expedite claims processes, strengthen penalties for non-compliance, and enhance transparency, particularly during emergencies. This initiative aims to establish a more responsive and accountable insurance framework in the face of natural disasters.   Simultaneously, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the industry, as companies like Hippo pioneer AI-powered claims platforms offering improved accuracy and efficiency. A recent survey notes that 71% of insurance executives view AI as a top strategic priority, reflecting a move towards practical implementation despite ongoing challenges in fully embracing AI's potential.   The podcast also addresses the emerging issue of AI liability risks, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises adopting AI without fully understanding its implications, drawing parallels to the early cyber risk landscape. This scenario suggests an urgent need for insurers to develop explicit coverages to manage these new risks effectively.   In another segment, we discuss Allstate’s innovative "Just Enough" auto endorsement plan, aimed at lowering premiums by limiting coverage in specific scenarios. Introduced in Maryland, Mississippi, and Nebraska, this plan signifies a shift towards more customizable and bare-bones insurance options. This approach is underscored by Allstate's recent trademark filing, suggesting a trend towards modular coverage supported by digital tools.   The discussion further highlights the complexities surrounding modern vehicle configurations, with over 600,000 unique car setups emerging in 2025 alone. While this customization benefits consumers, it presents significant challenges for insurers who rely on outdated vehicle identification models, potentially leading to undervalued claims.   Additionally, we highlight several property and casualty insurance firms that appe

    13 min

  3. 4D AGO

    A ceasefire won't reopen the insurance market – not yet

    The Connected Podcast The Connected Podcast Exploring News and Events in the Insurance Ecosystem In this episode of The Connected Podcast, we delve into the dynamic world of insurance, addressing recent technical issues, impactful international events, transformative business developments, and groundbreaking innovations in technology—each shaping the future of the insurance industry.   We start off with a message to our listeners regarding a temporary technical issue with our Curated platform, which momentarily halted the delivery of 'Connected' daily issues. Rest assured, our team is actively working on a solution. Meanwhile, listeners can still access the Connected Archives for past issues.   Turning to international news, we discuss a significant two-week ceasefire with Iran that spurred a 12% drop in oil prices and an uptick in the stock market. However, the response at Lloyd’s of London remained muted due to the intricate web of geopolitical events impacting insurance. A blockade of the Strait of Hormuz amplified these challenges, fueled by increased war risk premiums following strikes by the U.S. and Israel, which significantly reduced tanker traffic.   In the business world, Sentry Insurance's acquisition of The General from American Family Insurance for $1.7 billion marks a historic industry milestone, enhancing its foothold in the non-standard auto insurance market. Sentry will transition its operations under The General brand, phasing out the Dairyland name by mid-2026, and ensures policyholders that no changes will occur in rates or coverage. Current staff in Nashville are set to join the Sentry family.   Exploring transformative trends, the podcast shines a light on the rise of usage-based insurance (UBI) and advancements in AI technology. With UBI shifting from niche to mainstream, over 21 million U.S. policyholders now share telematics data driven by trust and value—beyond just competitive pricing. A survey by Arity and the IoT Insurance Observatory shows high telematics app recommendation rates for safe driving rewards, highlighting growing trust and positive sentiment.   The episode also introduced Alice FNOL by ICE-Tech, a 24/7 AI claims agent built on OpenDialog’s conversational AI. Alice FNOL is poised to transform first notification of loss processes by streamlining claims intake, enhancing data accuracy, and improving customer experiences.   However, scaling AI remains problematic across property insurance, with 82 percent of carriers using AI but only 7 percent successfully implementing it at scale. Legacy infrastructure poses significant challenges, necessitating better AI integration to unlock full potential and resolve operational inefficiencies.   The episode continues by addressing challenges like the National Flood Insurance Program's (NFIP) $22.5 billion debt due to catastrophic hurricane seasons, impacting real estate and the property and casualty sector at large. The podcast also highlighted the significant valuation gap in auto insurance due to outdated actuarial models, potentially leading to a $15,000 discrepancy per vehicle amid fluctuating used-car prices and repair costs.   AI's role in fraud detection is explored as a double-edged sword—enhancing underwriting while also arming fraudsters with sophisticated tools, such as AI-generated fake identities. Insurers must evolve strategies amidst this intensifying technological arms race.   Finally, key developments at Progressive Insurance and Chubb Limited showcase strategic advancements with technology and leadership at the forefront. Progressive renewed its long

