Health Section: Bridging Data Science and Actuarial Science

In this episode Joe Alaimo interviews Jeremy Levitt.  Actuarial models are central to decision-making across insurance, finance, and risk management—but without proper validation, even the most sophisticated models can lead to costly errors. In this episode, Joe and Jeremy take a deep dive into model validation: defining its purpose, outlining key procedures, and highlighting the risks of getting it wrong. Jeremy shares expert insight on balancing thorough analysis with real-world constraints like timelines and budget, while also addressing cultural and structural barriers to effective validation. We also explore how AI is beginning to influence model validation, from automated testing to AI-driven challenger models. Whether you're a practicing actuary, a risk professional, or a stakeholder relying on actuarial outputs, this conversation offers valuable guidance on how to build confidence in your models—and the decisions they support.

Join host Tiana Zhao as she explores the transformative power of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) in the world of marketing and distribution actuarial work. This episode of the SOA Marketing and Distribution podcast dives deep into: The fundamentals of OKR methodology and its adoption by tech giants How OKRs can enhance clarity, focus, and measurable outcomes for actuaries A practical example of implementing OKRs in an insurance company setting Strategies for marketing and distribution actuaries to leverage OKRs effectively

Join host Justin Le, ASA, MAAA for a talk with Kate Smith FSA, MAAA about finding meaning and purpose in our work as actuaries. Kate is a Director and Actuary working in Valuation at Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company. In this episode Kate shares her perspective and advice on connecting her work to the impact on her company’s members.

Listen as Danny Moore interviews Charlie Larimer on Epidemiology and Predictive Analytics.  Listen as Charlie gives his insight on applying predictive analytics techniques to determine drivers of health outcomes in differing populations and regions.

This interview featured Amanda Hug, the president and chair of the Society of Actuaries, discussing the role of actuaries in building trust with AI models. Amanda shared a personal anecdote from a trip to Uganda, highlighting the global reputation of actuaries. The discussion covered the importance of integrity, excellence, and professionalism in the actuarial field and provided advice on incorporating AI into actuarial processes while maintaining ethical standards.  Contributors: Amanda Hug, FSA, MAAA ;  Jon Forster, ASA, MAAA Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe!

Arielle Galinsky—Harvard Kennedy School MPP candidate, JD candidate at Yale Law School, and advocate for aging with dignity—joins host Roger Loomis for a wide-ranging conversation on caregiving, aging, and how her generation sees the future of LTC financing.

Listen to this interview with Whitney Pratt – an actuary who leads a team of data scientists – about similarities and differences of the two fields and how we can better work together.  If you are an actuary wanting to know more about data science, or trying to choose between the two career paths, this is a must listen!

Becoming credentialed is one of the major goals for an actuary, but what does life look like after? Join Carly Mauro, FSA, MAAA and Chris Lombardi, FSA, MAAA as they discuss “the void” and how to approach personal growth, investing time in the community and the SOA, and professional development after exams. 

SOA is proud to present the audio version of the winning entry in the 2024-25 Speculative Fiction Contest, Faulty Medication by Brian Tajlili, FSA, MAAA. Here is what the contest's literary judge, Dr. Bob Mielke, had to say, “Nothing but positives here. A plausible and timely scenario, excellent world-building, vivid incidents, lively and detailed, polished and very well-written. …This story has a real shot at publication even beyond the realm of actuaries.” Find the written version at https://www.soa.org/sections/2024-25-speculative-fiction-art/    

Join host Tiana Zhao, FSA, CERA, as she explores the emerging field of marketing actuaries in this insightful episode of the SOA Marketing and Distribution podcast. Discover how these professionals blend actuarial science with marketing strategies to drive data-informed business decisions. Tiana breaks down the key responsibilities of marketing actuaries, including data analysis, predictive modeling, customer segmentation, and pricing optimization. Learn how this evolving role is shaping the future of marketing in our increasingly data-driven business landscape. Whether you're an actuary looking to expand your skillset or a marketing professional curious about the power of actuarial science, this episode offers valuable insights into this exciting intersection of disciplines.