Alliance NOW! Risk & Insurance Podcast Series

Featured Guest Jay Gates Managing Director, Gallagher National Restaurant Practice 20+ years in insurance, former Applebee’s risk leader, RIMS committee member, and Kids Chance Nebraska board member. What We Cover Jay’s unexpected path into risk and insurance Lessons learned investigating EEOC claims early in his career Leadership principles developed while managing large claims teams Building a full ERM program for 165+ Applebee’s locations The most surprising and severe claims in restaurant operations How Gallagher reduces the total cost of risk for restaurant clients Innovative approaches including captives and proprietary analytics Underestimated risks: cyber breaches + product recalls The growing impact of AI on restaurant ops and risk Privacy + liability concerns tied to AI adoption The future of restaurant risk management over the next decade Key Takeaways Restaurant risks are broader than most expect. From contaminated produce to liquor liability fatalities, claims can escalate fast. Cyber and product recall coverages are essential, despite being commonly undervalued. AI will reshape restaurant risk—from customer service to operations tracking—creating both efficiencies and new exposures. Gallagher’s differentiator is proactive service, deep data analysis, and tailoring insurance strategy to each client's risk tolerance. Risk leaders benefit from diverse career experiences, which Jay draws on daily. Resources & Links Learn more about the Restaurant Risk Professional (RRP) certification:riskeducation.org/restaurant-RiskPro Explore additional Alliance Insights episodes at riskeducation.org Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

Topics Covered: What inspired Chris Bunbury’s career in environmental risk How pollutants are defined beyond chemicals Why most businesses unknowingly self‑insure environmental exposures The limitations of CGL policies & hidden pollution exclusions Environmental Impairment Liability (EIL) vs. Contractors Pollution Liability (CPL) Real‑world examples of unexpected pollution claims The role and value of an Environmental Strategist How environmental stewardship creates competitive advantage Preview of future episodes: PFAS, stormwater, brownfields, due diligence & more Resources Mentioned: Environmental Risk Managers, Inc. — ermi.us Environmental Strategist Certification — https://www.riskeducation.org/environmental-strategist/ Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

In this episode of the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance Insights podcast, CEO William Hold talks with Dan Chuparkoff, AI expert, innovation educator, and former product leader at Google, McKinsey, and Atlassian. Dan shares his compelling journey—from discovering disruptive technology as a teenager in an architecture firm to spending 25 years guiding teams through massive shifts in how work gets done.He discusses how early exposure to breakthrough tools shaped his understanding of digital transformation, why AI is accelerating faster than any previous change in workplace technology, and how professionals can adapt without fear. Dan explains the real impact of AI on today’s workforce—why it takes away repetitive tasks rather than entire jobs, how it turns “word managers” into problem solvers, and why human skills like empathy, creativity, and judgment remain more valuable than ever. This conversation is full of insights into the future of work, collaboration, and the growing importance of authentic human connection in an AI‑saturated world. Key Topics Covered:✅ Dan’s early journey from architecture intern to software developer✅ Lessons learned from leading teams at Google, McKinsey, and Atlassian✅ How AI evolved from autocomplete to powerful generative assistants✅ Why AI won’t replace most jobs—but will reshape daily tasks✅ Improving productivity with AI: meetings, email, communication, and strategy✅ The “analog renaissance” and the rising value of real human interaction✅ How professionals in risk and insurance can prepare for AI‑driven change Why Listen:If you’re an insurance professional, leader, educator, or simply curious about how AI will redefine work, this episode offers practical guidance and a forward‑looking perspective. Dan’s insights will help you understand the opportunities, limitations, and human implications of AI—empowering you to adapt, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly changing industry.Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

In this episode of the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance Insights podcast, hosts Mitch Dunford and Dr. Lisa Gardner talk with Deborah Buettner, CIC, personal lines underwriter and manager at Risk Placement Services. Deborah shares her inspiring story—from making cold calls at age 12 in her father’s agency to building a thriving career in underwriting hard-to-place risks like homeowners, farms, aviation, and drones.She discusses how early experiences as a CSR shaped her understanding of underwriting, why continuous learning and designations like CIC matter, and how RPS’s values-driven culture has kept her passionate for over two decades. This conversation is packed with insights on resilience, career growth, and the importance of integrity in the insurance industry.Key Topics Covered:✅ How Deborah started in insurance as a child✅ Transition from nursing to insurance✅ The role of a CSR and its impact on career development✅ Underwriting hard-to-place risks and E&S markets✅ Importance of professional designations like CIC✅ How company culture and core values drive successWhy Listen:If you’re an insurance professional, aspiring underwriter, or simply curious about career growth in the industry, this episode offers practical advice and an inspiring story of perseverance and passion. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

