Podcasts about rims

In this episode of OMAG All Access, Director of Risk Management William Sheppard sits down with LaVeta Breath, Director of Risk Management for the City of Oklahoma City and President of the Central Oklahoma RIMS Chapter. Together, they explore the value of risk management in municipal operations and the vital role that RIMS (Risk and Insurance Management Society) plays in connecting professionals across industries.LaVeta shares insights from her 17-year journey in municipal risk management, highlights the power of networking, and discusses how RIMS fosters collaboration, education, and professional development. Whether you're new to risk or a seasoned pro, this conversation offers practical takeaways on building community and finding support in a field where no two days are ever the same.To learn more about RIMS, visit rims.org. To connect with OMAG and discover resources for Oklahoma municipalities, visit OMAG.org.

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   In this episode, Justin interviews Dan Chuparkoff, the CEO and founder of Reinvention Labs, about his risk career, from an insight at age 17, leading at tech giants, to founding a startup to help organizations reinvent themselves with AI. Dan asserts that if you're not keeping up with AI, you're falling behind your industry. Dan previews his upcoming November 17th opening keynote address at the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington.   Listen to learn more about AI, innovation, and staying ahead of the competition.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. We will be joined by the CEO of Reinvention Labs, Dan Chuparkoff. Dan will deliver the opening keynote at the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 on November 17th in Seattle, Washington.  [:47] We will get a glimpse into Dan's risk philosophies, when it comes to AI and innovation, and get a preview of his keynote. It's going to be a lot of fun! [:55] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be held on November 11th and 12th, and led by Joseph Mayo. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:16] RIMS Virtual Workshops! RIMS has launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” It will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [1:33] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [1:44] Several RIMS Webinars are being hosted this Fall. On September 18th, Origami Risk will present “Driving Better Incident and Claims Management with Data, Technology & Strategic Collaboration”. [1:57] On September 25th, we will have a special webinar, hosted by Merrill Herzog, about active shooter preparedness in 2025 and beyond. That session will be complimentary for members and nonmembers. So, be sure to put that on your calendar for 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. [2:16] On October 9th, Global Risk Consultants 07returns to deliver “Natural Hazards: A Data-Driven Guide to Improving Resilience and Risk Financing Outcomes”. [2:25] On October 16th, Zurich returns to deliver “Jury Dynamics: How Juries Shape Today's Legal Landscape”. [2:33] On October 30th, Swiss Re will present “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times”. [2:42] On November 6th, Hub will present “Geopolitical Whiplash — Building Resilient Global Risk Programs in an Unstable World”. Register at RIMS.org/Webinars. [2:54] On with the show! As you know, the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 will be held in Seattle, Washington, on November 17th and 18th. Our guest today will be kicking off the conference with his keynote, “AI and the Future of Risk Management.” [3:11] His name is Dan Chuparkoff, and he is the CEO and Founder of Reinvention Labs. He's going to talk to us all about innovation and how AI can enrich our risk management processes. This conversation today will be a preview of what he will bring to the stage in Seattle. [3:30] Be sure to visit the link in this episode's show notes to register. You can also visit RIMS.org/Events and click on the ERM banner. I had such a great time recording this interview, and I know you are going to love it. Let's get to it! [3:43] Interview! Dan Chuparkoff, welcome to RIMScast! [3:52] Dan is super excited for this conversation. He says he doesn't always get this chance before an event to dig into some of his thoughts about the event and the industry. [4:37] Dan had a meandering career. He worked for 32 years in technology. He worked for some massive organizations, a 100-year-old company, McKinsey, some new startups, more mature startups like Atlassian, and Google. [5:15] Working for major enterprises and new startups, Dan got exposure to risk management perspectives from both extremes. He built a blend of how he thinks about risk that mixes the best of both worlds. That has helped make him successful. He'll talk about that in his keynote. [5:44] Dan brings some things he learned from nimble startups about experimentation, and keeps his eye out for the pitfalls that are coming in the future, which the major enterprises had more risk awareness to avoid. [6:08] Dan worked alongside risk managers, who were the Chief Legal Officer, or even the CEO, to figure out when they were taking smart risks and when they needed to stop doing something they had started. [6:40] Dan learned of Enterprise Risk Management while working at a marketing services software development agency. They were building software for global enterprises. As they built software, the enterprise would have a review board evaluate it for quality and policy adherence. [7:09] From 2002 to 2010, Dan got real exposure to global risk management. He learned things like the risk philosophy of European countries and the European Union, as it differs from American risk philosophy.  [7:35] Dan notes that the risk management profession tunes you to be a systems thinker, not just a siloed thinker. You're not just thinking about what your team is doing, but you're thinking of the downstream ripple effects of every decision that you make. [7:53] As you become a leader in charge of more of the organization, systems thinking prepares you to understand the ripple effect of your decisions and think about how decisions need to be coordinated across the different streams of the organization. That makes you a great leader. [8:40] About 15 years into Dan's career, he realized there were some things he knew deeply and was really passionate about. When those things came up in meetings, he was outgoing. He stood up and marked on the whiteboard. [9:06] He had this passion, and he knew it would be helpful to share it. Before he started thinking about audiences and microphones, he started thinking about the content he was passionate about. That content was about people's ability to change and adapt to new technology. [9:29] Technology changes all the time. New technology is confusing and filled with risk. At some point, you have to get on that new bus, or the organizations in your industry will pass you by. Dan became excited about that. It became easier for him to talk in bigger groups. [9:54] One day, Dan found himself onstage at a Gartner conference in front of 800 people, and that was the beginning of a journey he says is now the best job in the world. [10:34] RIMS Events! On September 18th, the 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum will be held at The Old Post Office in Chicago. Register at ChicagoRIMS.org. [10:49] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today! [11:06] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through the 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [11:21] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Do not miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [11:34] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to join us. Visit RIMS.org/membership and build your network with us here at RIMS. [11:46] Let's Return to Our Interview with ERM Conference Keynote, Dan Chuparkoff!  [11:58] Justin asks how Dan's experience of building and leading teams at Google, McKinsey, and Atlassian, delivering software to billions, informs his current approach as the CEO of Reinvention Labs to helping organizations reinvent work with the power of AI. [12:15] Dan was an intern at an architecture firm when he was 17. One architect had AutoCAD, and all the others were drawing on paper. The architect with AutoCAD used copy-and-paste to accelerate his work. That changed the way Dan looked at technological change. [12:39] From the age of 17, Dan started looking for those copy-and-paste moments. He found them, over and over again. Spreadsheets improved our analysis. The internet improved our ability to look for information. AI improves our ability to juggle more data than before. [12:58] All those things were coming at a predictable cadence. It takes about five years for new technology to become part of the infrastructure. Dan realized that you have about five years to tackle something new before the next new thing comes at you. [13:21] People wait for the dust to settle. They don't start figuring out how to build this new thing into the way they work. You'll get passed by. You'll be working too slowly, and your customers will expect more of you. Or you'll do it too quickly, make mistakes, and create unnecessary risk. [13:44] Figuring out how to manage these five-year cycles of change became Dan's strength. [13:57] Dan will expound on his copy-and-paste moments in his November keynote. This was a preview. It was the moment that changed the way he thought about tools and technology, and their impact on the way we work. [14:23] Justin says Dan takes complex topics and makes them simple and useful for a non-technical audience. Dan says a lot of people are talking about AI now. [14:52] AI is an umbrella term that includes a lot of things. It's on the level of “math.” You don't say, “We're implementing math at work, right now.” Math is part of everything we do. [15:09] One of the things Dan helps people do is to start breaking AI down. Are we talking about a chat interface on top of our customer service knowledge base? Are we talking about a sophisticated AI image-recognition system to look at MRI scans? Those are different things. [15:29] They're both using AI, but as you're evaluating the risk of AI features, AI deployment, and AI use cases, it will be helpful to understand the difference between a chatbot, image recognition, and AI-based research. They all have different amounts of risk. [15:49] If you try to have a single AI policy that covers all those things, it will be challenging. That's how Dan helps to break it down. [16:14] Dan will have 60 minutes for his keynote. He will spend 45 minutes covering content he thinks is important for risk management professionals and about 15 minutes of open Q&A. He will also be around all day, if people want to talk to him in the hallway or at lunch. [16:44] Final Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [17:03] Since 1999, Spencer has awarded over $2.9 million to create more than 570 Risk Management Internships. The Internship Grants application process is now open through October 15th, 2025. [17:20] To be eligible, risk managers must be based in the U.S., Canada, or Bermuda. A link to the Internship Grants page is in this episode's show notes. You can always visit SpencerEd.org, as well. [17:33] Let's Conclude Our Interview with ERM Conference Opening Keynote, Dan Chuparkoff! [17:53] Dan says the fundamental and most important thing to remember is that AI shouldn't make your decisions for you. Ask AI for 10 things that you should do, and you decide which one of those things is the right thing. You have a lot of things in your head that AI doesn't know. [18:20] You have things you remember from your first job, the things you remember your mother telling you when you were nine. Those things influence your decisions, and AI doesn't know any of them. Always use AI as a