Research Insights, a Society of Actuaries Podcast

February is often associated with Valentine's Day—a time when many people reflect on partnerships, shared goals, and planning for the future together. In this classic Research Insights episode, the conversation revisits how those themes show up in real life through retirement planning and decision-making among early middle-aged adults.
The episode explores what research reveals about balancing individual priorities with shared household goals, how couples and families navigate joint financial choices, and why decisions made during these years can have a lasting impact on long-term financial security and well-being.
Tune in to hear key takeaways from the research—and consider how these insights can inform better planning and conversations at home.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Longevity Brief with Siegel and Clark—a new podcast series from the Society of Actuaries Research Institute designed to give listeners a periodic "sneak peek" at what's ahead in the Aging & Retirement and Mortality & Longevity Strategic Research Programs.
Host Rose Northon, Research Communications Coordinator at the SOA Research Institute, is joined by two familiar voices: Steve Siegel, Senior Practice Research Actuary and head of the Aging & Retirement Strategic Research Program, and Kara Clark, Senior Practice Research Actuary and head of the Mortality & Longevity Strategic Research Program.
In this kickoff conversation, Steve shares highlights from recent work—including findings from the Retirement Risk Survey, research on "solo agers," caregiving, and what's coming next (including new survey work and opportunities to get involved).
Kara discusses key developments in mortality and longevity research, including updated socioeconomic mortality work, the SOA Longevity Illustrator's visibility, the Quarterly Mortality Monitoring Report, and upcoming research focused on older-age mortality and cardiovascular health.
Tune in to hear what's gaining attention now—and what's on the horizon in longevity research.

In this episode of Research Insights, we revisit a conversation originally featured in the Young Professional Advisory Council (YPAC) Podcast Series. Host Tasso Buntivas, Vice Chair of YPAC, speaks with Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute.
Dale provides an in-depth look into the SOA's research initiatives—from experience studies and practice research to emerging topics such as artificial intelligence, climate risk, and longevity modeling. He also explains how the SOA's research informs public policy, shapes industry practices, and delivers societal value.
This engaging discussion offers valuable insight for both early-career and experienced actuaries interested in contributing to or better understanding the impact of actuarial research. Dale shares the many ways actuaries can get involved, regardless of background or experience level.
Whether you're curious about how research priorities are set or seeking ways to contribute, this episode offers a compelling look at the people, process, and purpose behind SOA research.

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, this episode of the Research Insights Podcast invites listeners to reflect on equity, ethics, and professional responsibility. The episode revisits the compelling discussion titled "Race, Precept 1 & Professional Integrity: The Tale of Frederick L. Hoffman," which explores the historical context and actuarial implications of biased data and unethical practices.
Through a thoughtful conversation, this episode challenges actuaries and professionals alike to examine the impact of historical bias in data, the role of Precept 1 of the Code of Professional Conduct, and how integrity must underpin actuarial work.
As we commemorate Dr. King's legacy, we encourage listeners to think deeply about fairness, justice, and the responsibilities that come with professional designation.
Listen now and join the ongoing dialogue on ethics and equity in the actuarial profession.

In this special episode of the Society of Actuaries Research Insights Podcast, Lisa Schilling, Director of Practice Research at the SOA Research Institute, is joined by four members of the Student Research Case Study Challenge (SRCSC) Committee: Elizabeth Alleman, Carlos Arocha, Russell Hendel, and Lisa Ullman. Together, they share valuable advice and insider tips to help students around the world prepare for the annual Student Research Case Study Challenge.
From advice on writing clearly and concisely for a business audience to strategies for managing imperfect data and working effectively in teams, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to excelling in the challenge. The conversation also covers how submissions are judged, how non-native English speakers can succeed, and the important role of faculty advisors.
To learn more about the Student Research Case Study Challenge and access current and past cases, visit: https://www.soa.org/research/opportunities/2026-student-research-case-study-challenge/