That Super Show

Neil Benson & Sarah Penn
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That Super Show brings you the latest news, insights and industry interviews to help Australian superannuation professionals improve retirement outcomes for Australians. Hosted by Sarah Penn, CEO of Mayflower Consulting, and Neil Benson, CEO of Superware.

  1. 1d ago

    Transforming Death Claims Handling: How CBUS Super Tackled Super’s Most Challenging Process

    #30. Cohosts Neil Benson and Sarah Penn chat with Kerry Vogel, Head of Insurance Claims, Performance and Delivery at CBUS Super. Today's conversation focuses on how CBUS Super responded to major failings in handling death claims by moving beyond surface fixes and fundamentally redesigning the process. The central argument: Australian super funds create unnecessary complexity and distress for grieving families by relying on outdated, paperwork-heavy systems, and CBUS has proven it’s possible (and necessary) to remove those frictions even within tight regulatory constraints. A key theme that emerged was how stripping away non-binding and lapsing nomination options, and instead prioritizing a single, digital-first, non-lapsing binding nomination, can mean faster, simpler outcomes, anchored in clear trust deed rules and tailored to real member behaviours. The discussion explored why simply throwing more staff at claim backlogs doesn’t work and how only deep, systemic change can build genuine trust with members. Several points were raised, including the regulatory grey areas around nominations, the human cost of delays, and the need to make processes as straightforward, and as empathetic, as possible. Who should listen Claims and operations leaders in Australian super funds struggling with legacy processes and regulatory pressureProduct or legal professionals considering trust deed reform or digital transformation of member nominationsTrustees and fund executives wary of adopting bold procedural changes post-regulatory action Guest: Kerry VogelConnect with Kerry Vogel on LinkedInFollow CBUS Super on LinkedInVisit CBUS Super website HighlightsKerry Vogel emphasizes that death claims are both a crucial responsibility and a complex challenge for superannuation funds, highlighting the emotional weight behind these processes.The podcast reveals how Kerry led efforts at CBUS Super to overhaul the death claims process, aiming to simplify and enhance member understanding of their benefits.A significant point discussed was the need for clarity in binding nominations, as many members mistakenly believe their nominations are more definitive than they are, illustrating a gap in financial literacy.Kerry's approach includes not just streamlining procedures but also ensuring that the claims team maintains empathy, recognizing the human stories behind each claim.The conversation touched on the importance of regulatory compliance while seeking innovative solutions to make the claims process more efficient and user-friendly.Kerry stresses the continuous nature of improvement, suggesting that the claims process will always evolve, reflecting the need to stay responsive to member needs and industry changes. Chapters00:00 Examining superannuation challenges 04:23 Challenges in Death Claim Processing 10:56 Ensuring valid member nominations 15:01 Dealing with death claim objections 18:54 Discussing estate distribution process 21:00 Addressing nominations and trustee discretion 24:17 Ensuring policy transparency 28:26 Issues with binding nominations 31:40 Implementing a new claims process 35:52 Simplifying call center processes 38:09 Analyzing and improving death claims 40:01 Discussing problem-solving approaches That Super ShowThat Super Show is the most downloaded podcast for Australian superannuation professionals. Sarah and Neil cover the issues, debates and decisions shaping the industry - without the spin. Subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and don't forget to leave us a rating and review. Visit That Super Show website and become a newsletter subscriberEmail hello@thatsuper.show if you've got a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest proposal or suggestionFollow That Super Show on LinkedInFollow That Super Show on YouTube Your CohostsSarah Penn Sarah Penn is the CEO and founder of Mayflower Consulting, an Australian financial services consultancy specialising in product governance, PDS management, and product operating model design. Her team works with super funds, fund managers, and investment platforms across Australia. Connect with Sarah on LinkedInFollow Mayflower Consulting on LinkedInVisit Mayflower Consulting website Neil Benson Neil Benson is the global chief product officer at ChandlerCX, where he leads a team focused on intelligent customer messaging for regulated organisations, including superannuation funds, banks, insurers, utilities and public sector organisations. His AI startup, Novagentic, was acquired by ChandlerCX in February 2026. Connect with Neil on LinkedInFollow ChandlerCX on LinkedInVisit ChandlerCX website Mentioned in this episode: Chandler CX Digital Forms  You know that eight-page PDF form that scares off half your members before they finish page two? We turn it into a smart, mobile-first digital form. Prefilled, validated in real time, signed on the spot and straight through processed into your registry. https://www.chandler.com.au/cx-receive/receive ChandlerCX

