Rob Lieberthal joins Alicia Burke and guest co-host Brian Fannin in our final episode recorded at 2025 CLRS to unpack his CAS-funded research project focused on turning messy, unstructured claims data—like medical notes and adjuster reports—into actuarial insights using large language models (LLMs). From the promise of synthetic medical records to the limits of explainability, Rob shares how he and his team are building an end-to-end framework that could change how we work with complex claims data. Plus, hear how you can get involved and provide input as the project evolves.
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51:12
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51:12
Ted Rock from Rock Roofing
Alicia Burke and Max Martinelli talk with Ted Rock, owner of Rock Roofing, about everything from storm chasers and hail claims to why insurers and contractors so often talk past each other. Ted shares an unfiltered view from the other side of the claim.It’s a conversation about trust, timelines, and what happens when boots on the roof meet spreadsheets at the desk.
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48:35
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48:35
Geoff Werner on Telematics
Following our conversation with TomTom’s Vinod Poomalai on personalized insurance and mobility data, Geoff Werner joins Alicia Burke and guest co-host Mallika Bender to go deeper into telematics. From harsh braking to pricing fairness, Geoff explains how telematics is evolving from add-on to centerpiece—and why actuaries can’t afford to ignore it.They explore data portability, behavioral insights, equity concerns, and the role of telematics in claims, underwriting, and even urban planning. A must-listen for anyone serious about the future of auto insurance.
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48:51
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48:51
Max and Alicia talk sponsorships
Max Martinelli and Alicia Burke pull back the curtain on sponsored episodes. Almost Nowhere will always feature thoughtful, unsponsored conversations—but we also partner with select companies that have something real to offer our audience. We’ll keep asking the hard-hitting questions you count on. No fluff.Curious about sponsorship or ad opportunities? Reach out at [email protected].
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4:22
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4:22
Vinod Poomalai from TomTom
When actuaries talk about location data, most are still thinking in zip codes. Vinod Poomalai of TomTom joins Alicia Burke and Max Martinelli to challenge that mindset—and introduce a new world of map, traffic, and mobility data that’s reshaping pricing, claims, fraud, and more.This is our first sponsored episode of Almost Nowhere, created in partnership with TomTom. You’ll hear how one in four cars on the road today is powered by TomTom data, and how that data is now being used by insurers to improve loss ratios, sharpen driver scores, and even influence public infrastructure. Vinod also shares why small and midsize carriers shouldn’t sit this wave out—and how to get started without getting overwhelmed.
Almost Nowhere explores the intersection of data science, AI, and actuarial thinking in the P&C insurance industry—and beyond. In a world where innovation feels slow and risk is constantly evolving, we ask the hard questions, spotlight real-world progress, and talk with the people driving change. Whether you're an actuary, a data scientist, or just curious about what’s next, this show dives into how emerging tech is reshaping insurance from the inside out.
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