IRMI Podcast: Recent Episodes
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From on-site at the 2026 IRMI Energy Risk & Insurance Conference, this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI explores forces influencing today's energy insurance market. Join host Joel Appelbaum and David Artzerounian, property and casualty client executive and partner at USI Insurance Services, as they dive into underwriting and capacity shifts, risk management innovations, and alternative risk financing solutions. This episode offers practical insights for navigating an increasingly dynamic risk landscape.
Want to get ahead in your career faster than your peers? In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum sits down with Fela Abioye, middle-market underwriting leader at The Hartford and author of How to Corporate. They discuss the skills nobody teaches you in school but every successful professional needs to master.
Fela shares the lessons he wishes he had known earlier, including how to build influence, create a personal brand, develop meaningful professional relationships, and accept feedback.
If you've ever wondered why some talented professionals advance while others stall, this conversation provides an honest look at the unwritten rules, relationship-building strategies, and leadership habits that can make a lasting impact on your career. Don't miss this practical road map for succeeding in today's workplace.
What key insights emerged from the sold-out Women in Energy Risk & Insurance Collaboration session at the 2026 IRMI Energy Risk & Insurance Conference? In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum sits down with Christine Palomba, deputy head of natural resources at Howden U.S., to discover what it takes to thrive.
Listen as they examine the realities of work-life balance, the critical role relationships play in career advancement, and the difference between mentorship and sponsorship. They also explore the importance of building confidence, taking calculated risks, and embracing feedback.
More than just a conversation about women in business, this episode provides a blueprint for leadership, resilience, career growth, and the power of lifting others as you climb.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) scrutiny of captive insurance companies has increased in recent years, but what are regulators and courts actually evaluating? In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Joel Appelbaum is joined by George Belokas, president of GPW and Associates, chair of the Self-Insurance Institute of America Captive Committee, and president of the Arizona Captive Insurance Association, to discuss the insurance fundamentals that support well-managed captive insurance companies. Drawing on his actuarial and industry leadership experience, Mr. Belokas explains why the focus extends beyond tax elections to whether a captive is genuinely operating as an insurance company.
The conversation explores the importance of actuarially sound pricing and reserving, risk transfer and risk distribution, and the lessons emerging from recent IRS regulations and court decisions. Mr. Belokas also discusses governance, documentation, and emerging risks such as cyber liability, employee health care, and supply chain disruption, and he explains why captive owners should regularly evaluate whether their captive continues to align with changing organizational risks. He concludes with practical guidance on maintaining strong underwriting, governance, and long-term operational discipline while navigating an evolving regulatory environment.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Joel Appelbaum sits down with Carly Pye to talk about how majoring in risk management and insurance (RMI) changed her future. Carly shares the internships, networking opportunities, and real-world experiences that turned a college program into a career path she genuinely is excited about.
Carly and Joel talk candidly about how, originally, she did not think a career in insurance was for her, but the opportunities her RMI major has given her made Carly fully buy into the insurance industry.
Joel and Carly's conversation unlocks what makes a great internship and how to make the most out of your college experience. Listen in, and you may find out that the insurance industry is one of the best-kept secrets for students looking for a rewarding career.
When should an organization seriously consider forming a captive insurance company—and when is it better to wait? In this Captive Insurance 101 episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Joel Appelbaum speaks with T.J. Scherer, vice president at Spring Consulting Group, about the practical questions organizations should ask before pursuing a captive. The discussion explains what typically prompts companies to explore alternative risk financing, how to distinguish common misconceptions from legitimate opportunities, and why the decision extends far beyond premium size alone.
T.J. also walks through the key elements of a captive feasibility evaluation, including total cost of risk, capital requirements, organizational readiness, leadership alignment, and long-term business strategy. Listeners will learn why captives are strategic risk management tools rather than quick cost-saving solutions, how organizations should think about group versus single-parent structures, and what a typical feasibility study can—and cannot—tell decision-makers before moving forward.
Agriculture is increasingly affected by forces far beyond the farm gate—from commodity markets and interest rates to global economic uncertainty. In this 13-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Scott Shellady, better known as "The Cow Guy," shares his unique perspective on the trends shaping agriculture and risk today. Scott also offers a preview of his keynote address at the IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference, set for August 31–September 2 in Nashville, where he'll discuss navigating uncertainty and finding opportunity in a rapidly changing agricultural economy.
The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI welcomes Hank Dutton, senior technical specialist at Travelers Insurance and certified lift director, in a highly informative discussion on cranes and rigging exposures. Hank highlights important areas of focus, such as roles that should be clarified within rental agreements and where projects get tripped up regarding ground conditions. As an "encore" to Hank's popular session presented at the 2025 IRMI Construction Risk Conference, this talk also provides solutions to avoid unexpected exposures regarding cranes and rigging at a construction site.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing how captive insurance companies and risk retention groups operate, but where does it create the greatest value, and where should human expertise remain firmly in control?
In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Joel Appelbaum is joined by Julie Bordo, president and CEO of PCH Mutual Insurance Company, a Vermont-domiciled healthcare risk retention group serving assisted living and personal care homes across the United States. Julie explains how her organization has used AI to improve claims administration, underwriting workflows, legal operations, and member services while maintaining strong governance and regulatory oversight. The conversation explores how a lean captive organization can use AI to automate repetitive work, summarize complex claims files, enhance operational efficiency, and free staff to focus on strategy and risk management rather than administrative tasks.
Julie also discusses why AI should be viewed as a collaborative assistant rather than a replacement for human judgment. She shares practical guidance on AI governance, cyber security, prompt validation, and organizational policies, while offering advice for captive owners and risk retention groups looking to adopt AI responsibly. The discussion also provides valuable background on how risk retention groups operate within the captive insurance industry and why their collaborative structure supports innovation and specialized risk management.
Self-procurement tax is an often overlooked aspect of captive insurance that can create significant compliance and financial implications if not properly addressed. In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum is joined by Allan Autry, CPA and partner at Johnson Lambert, to explore when self-procurement tax applies, why it exists, and how it affects organizations using captive insurance companies. Allan explains the distinction between premium tax and self-procurement tax, discusses the impact of the Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act, and outlines how an insured's home state is determined for tax purposes.
The conversation also examines common misconceptions surrounding self-procurement tax, practical compliance considerations, and the challenges organizations face when operating across multiple jurisdictions. Allan shares insights on how self-procurement tax can influence captive domicile decisions, why it should be included in feasibility studies, and how fronting arrangements may alter tax obligations. The discussion concludes with a look at increasing state enforcement activity and steps captive owners and risk managers can take to stay ahead of potential compliance exposures.
Insurers use risk engineers to help customers identify and mitigate risks by assessing their operations and making recommendations for improvements. The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Peter Ukstins, head of construction risk engineering at AXA XL, in a talk that was originally presented as a snap talk at the 2025 IRMI Construction Risk Conference. Listen in to Peter's insight on how face-to-face interactions with customers throughout the lifecycle of a project allow risk engineers to gain a deeper understanding of their operations and provide more customized solutions.
Farmers and ranchers are challenged by complex forms needed to apply for critical federal programs, among other things. In this 20-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, ZForm's Lara Goldmark, founder and CEO, and Laura Napoli, cofounder and head of marketing and partnerships, discuss US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and government-required farm program forms, especially those that determine program eligibility and enrollment and in which a small error can delay or restart the entire process. Many federally reinsured crop insurance policies require accurate and timely USDA filings to remain eligible—learn ways to minimize your risk.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum speaks with Donny Tong, senior vice president at Truist Bank, about the role of reinsurance trusts—also referred to as "collateral" trusts—in captive insurance programs. The discussion explores how these trust structures function as collateral mechanisms between captives, fronting insurers, and reinsurers, including the operational mechanics behind trust agreements, eligible assets, withdrawal rights, and trustee responsibilities. Mr. Tong explains why many fronting insurers increasingly favor trust arrangements over letters of credit due to their operational simplicity, streamlined administration, and ability to provide ongoing visibility into collateral assets.
The conversation also examines how reinsurance trusts compare with other collateral options such as letters of credit and funds withheld arrangements. Topics include investment flexibility within trust accounts, liquidity considerations, balance sheet treatment, multibeneficiary and multicell trust structures, and the growing demand for master trust frameworks. Mr. Tong also shares perspectives on how market conditions, liquidity pressures, and rising letter-of-credit costs may continue driving adoption of collateral trusts across the captive insurance industry in the years ahead.
As climate change drives more severe and unpredictable weather, construction projects face costly delays and other risks. This month, The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI is pleased to feature Rose Hall, founder and CEO at RH Business Ventures, LLC. Listen in as Ms. Hall discusses how the application of noncatastrophic parametric weather insurance can be utilized to help contractors and project owners manage climate-related risks that do not trigger other policies. This talk was originally presented as a snap talk at the 2025 IRMI Construction Risk Conference.
Recorded live at the Captive Insurance Companies Association 2026 International Conference, this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Kristen Lawler discussing one of the most closely watched captive insurance tax decisions in recent years: the 2025 CFM Insurance Tax Court memorandum opinion. Drawing from her recent article in IRMI's publication Captive Insurance Company Reports, Ms. Lawler explains how the case highlights the growing importance of operational discipline, governance, documentation, pricing support, and claims handling in determining whether a captive arrangement qualifies as insurance for federal tax purposes.
The discussion explores the "commonly accepted notions" prong of the four-part insurance test and why it has become an increasingly significant focus of Internal Revenue Service scrutiny and Tax Court analysis. Ms. Lawler examines how the court evaluated risk distribution, premium practices, policy issuance, and state licensure issues under the McCarran-Ferguson framework, while also outlining practical questions captive owners should be asking their advisers today.
The episode offers timely insight for captive owners, tax professionals, actuaries, and risk managers seeking to better understand how operational rigor and economic substance continue to shape the captive insurance landscape.
Recorded live at the Captive Insurance Companies Association 2026 International Conference, this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is moving beyond industry hype and into practical application within captive insurance programs. Joel Appelbaum is joined by Steven Bauman of AXA XL to examine where AI is already delivering measurable value—from underwriting support and claims analytics to operational efficiency and reporting enhancements—while also addressing the critical importance of data readiness and governance.
The discussion also expands into emerging risks, including the distinction between autonomous vehicles and broader autonomous mobility systems, and how these evolving exposures may reshape captive structures, capital strategies, and risk retention approaches. Mr. Bauman highlights the role of captives as incubators for emerging risks, particularly in environments where loss data is limited, and discusses how fronting insurers and regulatory considerations may evolve alongside these technologies.
This episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI explores the fast-moving world of maritime war risk insurance, from the Strait of Hormuz to market capacity, cancellation, and coverage gaps across hull, liability, and cargo. Featuring Steven Weiss, president and chief underwriting officer of Incarnation Specialty Underwriters, the conversation delivers critical insights for insurance professionals dealing with global transportation and geopolitical risk.
Recorded live at the Captive Insurance Companies Association Conference, this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Victoria Fimea, chief captive analyst with the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions. Ms. Fimea discusses the continued growth of Arizona's captive insurance program, emphasizing the state's measured, quality-driven approach and its collaborative ecosystem of regulators and service providers.