    43 min

  2. Jun 15

    From Barbell to Ecosystem: Rethinking Member Engagement and Advice in Super with Duncan McPherson

    #29. Guest Duncan McPherson, founder of Borromean Consulting and former Link Advice CEO, joins Sarah and Neil to dig into the evolving intersection of advice and superannuation delivery. The discussion challenges the old idea that there’s a single operating model for advice within funds, arguing instead that the critical issue is how and where each fund draws the line between in-house and external capabilities—a threshold that's now shifting under regulatory, commercial, and technological pressures. The conversation highlights a growing urgency for funds to modernise advice: digital advice is no longer a "bolt-on" but must be woven into the core service ecosystem. Members’ expectations are shaped by the rapid adoption of AI and digital experiences in other sectors—even as Australian consumers remain cautious and want to see human support layered into these new models. The industry’s own conservatism—with compliance teams sometimes slow to adapt after the Royal Commission—is now a real competitive risk, as members increasingly seek quick, personalised answers from tech-driven sources outside the traditional super system. Funds also face a tough commercial reality: new member acquisition is costly and pointless if those members leave quickly. Retention hinges on a consistent, personalised member experience, and advice—particularly digital advice—plays a central role in building ongoing engagement throughout a member’s lifetime, not just at joining or retirement. For those juggling advisor relationships, Duncan notes the tension: advisors can become a channel for assets to leave, especially if funds are seen as hard partners. Making advisor access easy and valued—through dedicated portals, integrated data, and clear strategy—is the only way for funds to remain in the game. Chapters00:18 - Exploring Financial Guidance Options for Superannuation Funds 09:48 - The Future of Advice in Superannuation 17:56 - Consumer Trust and Digital Engagement in Finance 20:10 - The Evolution of Digital Advice in Superannuation 35:20 - Navigating Relationships Between Advisors and Super Funds 41:30 - The Future of Financial Advice Guest: Duncan McPhersonConnect with Duncan McPherson on LinkedInVisit Borromean Consulting website Mentioned in this episode: Chandler CX Digital Forms  You know that eight-page PDF form that scares off half your members before they finish page two? We turn it into a smart, mobile-first digital form. Prefilled, validated in real time, signed on the spot and straight through processed into your registry. https://www.chandler.com.au/cx-receive/receive ChandlerCX