    13 min

  4. 5D AGO

    WHY INSURANCE COSTS KEEP RISING, AND WHAT ACTUALLY HELPS LOWER THEM: APCIA CEO Says

    Welcome to The Connected Podcast, your go-to source for the latest news and events shaping the insurance industry landscape. In this episode, we delve into pressing topics that are redefining the insurance ecosystem. Join us as we explore the intricacies of rising insurance costs and the forces driving premium rates across the nation.   David Sampson, President and CEO of the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), sheds light on the factors influencing these trends, such as market exits, natural disaster losses, and rising construction costs. With these challenges persisting nationwide, we discuss potential strategies for industry stabilization, encouraging policyholders to secure affordable coverage proactively.   Unveiling Catastrophe Trends: The dominance of secondary perils, including wildfires and severe convective storms, has taken center stage in the 2025 catastrophe headlines. Alarmingly, these perils account for a significant 92% of global natural catastrophe insured losses, totaling USD 107 billion. The Los Angeles wildfires alone contributed around USD 40 billion in insured losses. As Swiss Re forecasts a potential rise in insured losses to USD 320 billion by 2026, an emphasis on adaptation and risk mitigation becomes essential, especially with growing population and asset values increasing exposure.   Weathering the Storm: In anticipation of the Atlantic hurricane season of 2026, AccuWeather forecasts 11 to 16 named storms, with up to seven hurricanes and possibly four major ones. Despite the developing El Niño potentially reducing storm formations, preparedness remains crucial as even a few impactful storms could result in significant damage.   The Rise of Agentic AI: Discover the transformative role of agentic artificial intelligence in the insurance sector, where unprecedented efficiencies are introduced. Unlike its predecessors, this AI autonomously plans and executes workflows, potentially reducing the standard 32-day claims processing time to mere hours. This innovation promises significant relief to policyholders while boosting operational efficiency for insurers grappling with escalating catastrophe severity and rising customer demands.   We also delve into the unfolding legal case of Otter.AI Privacy Litigation, drawing attention to the issue of consent in AI transcription tools. This U.S. District Court case in the Northern District of California has implications for businesses using AI notetakers, stressing the need for careful navigation of differing consent laws across jurisdictions, as highlighted by Bradford Kelley from Littler Mendelson.   Workplace Wellness: Addressing workplace health, we spotlight the hefty financial impact of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) on U.S. businesses, with losses amounting to $1 billion weekly. Prevention technologies are gaining traction, particularly when employees are involved in their implementation, effectively addressing injuries and enhancing well-being using wearable sensors and computer vision.   Liberty Mutual Insurance's Commitment: We highlight Liberty Mutual Insurance's announcement of a $600 million endowment to its foundation, marking a substantial investment in community support initiatives such as housing stability, workforce development, and climate resilience. This move underscores Liberty Mutual's ongoing commitment to corporate civic responsibility, reflecting the insurance sector's capacity to promote positive community change.   Furthermore, we address how natural disasters alongside general and social inflation are driving claims costs, particularly in high-risk asset areas. Insurers are encouraged to streamline operations and refine