recommendation and make your own decisions. [18:43] Dan almost always says to give him 10 of whatever he is looking for. Some answers are too conservative, some are too risky, and some can work. No one is good enough at prompt engineering to put all the context in. Dan asks for choices and picks the one that feels right. [19:43] Why is there a gap between crafting an AI policy and putting it into practice? Some people are creating policies with a different level of understanding of what AI is capable of doing and what it is not. Sometimes, policies are just early in their maturity. [20:17] Three years from now, it will be a better policy that understands some of the discrepancies a little bit more, and that gap will start to close. [20:25] Some people have policies, and their people are ignoring them. When ChatGPT came out in November 2022, students started using it for homework. It became a part of their lives. They didn't stop using it when they went to work, regardless of the company policy. [21:14] There's a shadow AI use at a lot of organizations. The more your AI policy is crowdsourced, and you're asking your people what they need, what they want, and what they're doing already, the better your policy will match what's happening in your organization. It evolves. [21:44] Dan adds that email is already susceptible to IP leakage, but because of user training and judgment, people in the organization know what data to keep out of the email system. With training, people will learn what data to keep out of the AI system. [22:48] The best add-on to email, according to Dan, is sending calendar invites. Justin says the best add-on is scheduled send. He loves how people think he sends an email at 5:01. Dan says an AI tool, Fixer, will draft a reply to every message you get, and you can send or edit it, or not. [24:00] Dan foresees AI-powered email things that will be life-changing. Justin says Google will already generate a message for you if it's something simple. [24:37] Dan says before every keynote, he tries to get a deep understanding of the audience and what they care about. He goes through their website, watches videos, reads blogs and articles, and listens to podcasts. All those things influence the research and the content he brings. [25:04] What Dan will do for his keynote is dig into the ways AI is changing the work that risk management professionals are doing now and how that will continue to change over the near term. [25:15] Dan won't talk about 20 years from now, but about six months to three years from now, what that's going to look like, so that people can start anticipating the future and building a safe, risk-controlled future that they're trying to build. [25:38] I'm looking forward to it. You've been a wonderful guest. You've piqued the interest of a lot of our audience, and we hope they'll make it out to Seattle on November 17th, when you kick off the conference for us. [25:56] Dan looks forward to hanging out with everybody in Seattle. His parting advice is to tell AI, “Give me one thing every Monday that I should learn about AI.” Every week, you'll be a little smarter about AI. You don't have to do the things, but they're little nudges along your AI journey. [26:30] Special thanks again to Dan Chuparkoff for joining us here on RIMScast. We are so excited for him to kick off the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington, on November 17th. The registration link is in this episode's show notes, or visit the Events page of RIMS.org.  [26:50] We want to see you on November 17th and 18th. We will have more ERM Conference presenters on RIMScast in the next six weeks. Be sure to subscribe to RIMScast through your favorite podcasting app and catch all the risk management goodness! [27:05] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [27:34] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [27:52] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [28:10] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [28:26] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [28:41] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. Please remember to subscribe to RIMScast on your favorite podcasting app. You can email us at Content@RIMS.org. [28:53] Practice good risk management, stay safe, and thank you again for your continuous support!   Links: RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov. 17‒18 Spencer Internship Program — Registration Open Through Oct. 15. 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration through Sept 30! Spencer Educational Foundation 2025 Funding Their Future Gala — Sept. 18, 2025, in NYC! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Driving Better Incident and Claims Management with Data, Technology & Strategic Collaboration” | Sept. 18 | Sponsored by Origami Risk “Active Shooter Preparedness” | Sept. 25 | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog | Complimentary for all “Natural Hazards: A Data-Driven Guide to Improving Resilience and Risk Financing Outcomes” | Oct. 9 | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants “Jury Dynamics: How Juries Shape Today's Legal Landscape” | Oct. 16, 2025 | Sponsored by Zurich “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times” | Oct. 30, 2025 | Sponsored by Swiss Re “Geopolitical Whiplash — Building Resilient Global Risk Programs in an Unstable World” | Nov. 6 | Sponsored by Hub   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — November 11‒12 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Risk Appetite Management” | Oct 22‒23 | Instructor: Ken Baker “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham “Leveraging Data and Analytics for Continuous Risk Management (Part I)” | Dec 4. See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Tom Brandt on Growing Your Career and Organization with ERM” “Risk and Clarity with Huw Edwards, RIMS Texas Keynote” “James Lam on ERM, Strategy, and the Modern CRO” “AI Risks and Compliance with Chris