    46 min

  3. Jun 3

    Supercharged Conversations: Unpacking the Future Fund Admin Forum 2026

    #28. Join Sarah and Neil as they recap from day two at the Future Fund Admin 2026 forum in Sydney. This episode argues that super funds can’t achieve real member experience improvements by relying only on surface-level changes—like updated communication—without fixing the underlying systems and rules that shape every customer interaction. Through firsthand stories and honest discussion, the hosts show why complexity and legacy processes frustrate members and staff alike, and why personalisation efforts often walk a fine line between helpful and intrusive. The episode pushes leaders to rethink what “good” looks like and to get comfortable questioning long-held ways of doing things. Who should listen Member operations and service leaders wrestling with complaints about process complexityFund digital and product teams struggling to make personalisation feel supportive, not creepyCommunications managers tasked with responding to unhappy members when the root cause is out of their hands “If the underlying machinery isn’t any good… then somehow expecting that communications will somehow magically fix it is… magical thinking.” — SarahHighlightsThe podcast dives deep into the evolving superannuation landscape, highlighting the pivotal role of member experience over technical jargon, which makes for a refreshing change.Listeners are reminded that even industry experts can struggle with superannuation processes, emphasizing the need for clearer communication across the board.Mary Payne's heartfelt story about her father's experience with super funds underscored the emotional weight behind the industry's technicalities, making it relatable.The conversation touches on the idea that improving member experience isn't just about technology, but fundamentally about understanding and addressing real human needs and emotions.Changing the trust deed was a surprising move discussed at the conference, showcasing that bold steps are being taken to enhance service delivery in superannuation.The episode wraps up with a light-hearted yet serious examination of the balance between data surveillance and genuine member engagement, leaving listeners with much to ponder. That Super ShowThat Super Show is the most downloaded podcast for Australian superannuation professionals. Sarah and Neil cover the issues, debates and decisions shaping the industry - without the spin. Subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and don't forget to leave us a rating and review. Visit That Super Show website and become a newsletter subscriberEmail hello@thatsuper.show if you've got a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest proposal or suggestionFollow That Super Show on LinkedInFollow That Super Show on YouTube Your CohostsSarah Penn Sarah Penn is the CEO and founder of Mayflower Consulting, an Australian financial services consultancy specialising in product governance, PDS management, and product operating model design. Her team works with super funds, fund managers, and investment platforms across Australia. Connect with Sarah on LinkedInFollow Mayflower Consulting on LinkedInVisit Mayflower Consulting website Neil Benson Neil Benson is the global chief product officer at ChandlerCX, where he leads a team focused on intelligent customer messaging for regulated organisations, including superannuation funds, banks, insurers, utilities and public sector organisations. His AI startup, Novagentic, was acquired by ChandlerCX in February 2026. Connect with Neil on LinkedInFollow ChandlerCX on LinkedInVisit ChandlerCX website Mentioned in this episode: ChandlerCX Internactive Statements It’s annual statement time for superannuation funds and ChandlerCX is busy developing interactive statements that are engaging personalised microsites for members. Think of it like Spotify Wrapped for superannuation. Visit https://www.chandler.com.au/add-ons/interactive-statements. ChandlerCX ChandlerCX Internactive Statements It’s annual statement time for superannuation funds and ChandlerCX is busy developing interactive statements that are engaging personalised microsites for members. Think of it like Spotify Wrapped for superannuation. Visit https://www.chandler.com.au/add-ons/interactive-statements. ChandlerCX

    24 min

  4. Jun 3

    Day One Highlights from the IBRC Future Fund Admin Conference

    #27. Join Sarah and Neil as they recap from day one at the Future Fund Admin 2026 forum in Sydney. This episode grapples with whether Australia’s superannuation industry will really consolidate to just a handful of mega funds—and what that could mean for members, small funds, and fund administrators caught between regulatory expectations and practical realities. Sarah and Neil unpack how the growing focus on members’ real experiences is colliding with operational constraints, regulatory change, and technology. Who should listen: Fund administrators weighing the costs and risks of consolidation, especially anyone managing a small or niche fund.Trustees or CEOs facing pressure over future business models and trustee structures.Operations and communications managers responsible for major regulatory rollouts (like Payday Super), wondering how to actually reach small employers. “If you're a very big fund, there is nothing in your members’ best interest to take on the small ones.” — SarahThat Super ShowThat Super Show is the most downloaded podcast for Australian superannuation professionals. Sarah and Neil cover the issues, debates and decisions shaping the industry - without the spin. Subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and don't forget to leave us a rating and review. Visit That Super Show website and become a newsletter subscriberEmail hello@thatsuper.show if you've got a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest proposal or suggestionFollow That Super Show on LinkedInFollow That Super Show on YouTube Your CohostsSarah Penn Sarah Penn is the CEO and founder of Mayflower Consulting, an Australian financial services consultancy specialising in product governance, PDS management, and product operating model design. Her team works with super funds, fund managers, and investment platforms across Australia. Connect with Sarah on LinkedInFollow Mayflower Consulting on LinkedInVisit Mayflower Consulting website Neil Benson Neil Benson is the global chief product officer at ChandlerCX, where he leads a team focused on intelligent customer messaging for regulated organisations, including superannuation funds, banks, insurers, utilities and public sector organisations. His AI startup, Novagentic, was acquired by ChandlerCX in February 2026. Connect with Neil on LinkedInFollow ChandlerCX on LinkedInVisit ChandlerCX website Mentioned in this episode: ChandlerCX Internactive Statements It’s annual statement time for superannuation funds and ChandlerCX is busy developing interactive statements that are engaging personalised microsites for members. Think of it like Spotify Wrapped for superannuation. Visit https://www.chandler.com.au/add-ons/interactive-statements. ChandlerCX