    10 min

  5. 6D AGO

    The Most-Used Apps Behind the Wheel - Cambridge Mobile Telematics

    The Connected Podcast: Insurance News and Events The Connected Podcast: Insurance News and Events In a recent episode of The Connected Podcast, the conversation delved into the latest developments in the insurance ecosystem. The segment opened with insights from a nationwide survey of over 1,700 drivers, revealing surprising digital distractions on the road—from spreadsheet editing to burger ordering. These behaviors highlight concerning trends that insurers must consider to enhance road safety and risk assessments.   The podcast then shifted focus to Hippo Holdings' innovative changes, where they've launched an AI-driven claims workflow. Hippo's Chief Claims Officer, Peter Piotrowski, described the revamped process leveraging 'Clara from Claims,' a conversational AI agent that facilitates digital claims filing, capturing real-time data and improving workflow efficiency. Hippo anticipates that this technology will digitalize over seventy percent of claims, increasing accuracy and allowing adjusters to focus on complex, empathetic cases.   Further, Majesco's Spring '26 Release was discussed, highlighting how its new capabilities reduce operational friction in insurance. Majesco integrates task management, analytics, and AI into core processes, promoting agility and resilience. This release aims to automate workflows and provide real-time insights for underwriting, servicing, and claims operations.   Finally, Jeff Gill, EY Americas Insurance Sector Leader, shared insights on evolving growth strategies in an uncertain market. He emphasized the importance of disciplined decision-making, utilizing risk insights, AI, cost management, and partnerships to drive growth. Insurers are encouraged to leverage data and AI for better decision-making, ensuring customer-centric growth amidst challenges like social inflation and tight capital.   In a recent segment of The Connected Podcast, USA Business Insurance Services unveiled an analysis of occupational risks spotlighted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The 2024 forecast shows an alarming 2.5 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses among small business owners. The predominant injuries include sprains, strains, and tears, with healthcare, social assistance, retail, and manufacturing sectors featuring prominently. Transportation and warehousing reported the highest injury rate, suggesting an area ripe for insurance intervention. Construction, although having fewer injuries, remains high on the fatality scale, necessitating enhanced safety protocols.   In digital innovations, Honk Technologies’ sale to Frontenac and the acquisition of CurbsideSOS promises a transformative phase in roadside assistance, leveraging tech leadership from Grubhub. This move hints at AI-driven efficiencies, which could offer auto insurers new service dimensions.   The podcast also delved into InsurTech funding trends, noting a 19.5% increase in global investments in 2025. The U.S. led this surge, with a substantial portion funneled into AI-focused ventures, indicating a pivot towards advanced technological solutions. This trend underscores a dynamic juxtaposition between evolving financial strategies and tech advancements, suggesting a period of significant change in the insurance ecosystem.   In this segment of The Connected Podcast, the discussion kicks off with the alarming rise in cybercrime, noting that 78% of companies were hit by ransomware attacks in the past year. The segment highlights how different industries face unique cyber risks: healthcare must protect patient data and ensure operational continuity; manufa

    13 min

  6. APR 7

    Traffic deaths fell to record lows in 2025 per National Highway Safety Administration