The conversation explores trends in captive formation, including the rise of first-time owners and evolving use cases as captives become more integrated into broader enterprise strategy. Ms. Fimea also outlines what regulators look for in strong business plans, common areas where applicants underestimate governance and operational requirements, and the importance of communication, compliance, and experienced advisers. She further shares how Arizona balances accessibility with analytical rigor and what the future may hold for the domicile's continued development.
Recorded live at the Captive Insurance Companies Association Conference, this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Stephen Taylor, director of the Bureau of Captive and Financial Insurance Products at the Delaware Department of Insurance. Mr. Taylor discusses Delaware's regulatory philosophy, highlighting a balance of flexibility, efficiency, and innovation supported by a collaborative and responsive oversight framework designed to meet evolving business needs.
The conversation explores how regulators distinguish between thoughtful and reactive captive evolution, with a focus on governance, capital adequacy, and alignment with enterprise risk strategy. Mr. Taylor outlines key regulatory priorities, including solvency oversight, compliance with approved plans of operation, and additional scrutiny for certain captive structures. He also provides practical guidance on effective communication with regulators and emphasizes the importance of deliberate planning, strong governance frameworks, and consistency between strategy and execution.
When the pressure's on, will you make the right call? In this 16-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Elise Farnham previews her IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) ethics sessions and shares why moral courage isn't optional—it's essential. You'll want to hear what Ms. Farnham, president of Illumine Consulting, will present in her three-part "Ethical Decision-Making" series and make plans to attend this year's IRMI AgriCon, scheduled for August 31–September 2, in Nashville, Tennessee.
Recorded live at the Captive Insurance Companies Association Conference, this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Christine Brown, deputy commissioner of the Captive Insurance Division at the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation. Ms. Brown shares her perspective on regulating within one of the most established captive domiciles globally, emphasizing Vermont's long-standing focus on solvency, transparency, and maintaining the integrity of the captive insurance industry.
The discussion explores how regulators evaluate expansion into new lines of coverage, the importance of early communication with regulators, and the critical role of governance in captive success Ms. Brown also outlines key areas of focus for captive owners in today's environment, including evolving risk exposures, policy exclusions, and claims handling practices, while offering insight into Vermont's continued leadership and collaborative role as the captive landscape grows more competitive.
Recorded live at the 2025 IRMI Construction Risk Conference (CRC) in Indianapolis, this 17-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features a Snap Talk with David Tibbetts, chief safety officer at Highwire. Mr. Tibbetts discusses why tracking events with the potential to result in a serious injury or fatality (SIF) provides better insight into safety performance than traditional metrics, such as total recordable incident rate (TRIR). Listen in to learn more about the importance of safety culture and identifying the highest-risk work on construction sites.
In this 11‑minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, American Farm Bureau Federation economist Faith Parum breaks down the pressures shaping the 2026 farm economy—from soaring input costs to shifting global trade policies. Listen as Dr. Parum explores how tariff and nontariff barriers are reshaping market access, what declining US soybean demand from China means for row‑crop profitability, and where producers face the greatest financial exposure.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Joel Appelbaum speaks with Dustin Carlson, president of the 831(b) Institute, about maintaining the credibility and long-term viability of Section 831(b) micro-captives. The discussion centers on Mr. Carlson's three-part series in Captive Insurance Company Reports outlining proposed reforms aimed at addressing practices that have drawn regulatory scrutiny while preserving legitimate captive insurance programs.
Mr. Carlson explains how the Section 831(b) election allows small insurance companies to exclude underwriting income up to the statutory premium threshold while remaining taxable on investment gains. He outlines concerns around structures used for estate planning, investments such as life insurance or annuities inside captives, and related-party lending practices. The conversation explores practical policy proposals designed to curb abuses while reinforcing insurance fundamentals—such as proper underwriting, claims processes, and governance practices—to ensure micro-captives remain focused on risk management rather than investment or wealth transfer strategies.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Joel Appelbaum welcomes Ian Davis, president of the Vermont Captive Insurance Association (VCIA), for a detailed discussion on how captive insurance advocacy works in practice. Building on a prior conversation about Vermont's legislative framework, this episode focuses on VCIA's state and federal engagement efforts—including Vermont Legislative Day and Hill Day in Washington, DC—and what captive owners, managers, and service providers should be tracking in today's regulatory environment.
Mr. Davis explains how VCIA sets advocacy priorities, collaborates with regulators, and proactively engages policymakers on issues such as Terrorism Risk Insurance Act reauthorization, National Association of Insurance Commissioners model law discussions, federal tax developments, and emerging regulatory concerns. The conversation highlights how education, relationship-building, and real-world captive owner participation shape effective advocacy—and why staying informed early is critical for the broader captive community.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum sits down with Michael Kolodner, Marsh's US energy and power leader, to unpack how geopolitical shifts, market volatility, and evolving incentives are reshaping energy investment priorities. Together, they explore why cross-industry collaboration is becoming essential for building operational resilience in a rapidly changing risk landscape. They also highlight the risks of hyperspecialization and share practical insights leaders need to navigate today's turbulent energy landscape, driven by generative artificial intelligence growth.
This podcast is a snapshot of the insights you'll find at an IRMI Energy Risk & Insurance Conference—where sponsors like Marsh, attendees, and industry thought leaders come together to tackle the latest challenges. Host Joel Appelbaum and Scott Smidlein, managing director and senior client executive at Marsh, break down the 2026 energy insurance outlook in this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, recorded at the 2026 Marsh Risk North American Energy Industry Conference. They examine artificial intelligence and data center-driven power demand, policy signals from Washington, and the strain of aging assets running at full tilt.
Are traditional insurance models keeping pace with innovation? In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum speaks with Bill Kost, senior vice president, energy, power, and renewables risk consulting leader at Marsh, about how the insurance industry is adapting to rapid energy innovation. From emerging technologies like battery storage to the growing role of captives, they explore where traditional approaches fall short—and how risk strategies are evolving to meet a changing energy mix.
Recorded live at the 2025 IRMI Construction Risk Conference (CRC) in Indianapolis, this 7.5-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features a Snap Talk with Rachel Dobbs, client executive at Hylant. Ms. Dobbs describes how construction materials affect property insurance costs during and after construction and how they vary across different regions of the United States. Listen in for a technical breakdown utilizing data from a recent study comparing these costs.
In this 30‑minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Scott Cornell, vice president of transportation risk and strategy and crime and theft specialist at LogistIQ Insurance Solutions, pulls back the curtain on the growing sophistication of agricultural cargo theft. Mr. Cornell explains how criminals are leveraging technology and organized networks and what these evolving tactics mean for risk managers, insurers, and the agricultural supply chain.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act has had an immediate impact within the renewable energy space. Katie Burke, vice president, US Specialty Energy and Power growth leader at Marsh Specialty Energy and Power, shares key insights into the most important components of the Act, including the sunsetting of critical tax credits and the challenges of financing projects and accelerated timelines considering such repeals. With energy needs at an all-time high, renewable energy providers must use long-term, not short-term, strategies for the longevity of the industry.
Casualty claims are growing more complex—and risk professionals need practical strategies to stay ahead. In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast, we're joined by Rachael Chen, Senior Vice President in Marsh’s U.S. Casualty Energy Practice, and Phil Educate, Senior Vice President in Marsh’s Claims Practice. Together, they’ll explore the factors that lead to complex claims, the shift in jury dynamics, and proactive tactics to manage troublesome claims and achieve better outcomes.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum speaks with Jim DeVoe-Talluto, assistant director of captive insurance at the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation, about what organizations need to know when applying to form a captive insurance company. Drawing on more than 2 decades of regulatory experience, Mr. DeVoe-Talluto outlines the steps applicants should expect, the most common barriers to approval, and the importance of a strong feasibility study and experienced advisers. Mr. DeVoe-Talluto also discusses Vermont's regulatory philosophy and why early planning, clarity of purpose, and strong executive buy-in significantly improve the chance of success. Whether you're exploring a first-time captive or seeking insight into regulator expectations in one of the world's largest captive domiciles, this conversation delivers timely, practical guidance directly from the source.
Steve McElhiney, partner, Captives and Alternative Risk Transfer Solutions, Augment Risk, divulges both the rising popularity, as well as some of the misconceptions, of the use of captive insurance in agriculture, in this 26-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI.
Hear Mr. McElhiney's thoughts on how parametric insurance and captive insurance can go hand in hand.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an increasingly important topic across insurance, but its implications for captive insurance and actuarial work are still taking shape. In this episode of The Edge of Risk podcast by IRMI, Steven Abel and Jason Abril of Oliver Wyman share an actuarial and technology-driven perspective on how AI is influencing insurance analytics, data governance, and risk decision-making. The discussion explores how machine learning has long been part of actuarial toolkits, while newer AI technologies are accelerating workflow automation, data enrichment, and analytical insight generation.
The conversation also examines how captives differ from commercial insurers in their AI use cases, particularly given differences in scale, mission, and access to actuarial resources. Mr. Abel and Mr. Abril address transparency concerns around AI models, emphasizing governance, documentation, and human oversight. Looking ahead, they outline why AI literacy—rather than deep technical specialization—may become a critical skill for actuaries and captive professionals as advanced analytics continue to reshape risk financing strategies.
Natural disasters and weather-related events continue to dominate headlines, with their frequency and severity increasing year over year. The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI welcomes Angela Skow, vice president and head of Large and Complex Construction at CNA, to discuss how the construction industry strengthens communities after natural disasters. In this 16-and-a-half-minute episode, Ms. Skow identifies short- and long-term challenges the construction industry faces with weather-related events, such as labor and environmental considerations, and highlights the importance of integrating climate-adaptive materials with efficient designs to reduce future risk exposures. Listen in and learn more as she stresses the importance of utilizing the latest technology measures, including drones and climate-resilient building materials, to further maintain insurability for construction risks.
Elise Farnham, president of Illumine Consulting, explains hedging in agriculture. In this 14-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, the daughter of a Kansas wheat farmer provides real-life examples of how farmers hedge commodities as part of their overall risk management strategy.
Consider this a teaser for what will be an enormously insightful session at the 2026 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference. Click here to be notified when Conference registration opens and be eligible for the Early Bird discount.
The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI welcomes Theresa Guertin, partner at Saxe Doernberger & Vita, who was a speaker at the 2025 IRMI Construction Risk Conference in Indianapolis. Listen in for an informative discussion on coverage claims, contracts, and litigation strategy. In this 17-minute podcast episode, Ms. Guertin highlights excellent examples of policy language trends, sleeper risks, and red flags in construction insurance. She also shares her expert opinion on case law that may have a ripple effect on coverage litigation and provides highly applicable examples of best practices for construction risk transfer processes.