    17 min

  5. May 18

    Industry-Platform Partnerships, AI in Member Comms, APRA Cautions, and Telstra Super’s Big Merger

    #26. Co-hosts Neil Benson and Sarah Penn break down the latest superannuation shake-ups and tech trends. HighlightsIndustry super funds are now experiencing net outflows to retail funds, with $4.3 billion switching over two years. Sarah Penn questions whether proposed partnerships between industry funds and retail platforms actually benefit members, suggesting they may simply repackage underused direct investment models. Australians are warming up again to financial advice, with both hosts championing the difference quality advice makes.ART is using AI to improve the readability of member communications and transcribe adviser meetings, sparking a debate on literacy levels and member engagement. Meanwhile, Westpac’s massive Microsoft Copilot rollout and TAL’s chatbot and voice analytics innovations show how AI is moving deeper into finance, although Neil Benson wonders if adoption is as widespread as press releases imply. Regulators aren’t entirely convinced either, with APRA calling for stricter governance and risk controls around new AI solutions.A new proposal to automatically convert all super accounts to pension phase by age 75 aims to ensure retirement savings are actually spent in retirement—a move the hosts broadly support. As Telstra Super merges into Aware Super, further cementing industry consolidation, the fate of smaller funds comes into question. With APRA doubling down on trustee accountability and operational oversight, the message is clear: no matter your size, there’s no passing the buck when it comes to member interests. That Super ShowThat Super Show is the most downloaded podcast for Australian superannuation professionals. Sarah and Neil cover the issues, debates and decisions shaping the industry - without the spin. Subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and don't forget to leave us a rating and review. Visit That Super Show website and become a newsletter subscriberEmail hello@thatsuper.show if you've got a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest proposal or suggestionFollow That Super Show on LinkedInFollow That Super Show on YouTube Your CohostsSarah Penn Sarah Penn is the CEO and founder of Mayflower Consulting, an Australian financial services consultancy specialising in product governance, PDS management, and product operating model design. Her team works with super funds, fund managers, and investment platforms across Australia. Connect with Sarah on LinkedInFollow Mayflower Consulting on LinkedInVisit Mayflower Consulting website Neil Benson Neil Benson is the global chief product officer at ChandlerCX, where he leads a team focused on intelligent customer messaging for regulated organisations, including superannuation funds, banks, insurers, utilities and public sector organisations. His AI startup, Novagentic, was acquired by ChandlerCX in February 2026. Connect with Neil on LinkedInFollow ChandlerCX on LinkedInVisit ChandlerCX website Mentioned in this episode: Chandler CX Digital Forms  You know that eight-page PDF form that scares off half your members before they finish page two? We turn it into a smart, mobile-first digital form. Prefilled, validated in real time, signed on the spot and straight through processed into your registry. https://www.chandler.com.au/cx-receive/receive ChandlerCX

    28 min

  6. May 11

    Superannuation Reforms: Switching Delays, Lead Generation, and Compensation Challenges