    The Connected Podcast - Insurance Ecosystem The Connected Podcast Exploring the Insurance Ecosystem In this episode of The Connected Podcast, we delve into the latest trends and events shaping the insurance and automotive sectors. There's a notable reported decline in traffic fatalities for 2025, with a 6.7% decrease from the previous year, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Led by Secretary Duffy, the department has implemented strategic initiatives to enhance road safety by collaborating with law enforcement and promoting access to newer, safer vehicles.   In the automotive realm, challenges emerge as vehicles age and become more complex due to hybrid technologies, resulting in a 6% decline in new-vehicle sales in early 2026. Findings from CCC Intelligent Solutions indicate that older vehicles in need of repair are affecting the market, signaling a significant shift for repair shops to adapt to these complex, aging vehicles.   The insurance industry is also under scrutiny as former President Donald Trump criticizes companies, particularly State Farm, for inadequate responses during the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. Trump calls for a reevaluation of how insurance companies support policyholders, underlining the necessity for fair treatment in the aftermath of disasters. This discussion underscores critical issues in road safety, automotive repair adaptation, and insurance sector accountability, presenting unique challenges to stakeholders.   In the podcast's latest segment focused on the dynamic changes and developments within the U.S. insurance ecosystem, we highlight the property and casualty sector's commendable performance. A recent Moody's report reveals that a group of 20 key insurers saw their net income rise to $69 billion, supported by enhanced underwriting results and increased investment income. The sector benefited from a slight reduction in catastrophe losses, contributing to improved earnings, with investment income surging by 13% to reach $40 billion, as insurers reinvest in maturing fixed-income securities.   Moody's projects continued robust returns for the industry in 2026, albeit at a potentially slower growth rate, with the sector's solid capitalization and reduced reinsurance rates serving as key advantages. Moreover, artificial intelligence is expected to further enhance efficiency and revenue growth.   The rise of pay-per-mile auto insurance is also explored, presenting a competitive alternative to traditional policies amid a nearly 18% increase in auto premiums. This model, favored by offerings like Nationwide's SmartMiles and Allstate's Milewise, uses actual usage data to determine premiums, appealing to cost-conscious consumers. Insurers neglecting this approach risk losing market share. Guidewire's pricing innovations, such as PricingCenter, enable insurers to swiftly adopt dynamic, data-driven pricing strategies, capitalizing on the trend of usage-based insurance models.   In a discussion on workforce development, the podcast highlights a significant advancement for the Collision Engineering Career Alliance, which received a vital credential from the U.S. Department of Labor for its apprenticeship model. This recognition enhances their two-year hybrid program, offering graduates a federal credential in addition to an associate degree, providing collision repair shops access to career-ready technicians.   Natural disaster response takes center stage as Delos Insurance Solutions significantly expands coverage to over 1 mi

    13 min

  7. APR 6

    California drought, wildfire risks grow as snow falls short

    The Connected Podcast: Navigating the Insurance Ecosystem In our recent episode of The Connected Podcast, we delve deep into the pressing issues and notable developments within the insurance ecosystem. The episode kicks off with a critical look at California's precarious situation as it enters the dry season with a snowpack at just 18% of usual levels. This deficiency, particularly severe in the northern Sierra Nevada, portends exacerbated drought conditions, heightened wildfire risks, and impacts on agriculture and wildlife, underscoring the urgent need for effective resource management.   The conversation shifts to the legal complexities within the reinsurance sector, spotlighting Porch.com's partial legal victory against Gallagher Re. The lawsuit revolves around a reinsurance agreement for Porch's subsidiary, Homeowners of America Insurance, with issues connected to White Rock and the bankrupt Vesttoo. Fraudulent practices and contract breaches lie at the core, emphasizing the importance of due diligence and trust in broker-client relationships.   We also celebrate Nationwide's impressive journey as it embarks on its 100th year of operations. The company has reported a remarkable 7% increase in total sales and premiums, reaching $73.2 billion in 2025, alongside net operating income surpassing $4.29 billion. Nationwide's strategic expansions and partnerships, bolstered by a robust capital position, exemplify its resilience and capacity for sustained growth. CEO Kirt Walker highlights the mutual model's strength in balancing long-term objectives with customer needs, securing stability and growth in a challenging market.   This episode also shines a light on significant developments in the Florida insurance scene, where legislative reforms have tempered legal abuse and claim fraud, stabilizing the property and casualty market. Insurance Information Institute CEO, Sean Kevelighan, discusses the positive effects of stabilized premiums, increased competition, and reduced policies under Citizens Property Insurance Corp., resulting in consumer savings and an 8.7% prospective rate decrease.   In the digital domain, Allstate joins GEICO at the top of Keynova Group's Mobile Insurance Scorecards, with Progressive leading in mobile web performance. Meanwhile, Intact Financial Corporation stresses the importance of scale and AI investment to navigate market challenges, evidenced by a 33% rise in net operating income per share. Old Republic International Corporation is innovating with Old Republic Property, Inc., expanding its specialty property insurance products under the leadership of Patrick Hagerty, as part of its strategic expansion since 2021.   The podcast also explores intriguing marketing strategies shaping the American insurance landscape. Companies like GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, and Liberty Mutual are shifting from traditional product-focused advertising to character-driven campaigns. Iconic figures like GEICO’s Gecko, Progressive's Flo and Dr. Rick, Allstate’s Mayhem, and Liberty Mutual’s LiMu Emu illustrate a trend where clever branding takes precedence over product specifics, marking a paradigm shift in industry marketing strategy.   Highlighting financial success, Progressive has achieved a significant leap in earnings per share, from $1 in 2022 to $20 by 2025. This upswing prompts inquiries into whether gains arise from adept underwriting or favorable market conditions. Progressive's disciplined focus on underwriting standards and data utilization has bolstered its market st