Letters of credit remain the most widely used form of collateral in captive insurance programs, valued for their reliability, simplicity, and universal acceptance by fronting insurers and regulators. In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum speaks with Marty Ellis of Comerica Bank about how letters of credit function behind the scenes, from application through draw procedures, and why features such as evergreen clauses and irrevocability are central to maintaining confidence on all sides of a captive program. The discussion also examines how letters of credit compare with trust accounts and cash collateral in terms of cost, liquidity, and investment flexibility. Special attention is given to how group captives use back-to-back letter of credit structures and how banking regulations may influence future pricing and collateral requirements. Together, these insights provide a practical look at why letters of credit continue to anchor collateral strategies in the captive insurance market.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum speaks with Austin Griffith, senior vice president at Risk Management Advisors, for an in-depth discussion on captive insurance domicile selection. Mr. Griffith outlines the core considerations that shape domicile strategy, including where risks are located, the types of policies being written, premium tax implications, regulatory environments, and the logistical realities of board meetings and travel. He also emphasizes the operational importance of domicile service levels, especially when captives need timely responses to dividend requests or coverage changes.
Mr. Griffith further examines the growing trend toward home state domiciling, explaining when it can be advantageous and when limitations in state legislation or regulatory infrastructure may require organizations to look elsewhere. The episode also addresses federal and state tax considerations, procurement tax, misconceptions about "right or wrong" domiciles, and the role advisers play when working across numerous jurisdictions. Mr. Griffith closes by looking ahead at an increasingly competitive landscape as more states build out captive insurance legislation and regulatory capacity.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Joel Appelbaum speaks with Derek Freihaut, principal and consulting actuary at Pinnacle Actuarial Resources, for a detailed discussion on how captive insurance companies evaluate risk transfer and risk distribution. Drawing on Pinnacle's published research—including its case study on expected adverse deviation (EAD)—Mr. Freihaut explains how actuaries use objective tools to measure distribution, identify downside exposure, and document insurance characterization for regulatory and tax purposes. The conversation also explores the role of expected reinsurer deficit (ERD) in risk transfer testing, the impact of quota share versus excess-of-loss reinsurance structures, and how captives can align retentions, limits, and coverage mix with risk appetite. Mr. Freihaut shares practical examples of how EAD modeling informs program design, capital planning, and emerging-coverage decisions—giving captive owners a clearer view of how different structures influence long-term stability and performance.
Recorded live at the 2025 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) Central in Des Moines, this 9-minute episode of The Edge of Risk podcast by IRMI features a Snap Talk with Marnye Langer, president and CEO of The Langer Group. Ms. Langer gives us a sneak preview of what's in store for you at the 2026 AgriCon, August 31–September 2, in Nashville, Tennessee. Horse insurance is becoming increasingly complicated. Luckily, we have experts like Ms. Langer to keep us informed about changes.
In this episode, Vermont Captive Insurance Association (VCIA) President Ian Davis joins The Edge of Risk podcast by IRMI to unpack how captive insurance legislation evolves in one of the world's most established domiciles. Mr. Davis explains the core pillars of "captive-friendly legislation," emphasizing clarity, flexibility, and responsiveness as foundational to Vermont's regulatory philosophy. He also reflects on the state's long-standing commitment to aligning oversight with real-world risk, ensuring both innovation and integrity remain central to the captive framework.
The conversation explores how Vermont's legislative process is rooted in collaboration among regulators, lawmakers, and industry participants, supported by continuous dialogue, trust, and transparency. Mr. Davis also highlights recent developments, including growth in cell structures and adaptive regulation for emerging risks such as artificial intelligence; environmental, social, and governance; and evolving tax considerations. Finally, he shares how captive owners and service providers can engage with VCIA's advocacy committee to help shape future priorities.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum, chief content officer at IRMI and Captive.com, is joined by Samantha Poulin, associate actuary, and Craig Brophy, principal and consulting actuary, both with Milliman, to discuss governance best practices for captive insurance companies from an actuarial perspective.
Together, they explore how captive boards can strengthen governance through regular strategic reviews, clear communication with service providers, and ongoing education. The conversation covers key topics including aligning captive strategy with organizational goals, evaluating capital and coverage decisions, seeking independent actuarial opinions, and using actuarial data to guide operational and investment initiatives. Ms. Poulin and Mr. Brophy also share actionable steps boards can take over the next year to enhance oversight and ensure their captives remain resilient, data-driven, and strategically aligned.
Recorded live at the 2025 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) Central in Des Moines, this 9-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features a Snap Talk with Casey Roberts of Laurus Insurance Consulting. In this episode, Mr. Roberts gives us a sneak preview of what's in store for you at the 2026 AgriCon, August 31–September 2, in Nashville, Tennessee. AAIS has changes coming our way, and Mr. Roberts will be joining forces with Casey Davis of AAIS to break it all down for us!
As the year-end approaches, captive insurance companies face a complex checklist—from renewals and actuarial reporting to audits, governance, and board preparation. In this episode of The Edge of Risk podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum, chief content officer of IRMI and Captive.com, brings together a distinguished panel to share practical guidance on how to streamline every stage of the process. Guests Kim Guerriero of Milliman, Alex Murray of Johnson Lambert, Claire Richardson of Hylant, and Dave Williams of Father Flanagan's Boys Home discuss key insights on policy renewals, strategy meetings, and regulatory compliance. They highlight how clear communication, proactive planning, and strong coordination among actuaries, auditors, captive managers, and boards can ensure a smooth and compliant close to the year. Whether you're a new captive owner or an experienced executive, this episode offers actionable takeaways for achieving efficiency and excellence in your captive's annual cycle.
The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Terence Kadlec, senior vice president and technical services expert at MC Consultants, Inc. In this 19-minute podcast episode, Mr. Kadlec highlights the connection between front-end project failures and back-end claim investigations that can and have led to improved processes. Hear about his experience as he stresses the importance of communication to adapt to the evolving risk industry. Learn how construction risk and insurance professionals of all levels can utilize experiences and environments, such as the IRMI Construction Risk Conference, to collaborate more effectively to mitigate future risk.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum welcomes Courtney Boles, director of operations at Management Services International (MSI), one of the largest captive managers in North Carolina. Courtney brings her unique perspective on how small businesses can harness organizational alignment to maximize the success of their captive insurance programs. Drawing on her experience in both commercial insurance and captive management, Courtney discusses the importance of identifying internal champions, demystifying the captive formation process, and addressing common skepticism among business owners and their advisers. She highlights the value of communication, education, and cultural buy-in as cornerstones of long-term alignment. The conversation also explores real-world examples of successful captives, strategies for balancing emerging risks with conservative growth, and the role of innovation—from parametric solutions to artificial intelligence-driven tools—in shaping the future of small-business captives.
Reinsurance can be complex and confusing. However, in this 21-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, Larry Schiffer, attorney at Schiffer Law & Consulting PLLC, helps you understand the basics. In plain talk, Mr. Schiffer breaks down important reinsurance concepts as they relate to agricultural risks. After this podcast, you'll understand the importance of Mr. Schiffer's philosophy of "say what you mean, and mean what you say."
A winning strategy for Liberty Mutual is to have professionals with farming backgrounds serve in its farm and ranch division. It helps to understand your client's needs when you understand your client's lifestyle and daily reality. This 16-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Jenn Powell, farm and ranch senior territory manager, Liberty Mutual Insurance.
This episode unpacks the challenges farmers face and the important work Liberty Mutual is doing to help protect the farmers' families and livelihood.
In this episode, The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI welcomes Anuja Patil, risk control consulting director at CNA, for an insightful discussion with practical strategies in creating supportive and future-proof work environments in construction. In this nearly 25-minute episode, Ms. Patil provides an examination of the multigenerational and multicultural workforce and explains how understanding the nuances of a workforce can help develop effective safety solutions on construction sites. Ms. Patil provides practical advice and action items to address the challenges in communication, work styles, and physical demands that may vary with diverse jobsites.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum speaks with Dr. Marcus Schmalbach, CEO of RYSKEX, about a groundbreaking application of captive insurance and parametric risk transfer to support carbon sequestration. The discussion centers on the Arx Veritas project, which monetizes environmental restraint by leaving fossil fuels in the ground—turning unmined coal into a verifiable and tradable asset.
Dr. Schmalbach explains how the captive structure, paired with blockchain-based verification, artificial intelligence, and satellite imagery, creates trust and financial credibility for this emerging asset class. The conversation explores how parametric triggers address complex, forward-looking risks, why third-party validation is essential, and how similar models could scale to oil, gas, and rare earth minerals. He also shares his perspective on the paradigm shift needed for risk professionals to work effectively in the evolving carbon economy.
Join Tom Britten of Travelers as he discusses the evolving risks, quality challenges, and technological advancements in battery energy storage systems on the Edge of Risk podcast. If you want even more education on energy risks, the 2025 IRMI Energy Risk & Insurance Conference is available on demand at IRMI.com.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum sits down with Joe Rosenberger, chief captive analyst at the North Carolina Department of Insurance, to discuss how one of the leading US captive domiciles is evolving to meet the needs of modern risk management. Mr. Rosenberger shares his journey into regulation, the key drivers behind North Carolina's growth, and how the state has positioned itself as a business-friendly but credible regulator.
Listeners will gain insights into how the state balances responsiveness with oversight; how it's adapting to emerging risks like cyber and environmental, social, and governance; and why its consistent analyst engagement model sets it apart. Mr. Rosenberger also addresses trends in captive formations, provides a glimpse into potential innovations like crypto premium models, and outlines tech-forward priorities for improving efficiency and transparency.
This month's episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI welcomes Ryan Powers, head of construction at QBE. Listen in as Mr. Powers discusses the top risks that construction insureds worry the most about but often feel the least prepared for. In this 13-minute episode, Mr. Powers provides manageable action items to address cyber risks, addresses the benefits and challenges insureds face with technology, and discusses how collaboration in risk mitigation has resulted in reduced frequency in losses in the construction industry.
We know the effects of the Baltimore bridge collapse on transportation. But what was the agriculture effect? Explore how the Baltimore bridge collapse disrupted global supply chains and agricultural shipping. This 19-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Chris Montez, underwriting director at U.S. Marine Insurance Group. The episode unpacks the ripple effects of the disaster—including its complex implications for the insurance industry—and highlights just how interconnected risk really is.
Builders risk policy forms vary significantly, and one of the most misinterpreted elements of these forms is the "delay in opening" coverages. Join The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI with Jake Parsons, managing director of disputes, claims, and investigations at Stout, in an informative discussion on time element losses in builders risk policies. In this 24-minute episode, Mr. Parsons provides a high-level summary of the three main types of delay in opening coverages, highlights important coverage extensions, and gives examples of typical yet significant exclusions. He also offers helpful tips for insureds to navigate a delay claim.
Why is there such a rising phenomenon of nuclear verdicts? This 17-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Nick Lucas, executive director of research and data analytics at the US Chamber of Commerce Institute of Legal Reform.
Listen to this important discussion on how massive jury awards have surged in popularity, and learn the underlying factors driving this trend. After this podcast, you will also understand that almost no industry escapes the effects of nuclear verdicts—even agriculture.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk by IRMI, we explore one of the most complex and consequential aspects of captive insurance: tax qualification and compliance. Host Joel Appelbaum is joined by Allan Autry, CPA, and partner at Johnson Lambert, who brings deep experience advising hundreds of captive insurance companies across the country.