    #25. Should retirees be forced to take a pension? Why are Treasury’s latest consultation papers sending shockwaves through the super industry? We break it down for you in this episode. Highlights1. Enhancing Member Protections in the Super SystemThe definition of a platform trustee — and why it matters (02:08)Increased penalties for misconduct: who really ends up paying? (05:05)Proposed waiting periods for super fund switching: policy fail or protection? (06:19)How compensation proposals could change platform oversight (11:00) 2. Curbing Lead Generation ActivityShould lead generators be licensed like financial advisors? (18:19)Practical limits on financial product advertising and social media marketing (20:20)The ongoing crackdown on “finfluencers” and general advice (23:45) 3. Compensation Scheme of Last Resort (CSLR)Why SMSFs are making most of the claims, and why Neil believes they should pay a levy (25:25)Is the CSLR a fair system, or just a cost passed to trustworthy advisors? (26:02)Should government step in as the safety net instead? (30:19) 🔑 Key TakeawaysWaiting periods for super switching: Sarah argues these do little to protect consumers and mostly benefit big funds (07:34).Platform responsibility: Neil and Sarah both support stricter platform oversight, especially when large sums move into single risky investment options (13:14).Lead generation reform: Marketing firms involved in product distribution should fall under AFSL licensing, making enforcement easier and consumer harm less likely (19:17).CSLR funding: Most compensation claims come from SMSFs; making them contribute seems logical, but the hosts suggest a government backstop would be even better (29:16). 👉 Have Your SayWorking in super? Treasury is seeking feedback on these proposals. Got strong views? Sarah and Neil want to hear from you. Drop them a line or reply to this email if you’d like to come on the show. That Super ShowThat Super Show is the most downloaded podcast for Australian superannuation professionals. Sarah and Neil cover the issues, debates and decisions shaping the industry - without the spin. Subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and don't forget to leave us a rating and review. Visit That Super Show website and become a newsletter subscriberEmail hello@thatsuper.show if you've got a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest proposal or suggestionFollow That Super Show on LinkedInFollow That Super Show on YouTube Your CohostsSarah Penn Sarah Penn is the CEO and founder of Mayflower Consulting, an Australian financial services consultancy specialising in product governance, PDS management, and product operating model design. Her team works with super funds, fund managers, and investment platforms across Australia. Connect with Sarah on LinkedInFollow Mayflower Consulting on LinkedInVisit Mayflower Consulting website Neil Benson Neil Benson is the global chief product officer at ChandlerCX, where he leads a team focused on intelligent customer messaging for regulated organisations, including superannuation funds, banks, insurers, utilities and public sector organisations. His AI startup, Novagentic, was acquired by ChandlerCX in February 2026. Connect with Neil on LinkedInFollow ChandlerCX on LinkedInVisit ChandlerCX website

    33 min

  7. Apr 21

    Super Advertising Bans to Employees, Advisor Education Reforms, and the Unintended Consequences of the Performance Test

    #24. On this episode of That Super Show, co-hosts Neil Benson and Sarah Penn break down the Treasury’s proposed ban on super fund advertising during onboarding, the shakeup in advisor education requirements, and dig into why APRA and the ATO are getting twitchy about payday super implementation (spoiler: small business, we see you…). Plus, are performance tests quietly killing investment innovation in Australia? HighlightsSuperannuation advertising ban consultation launches - employers can only display employee's stapled fund, employer's default fund, or a MySuper product from another fund. Bill has passed both houses, now Treasury is consulting on the regulations to support it.Education reform for financial advisers - Consult hub - Treasury has launched consultation paper regarding new class of financial advisors as part of DBFO T2.Payday Super Readiness | APRA - ATO and APRA have published a letter to RSEs to brace themselves and buckle up! APRA has concerns about some funds' readiness for Payday Super.‘Parliamentary Friends’ launch sharpens focus on super - Super ReviewSuperannuation performance test is stuck in red tape and could be creating a stagnant economy - performance test doesn't encourage outperformance, it discourages underperformance. As a result, money flows into indices, not into innovation. That Super ShowThat Super Show is the most downloaded podcast for Australian superannuation professionals. Sarah and Neil cover the issues, debates and decisions shaping the industry - without the spin. Subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and don't forget to leave us a rating and review. Visit That Super Show website and become a newsletter subscriberEmail hello@thatsuper.show if you've got a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest proposal or suggestionFollow That Super Show on LinkedInFollow That Super Show on YouTube Your CohostsSarah Penn Sarah Penn is the CEO and founder of Mayflower Consulting, an Australian financial services consultancy specialising in product governance, PDS management, and product operating model design. Her team works with super funds, fund managers, and investment platforms across Australia. Connect with Sarah on LinkedInFollow Mayflower Consulting on LinkedInVisit Mayflower Consulting website Neil Benson Neil Benson is the global chief product officer at ChandlerCX, where he leads a team focused on intelligent customer messaging for regulated organisations, including superannuation funds, banks, insurers, utilities and public sector organisations. His AI startup, Novagentic, was acquired by ChandlerCX in February 2026. Connect with Neil on LinkedInFollow ChandlerCX on LinkedInVisit ChandlerCX website Mentioned in this episode: Mayflower Consulting  This episode is brought to you by Mayflower Consulting. If your product team is capable, stretched, and the important structural work keeps getting pushed, that's where we come in. We embed with your team, get the work done, and leave you more capable. Mayflower Consulting