The insurance industry is facing a talent revolution. With AI and automation reshaping how companies attract, hire, and retain top talent, HR leaders are at the forefront of driving change. Join us for a candid discussion with Tony Chimera, Stephen Patscot, and Brett Carter—three of the most influential voices in insurance HR and recruiting—as they share insights on: How AI and automation are changing recruiting workflows The challenges of balancing technology with the human touch What skills and roles insurers will need most in the next decade Practical advice for HR leaders navigating digital transformation Whether you’re an HR professional, recruiter, or business leader, this conversation will help you prepare for the future of insurance talent. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

In this episode of Alliance Insights, Tyler Jensen, President of Top Performance Group, breaks down the powerful ways business owners can use life insurance to protect their companies, employees, and long-term legacy. From key person insurance and buy-sell agreements to cash value accumulation, loan collateralization, and executive bonus plans, Tyler explains how life insurance becomes a strategic financial tool, not just personal protection. Through real-world stories and step-by-step examples, you’ll learn how life insurance supports business continuity, safeguards revenue, funds succession plans, retains top talent, and strengthens financial stability. Whether you advise business owners or run a company yourself, this session gives you the clarity and confidence to use life insurance as a powerful planning resource. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

On this episode of Streamlining Insurance, we sit down with Sara Phillips, Head of Strategic Partnerships & Investments, Innovation Strategy at Great American Insurance Group. Sara brings a wealth of experience in M&A and innovation strategy, having led efforts to leverage acquisitions and partnerships as tools for growth, talent, and technological advancement. We discuss how carriers evaluate insurtech opportunities, the balance between building versus buying, and what it takes for startups to become attractive partners. For startups, carriers, and investors alike, this conversation provides a front-row view into how strategic investments and partnerships are reshaping insurance — from data analytics to distribution — and why collaboration is at the heart of digital transformation. Unlock how M&A, strategic investments, and AI innovation are redefining insurance. #Insurance #Insurtech #AIinInsurance #InsuranceInnovation #StreamliningInsurance #RiskEducation #GreatAmericanInsurance #Underwriting #MergersAndAcquisitions Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

In this episode of Alliance Insights, we’re excited to spotlight CISR High School Program graduate Katy Knapp - a rising insurance professional who is already charting her career path just one year out of high school. Thanks to early exposure, effective industry engagement, and internship opportunities, Katy has fast-tracked her journey into insurance and is already giving back by sharing practical, actionable advice for both students and employers. The Academy’s Sharla Floyd sits down with Katy to explore how the CISR High School Program shaped her trajectory, what she learned from hands-on experience, and how the industry can better support emerging talent. Katy’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of early engagement, and a reminder that investing in young professionals truly transforms futures. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

In this episode of Alliance Insights, Jack Elliott, Regional VP of Operations with Alera Group and Risk & Insurance Research Academy Board Chair, shares how a high school internship changed the course of his life. The Academy's Sharla Floyd talks with Jack about his path from the classroom to the C-suite and why he is so passionate about creating opportunities for today’s students through initiatives like the CISR High School Program. Jack’s story is a powerful reminder of how early exposure and industry engagement can truly change lives, and why giving back to the next generation matters now more than ever. Watch now and be inspired to help build the future of our industry. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

In this episode of Alliance Insights talks with Krista Glenn, EVP and Chief Claims Officer at Westfield Specialty, to explore how ethics and trust shape the business of risk. Together, they discuss why honesty, transparency, and accountability are essential to restoring confidence in an often-misunderstood industry. From real-world claims examples to the emerging role of AI in decision-making, Noelle and Krista share practical insights on how insurance professionals can create cultures of integrity—where doing the right thing isn’t just policy, it’s practice. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