Mr. Autry breaks down the essential criteria for qualifying as insurance for federal tax purposes, clarifying how those differ from regulatory requirements. The discussion covers key tax considerations in captive formation, the impact of entity type, and scenarios where tax qualification may not even be necessary. Mr. Autry also flags common pitfalls—from failing the risk distribution test to overlooking self-procurement tax—and shares thoughts on evolving tax strategies as captive insurance companies take on climate, cyber, and supply chain exposures.
Whether you're involved in captive formation, management, or as an adviser, this episode offers actionable guidance on compliance, structure, and strategic planning.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum speaks with David Beyer, director of risk management at Alaska Airlines and board chair of ASA Assurance, Inc., the airline's Hawaii-based captive insurance company. David shares the story behind the creation of ASA Assurance, including why Hawaii was chosen as a captive insurance domicile and how long-term education efforts helped gain board approval.
Listeners will learn how Alaska Airlines uses its captive insurer to manage a wide range of complex exposures—from workers compensation and aircraft damage to cyber liability and auto risk. David offers insights into how Alaska balances innovation with its conservative risk posture, including the use of artificial intelligence to analyze safety trends and avoid losses before they occur. He also touches on governance strategy, the role of third-party administrators, and key considerations for companies exploring a captive of their own.
Whether you're in aviation, transportation, or simply curious about how captive insurance can transform enterprise risk management, this episode provides a grounded, strategic perspective from a seasoned captive owner.
Why are affordability and tech advances important to farmers? This 24-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Craig Smith, vice president of Agribusiness and Food Services for Alliant Insurance Services and a keynote panelist for the 2025 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference. Listen to this impactful discussion of these challenges and what's happening on the family farm. After this podcast, you will have even more appreciation for the importance of strong advocates for farmers and ranchers.
Private equity is investing in the construction industry—but what does that mean? In The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, join Rob Langtry, global private equity director at Liberty Mutual, as he provides clarification as to why private equity is interested in the construction industry. In this 15-minute podcast, gain an understanding of the typical structure of a private equity program in construction and learn how insurance is generally addressed in such transactions.
Join Joel Appelbaum, chief content officer at IRMI, as he dives into the real economic impact of global trade and tariffs with special guest Bob Passmore, department vice president of personal lines at the American Property Casualty Insurance Association.
In this short, 12-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, you'll explore how tariffs influence claims costs, repair cycles, and underwriting strategies.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast, host Joel Appelbaum speaks with Steven Bauman, head of global programs and captive practice for AXA XL in North America. With over 35 years in the insurance industry, Steven brings a depth of expertise on how multinational organizations can structure captives to navigate regulatory complexity, diversify risk, and support global growth strategies.
The conversation covers best practices for aligning captive programs with parent company objectives, the importance of selecting the right partners, and how emerging risks—from cyber threats to climate exposures—are influencing the future of captive insurance. Steven also shares reflections on his long career and offers final advice for companies looking to launch or expand their global captive footprint.
Water damage is a perpetual risk for all insureds but significantly so for contractors. This month, The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI welcomes Tony Grieser, technical director of construction loss control at Nationwide, for a thorough discussion of water damage mitigation programs. In this episode, learn about key tools a construction insured can utilize to reduce water damage losses and gain clear action items to establish and implement a water damage mitigation program for contractors of every size.
What's the raison d'être of American Farm Bureau, and how does California Farm Bureau fit into that? This 24-minute episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI features Dan Durheim, chief operating officer, California Farm Bureau, and 2025 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) keynote panelist. Listen as Mr. Durheim explains the value proposition of Farm Bureau and why it continues to remain strong since its start in 1919. After this podcast, you will have even more appreciation of the organization that serves as the "voice of the farmer."
In this episode of The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI, host Joel Appelbaum sits down with Jeremy Colombik, president of Management Services International (MSI), to explore how captive insurance can solve hard-to-place risk challenges. Drawing from over 2 decades of industry experience, Jeremy unpacks the advantages of integrating unrated and nonadmitted paper into captive structures, including cost efficiency, greater flexibility, and custom coverage solutions.
The conversation dives deep into fronting arrangements, regulatory considerations, and the evolving use of captives across high-risk sectors. Whether it's environmental exposures, cyber liability, or excess layer risks, Jeremy explains how businesses can use captives to craft tailored strategies that go beyond what the traditional market offers. Tune in for insights on quarterbacking a successful captive, structuring reinsurance relationships, and ensuring compliance while building innovative programs that stand the test of time.
How different is a "regular" property claim from an agricultural property claim? The answer could be—significant. This 8-minute The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI episode features a Snap Talk by Julie Overdeer, executive director and partner at the Agricultural Claims Association, LLC (ACA). The mission of the ACA is to provide agricultural claims professionals with a resource that offers training, education, and support. After this Snap Talk, you will have even more of an appreciation of the importance of this specialized knowledge.
The Edge of Risk Podcast by IRMI welcomes Kerry Powers, national director of large accounts at Gallagher, and Ted Way, senior vice president at Gallagher, for an insightful discussion on insurance considerations for adaptive reuse projects in construction. In this 16-minute episode, gain valuable insights into the increasing prevalence of these projects and the tax incentives some municipalities may provide for adaptive reuse developments. Learn the importance of the insurance market in keeping pace with this trend and the role of technology in providing insurers with the confidence to cover adaptive reuse projects.
In this episode of The Edge of Risk podcast, host Joel Appelbaum welcomes Andy Stoelting, senior director of insurance and risk management at Webcor, to discuss the evolution of Webcor's Hawaii-domiciled captive insurance company, Paramount Insurance, Inc. Andy shares his journey from insurance defense attorney to risk management leader and provides an inside look at how Paramount transitioned from a pure captive to a sponsored captive with protected cells.
The discussion explores how Paramount supports Webcor and its affiliates in managing construction risks, including innovative uses of the captive to address unique challenges, such as a 10-year performance obligation for the University of California, Merced project. Andy also highlights the benefits of domiciling in Hawaii, the influence of Japanese governance from Webcor's parent company, Obayashi Corporation, and the strategic considerations for balancing captive utilization with opportunities in the commercial market. Whether you're in the construction industry or exploring captives as a risk management tool, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of captive insurance in a complex and evolving landscape.
Hired and nonowned auto exposures historically represented an incidental exposure for many insureds; however, there appears to be a noticeable shift in how construction insureds are approaching this coverage. This 18-minute episode of the The Edge of Risk Podcast welcomes Jim Vachon, manager of casualty risk control, and David Lind, loss control service manager, from Starr Insurance. Listen in as Mr. Vachon and Mr. Lind discuss hired and nonowned automobile exposures in the construction industry and share controls that employers can utilize to manage the associated risks.
A common misconception is that experienced drivers don't require ongoing training. In this 11-minute podcast episode, Brian Hammer, senior risk management consultant at Nationwide, shares that ongoing driver safety training is essential.
Nationwide's new Drive the 5 program is yet another important initiative to keep its insureds, and society as a whole, safe. After this podcast episode, you will understand the five principles that address specific risks and help drivers stay safe on the road, and you will know where you can access free resources to make our roads safer for everyone.
The regulatory landscape for captive insurance in the European Union is evolving, with Solvency II amendments bringing significant changes to capital requirements, proportionality, and reporting obligations. In this episode, Joel Appelbaum, chief content officer at IRMI and Captive.com, sits down with Alex Gedge, senior captive consultant at Hylant, to discuss what these updates mean for captives and how organizations can adapt.
Solvency II, introduced over a decade ago, was designed to enhance the financial stability of insurers operating within the European Union. However, its one-size-fits-all approach has long been a challenge for captives, which operate with distinct risk profiles compared to traditional insurers. The latest amendments introduce a more proportional regulatory framework, reducing capital burden and simplifying governance requirements for small and noncomplex undertakings. Alex provides insights into how captives can leverage these changes, including the benefits of the reduced cost-of-capital rate in risk margin calculations, strategies for adapting to evolving environmental, social, and governance regulations, and how captives can position themselves for long-term success in a shifting regulatory environment.
In this episode, host Joel Appelbaum sits down with Dave Johnson from Innovative Captive Strategies to discuss how captives empower Delivery Service Partners (DSPs) to take control of their insurance and risk management strategies. As the backbone of e-commerce and logistics, DSPs face unique risks that traditional insurance may not address effectively. The podcast explores how captives offer tailored coverage, cost stability, and proactive risk management, making them a perfect fit for DSPs operating in an ever-evolving delivery landscape.
The conversation also delves into real-world examples of how captives have mitigated risks, reduced costs, and transformed insurance expenses into profit centers for DSPs. Mr. Johnson also shares insights into the future of captives as technology and autonomous delivery systems reshape the logistics industry. Whether you're a DSP owner, a logistics professional, or someone intrigued by the role of captives in addressing emerging risks, this episode offers invaluable takeaways.
The construction industry has unique factors that can impact a worker's mental well-being. In this 19-minute episode of the IRMI Podcast, Dr. Marcos A. Iglesias of Travelers shares how the "perfect storm" of psychosocial issues affects construction workers' mental health and outlines some tools workers and employers can utilize to tackle this prevalent problem within the construction industry.
Continuing with our agent-focused 2025 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) topics, this 10-minute podcast episode features a Snap Talk with Joann Webb, chief risk officer and assistant vice president of underwriting for Berkley North Pacific, as she shares the importance of insurance to value (ITV) factors. We never want to be put in a bad position with our clients. This episode will serve as a preview of Ms. Webb's 2025 IRMI AgriCon presentation, titled "Building Construction, ITV, and Valuation Options in the Ag World." We look forward to seeing you at IRMI AgriCon West, scheduled for March 2–4, 2025, in Sacramento, California, where you will glean important information like this that helps make you the agent of choice.
In this episode of the IRMI Podcast, Joel Appelbaum interviews Travis Wegkamp, director of captive insurance for Utah, and Stephanie Liu, assistant director, to explore Utah's thriving captive insurance industry. The state's business-friendly approach, zero premium tax, and innovative legislation have fueled record-setting growth, with over $3 billion in gross premiums in 2023. The conversation highlights Utah's responsiveness to industry needs, from supporting cyber-security and environmental, social, and governance coverages to addressing homeowners insurance challenges through association captives. Travis and Stephanie share success stories, including a construction joint venture leveraging captives for risk control and a family-owned business transitioning ownership to employees. They also discuss emerging trends like artificial intelligence and cannabis-related risks, underscoring Utah's dynamic role as a leading domicile. Tune in to learn how Utah continues to innovate and support the captive insurance industry.
Learn what valuable, agent-focused tools we are planning to show you at the 2025 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon). In this 9-minute Snap Talk episode, Carl Morello, safety expert and AgriCon presenter, provides a sneak preview of one of the four educational sessions we are calling the "IRMI Agent Expertise Series." We hope Carl's construction classification preview whets your appetite for what we have in store for you at IRMI AgriCon West, scheduled for March 2–4, 2025, in beautiful Sacramento, California.