Maguire” “Change Management and Strategy with Jay Kiew, RIMS Canada Conference 2024 Keynote” “(Re)Humanizing Leadership in Risk Management with Holly Ransom” “AI and Regulatory Risk Trends with Caroline Shleifer” “Live from the ERM Conference in Boston!” (2024)   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Daniel Chuparkoff, CEO and Founder at Reinvention Labs   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   In this episode, Justin interviews Manjit K. MInhas, Calgary-born entrepreneur, engineer, venture capitalist, and Co-founder and CEO at Minhas Brewery, Distillery, and Winery, from the age of 19. Manjit appears on Dragon's Den on the CBC and is a multiple entrepreneur. Justin and Manjit discuss her entrepreneurship journey, how she insists on risk professionals at the table from the beginning of any business, and what her risk philosophy is. Manjit shares thoughts on business resilience and her upcoming opening keynote at the RIMS Canada Conference 2025 on September 15th in Calgary. She offers a Q&A at the end of her keynote.   Listen to learn about startups, innovation, and having risk management at the decision table.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. Our guest is Manjit Minhas. You might know her from Dragon's Den in Canada. She's also the Co-founder and CEO of Minhas Brewing and Distilleries. [:45] We will get a sample of her keynote, which will kick off the RIMS Canada Conference 2025 in Calgary, on September 15th. We've got a really fun episode for you today! [:56] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be held on November 11th and 12th, and led by Joseph Mayo. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:16] RIMS Virtual Workshops! RIMS has launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” It will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [1:33] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [1:44] Several RIMS Webinars are being hosted this Fall. On September 18th, Origami Risk will present “Driving Better Incident and Claims Management with Data, Technology & Strategic Collaboration”. [1:56] On October 9th, Global Risk Consultants returns to deliver “Natural Hazards: A Data-Driven Guide to Improving Resilience and Risk Financing Outcomes”. [2:06] On October 16th, Zurich returns to deliver “Jury Dynamics: How Juries Shape Today's Legal Landscape”. [2:14] On October 30th, Swiss Re will present “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times”. [2:23] On November 6th, Hub will present “Geopolitical Whiplash — Building Resilient Global Risk Programs in an Unstable World”. Register at RIMS.org/Webinars. [2:35] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through the 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [2:49] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [3:02] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to join us. Visit RIMS.org/membership and build your risk network with us here at RIMS. [3:17] On with the show! Our guest today is Manjit K. Minhas, a Calgary-born entrepreneur, engineer, and venture capitalist. [3:28] You know her from the Minhas Brewery, Distillery, and Winery, which has grown into a global empire, with over 90 brands sold across North America and 16 countries. [3:38] You also know her from CBC's Dragon's Den, which premieres its new season, featuring Manjit, in September 2025. Manjit will distill her risk philosophies on reliance and leadership today, here on RIMScast. I'm so excited to have her join us! Let's get to it! [4:01] Interview! Manjit K. Minhas, welcome to RIMScast! [411] Manjit loves risk professionals and loves working with them. She is very excited to speak to risk professionals from many industries at the RIMS Canada Conference 2025. [4:27] Manjit has worked with risk professionals in her companies and through the boards she sits on and the companies she advises or invests in. She sees a variety of talents and skills in risk professionals. They have a technical expertise and a strong foundation in methodologies. [5:01] Manjit says risk professionals identify not just the basic operational and financial risks but strategic risks and mitigation risks. There is so much M&A happening in every sector. Their technical expertise is very important. [5:22] Manjit explains, they are really good at data analysis and modeling, and making that data and a large volume of information into something that matters, that decision-makers can use to make great decisions, and think about the pros, the cons, and sometimes the blind spots. [5:57] The risk officers Manjit hires have her ear. She always likes them to be at the table. She wants their perspective beforehand rather than after. They are good at listening, taking it all in, succinctly communicating, and helping with stakeholder management. [6:18] Manjit believes that with their business acumen and their wealth of knowledge from so many parts of the business, risk managers should be at the table all the time. She wants their input from the outset. [6:42] Manjit believes that more business leaders with that viewpoint are coming up. It's a matter of how long you've been an entrepreneur or founder. Manjit has been an entrepreneur for 26 years. She and her brother started when she was 19. The drinking age in Canada is 18. [6:58] Manjit was studying engineering at the University of Calgary and came up with the idea of getting into the private label spirits business, and a couple of years later, the beer business. They started as a sales, marketing, and branding company, and then got into manufacturing. [7:16] It went step by step. It was not overnight, by any means. She just started young and has been at it for a long time. With that time comes experience, knowledge, and understanding that there are a lot of smarter people than she, that she needs to collect around the table. [7:34] At year four or five, she didn't have the same perspective she has now. Founders and entrepreneurs in early stages are still figuring it out and don't have the resources to have the same perspective as Manjit. As they gain self-awareness, they look to risk professionals. [8:14] As a 19-year-old, Manjit says she had no concept of risk. She didn't have money or a reputation at risk. Now, she has a lot more of those things, plus a list of a dozen more, that are at risk. A young person doesn't think they're risking anything other than time and energy. [8:48] Manjit thinks time definitely makes all of us a bit smarter.  [8:52] The risk professionals working for Manit work under the legal department. [9:42] Manjit talks about her risk professionals. As a business owner, you want to have the confidence that you have someone there identifying risks, assessing the impact, prioritizing risks, developing mitigation plans, and assigning responsibility. The list goes on. [10:18] In this day and age, things are changing so fast, from policy, regulation, and the labor environment. There's a long list of things that companies need to be aware of. They can't just close their eyes. They have to have a plan. [10:47] Manjit is an optimist. She wakes up thinking that where there is a challenge, there is an opportunity. She believes that when things are tough, there are a lot of problems to solve. That's when great businesses are born. Great entrepreneurs are good at solving and discovering. [11:29] RIMS Events! On September 18th, the 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum will be held at The Old Post Office in Chicago. Register at ChicagoRIMS.org. [11:43] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today! [12:00] On November 17th and 18th, elevate your ERM Program and career at the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. Register now to save $110 and secure your spot at the ERM event of the year. [12:16] Canadian listeners, take note, that's just a little bit South of the border in British Columbia. That's a great way to extend your knowledge after the RIMS Canada Conference. Visit RIMS.org/ERM2025 to register. [12:31] Let's Return to Our Interview with RIMS Canada Conference 2025 Opening Keynote, Manjit K. Minhas!  [12:41] Minhas products include a beer for Trader Joe's, and a fair number of private-label, controlled-label, and white-label brands throughout North America, including food service. If you've had a beer-battered onion ring or French fry on the East Coast, you've had Minhas beer. [13:28] Minhas has a diverse business within the liquor industry. [13:37] Manjit discusses reputational risk. There is reputational risk in any consumer-facing business. She says, often, what separates you from the flurry of competitor advertising is taking some risks with your brand image. [14:15] She shares an example of making a decision early on that was to get noticed, but also to protect the Minhas brand. Marketing professionals are more forward-thinking, and risk professionals are more conservative. Manjit comes to a happy middle-ground decision. [15:40] Final Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [15:58] Since 1999, Spencer has awarded over $2.9 million to create more than 570 Risk Management Internships. The Internship Grants application process is now open through October 15th, 2025. [16:14] To be eligible, risk managers must be based in the U.S., Canada, or Bermuda. A link to the Internship Grants page is in this episode's show notes. You can always visit SpencerEd.org, as well. [16:28] Let's Conclude Our Interview with RIMS Canada Conference 2025 Opening Keynote, Manjit Minhas! [16:39] Manjit states that innovation is one of the fun parts of R&D. Manjit talks about different vodkas and beers. Innovation has a financial and reputational cost, and the cost of pushing away another product from retail shelves, for a variety of marketing reasons. [17:40] There are a lot of reasons you don't want to innovate and upset the apple cart. The risk professionals help by getting the metrics for the decision. When will you see if the risk is paying off? It's an art. There are a lot of people involved, so that leadership can make a decision. [18:33] Manjit says there are a lot of nerves in the launch phase of innovation, after being in business this long. It's different when you're new. Once it's out and Manjit sees the execution phase, that's when she gets excited. All of the pieces of the puzzle have come together. [19:18] When Manjit started the business, it was super cool to see her brand offered on the menu or in the bar. It still is, going to the grocery store with her daughter and seeing their craft sodas. Her daughter went up and turned the bottles so the logos were forward-facing. [19:40] It never gets old. Her brother is the same way. They send photos to each other all the time. They package 600 cans a minute at all their facilities. It's a big operation. But to Manjit and her brother, it's like it's still the two of them against the world. [20:29] It's the drive to keep winning that gets Manjit up every day. Minhas is the 9th largest brewery in North America. How are they to keep climbing that ladder and keep getting better, compared to themselves? [20:53] Some Minhas facilities in the States offer tours. But they have secrets they want to protect. It's a very competitive industry. [21:23] Manjit explains operational resilience and risk strategy in the light of supply chain disruptions and tariffs. It's something we all need to look at and not take for granted. Look at critical operations, people, facilities, technology, third-party dependencies, ownership, and more. [22:08] They look at every part of that as to how they can be resilient and be better than their competitor, and do it more efficiently, quicker, with faster adaptation, and recover when things don't go right. Everybody is a part of it. They're doing more scenario testing than ever before. [22:44] Minhas is looking at different impacts and how long they can get through them. What are the tolerance levels? Their culture