On this episode of Streamlining Insurance, Darren Bloomfield sits down with Charles Merritt, CEO and co-founder of Buddy, an insurtech firm pioneering embedded insurance solutions. With their flagship ION™ engine, Buddy makes it easier than ever for businesses to integrate insurance directly into digital platforms. Charles shares his insights on how embedded insurance is reshaping customer experiences, the role of APIs in modernizing distribution, and what the next wave of innovation looks like in insurance technology. Whether you’re an insurer, broker, or technologist, this conversation will spark ideas on how to unlock new channels and streamline operations in today’s digital-first world. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

In this episode of Alliance Insights, Marsha Linton, National Casualty Analytics Practice Leader at USI Insurance Services, and Tim Wander, CRM faculty member, break down how to understand and apply actuarial reports to drive smarter business decisions. Learn how loss development triangles, projection methods, and ultimate loss selections can help your organization reduce costs, manage reserves, and strengthen communication between actuaries, auditors, and claims teams. Whether you’re a seasoned risk manager or new to analytics, this conversation will help you turn complex data into actionable insight—boosting accuracy, transparency, and long-term financial stability. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

In this episode of Streamlining Insurance, Darren speaks with Zhiyu Frank Quan, Ph.D. and Panyi Dong, researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign who recently co-authored “Automated Machine Learning in Insurance.” Together, they explore how automation and machine learning are reshaping actuarial science, underwriting, and risk management. We’ll also connect the dots to practical implementation—how insurers can move from academic theory to real-world tools that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enable better decision-making. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

In this episode of Alliance Insights, Dr. Claire Musselman dives into the human side of workers’ compensation. From the history of the system to modern challenges, she explains why empathy, communication, and dignity matter in every claim—and how they lead to better outcomes for employees and organizations alike. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

CyberCube is delivering the world’s leading cyber risk modeling and analytics. With best-in-class data access and advanced multi-disciplinary analytics, the company’s cloud-based platform helps insurance organizations quantify cyber risk to facilitate placing insurance, underwriting cyber risk and managing cyber risk aggregation. CyberCube’s enterprise intelligence layer provides insights on millions of companies globally and includes modeling on thousands of points of technology failure. The CyberCube platform was established in 2015 within Symantec and now operates as a standalone company exclusively focused on the insurance industry, with access to an unparalleled ecosystem of data partners. It is backed by Morgan Stanley Tactical Value, Forgepoint Capital, HSCM Bermuda, MTech Capital, individuals from Stone Point Capital and Scott G. Stephenson. For more information, please visit www.cybcube.com or email info@cybcube.com. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

In this episode of Alliance Insights, Jonathan Peters (JP) shares his journey into the insurance industry—from his start in finance and music to building a successful career as a producer at South Point Risk. He talks about the impact of earning his CIC designation, the importance of education, building client trust, and how persistence pays off in a hard market. Whether you’re new to insurance or a seasoned professional, JP’s story offers valuable lessons on growth, relationships, and the power of continuous learning. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

Explore the Dynamics Series—a proven program designed to help insurance professionals shift from price-driven conversations to meaningful, value-based sales. Whether you're building a new approach or refining your team's strategy, the Dynamics Series gives you the tools, techniques, and confidence to sell smarter.Start changing your sales culture today—one conversation at a time Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

Ready to transform your sales culture and lead with value? Explore the Dynamics Series—a proven program designed to help insurance professionals shift from price-driven conversations to meaningful, value-based sales. Whether you're building a new approach or refining your team's strategy, the Dynamics Series gives you the tools, techniques, and confidence to sell smarter.Start changing your sales culture today—browse the Dynamics Course Schedule. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

n this episode of Alliance Insights, Noelle Codispoti interviews Dale Randol, President and CEO of IBC Insurance, about how one agency is transforming the insurance industry — one high school student at a time. Learn how Dale’s team partnered with Laredo ISD to launch a CISR High School Program, offered guaranteed internships, and created real-world opportunities for students to start careers in insurance. If you're passionate about solving the insurance talent gap or curious how your agency can get involved, this conversation is packed with real success stories, practical strategies, and inspiration for building the future of our industry. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

Become Restaurant RiskPRO CertifiedRegister today and earn your badge in this fast-growing niche.Learn more and sign up now.  https://www.riskeducation.org/restaurant-riskpro/ Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.