Learn what innovative technologies the Kalcevics employ for healthy soil, water scarcity, and successful crop yields. In this 17-minute podcast episode, Danell Kalcevic, human resources and office manager for Kalcevic Farms, reflects on the work and the pride of her fifth-generation family farm. Join IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum as he and Mrs. Kalcevic discuss grain farming on the land of her husband's great-grandfather, who immigrated from Croatia in 1898. Discover the resilience, tradition, and forward-thinking strategies that keep this historic farm thriving.
In this episode, Joel Appelbaum, chief content officer at IRMI and Captive.com, speaks with Mike Maglaras, of Michael Maglaras & Company, about the launch of the first modern-era captive insurance syndicate at Lloyd's of London. This innovative model offers multinational companies a new way to manage complex risks across borders by eliminating fronting capacity barriers, enabling companies to issue Lloyd's paper in over 80 countries. Joel and Mike dive into how this syndicate model is transforming the captive industry, offering streamlined access to reinsurance and retrocessional markets at Lloyd's, reducing administrative burdens, and providing new avenues for insuring third-party and supply chain risks.
Mike also explores the strategic significance of this Lloyd's captive syndicate in the evolving global captive insurance landscape. For large-scale enterprises with complex, cross-border risks, the Lloyd's model could be a game changer, particularly as the United Kingdom positions itself as a competitive captive domicile post-Brexit.
Jarid Beck of Risk Management Advisors joins Joel Appelbaum of IRMI to explore how businesses can unlock employee benefits through captive insurance. They discuss the increasing popularity of self-funded employee benefits in captives, driven by rising healthcare premiums and the desire for greater control over healthcare costs.
The conversation highlights key benefits of captive insurance, including cost transparency, flexibility, and long-term financial sustainability. Mr. Beck explains how businesses can mitigate risks using stop-loss coverage, wellness programs, and effective claims strategies. The episode also touches on how advancements in data and artificial intelligence are shaping the future of self-funding, providing streamlined solutions for both employers and employees.
In this 11-minute Snap Talk episode, Marty Detmer, product recall and contamination/crisis management broker for Aon, expounds on some key factors that can increase the risk of product recalls and how to mitigate those risks. Mr. Detmer gave a fascinating presentation at the recent IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference in Des Moines, Iowa, on food recalls and why they're happening. Food recalls can be a nightmare. Discover what Aon has uncovered about steps you can take to help mitigate your food recall exposure.
Tune in now for valuable insights that every risk and insurance professional should know.
Emerging technologies have the potential to change the safety and risk landscape of the construction industry. In this 13-minute episode of IRMI Podcast, Matt Nordaker of Marsh shares how the efficiencies of exponential technologies will enable safety and risk directors to focus on higher-level strategic initiatives as these technologies materialize.
In this 11-minute Snap Talk episode, Bernt Nelson, economist at the American Farm Bureau Federation, breaks down the key factors behind the soaring beef prices—and why those increases aren't benefiting farmers and ranchers. Discover what the American Farm Bureau Federation has uncovered about this critical issue and its broader impact on the agriculture industry. Tune in now for valuable insights that every risk and insurance professional should know.
In this podcast episode, Joel Appelbaum interviews Marty Ellis, leader of Comerica Bank's Global and Captive Insurance Group, discussing key aspects of custody and collateral in the captive insurance industry. Marty outlines the crucial role of custody accounts in holding financial assets for claims, and compares letters of credit with reinsurance trusts as collateral options, noting the former's investment flexibility and the latter's cost-effectiveness despite regulatory limitations. The conversation also addresses the impact of the recent Vesttoo scandal involving alleged fraudulent letters of credit, highlighting the need for greater vigilance and the adoption of secure systems like the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) to mitigate fraud risks in the industry.
In this 15-minute podcast episode, Nate Chance, senior territory manager for small commercial at Liberty Mutual Insurance, reflects on the impact of the unique challenges and opportunities present in the agricultural industry. Join IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum as he and Mr. Chance discuss the shift in societal perceptions of liability and responsibility, particularly regarding the increase in large verdicts. They refer to this shift as "legal system abuse" to better capture the current litigation environment, which is seeing a rise in external funding and aggressive attorney advertising and practices. Learn what Liberty Mutual, AgriCon Silver sponsor, considers to be opportunities presented during headwinds we face.
IRMI's Joel Appelbaum interviews Peter Johnson, chief actuary at Spring Consulting Group, about insurer collateral obligations for large deductible and captive reinsurance programs. They discuss how collateral protects insurers financially while enabling organizations to self-insure and reduce market premiums. Peter emphasizes the importance of actuarial expertise, detailing methodologies to calculate collateral requirements and the need for accurate loss development patterns and reserve analyses. The conversation includes case studies showing how to reduce collateral obligations by challenging industry assumptions and using company-specific data. It also covers managing loss development over time, especially for long-tail lines such as workers compensation.
Don't let lack of confidence hold you back. In this 14-minute episode, Abi Potter Clough, CEO of AbiLeads, outlines steps you can take to build self-confidence and take ownership of your personal brand.
In this episode of the IRMI Podcast, Joel Appelbaum sits down with Sandy Bigglestone, deputy commissioner of captive insurance, and Dan Petterson, director of financial examinations, from the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation. The conversation dives into Vermont's innovative, risk-focused approach to captive insurance regulation. Sandy and Dan share how their team conducts personalized, in-depth reviews for each domiciled company, engaging directly with executives to understand their strategies and ensure their success. This hands-on approach not only boosts Vermont's regulatory efficiency but also offers crucial insights for business plan changes, making it a model for effective regulation in the industry.
In this IRMI Podcast episode, Joel Appelbaum welcomes Danny Linton, a senior consulting actuary with Pinnacle Actuarial Resources. The discussion delves into the rise of captive insurance for public entities and public entity risk pools, with Mr. Linton predicting significant growth in captive formations over the coming years as these entities seek to diversify their risk management strategies. Among other aspects, the episode examines how captive insurance can offer greater flexibility and cost savings in addressing specific risks unique to public entities.
This podcast episode is a 9-minute Snap Talk presented by Trent Gillette, US agriculture director, and Greg Brown, executive loss accountant, both of McLarens. Mr. Gillette and Mr. Brown preview their presentation on the intricacies of handling large agricultural and food processing claims, upcoming at the 2024 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference in Des Moines (IRMI AgriCon Central).
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Water damage on a construction project results in remediation costs, delays in schedule, and sometimes litigation. In this 11-minute episode of IRMI Podcast, Yaron Dycian of WINT Water Intelligence shares insights into the use of technology to mitigate water damage and water waste in commercial building projects. With some insurers requiring larger deductibles, these savings may directly impact the contractor's bottom line.
Nationwide Staff Operations Director Sarah Onnen joins IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum in this 12-minute podcast episode, which highlights Nationwide's important new safety program for all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs). Listen to learn the difference between these two vehicles and why IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference Grand Conference Sponsor Nationwide continuously advocates for the safety of its policyholders.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this podcast episode, Dr. Marcus Schmalbach, a specialist in parametric risk trading and CEO of RYSKEX, joins Joel Appelbaum of IRMI and Captive.com to explore the evolving landscape of the captive insurance industry, parametric risk trading, and the emergence of parametric 144A cat bonds. Dr. Schmalbach sheds light on recent market innovations and their implications for the insurance and capital markets, including the key features and achievements of the Beazley and Lloyd's London Bridge 2 deal as well as the significance of Swiss Re's industry-loss-triggered cyber-catastrophe bond.
This podcast episode is a 10-minute Snap Talk presented by Carl Morello, an IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) favorite speaker who serves as telematics program administrator for GraniteRock. Mr. Morello previews an important AgriCon Agent Roundtable topic highlighting proper classification of building construction for farm properties. If you missed this important discussion among agents at the 2024 IRMI AgriCon West held in San Mateo, California, you've got another chance to be a part of the discussion. Join us for 2024 IRMI AgriCon Central September 9–11 in Des Moines, Iowa; registration is still open!
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 16-minute episode, Tricia Kagerer of Jordan Foster Construction describes how future-oriented contractors are tearing down silos and uniting around total human health by merging their efforts in risk management, safety, leadership, diversity/equity/inclusion, and overall well-being.
In a recent IRMI Podcast episode, host Joel Appelbaum, chief content officer at IRMI and Captive.com, and guest Carter Lawrence, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, delve into the history, regulations, and future outlook of captive insurance in Tennessee. Commissioner Lawrence highlights Tennessee's emergence as a prominent captive insurance domicile since the overhaul of its captive insurance laws in 2011 and discusses challenges and trends facing the captive insurance industry, both nationally and within Tennessee.
In this podcast episode, Mike Maglaras of Michael Maglaras & Company joins Joel Appelbaum of IRMI and Captive.com to explore the intersection of captive insurance and artificial intelligence (AI). They discuss how AI is transforming the insurance sector, from helping underwriters collect Web data and evaluate risks to interpreting regulations and enhancing claims adjustment with predictive technology. Mr. Maglaras highlights the critical need for the industry to embrace AI to adapt policies and manage new risks effectively. Tune in to learn why this shift is essential and will change the future of insurance.
"Nuclear" verdicts have put intense strain on contractors and their insurance companies, and vehicle accidents are a common source of these claims. Contractors must be diligent in following best practices to reduce fleet-related losses. In this 15-minute episode of IRMI Podcast, Carl Heinlein of ACIG shares 5 keys to reducing the potential for a catastrophic verdict.
In this insightful podcast conversation, strategic investment expert Anjanette Fowler shares her journey into the financial services industry. Starting as a mail runner and becoming a specialist in financial and investment advice for alternative risk clients, she found her way into the industry through a surprising question about softball skills.
As a current managing director at PNC Financial Services, with a career spanning over 30 years, she discusses the evolving professional landscape for women, emphasizing the importance of stepping out of comfort zones and building supportive networks. Anjanette highlights initiatives like the Captive Insurance Companies Association's Amplify Women group, focusing on networking, education, and inclusion to support diversity in the industry. Her advice for women and other aspiring professionals in the captive insurance industry is simple yet profound: be authentic to yourself, as the industry values diverse perspectives and contributions.
This podcast episode is a 10-minute SnapTalk presented by Marnye Langer, president and CEO of The Langer Group, which specializes in all aspects of the equestrian industry including insurance. Ms. Langer previews "Trends in the Equine Market," her session at the 2024 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) events. Ms. Langer provides important insight into why it's critical that agents and underwriters alike understand the exposures and complexities a commercial equine risk entails. If you missed this terrific presentation at the 2024 IRMI AgriCon West held recently in San Mateo, California, you've got another chance to be a part of the discussion. Join us for 2024 IRMI AgriCon Central September 9–11 in Des Moines, Iowa; registration is still open!
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
A workplace fatality happens every 96 minutes in the United States. These events have a life-shattering impact on a worker's family. Since 1988, Kids' Chance has provided hope for more than 10,000 children of workers who suffered a serious injury or fatality by providing scholarships that help them pursue their dreams. In this 23-minute episode, learn about this inspiring organization's mission and hear from a Kids' Chance scholar about how the help provided changed the trajectory of her life.