    13 min

  8. APR 2

    Severe Convective Storm Losses Hit $208 Billion Over Three Years as Hail Emerges as Top Claims Driver

    Welcome to The Connected Podcast, where we navigate the dynamic world of insurance news and events, dissecting the key developments that shape this ever-evolving ecosystem. In our latest episode, we dive deep into the 2025 update on the U.S. property and casualty insurance market, revealing a surprisingly positive year inspired by a significant drop in catastrophic events, particularly hurricanes. With reports from Verisk and the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) citing a remarkable net underwriting gain of $63 billion — a stark rebound from the $22 billion loss in 2023 — it's evident that the near 90% decline in hurricane claims played a pivotal role in this turnaround.   As Saurabh Khemka from Verisk points out, this performance isn't attributed to a permanent risk reduction but rather the fortunate circumstance of fewer hurricanes making landfall. Yet, as AccuWeather forecasts a near or slightly below-average hurricane season in 2025, the importance of preparedness for potential impacts in regions like the Gulf Coast and Carolinas remains undiminished. Meanwhile, the developing El Niño could influence storm activity unpredictably. The collaborative efforts of AAA and the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety underscore the urgency of proactive preparation against volatile spring storm challenges, such as tornadoes and thunderstorms.   Jeff Jones from AAA emphasizes the insurance industry’s critical role in cultivating resilience against these unpredictable weather patterns, advocating for early action to minimize damage when severe weather strikes. Michael Quigley from Munich Re US highlights emerging climate effects and urban growth expanding the spectrum of risks, demanding a comprehensive management approach for insurers. The episode further explores advancements like JBA Risk Management's enhanced Global Flood Model for stress testing insurers' flood risk assessments and Cotality's severe convective storms scenario, both underscoring the necessity for robust preparedness and systemic responses.   Diving into technological innovations, we discuss LEEO's telematics-powered commercial auto insurance product, incentivizing safer driving and marking a critical shift towards the essential use of real-world driving data. The podcast also examines the significant adoption of AI in the industry, as reported by Gallagher's survey, yet highlights the urgent need for risk management frameworks to address operational and legal vulnerabilities. Additionally, despite a staggering 26% of US households experiencing water-related property damage, the underutilization of smart detection technology presents vital opportunities for insurers to advocate preventative solutions.   We close the episode with Gallagher Re's insights into global insurtech funding reaching new heights in 2025, particularly in property and casualty insurance segments. The episode encapsulates the industry's transformation propelled by tech innovations, growing infrastructure needs, and shifting risk patterns. From legislative reforms and strategic mergers to AI's transformative role, The Connected Podcast delivers a comprehensive look at what's driving change in the insurance world and the significant opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.   Links: Low cat losses fuelled strong results for U.S. P&C insurers in 2025: Verisk & APCIA Hurricane season could be quieter this year AAA Warns of Destructive Tornadoes, Hail, Flooding, and Severe Thunderstorms Why Insurers Must Own Their View of Risk. And How to Build It JBA launches enhanced global flood model featuring improved exposure disaggregation

    46 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Co-curated by Alan Demers and Stephen Applebaum, The Connected Podcast is a daily scan of all the happenings in the world of Insurance & InsurTech News.

Information

  • Creator
    Alan Demers and Stephen Applebaum
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    534
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Connected Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Connected Podcast

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