is more transparent to both issues, where they are winning and where they are not. Manjit lists the many types of business resilience. [23:26] If your business is not looking at using technology and AI to your advantage, what are you doing? Resilience is more than the easy definition. [23:57] How does Manjit keep a consistent approach to risk across all her verticals? It's communication. Manjit doesn't think there is such a thing as too much communication. Ideas have to be shared. It has to be a collaborative space to understand everything that comes. [24:25] A lot of people know Manjit from Dragon's Den. She has been on for 10 years and just finished filming her 11th season, which is airing soon. She'll let people take selfies with her. [25:11] Some of what to expect from Manjit on September 15th, in Calgary: She'll talk about her story, lessons learned, mentorship, the courage, skills, and talents that have brought her success, and fun stories about leadership. [25:37] Manjit will give some advice on how to build confidence, self-awareness, negotiation, and lots of fun things. She will leave about 15 minutes for an open Q&A session. She always enjoys learning what people in the audience are wondering. It's fun! [26:08] We look forward to seeing you on September 15th, 9:00 a.m. In Calgary! It's been such a pleasure to meet you! Thank you for joining us on RIMScast! [26:44] Special thanks again to Manjit Minhas for joining us here on RIMScast! We are so excited for her to kick off RIMS Canada 2025 with her keynote on September 15th at 9:00 a.m. in Calgary. [27:00] Be sure to register today! This is the last call! Visit RIMSCanadaConference.ca for more information and to register! I've also got a link in today's show notes to the closing keynote interview, Amanda Lindhout. She was fantastic, as well. See her on September 17th. [27:20] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [27:49] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [28:07] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [28:25] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [28:41] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [28:55] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. Please remember to subscribe to RIMScast on your favorite podcasting app. You can email us at Content@RIMS.org. [29:07] Practice good risk management, stay safe, and thank you again for your continuous support!   Links: RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Last week to register! RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov. 17‒18 Spencer Internship Program — Registration Open Through Oct. 15. 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration through Sept 30! Spencer Educational Foundation 2025 Funding Their Future Gala — Sept. 18, 2025, in NYC! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Driving Better Incident and Claims Management with Data, Technology & Strategic Collaboration” | Sept. 18 | Sponsored by Origami Risk “Natural Hazards: A Data-Driven Guide to Improving Resilience and Risk Financing Outcomes” | Oct. 9 | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants “Jury Dynamics: How Juries Shape Today's Legal Landscape” | Oct. 16, 2025 | Sponsored by Zurich “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times” | Oct. 30, 2025 | Sponsored by Swiss Re “Geopolitical Whiplash — Building Resilient Global Risk Programs in an Unstable World” | Nov. 6 | Sponsored by Hub   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — November 11‒12 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “On Resilience with Amanda Lindhout, RIMS Canada 2025 Closing Keynote” “Thoughts and IDEAs on Inclusivity with Michael Bach” (RIMS Canada 2025 Keynote, recorded in 2024) “Live From Vancouver! with Maryam Salmasi, Fred H. Bossons Award Winner 2024” “Exploring Risk in Extreme Environments with Kevin Vallely” “Change Management and Strategy with Jay Kiew, RIMS Canada Conference 2024 Keynote”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Manjit K. Minhas, Co-founder and CEO at Minhas Brewery, Distillery, and Winery Calgary-born entrepreneur, engineer, and venture capitalist   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

If feeling invisible is a familiar feeling to you or you find yourself struggling to gain others' approval, this podcast is for you! Tracy went through a breakup that left her chasing her worth in things that would leave her feeling unvalued and unfulfilled, leading to an eating disorder. Her message today: You don't have to keep looking outside your relationship with God for what He longs to give you! True security comes from HIM, not them. Tracy Harper is a speaker, teacher, and writer with over twenty years of experience in campus ministry.Show Notes:Published book, From Him, not them A Young Woman's Guide to Relying on God for Validation, Identity and GuidanceContact Tracy ~Web: www.tracyharperwrites.comEmail: tracy@tracyharperwrites.comFacebook: TracyHarperWritesInstagram: @TracyHarperWritesDirect questions & comments to: podcast@wearethebridge.orgDenise Harper's new book, “Treasured Inside - Devotions With Denise,” is available at Amazon, Apple, Target, and more. For more information, email Denise at: denise@wearethebridge.orgDid you know you can now watch Over the Rims of Mugs?Visit https://www.wearethebridge.org/mugsvideoPlease share Over the Rims of Mugs with a friend if you enjoyed this episode. Over the Rims of Mugs is still growing, and your positive review and 5-star rating would help.The Bridge Podcast Network is made possible by generous support from The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel and Victoria's Restaurant on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware - Open 7 days a week, year-round - Learn more at https://boardwalkplaza.comFeedback, or Show Ideas? Send an email to podcast@wearethebridge.orgDownload The Bridge Mobile App to get the latest podcast episodes as soon as they are published!

