That Annuity Show

Brent Williams, CEO of Benekiva, shares his journey from managing a large financial advisory firm to founding a claims automation company. He discusses industry challenges like legacy systems, fragmented data, and the transformative potential of AI in claims processing, emphasizing a human-centered approach to technology. Learn more about Benekiva: https://benekiva.com Tune into TAS for additional episodes: https://thatannuityshow.com

In this episode of the That Annuity Show, Nassau Financial Group's Chief Investment Officer, Joe Orofino, joins Tisa Rabun-Marshall and Mark Fitzgerald to discuss current economic trends and the factors shaping today's investment landscape. The conversation explores inflation, interest rate movements, and how developments such as artificial intelligence and global trade policies may influence markets, investment strategies, and consumer behavior. Listeners will gain perspective on market volatility, duration strategies, and the broader economic signals investors are watching. Learn more at http://www.thatannuityshow.com

This episode of That Annuity Show brings together Paul Tyler, Bruno Caron, Tom Buckingham, James Wong and featured guest David Novak, CEO and Founder, Annuities Genius for a candid discussion on the intersection of AI and annuities. From conference insights to next-generation tools, they delve into how technology is reshaping client engagement, driving operational efficiency, and setting the stage for the industry's next wave of innovation. Learn more at www.thatannuityshow.com

Summary In this episode of That Annuity Show, Paul Tyler and Bruno Caron engage with Qiyun Cai, founder and CEO of Fintary, to discuss the challenges and innovations in the insurance industry, of managing and optimizing compensation and revenue. Qiyun shares her background in insurance and technology, explaining how Fintary aims to streamline revenue growth through flexible compensation structures and automation. The conversation delves into the complexities of multi-level distribution, the importance of data integration, and the need for modern solutions in a traditionally fragmented industry. Learn more at www.thatannuityshow.com

In this episode of That Annuity Show, Paul Tyler, Tisa Rabun-Marshall, and Bruno Caron talk with Samantha Chow from Capgemini to discuss the findings of the World Life Insurance Report. They explore consumer sentiment towards life insurance, the challenges of product design, and the importance of education in the industry. The conversation highlights global trends, the impact of societal shifts on insurance needs, and the necessity for flexible, bundled products that cater to the modern consumer. The role of technology and digital engagement in transforming the insurance landscape is also emphasized, along with the potential for wealth transfer among younger generations. Listen now at www.thatannuityshow.com

Live from the LIMRA Annual Conference, hosts Paul Tyler and guest co-host, Tom Rios sit down with Ken Leibow of InsurTech Express—a relentless chronicler of what's actually working across carriers and vendors. Ken breaks down the shift from AI talk to agentic AI doing, with underwriting workbenches embedding decision engines, Rx/MIB data, and scoring to move closer to instant decisions at point of sale. He maps today's reality in service and claims—AI clearing level-one while humans handle complexity—and explains why annuities and RILAs remain red-hot despite cooling predictions. If you want practical signals (not hype) on underwriting, workflow automation, and real-time CX, this episode is your fast brief. Learn more at thatannuityshow.com

Live from the LIMRA Annual Conference, host Paul Tyler and guest host, Tom Rios explore the future of carrier communications with Stephanie Warren and Tim Mader of O'Neil Digital Solutions. The conversation looks beyond today's PDFs to a unified, intelligent platform where print and digital are orchestrated together—with auto-failover (email → mail), real-time delivery confirmation for agents, and 10-year, regulation-ready audit trails. They sketch what's next: dynamic, personalized content (QR codes, agent video intros), event-triggered journeys (policy issued, first annuity payment, claim payout), and template consolidation that unlocks governance and speed. Most importantly, they reframe communications as a revenue and referral moment—turning required documents into measurable CX wins while staying compliant. Learn more at www.thatannuityshow.com

Recorded live on the floor of the LIMRA Annual Conference, host Paul Tyler and guest host, Tom Rios sit down with Jim Kerley, Managing Partner at Clearview Partners, for a candid conversation on what really moves the needle: going deep with AI (not broad), building a clear roadmap, and supporting people through constant change. Jim shares pragmatic guidance for carrier executives—how to future-proof your career, reduce organizational stress, upskill teams, and use industry resources and peer networks to turn transformation into measurable outcomes. If you're leading strategy, operations, distribution, or product, this episode is your field guide to doing AI—and leadership—right. Learn more at www.thatannuityshow.com

Join That Annuity Show hosts for an insightful discussion with Chief Information Officer, Alex Seidita, and Chief Technology Officer, Jason Pedone of Aspida. Hear about the benefits of an API-first architecture for straight-through processing and how they're exploring AI as a productivity multiplier rather than job replacement. The conversation explores the future of insurance technology, industry-wide data standardization challenges, and why emerging opportunities in RIA wealth channels, in-plan annuities, and alternative investments depend on solving current data friction problems that the industry must address before unlocking new possibilities. Learn more at www.thatannuityshow.com

Nassau Financial Group's Chief Investment Officer, Joe Orofino joins Paul Tyler to analyze the current economic landscape and its impact on retirement planning. They examine how Federal Reserve rate cuts affect annuity products, discuss inflation expectations hovering around 3%, and explore the looming Social Security funding crisis. Orofino explains why higher long-term interest rates benefit the annuity industry and shares insights on portfolio diversification strategies, including concerns about the S&P 500's heavy concentration in AI and tech stocks. Key topics include treasury rates, tariff impacts, sovereign wealth funds, and annuities. Learn more at www.thatannuityshow.com