Please share this episode with your colleagues and employers and visit the Kids' Chance website to help raise awareness of this vital resource.
Learn More about Kids' Chance | Kids' Chance of America (kidschance.org)
In this podcast episode, Joel Appelbaum, chief content officer for IRMI and Captive.com, welcomes Anne Marie Towle, CEO of Global Risk and Captive Solutions at Hylant. With over 30 years of expertise in captive insurance and risk management, Anne Marie shares valuable insights on adopting a captive-centric approach to risk management.
The episode highlights the pivotal role captives play in strategic decision-making and underscores their growing significance in the ever-evolving landscape of risk management. The episode discusses the dynamic nature of risk philosophy, and Anne Marie emphasizes the importance of aligning with industry experts and continuously evaluating risk appetite. She illustrates a success story where a large organization optimized multiple captives to enhance risk management protocols, streamline processes, and support safety initiatives.
This podcast episode is a 12-minute Snap Talk presented by Bernie Steves, managing director and global head of crisis management at Aon. Mr. Steves previews "Why Recalls Are Increasing and How To Mitigate Recall Exposure," his session at the two upcoming 2024 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) events. Mr. Steves provides compelling insight into why food recall is among the top industry risk concerns within the agricultural business.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Sustainable construction requires an understanding of the factors driving the need to focus on greenhouse gas emissions—expressed as Scopes 1, 2, and 3. In this 10-minute podcast episode, Cheri Hanes of AXA XL examines the meaning of Scopes 1, 2, and 3 and provides construction-specific examples and challenges of each.
In this podcast episode, captive expert Derek Bridgeman, managing director at Strategic Risk Solutions (SRS) Europe, explores the factors driving captive growth in Europe, including the hardening of primary markets, increased interest in captive insurance, and regulatory changes.
He also discusses the challenges and advantages of captive structures, underscoring their significance in incubating and understanding risks. Additionally, he provides insights into the future trends of captives in Europe, foreseeing sustained growth, increased demand for consulting services, and potential innovations in captive management.
In this insightful podcast episode, legal experts Bruce Wright and Saren Goldner from Eversheds Sutherland explore how captive insurers utilize reinsurance and risk pooling. The duo unravels the nuanced nature of reinsurance transactions, emphasizing the diversity of approaches and debunking the one-size-fits-all myth. The conversation extends to the impact of regulatory requirements on captives and their reinsurance activities, offering practical examples to illustrate potential challenges. Listeners gain a primer on key distinctions in assuming versus ceding risk, as well as indemnity reinsurance versus assumption reinsurance. The discussion also explores the relationship between reinsurance and risk pooling, highlighting the benefits for captives. The episode concludes with an examination of 10 crucial aspects for captive risk pools to consider in navigating the regulatory landscape, providing a comprehensive guide for those involved in captive insurance.
This podcast episode is an 11-minute SnapTalk presented by John Talley, president of TAL Consulting. Mr. Talley, former captive program manager for the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance, previews "Captive Insurance in the Farming Industry," his session at the two upcoming 2024 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) events. Mr. Talley provides a great example of agricultural application of captive insurance for a sneak preview into some of the insight you will gain at IRMI AgriCon 2024.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this insightful podcast episode, Jim DeWulf, of Captive Resources, guides us through key strategic moves to shift liabilities off member balance sheets and gain significant cost savings for the captive through the consolidation of incurred but not reported claim liabilities and enhanced purchasing power.
Listeners will be skillfully led through the world of group captives, and the invaluable benefits that owner control brings to organizations will be illuminated. Mr. DeWulf navigates through the coverage challenges faced by group captives and reveals how harnessing purchasing power can lead to premium savings, predictability, and cost smoothing.
Delving into intricate concepts such as heterogeneous and homogeneous group captives, member ownership, common shareholder, preferred shareholder, commutations, novations, and internal tail funds, Mr. DeWulf explains how the latter three can effectively be used to close open policy years.
This podcast episode is a 15-minute Snap Talk presented by Casey Roberts of Laurus Insurance Consulting. Mr. Roberts, an IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) favorite speaker, previews "The 2023 Farm Bill," his session at the two upcoming 2024 AgriCon events. He explains the history of farm bills and their transformative power on the agricultural community and will whet your appetite to learn more.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
How does the US Supreme Court's ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization intersect with captive insurance? With most healthcare facilities in the United States operating their own captive insurance entities to cover the majority of healthcare providers, this decision necessitates that captive insurance policies for medical liability now include provisions for criminal defense and safeguard healthcare providers involved in legally performed abortion procedures. Captive insurance is a proactive solution for this deep and profound risk, filling the void where traditional markets hesitate to participate. In this 21-minute podcast episode, join us for an engaging conversation with the distinguished innovator and forward-thinking problem solver, Michael Maglaras, as he simplifies this intricate subject, making it accessible and comprehensible.
This podcast offers businesses a road map to curating tailored insurance solutions through captive insurance. Moreover, gain exclusive insights into navigating the regulatory landscapes of captive insurance in the United Kingdom and Europe.
Join us and harness the full potential of your captive insurance strategy. Contrary to a common misconception, captive insurance isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Andy Hulme, a seasoned leader at Strategic Risk Solutions, imparts intriguing perspectives gained from his dynamic insurance career, shedding light into the challenges and misconceptions surrounding captive insurance.
This 11-minute Snap Talk is presented by Elise Farnham, president of Illumine Consulting and an IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) favorite speaker. Ms. Farnham provides an ethics teaser previewing what is in store for the two 2024 IRMI AgriCons. State-mandated, approved continuing education (CE) ethics courses can be hard to fit into a busy schedule. Learn how attending Ms. Farnham's ethics courses at the 2024 IRMI AgriCons will satisfy your CE needs, including the new California ethics CE requirements.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
It took nearly 2 decades to achieve cultural buy-in of risk management as a core business function and to start sharing best practices at the industry level. Construction innovation is following a similar trajectory as more companies realize that innovation has massive potential to improve business outcomes, yet few common best practices have been established and contractors struggle to create a road map for innovation with a proven return on investment.
In this 12-minute podcast episode, you will learn about farm mutual insurance. Our guest, Brandon Keller, president and CEO of Germania Insurance, discusses the history and function of farm mutuals. Tune in to hear how farm mutuals play a vital role in protecting the rural insurance market.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Discover why there's explosive growth in captive insurance in Latin America (LATAM). In this captivating episode (no pun intended), join Luis Delgado, a leading expert at Strategic Risk Solutions, as he unveils the reason for the sharp rise of captive insurance formations in the dynamic LATAM region. Luis discusses what type of LATAM organizations are forming captives, where and how they are being formed, and some challenges they face.
Somewhere along the way, the construction industry lost sight of the vital role field leaders play in avoiding and mitigating project risks. In this 11-minute episode, Tricia Kagerer shares how top-down hierarchical structures can silence the voice of the field workers, and she provides tips for empowering and developing the future generation of field leaders.
In this 11-minute podcast episode, Sam Bennett, shareholder of the Harrison Agency, Inc., and IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) Advisory Board member, discusses the rich history of AgriCon and the personal value it has brought to his life and work. When Sam teaches the Agribusiness and Farm Insurance Specialist classes at AgriCon, he's not just reading words; he's imparting knowledge he lives every day.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Some companies do the bare minimum for their employees and they are getting back just that, the minimum. As they say, you get what you pay for and the current workforce isn't willing to be an active participant in their own exploitation. In this episode, Soledad Torres of Bernards defines what "quiet quitting" is, what causes it, and how to navigate this emerging reality.
In this 22-minute podcast episode, William Dessert, Transportation and Agribusiness Practice leader at Arroyo Insurance Services, discusses the importance of enhancing your craft and why further education can help you be successful in insurance. If you are considering a career in insurance brokerage, you should listen to William's story about the roller-coaster ride to success.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
IRMI's latest 29-minute podcast episode features Matthew Queen, author of Modern Captive Insurance, discussing how to use captive insurance to manage insurance market cycles. The Queen Firm, LLC, is a law firm providing captive insurance consulting services. In this podcast episode, you will learn from Matthew's deep experience how captive insurance companies can function as a risk management tool, and why captive insurance might not be right for everyone.
In this 22-minute podcast episode, Rudy Rudolph, farm and ranch territory manager of State Auto Insurance Companies, discusses the importance of continuing education and professional credibility.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Prequalification of contractors is an essential risk management tool, and safety is an important consideration in that process. In this episode, Philip Casto of HUB International outlines which safety metrics are appropriate for prequalification, and how to create a scoring system that accurately reflects a contractor safety profile.
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are a growing coverage concern. Power utilities are using them to balance the power grid, and these systems are also increasingly being used by commercial entities to harness energy from renewable sources and store that energy for future use. BESS technology enables commercial, industrial, and even consumer entities to create a source of backup power, reduce demand on the grid, and improve power capacity and quality. As adoption grows, you might be shocked by some of the coverage challenges our experts from The Hartford share in this 20-minute podcast episode.
In this 9-minute podcast episode, Laramie Sandquist, AVP of risk management, Nationwide Agribusiness, reflects on the impact on the farm landscape caused by climate activity, labor shortages, social inflation, and more.
Settle in for this podcast episode, hosted by IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum, as Mr. Sandquist advises that even with the headwinds we are facing, there are opportunities for risk management on the farm.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 21-minute Snap Talk, Elizabeth Morrison, attorney at law, Hall Booth Smith, shares supply chain risk management wisdom for agriculture and other industries and her unique views as a transportation lawyer from the foothills of North Carolina with IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum.
The agriculture/transportation crossover also occurs at the legal level. Settle in for this podcast episode as Ms. Morrison provides pertinent examples of this intersection of supply chain risks and how to mitigate them in your industry.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Construction delays often result in some of the more complicated claims and often require some form of delay analysis as part of a proof of loss. Demonstrating delay can be one of the, if not the most contentious, parts of a construction claim. In this podcast episode, Michael Oliveri of Liberty Mutual outlines the three most common pitfalls contractors face when managing a delay claim and how to avoid them.
In this 14-minute Snap Talk, Janis Highley, district education and outreach coordinator for Indiana Farm Bureau, Inc., talks calls, puts, and futures with IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum.
How can farmers use hedging to make themselves financially whole? Settle in for this podcast episode as Ms. Highley explains in plain language this interaction of calls, puts, and futures.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 12-minute podcast episode, Emily Glanz of Cottingham & Butler outlines how representations and warranties insurance can help mitigate the impact of merger or acquisition transactional risks and provide a viable alternative to escrow.
Captive insurance can be confusing at times. However, a captive can be a great addition to the tool belt of farmers and ranchers. Captive insurance is gaining popularity in the agribusiness world as insurance industry professionals continue to explore the many applications possible.
In this podcast episode, Prabal Lakhanpal, vice president, Spring Consulting Group, explains in a Snap Talk the basics of captive insurance and why a captive may be the right solution for your client.