Mike Tannenbaum is the Founder and Managing Partner of Key Strategies, a boutique recruitment firm that specializes in providing world-class insurance and risk management talent to Fortune 500, insurance brokerage, carrier, and consulting firms across the U.S. With over 30 years of experience in this niche market, Mike has built a best-in-class network of corporate risk managers, insurance brokers, underwriters, claims and safety directors, RIMS account managers, and risk consultants at all levels. In this live from RIMS 2024 episode, Mike answers the top questions about recruiting in the insurance industry, from how often is acceptable to switch positions, what the total compensation package looks like, and whether the non-compete agreement is still an issue in the industry.   Key Takeaways: ● Mike shares the work that he does at Key Strategies and his podcast Should I Stay or Should I Go? ● Mike's path to becoming a career risk management recruiter started at a beach club. ● As a recruiter, Mike builds relationships with both candidates and companies. ● The importance and challenge of confidentiality in risk management recruiting. ● Why should you have conversations with a recruiter if you're not interested in changing jobs? ● Connecting candidates and employers in a pre-LinkedIn world. ● The evolving work of Key Strategies utilized LinkedIn as an effective tool. ● Addressing the talent shortage and inflation in the insurance industry. ● It's not only about salary — the importance of considering the total compensation package and the career opportunities. ● What is the acceptable timing to transition from one position to another? ● Is the non-compete agreement no longer an issue in the insurance industry? ● The most meaningful advice that Mike has learned in his career.   Mentioned in This Episode: Mike on LinkedIn Key Strategies   Tweetables:   “A good risk manager really needs to understand their company and how they operate in every little detail to be able to provide the right insurance and advice.”   “There's nothing wrong with being open to having those introductory conversations with a recruiter.”   “LinkedIn has presented some great challenges and some great opportunities in recruiting.”   “If you want people to believe in the mission, you have to sell them on the mission.”   “If you have your superstar employees, or anyone that you really value, you have to give them a reason to want to stay.”  

Scott Smidlein is the Head of the Energy Practice at HSB (Hartford Steam Boiler), where his experience in both the insurance and energy industries has helped push HSB into a major insurer in the space. Previously Scott worked for Marsh as a Client Executive and Property Specialist for Marsh's Energy and Power Practice, where he worked with clients on tailoring their insurance programs to best fit their risk management needs. In this final live from RIMS 2024 episode, Scott details the intersection of insurance and energy, shares how curiosity and a willingness to try new things have benefitted his career, and underscores the importance of maintaining relationships throughout your career.   Key Takeaways: ● Scott's role with HSB focuses on growing and running their cyber and energy practices. ● Risk management and insurance weren't Scott's initial career plan. ● The leap from Marsh to Lockton (and back again) gave Scott an opportunity to take on a new challenge. ● Scott is working to help HSB realize its full potential in the insurance and brokerage side. ● Transitioning from the brokerage side to the client side. ● Talent and willingness to try new things always equals opportunity in this industry. ● Scott's average day is chaotic and unpredictable – for now. ● Success, to Scott, means taking HSB to the next level in the insurance industry. ● Saving relationships in the face of a mistake means admitting your error as soon as possible. ● Scott's dream job includes a lot of chaos, a lot of success, and a lot of fun. ● Defining energy as it relates to the future. ● Scott's advice to his early career self is simple — be curious and ask questions.   Mentioned in This Episode: Scott Smidlein HSB   Tweetables:   “To be a specialist in the energy sector you really have to know the technology.”   “The benefit of not burning any bridges when you leave a place is that you maintain those connections and the opportunities keep opening up.”   “If you're always the guy who raises your hand when people ask if you're looking for a new opportunity, you'll find yourself doing a lot of different things.”   “We're a very unique industry that has a ton of opportunity in place. Whatever you're passionate about, there's probably a job for it in the insurance industry.”