Jeff Affronti, president and CEO of FSD Financial Services, joins our show to delve into the current landscape of annuities, focusing on market trends, the purpose of annuity laddering, and common strategies for younger investors. Jeff shares insights on using MYGAs for retirement income, the impact of inflation on annuities, and some of the latest product features and innovations in the industry. The discussion also touches on the risks associated with life-only annuities and the potential for entering the MYGA market. For more information: thatannuityshow.com

Joe Jordan explores the importance of purpose in retirement, the impact of demographics, and the role of technology, including AI. Joseph emphasizes the significance of life insurance and social security in financial planning, advocating for a human-centered approach to financial services. The conversation highlights the need for advisors to adapt to changing client needs and the importance of understanding the emotional aspects of financial decision-making. Listen now where you get your podcasts and at www.thatannuityshow.com.

In this episode of That Annuity Show, Paul Tyler, Tisa Rabun-Marshall, and Bruno Caron speak with Jason Hopper of AM Best about the rapidly evolving annuity market. They discuss emerging product trends, the growing role of private equity and asset managers, shifts in asset portfolio strategies, and how credit risk evaluation is adapting to changing market conditions. The conversation also explores the reinsurance space, spotlighting new market entrants and the regulatory complexities shaping the future of the insurance industry. Learn more at www.thatannuityshow.com

Summary In this episode of That Annuity Show, Paul Tyler speaks with Krish Krishnan, CEO and founder of Magnifact, about the company's mission to streamline data aggregation in the insurance industry. They discuss the challenges of data management, the importance of digital transformation, and how AI is set to revolutionize the industry. Krish shares insights on the evolving relationships between carriers and distributors, the need for mobility in insurance, and his predictions for the future of the industry. Learn more at thatannuityshow.com

In this episode of That Annuity Show, Paul Tyler, Bruno Caron, and guest Joe Nunes discuss the evolution of retirement planning, focusing on the shift from defined benefit (DB) to defined contribution (DC) plans. They explore the challenges faced by retirees today, the role of annuities, and the importance of adequate contributions to ensure financial security in retirement. The conversation also highlights the differences between the US and Canadian retirement systems, innovations in retirement savings, and strategies to address longevity risk. Listen now: www.thatannuityshow.com

In this episode, Paul Tyler interviews Kartik Sakthivel, Vice President and CIO of LIMRA, discussing the transformative impact of AI on the insurance industry. They explore the evolution of AI, its ethical implications, and the importance of governance. Kartik shares insights from his personal journey in the industry and emphasizes the need for AI literacy and operational efficiency. The conversation highlights the potential of AI to expand access to insurance and the importance of innovation from all levels within organizations. They conclude with a look at future directions for AI governance and resources available for industry professionals. Learn more at: www.thatannuityshow.com

In this episode, Paul Tyler and Tisa Rabun-Marshall discuss the intersection of annuities and AI with Jay Singh, founder of Hedgness. Jay and our hosts explore innovation in the annuity space, the importance of compliance, and how AI can enhance sales efficiency without disrupting existing workflows. Jay shares insights on successful AI implementation, the significance of meeting users where they are, and the potential ROI from AI adoption. The conversation also delves into specific use cases, particularly around illustrations for wholesalers, and the broader implications for the insurance industry. Learn more at thatannuityshow.com

Join executives from Prudential, Global Atlantic, Conning and Zinnia as they dive deep into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the life and annuity industry. Recorded at Hartford AI Day, this candid panel explores the real ROI of AI investments, the dramatic potential for call center cost reduction, and the critical 90% challenge that isn't technology—it's changing human behavior. Learn more at www.thatannuityshow.com and more on Hartford AI Day at https://today.uconn.edu/2025/04/hartfords-ai-day-draws-record-attendance/

In this episode, Paul Tyler and David Czerniecki discuss the current state of the markets, focusing on the interplay between tariffs, inflation, and economic indicators. They explore the implications of the bond market dynamics on the annuity industry, the impact of rising interest rates, and the role of AI and energy in shaping future market trends. David provides insights into the challenges posed by the rising deficit and the potential for economic growth, while also addressing the importance of energy production and regulatory changes.

In this episode of That Annuity Show, Paul Tyler and Laura Dinan Haber welcome Miles O'Keefe, who shares his journey in the funeral and financial planning industry. The conversation explores the intersection of Medicare and financial planning, the role of technology in enhancing human-centered services, and the challenges of navigating change in the funeral industry. They discuss communication trends in sensitive situations and the importance of maintaining a human touch in a rapidly evolving market. In this conversation, Miles O'Keefe discusses the evolution of communication in the funeral and Medicare industries, emphasizing the shift to digital platforms post-COVID. He shares strategies for working with funeral directors and Medicare providers, highlighting the importance of seamless communication and adapting to client needs. The discussion also touches on the fear of change in business, the evolving perspectives on death and funerals, and the potential future of technology in the death care industry. Listen now: www.thatannuityshow.com