

FNO: InsureTech
Alacrity Solutions
A podcast that interviews leaders from insuretech and insurance to get up-to-date ideas and perspectives on how technology is disrupting and transforming the industry. We bring stories, trends, and useful insights to our audience from carriers, insuretechs, service providers, and various industry groups.
New episodes feature people who are on the forefront of inventing, using, developing, or transforming the insurance world through applied technology.
FNO: InsureTech is created and produced by Alacrity Solutions.
New episodes feature people who are on the forefront of inventing, using, developing, or transforming the insurance world through applied technology.
FNO: InsureTech is created and produced by Alacrity Solutions.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 23, 2024 • 57min
Ep 266: The Future of AI and Insurance with Marc Fredman of CCC Intelligent Solutions
Marc Fredman, Chief Strategy Officer at CCC Intelligent Solutions, shares his insights on the future of AI in the insurance sector. He discusses transformative advancements in claims processing and introduces the concept of Intelligent Experience (IX), blending customer and business metrics for better outcomes. Marc provides practical examples of AI applications in claims prediction and subrogation. He emphasizes the need for technology that delivers real benefits and reveals future trends that are already reshaping the insurance landscape.

Aug 16, 2024 • 21min
Ep 265: Beyond the Finish Line: Olympic Passion and Insurance Parallels with Rob and Lee
With the 2024 Summer Olympics having come and gone, Rob and Lee discuss their enthusiasm for the Olympics and its events they enjoy in their latest short. They share their national pride and support for international athletes while drawing parallels between the cooperative nature of the Olympics and the insurance industry. They mention some of their favorite sports and express their excitement for future events and admiration for the athletes' dedication and hard work. Key Highlights: The allure and unifying nature of the Olympics. Experiencing the Olympics through personal stories. The cultural impact of watching athletes achieve their best. Comparisons between Olympic and insurance industry competition. Insights into supportive competition among insurance carriers. Quotes: "I’ve always loved the Olympics. It’s fascinating to see people who are the best of the best." – Rob Beller "Everyone wants countries to do well. It’s about humanity and support." – Lee Boyd "Insurance is generally a pretty friendly environment." – Rob Beller "The London insurance market was the most friendly, open, welcoming experience." – Lee Boyd References: 2024 Paris Olympics coverage on Peacock History of Munich Olympics tragedy in 1972 23andMe for tracing ancestry

Aug 9, 2024 • 55min
Ep 264: Breaking Barriers in Pet Insurance: Insights from Odie’s Founders
Join hosts Rob Beller and Lee Boyd as they chat with Miles and Zabrina Thorson, the founders of Odie Pet Insurance. Miles and Zabrina share their inspiring journey of transforming pet insurance with customizable coverage options and innovative technology. They discuss the industry's unique challenges and emphasize the importance of having pet insurance before emergencies happen. Tune in to see how Odie is making pet care better and more accessible! Key Highlights: Understanding the fundamentals of pet insurance and its comparison to other types of insurance. Discussion on the demographics driving the adoption of pet insurance, particularly millennials. Insights into Odie’s unique distribution model and its focus on embedding pet insurance in various platforms. The role of technology and data in underwriting and improving the claims process for pet owners. Exploration of the regulatory landscape impacting televet services and pet insurance. A closer look at customizable policies Odie offers to cater to diverse pet owner needs. Quotes: "Pet insurance is really there to cover those unexpected health events, not for routine vet visits.” – Zabrina Thorson “We wanted to empower third-party distribution channels to put this product in front of folks before they face an emergency.” – Miles Thorson

Aug 2, 2024 • 56min
Ep 263: Redefining Restoration: Albi’s Approach to Efficient Claims Management (feat. Alex Duta, Albi)
In this episode of FNO: InsureTech Podcast, we welcome Alex Duta, founder and CEO of Albi, a groundbreaking workflow management tool for damage restoration contractors. Alex dives deep into the inefficiencies plaguing the restoration industry and how Albi leverages technology to streamline processes, reduce administrative burdens, and foster greater transparency between contractors and insurers. Whether you’re a restoration contractor, insurance professional, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into revolutionizing property claims management. Key Highlights Introduction to Albi: Alex explains Albi’s end-to-end workflow management tool designed for the damage restoration industry. Challenges in the Restoration Industry: Discussion on the inefficiencies contractors face and the need for streamlined processes. Technological Innovations: How Albi integrates with various systems like QuickBooks and Twilio to enhance data collection and transparency. Industry Dynamics: The role of managed repair networks and third-party reviewers in the insurance claims process. Future Visions: Alex’s thoughts on the future of technology in the restoration space and improving claim speed and accuracy. Quotes “We’re obsessed over the individuals who show up in homeowners’ homes throughout the toughest times and make their lives so much easier.” – Alex Duta “If we add this layer of complexity, the contractors will find a way because you can’t push on their margins and their time to get paid enough.” – Alex Duta