This 11-minute 2022 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference SnapTalk is presented by Chantal Roberts, president of CMR Consulting. There is no "one-size-fits-all" claim, as we know, and that is certainly true of COVID claims. Listen to learn how adjusting COVID claims is not only different from other claims but is different from early COVID claims adjusting as well.
In this 16-minute episode of IRMI Podcast, Kevin Miranda, president of MAC Safety and founder of MAC Intelligence, discusses how safety and risk data can be leveraged into actionable items by harnessing the power of data. By performing quantitative analysis in real time, contractors can identify and correct risk factors by putting data in the hands of the person who needs it, at the time it's needed.
This 14-minute podcast episode reminds us of how critical proper underwriting is and the dangers of underestimating its importance. Listen to learn how correctly assessing the amount of risk you present to a potential insurer will improve everyone's results.
This was originally a Snap Talk given by Robin Souza, director of farm and ranch with Bascule Insurance Services and longtime favorite Agribusiness and Farm Insurance Specialist course instructor for the IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 13-minute podcast episode, IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum and Migratory Bird Management animal behaviorist Vanessa Williams discuss the phenomenon of bird nuisance. Ms. Williams shares how Migratory Bird Management performs wildlife mitigation to keep birds away from runways, so planes don't strike them. But there are also agricultural implications for wildlife management. Learn about this highly interesting segment of the agricultural industry.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 7-minute Snap Talk from the 2022 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference, Elise Farnham, president of Illumine Consulting, reveals how impediments to perception affect our decision-making. Listen to learn how our decision-making may be hindered by confirmation, normalcy, or other biases.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 12-minute podcast episode, Carl Morello, safety and risk management expert, shares how electric vehicles are no longer the future but are instead a concrete reality. Listen to this Snap Talk from the 2022 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference to learn how systems associated with autonomous vehicles could result in improved workers compensation claims experience.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 23-minute podcast episode, Trent Gillette, McLarens US agriculture director, shares interesting stories about what can go wrong in a food processing plant. Properly handling these claims entails exact understanding of the risks and exposures of not just the processing plant but also the supply chain effects on farmers and ranchers with time-sensitive processing needs as well as all the downstream effects. Learn how knowledge specialization impacts a successful claim resolution and what you can do to minimize the risks in this sector.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 15-minute podcast episode, Rob Olson, senior research analyst at IRMI, explores the recent changes in the Insurance Services Office, Inc. (ISO), Homeowners 3—Special Form (HO 3). As we know, most farms in the United States are small. Many farmers and ranchers have homeowners policies. Learn how ISO is updating coverage in one of its most popular forms to reflect the current times, such as the new "home-sharing host activities" definition.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 12-minute podcast episode, Gary Clevenger of CNA provides tips for updating your business strategies and plans to include continuity of workforce considerations. Learn how to identify and minimize workforce distractions and stressors and their impact on worker longevity and project success.
In this 9-minute Snap Talk from the 2022 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference, Albert Betts, executive director, Insurance Council of Texas, discusses the bevy of risks Texas farmers face. With heat waves, droughts, flooding, tornadoes, and even earthquakes, the Texas landscape is not for the faint of heart.
In this 15-minute podcast episode, Tricia Kagerer, executive vice president of risk management at Jordan Foster Construction, outlines invisible barriers that prevent women and other historically disadvantaged groups from reaching maximum potential in male-dominated industries and provides tools that can help overcome internal and external constraints to succeed in C-suite roles.
In this podcast episode, Colin Harper, senior business developer for Descartes Insurance Solutions Agency, Inc., explores the new generation of parametric insurance and whether it could one day replace traditional insurance.
Hosted by IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum and based on Mr. Harper's 2022 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference presentation titled "Frost: A Chilling Peril," the 20-minute podcast episode educates on how parametrics can offer clients solutions that the traditional market cannot.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 15-minute episode, TJ Lyons explores a disconnect in awarding Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification—recognizing best-in-class design and construction—on a project where men or women died building these marvels. This issue warrants an uncomfortable but long-overdue conversation on what "best in class" really means.
In this 12-minute episode of the IRMI Podcast, Rose Hall, vice president and head of construction innovation at AXA XL, outlines some common obstacles in developing a technology strategy in construction companies, as well as five keys to accelerating technology adoption that will produce better business results.
This informative podcast episode, a Snap Talk from the 2022 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon), dispels practices such as inspecting your insured's property once a year because once a year may be too late! Instead, learn about agricultural claim realities from Richard Villanueva, vice president, The Greenspan Co., a 2022 AgriCon Silver Sponsor.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI offers!
The effects of social inflation and nuclear verdicts on the insurance industry can be challenging. This 17-minute podcast episode, a Snap Talk from the 2022 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference, is presented by Laura M. Gregory, partner at Sloane and Walsh LLP. Ms. Gregory highlights cases that display the ripple effect of social inflation and nuclear verdicts on our industry.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 12-minute episode of the IRMI Podcast, Nick Thompson, assistant vice president and construction vertical leader at Cottingham & Butler, outlines how to preserve evidence following an accident that results in a worker injury. Learn how to "freeze the facts" and put your organization in the best position if a claim goes off the rails.
In this 21-minute episode of IRMI Podcast, Hugh Burgess, Accelerant Holdings US chief underwriting officer, and Joel Appelbaum, IRMI chief content officer, offer insight on how InsurTech is impacting agribusiness. Mr. Burgess and Mr. Appelbaum recorded the very first IRMI Ag Podcast episode at the 2019 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon). In this episode, recorded live at the 2022 AgriCon, you'll hear the two industry leaders discuss how InsurTech has evolved since that inaugural podcast.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 15-minute episode of the IRMI Podcast, Alexis Bradshaw, senior vice president at Marsh, outlines best practices for reviewing construction contracts for contractor clients. Hear tips for offering meaningful review of both incoming and outgoing contract insurance requirements while also setting appropriate boundaries on review scope.
In this 13-minute episode of the IRMI Podcast, Jared Dubrowsky, vice president of the environmental practice at NFP, outlines how environmental insurance can be effectively utilized to facilitate the sale and redevelopment of contaminated properties and provides tips for ensuring the policies work as intended.
In this 16-minute episode, safety and risk management expert Carl Morello examines how proper building valuation can mitigate headaches when your insured has a property damage claim. Sign up to attend Mr. Morello's presentations at the 2022 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference, scheduled for March 7–8 in Sacramento, California, and online, and leave better equipped to exceed expectations at your job.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 18-minute episode of IRMI Podcast, David Pacifici of Berkley Construction Professional examines how progressive design-build can mitigate the squeeze on contractor profit when gross maximum price and a fixed schedule are included on design-build projects.
In this thought-provoking podcast episode, Rob Olson, 2022 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) presenter, explores some ethical questions and challenges for insurance and risk management professionals. Mr. Olson is an IRMI senior research analyst who also occasionally writes for the CPCU Society publications. In this 14-minute episode, Mr. Olson discusses how almost any activity we engage in, including common dilemmas in the agricultural risk world, involves ethics.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Although food recalls protect the public from products that may cause illness or injuries, they can be a nightmare for your client. This podcast episode, a Snap Talk from the 2021 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference, is presented by Bernie Steves, managing director and practice leader for Aon's Crisis Management Team. In this 18-minute Snap Talk, Mr. Steves discusses the many types and causes of product recalls, including undeclared allergens, which account for almost half of all product recalls every year. Product recalls are more prevalent than many of us think.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Accidents have a greater impact on your business than just the direct cost of the loss. In this 13-minute episode, Chip Arenchild, vice president at InterWest Insurance Services outlines how to apply indirect loss costs in the measurement of your true cost of risk, while also creating a key performance indicator for your safety programs.
In this thought-provoking 19-minute podcast episode hosted by Joel Appelbaum, IRMI's chief content officer, Blake Eischeid, Secura's supervisor of risk management, and Neil Wait, Secura's director of farm and agribusiness underwriting, expound on the importance of workers compensation coverage in protecting the farmer's well-being and family livelihood.
The injuries that can happen on a farm can range from minor to significant. Many times, the quest for profits can supersede spending on workers compensation insurance premium. In this podcast, Mr. Eischeid and Mr. Wait explain how vital it is that you, the trusted adviser, review the difference workers compensation protection can make in a possible life-altering situation.
IRMI is proud to have Secura as a Gold Sponsor for the 2022 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon), March 7–8, 2022, in Sacramento, California, and online.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this compelling 12-minute podcast episode hosted by Joel Appelbaum, IRMI's chief content officer, Paul Stevenson, Nationwide's senior risk management consultant for food and feed safety, quality systems, and grain, provides insight into making grain bin entries safer.
Mr. Stevenson paints a clear picture of the extreme hazards, including fatalities, of grain bin work. Then, he tells us how to get started with the lifesaving program Nationwide provides in response to this hazardous work. Mr. Stevenson invites anyone interested in sponsoring a grain bin rescue tube to contact him directly at (816) 392–1511. IRMI is proud to acknowledge Nationwide as a partner and the Grand Conference Sponsor of the 2021 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
This 20-minute podcast episode, a Snap Talk from the 2021 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference, is presented by Larry Schiffer, attorney, counselor, consultant, and mediator for Schiffer Law & Consulting PLLC. In this podcast, Mr. Schiffer provides a clear understanding of the two basic forms of reinsurance: treaty and facultative.
This 15-minute podcast episode, a Snap Talk from the 2021 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference, is presented by Dr. C. Freeman, adult and geriatric psychiatrist and parliamentarian of the American Psychiatric Association Board of Trustees. Dr. Freeman discusses why it's important to farmers and ranchers in light of COVID-19 that we identify, prevent, and manage stress before it becomes overwhelming.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Farm contaminants are pervasive in land used for agriculture. Farmers and ranchers may believe that a farm liability policy provides adequate protection from pollution-related liability, but often that is not the case.
This 18-minute podcast episode, a Snap Talk from the 2021 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference, is presented by Dave Dybdahl, president of the American Risk Management Resources Network, LLC.
Mr. Dybdahl explains why your client's most comprehensive protection from pollution liability may be an environmental impairment liability policy.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 11-minute podcast episode, you will learn specific tactics for meeting the insurance industry talent crisis head-on. Senior Vice President Risk Management at Sedgwick Robin Roeder discusses the benefits of internships and provides tips on how to make them successful for your company and the student. She also provides insight into how the insurance industry is benefiting from university risk management and insurance (RMI) programs. Lastly, as a member of the Spencer Educational Foundation's board, she discusses the various initiatives the not-for-profit is undertaking to support university RMI programs.
In the past few years, the insurance industry has embraced the adoption of technology solutions. In this 30-minute podcast episode, James Benham of JBKnowledge provides insights into the most impactful and exciting technologies being deployed in the insurance space, as well as how insurance companies are assisting their construction clients with the adoption of technology that can reduce losses on jobsites.
This 13-minute podcast episode, a Snap Talk from the 2021 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference, is presented by Crystal Uebelher, owner, Clarity Education and Consulting, LLC. Ms. Uebelher offers three tips to give you a feeling of confidence going into your next deposition.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
A fascinating form of risk protection is parametric insurance. It is growing in terms of popularity and could be a solution for agricultural risks. A general understanding of parametric insurance is an "If, then" scenario: "If there's a derecho, then I would collect immediately without any delays."