    27 min

  8. Apr 15

    Insurance Gaps, Member Service, and International Investment Trends Impacting Super Funds

    #23 Welcome to That Super Show, your inside look at Australia’s superannuation industry. Neil Benson and Sarah Penn dive into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping super—from industry roadshows in the US to advances in AI, and the evolving insurance landscape. They discuss why Australian funds are looking globally for investments, the efficiency and value of industry trips, and how regulation is impacting innovation. The episode also tackles important issues like the insurance gap for young blue-collar workers and the sharp rise in complaints within the sector, highlighting leadership changes and reflecting on the balance between investment returns and member services. HighlightsNeil's recent acquisition of Novagentic by Chandler CX marks a thrilling new chapter in his career, bringing fresh perspectives to the world of superannuation and customer communications.The Australian superannuation sector is on a global exploration for investment opportunities, highlighted by recent trips to the US that showcased the importance of networking and learning from international counterparts.The podcast duo humorously navigates the complexities of superannuation, discussing everything from AI adoption challenges in the sector to the dire insurance gaps affecting blue-collar workers under 25.Bill Watson's candid farewell interview underscores a critical industry dilemma: striking a balance between delivering investment returns and prioritizing genuine member service in superannuation funds. ArticlesASFA warns super insurance reforms have left thousands uncovered - Super ReviewAustralian superannuation sector plans to woo US investors, companies and Trump officials in Washington galaBuilding a Stronger and Fairer Super System Act 2026 – Draft Regulations'We've let our members down': Watson | Financial StandardAFCA receives record number of complaints in 2025 calendar year That Super ShowThat Super Show is the most downloaded podcast for Australian superannuation professionals. Sarah and Neil cover the issues, debates and decisions shaping the industry - without the spin. Subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and don't forget to leave us a rating and review. Visit That Super Show website and become a newsletter subscriberEmail hello@thatsuper.show if you've got a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest proposal or suggestionFollow That Super Show on LinkedInFollow That Super Show on YouTube Your CohostsSarah Penn Sarah Penn is the CEO and founder of Mayflower Consulting, an Australian financial services consultancy specialising in product governance, PDS management, and product operating model design. Her team works with super funds, fund managers, and investment platforms across Australia. Connect with Sarah on LinkedInFollow Mayflower Consulting on LinkedInVisit Mayflower Consulting website Neil Benson Neil Benson is the global chief product officer at ChandlerCX, where he leads a team focused on intelligent customer messaging for regulated organisations, including superannuation funds, banks, insurers, utilities and public sector organisations. His AI startup, Novagentic, was acquired by ChandlerCX in February 2026. Connect with Neil on LinkedInFollow ChandlerCX on LinkedInVisit ChandlerCX website Mentioned in this episode: Mayflower Consulting  This episode is brought to you by Mayflower Consulting. If your product team is capable, stretched, and the important structural work keeps getting pushed, that's where we come in. We embed with your team, get the work done, and leave you more capable. Mayflower Consulting

    27 min
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About

That Super Show brings you the latest news, insights and industry interviews to help Australian superannuation professionals improve retirement outcomes for Australians. Hosted by Sarah Penn, CEO of Mayflower Consulting, and Neil Benson, CEO of Superware.

Information

  • Creator
    Neil Benson & Sarah Penn
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Neil Benson & Sarah Penn
  • Show Website
    That Super Show

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