Jul 18, 2024 • 55min
Ep 262: Client-Centric Innovation: Transforming Insurance Solutions at Alacrity (feat. Jonathan Miko, Alacrity Solutions)
Jonathan Miko, the CSIO and President of Managed Repair at Alacrity Solutions, is all about connecting with clients on their level. He highlights how their flexibility — thanks to both cutting-edge technology and the human touch — allows them to customize services to fit each client's unique needs. Jonathan dives into the story of Alacrity Solutions' transformation from a one-size-fits-all approach to a more personalized, client-first model, a shift that not only boosts service quality but also strengthens client relationships. Jonathan also shares his own personal journey that led him to his current leadership roles, adding a touch of inspiration to the mix. Key Highlights: The history and evolution of Alacrity’s Managed Repair Program. Jonathan Miko’s career journey and his transition from law to insurance. Key components and processes of the Managed Repair Program. Insights into how Alacrity ensures high quality and customer satisfaction. The strategic importance of technology and human intervention in MRP. Future trends and the growing significance of managed repair in the insurance industry. References: Learn more about Alacrity Solutions and their services at alacritysolutions.com "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries Alacrity Solutions’ Managed Repair Program Overview

Jun 28, 2024 • 26min
Ep 261: A.I., inflation, and IoT in Insurance
Hosts Rob and Lee discuss topics such as homeowners insurance, inflation, and the impact of A.I. in the insurance industry. They explore challenges in shopping for insurance, the value of human agents, and reflections on technological advancements. The conversation delves into the importance of proper coverage and the transformative potential of A.I.

Jun 21, 2024 • 50min
Ep 260: Cake's Recipe for Success in Insurance (feat. Adam Bowe, Cake)
Join Lee as he talks with Adam Bowe, CEO and co-founder of Cake. Learn how Cake is revolutionizing the buying, selling, and valuation of insurance agencies. Adam shares the platform’s unique approach, using machine learning for precise valuations, and highlights tools for anonymous listings, secure transactions, and escrow services. Discover the challenges and opportunities in the insuretech space, and how Cake is making the market more accessible for agency owners and buyers alike.

Jun 14, 2024 • 59min
Ep 259: The Future of Cyber Insurance (feat. Scott Kannry, Axio)
Co-hosts Rob and Lee chat with Scott Kannry, CEO and co-founder of Axio, exploring how Axio helps businesses manage cyber risk. Scott shares Axio's origin story, their unique approach to cyber insurance, and collaboration with Lloyd’s of London. Tune in to learn about the evolving field of cyber insurance and the importance of mitigating cyber risks today.

Jun 7, 2024 • 54min
Ep 258: Disrupting the Medical Malpractice Industry (feat. Jared Kaplan, Indigo)
Listen as Jared Kaplan, CEO and co-founder of Indigo, discusses the challenges and innovations in medical malpractice insurance, sharing his journey from building tech startups to using transforming insurance with artificial intelligence and data analytics. Jared explores Indigo's approach to differentiating risk, offering lower premiums to deserving doctors, and ultimately aiming to impact the healthcare industry positively. Kaplan also shares a lighthearted glimpse into his off-work hobbies when he's not running the business.

May 24, 2024 • 53min
Ep 257: Redefining Home Insurance with Data and Technology (feat. Ty Harris, Openly)
In this episode, Rob catches up with Ty Harris, CEO and co-founder of Openly, for his second appearance on the show. Join Ty and Rob as they chat about Openly’s growth, remote work success, and strategies for navigating the current market. Harris shares insights on Openly’s tech-enabled approach to home insurance and targeting the mass affluent market through independent agents. They also explore Openly’s focus on customer and agent satisfaction, the potential to enter the auto insurance market, and the impact of AI. We also get a little peek into Harris’s unique background, from academia to poker and ballroom dancing.