In this 16-minute podcast episode, Andy Klaus, vice president of business development at Vortex Insurance Agency, LLC, explains the basics of parametric insurance and how farmers could benefit from the claim payment flexibility.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Legacy industries like construction have always been slow to innovate. In this 11-minute podcast episode, Rose Hall of AXA XL offers tips for breaking down the barriers that stand in the way of progress and advancing your construction business to new heights through innovation.
Did you know roughly 22 million Americans live in manufactured homes, according to the Manufactured Housing Institute? More commonly referred to as "mobile homes," they are popular with celebrities like Matthew McConaughey as well as farmers and agricultural workers. Join Joel Appelbaum, IRMI chief content officer, and Cheryl Koch, president/CEO of Agency Management Resource Group, for this podcast episode. Hear Ms. Koch's real-world experience and her thoughts on the stigma around use of the terms "trailer" and "trailer parks." Learn as Ms. Koch shares her deep insight on properly insuring the risks of manufactured homes.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 17-minute podcast episode, Matt Nordaker of Marsh discusses how emerging technologies such as Internet of Things, blockchain, virtual and augmented reality, and artificial intelligence will be profoundly more disruptive in the construction industry with the rollout of 5G.
In this 16-minute podcast episode, Cheri Hanes of AXA XL outlines the challenges involved in insuring mass timber buildings and provides strategies that can help insurers get more comfortable with the risks.
Project engineer Taylor Boileau shares a powerful story that demonstrates the need to demystify and change the taboo surrounding mental illness, especially in the construction industry. Put everything else aside for 15 minutes and listen. It may be the most impactful part of your day.
This very practical, enlightening podcast episode is an excellent summary of agency risk management and agricultural liability exposure. In this 27-minute podcast episode, Sam Bennett, producer and partner in the Harrison Agency, Inc., in Columbia, Missouri, reminds us of how dangerous a farm operation can be and how important it is for insurance professionals to protect those who have exposures.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
This 23-minute podcast episode discusses key employment practices liability (EPL) renewal trends and developments, including #MeToo's impact on the market and how brokers and insureds can best handle emerging trends. Listen to industry experts Rick Betterley, author of The Betterley Report, and Sean Jordan, IRMI senior research analyst, discuss everything from what EPL is to the highlights of Mr. Betterley's current market report.
Additional insured experts Craig Stanovich and Jeff Woodward examine recent developments that could reduce an additional insured's coverage for employee third-party claims brought by an independent contractor's worker.
Learn key steps for capturing and leveraging leading indicator data and turning it into purposeful, proactive safety interactions that can reduce accidents and injuries.
This impactful podcast will enlighten you on Nationwide's Land as Your Legacy program. In this 19-minute podcast episode, Tim Phlegar, director of Nationwide's Land as Your Legacy program, reminds us of the importance of having a farm transition plan in place. Mr. Phlegar shares his own story of what happened with his family's 100-year-old-plus farm without a plan such as Land as Your Legacy. IRMI is proud to have Nationwide as a longtime IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference Grand Sponsor.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer.
In this 14-minute podcast episode, Ed Rhone of Parker, Smith & Feek shares some tips for avoiding traps in employment practices liability policy reporting requirements that can put you in the "land of denial."
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Mike Naig discusses pollution coverage issues and changes to the crop insurance program for 2020 in this podcast episode hosted by Joel Appelbaum, IRMI's chief content officer. Spend 19 minutes and get an update on the status of crop coverage for the derecho Iowa experienced in August. Secretary Naig also provides insights on how to minimize mistakes when purchasing crop insurance.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 14-minute podcast episode, hear Adrian Pellen of Marsh describe the uncharted waters of risk assumption associated with project delivery methods such as design-build and public-private partnerships, and identify risk transfer mechanisms for these exposures.
Elise Farnham, president of Illumine Consulting and longtime outstanding IRMI conference presenter, discusses how a global epidemic can transform our lives in this podcast episode hosted by Joel Appelbaum, IRMI's chief content officer. Spend 18 minutes learning about risks associated with pandemics, such as COVID-19 and other pandemics, that last for extended periods of time. Ms. Farnham, who is the go-to professional for training many top insurers, will participate in the session titled "Pandemics and You" at the IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Virtual Conference September 15–16, 2020.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Wayne Holt, Nationwide's director of farm underwriting for the western region, discusses how Nationwide is answering the COVID-19 call for the agricultural insurance community and why he plans to participate in IRMI's first virtual conference. Nationwide is the longtime IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) Grand Conference Sponsor, and you should spend 18 minutes learning what it has to say about working from home and caring for the customer even during a pandemic. Joel Appelbaum, IRMI's chief content officer, hosts Mr. Holt, who will participate in the panel titled "Weathering the Stress" at AgriCon Virtual September 15 and 16, 2020.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 11-minute podcast, Kevin Furlow of AXA XL shares a story of a loss on a construction site to demonstrate how wet work permits can reduce the potentially devastating impact of water damage on projects, especially as they near completion.
Camille Dixon, who manages cannabis insurance policy initiatives and the low-cost auto program for the California Department of Insurance (CDI), discusses risk management challenges associated with cannabis legalization and reasons why the insurance industry may be hesitant to enter the world of cannabis. Joel Appelbaum, IRMI chief content officer, and Donna Wright, IRMI agricultural product manager, host Ms. Dixon, who serves as director at the CDI and is also one of this year's outstanding IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference presenters.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 15-minute podcast episode, Joel Appelbaum of IRMI and Stokes McIntyre of MindForge discuss how technology can facilitate safety training, increase worker retention, reduce waste, and help contractors stay safe and productive while COVID-19 concerns remain.
In this 17-minute podcast, John Moroney, of Franco Moroney Buenik LLC, outlines some steps contractors can take to mitigate the impact of third-party-over actions, which all but eliminate the exclusive remedy protection of workers compensation statutes.
What happens when the entire planet becomes a disaster area due to a pandemic? IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum and IRMI Agriculture Product Manager Donna Wright talk disasters and lessons learned from claims handling with Rich Hallock, vice president of the Greenspan Company and IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) speaker. Mr. Hallock elaborates on how working effectively in disaster areas like those caused by wildfires is normal for Greenspan; however, there's nothing normal about the entire planet being impacted by a pandemic. The Greenspan Company is a proud Silver sponsor of IRMI AgriCon, and we thank Greenspan and Mr. Hallock for supporting education and sharing their expertise in this podcast episode.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Join us in person or via livestream for AgriCon in Des Moines, Iowa, September 15–16, 2020! We look forward to hosting you!
We all have personal power, but we don't all use it effectively. In this 15-minute Snap Talk podcast, Rose Hall of AXA XL shares how to find your "personal power" and use it for maximum impact and influence in business and in life.
IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum and Rich Pelkofsky, American Association of Insurance Services (AAIS) farm and agribusiness product manager, discuss the evolution of agritainment and how AAIS can help navigate through the forms necessary for this type of coverage. In this podcast episode, which was recorded live during the IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) in Sacramento, Mr. Pelkofsky reveals how his family's potato farm moved toward agritainment. Mr. Pelkofsky also discusses AAIS's new CannaBOP form.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Join us in person or via livestream for AgriCon in Des Moines, Iowa, September 15–16, 2020! We look forward to hosting you!
In this 13-minute podcast episode, gain perspectives from Gary Kaplan, president of AXA XL Construction, on how contractors and insurance companies are adapting regionally to COVID-19 and on the potential short- and long-term impacts of the prolonged pandemic on both the construction and insurance industries. Get practical tips for staying on track and keeping employees safe.
IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum and Karen Ross, secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, discuss how dairy farmers are leading the way in developing innovative sustainability practices. In addition to her state appointment, Ms. Ross is a farm owner who grew up as a "4-H kid." According to the US Department of Agriculture, California has remained the top agricultural exports earnings state since 2000.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 12-minute Snap Talk, presented at the 2019 IRMI Construction Risk Conference, Matt Nordaker of Marsh gives a high-level description of blockchain and offers some specific examples of how it's expected to revolutionize collaboration on construction projects and help to mitigate the liabilities associated with rapid advancements in building technologies.
IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum and Carl Morello, assistant vice president of safety and health at Zenith Insurance Company and popular Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) presenter, preview the upcoming AgriCon presentation Mr. Morello has planned for June 16 in Richmond, Virginia. Attendees will learn something that makes a "lightbulb go off in their heads" and a difference in their jobs!
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
In this 15-minute Snap Talk presented at the 2019 IRMI Construction Risk Conference, Walt Isler, of Parker, Smith and Feek, identifies the potential coverage gap when contractors borrow or lend equipment to one another at jobsites and provides solutions to prevent misunderstandings and uncovered damages.
Join IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum as he hosts Casey Roberts, a popular IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon) speaker. Mr. Roberts discusses climate change as well as a major 2020 development in New York: requirement of workers compensation insurance for all farm employees. Learn more about the upcoming 2020 IRMI AgriCon events!
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Join IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum and IRMI Captive and Risk Finance Product Manager Rachel Moir as they host John Talley, captive program manager for the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance. Mr. Talley breaks down what captives are really about and their applicability to agricultural insurance!
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
Join IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum in this walk through IRMI history with Cheryl Koch, an "AgriCon original," as she bids farewell to the IRMI Agribusiness Conference (AgriCon). This is a treat you do not want to miss!
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
CPCU Society leaders discuss with IRMI Product Manager Donna Wright their journeys to success as women in the insurance industry in the latest monthly podcast episode. Hear what Betsy Brewer and Cindy Baroway, past presidents; Jill McCook, president; and Sharon Koches, soon-to-be president-elect, have to share, and join IRMI in recognizing their achievements.
Ms. Koches serves as an IRMI Agribusiness and Farm Insurance Specialist certification instructor. She and Ms. Wright will be on hand for the 2020 IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conferences. Find out more about the exciting sessions on the most relevant topics to help you excel in your job. We look forward to seeing you there!
Blockchain, sensors, and other technologies are accelerating change in our world. IRMI's Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum and author Rob Galbraith, known as "the most interesting man in insurance," break down these concepts in simple terms. Mr. Galbraith is author of the best-seller The End of Insurance as We Know It, available from Amazon. (See the companion website.) This is the third in our series of monthly podcast episodes that will keep you up to speed in the evolving insurance world.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
IRMI Product Manager Donna Wright and independent risk consultant Gary Sylvester discuss risk management as it relates to agriculture in this 12-minute podcast.
This is the second in our series of monthly podcast episodes that you will find thought provoking and relevant to your work.
Be sure to check out the other agribusiness resources that IRMI has to offer!
IRMI Chief Content Officer Joel Appelbaum and Vindati CEO Hugh Burgess discuss InsurTech and farm insurance in this 22-minute podcast that will preview the IRMI Emmett J Vaughan Agribusiness Conference set for September 24–25 in Des Moines, Iowa. Register for the conference.