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   The Spencer Educational Foundation, a leading nonprofit organization to nurture the next generation of risk management and insurance professionals, will hold its annual Funding Their Future Gala in New York City on Thursday, September 18, 2025. This eagerly awaited event will occur at the renowned Cipriani 42nd Street, uniting industry leaders and supporters to acknowledge achievements in risk management and insurance.   This year's gala recognizes Tim Ryan, U.S. President at Lockton, for championing the next generation of talent and shaping the future of the risk management and insurance industry. Since being named U.S. President in 2024, Tim has been pivotal in positioning Lockton for the future. With over 30 years of industry experience, Tim brings a strategic and enduring approach to leadership. He is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence that carries Lockton's momentum forward. Tim's vision is to build on Lockton's strong foundation, guiding the company through evolving market demands while maintaining its reputation as the best place to work in insurance.   “Tim's commitment to attracting and developing top talent has been instrumental in Lockton's continued success and evolution as an industry leader,” stated Julie Gibson, Spencer board member and Chief Marketing Officer at Lockton.   In this episode, Justin interviews Tim Ryan on his career, his risk philosophy, his leadership vision on mentorship, and his recognition by the Spencer Educational Foundation.   Listen to learn about attracting top, rising talent to the risk management and insurance industry.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:14] The call for educational content submissions for RISKWORLD 2026 is open through September 4th! A link is in this episode's show notes. [:28] About this episode of RIMScast. We will be joined by Tim Ryan. He is the U.S. President at Lockton and the honoree at this year's Spencer's Funding Their Future Gala on September 18th. We'll get his perspective on leadership and the future of risk management in just a moment. [1:00] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be held on November 11th and 12th, and led by Joseph Mayo. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:20] RIMS Virtual Workshops! RIMS has launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” It will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [1:37] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [1:48] The next RIMS Webinar will be held on September 4th and will be led by AXA XL. It is titled “Lockdown & Level Up: Turn Up Your Cyber Security Game Against Creative Cyber Criminals”. [2:01] On September 18th, Origami Risk will present “Driving Better Incident and Claims Management with Data, Technology & Strategic Collaboration”. [2:10] On October 9th, Global Risk Consultants returns to deliver “Natural Hazards: A Data-Driven Guide to Improving Resilience and Risk Financing Outcomes”. [2:19] On October 16th, Zurich returns to deliver “Jury Dynamics: How Juries Shape Today's Legal Landscape”. [2:28] On October 30th, Swiss Re will present “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times”. [2:37] On November 6th, Hub will present “Geopolitical Whiplash — Building Resilient Global Risk Programs in an Unstable World”. Register at RIMS.org/Webinars. [2:49] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through the 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [3:04] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [3:17] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to join us. Visit RIMS.org/membership and build your risk network with us here at RIMS. [3:31] On with the show! On September 18th, 2025, the Spencer Educational Foundation will hold its annual Funding Their Future Gala in New York City at the renowned Cipriani 42nd Street. [3:44] This year's Gala recognizes Tim Ryan, U.S. President at Lockton, for championing the next generation of talent and shaping the future of risk management and insurance. [3:54] Tim Ryan is our guest today. He has over 30 years of industry experience. We're going to dive into his philosophies on leadership and what it takes for the next generation of risk professionals to be successful in the short and long term. Let's get to it! [4:11] Interview! Tim Ryan, welcome to RIMScast! [4:32] Tim Ryan is excited to be here today to talk about the Spencer Educational Foundation! He says it's an exceptional organization, doing important work. It's a unique organization that brings the entire industry together to rally around an issue that's important to us all. [4:52] Tim says the recognition is humbling and gratifying. It's nice to be recognized, but he doesn't view it as a personal achievement. He sees it as a reflection of the incredible work being done by Lockton and Associates throughout the country, more than it is of his individual efforts. [5:14] Tim says he is honored to be recognized, and he's proud to be part of a company that sees this as a priority. [5:26] Tim has been at Lockton for 20 years. Before Lockton, Tim worked on the carrier side for 10 years. Tim became the U.S. President at Lockton almost a year ago to the day.  [5:49] Tim's leadership style has changed over time, through the wisdom of maturity and a lot of trial and error. He started in the industry straight out of college. Working at a couple of different organizations exposed him to different leaders along the way. [6:10] Tim learned a few foundational lessons. First, leadership is rarely about title. People follow people, not the position. When Tim was first made a team leader, he was excited to be in charge. He promised himself he wouldn't make the same mistakes his managers had made. [6:37] He made the same mistakes. He started to realize that a leadership position isn't about you. Your job is to set the vision, align stakeholders, make sure there's clarity on roles and responsibilities, and create and foster an environment that allows people to be successful. [6:58] Tim's leadership style is about building teams with complementary skill sets. It's not about being the smartest person in the room; it's about making sure the room is filled with smart and motivated people. [7:08] Put the right people in the right place and trust them to get the job done. People want to believe in what they're doing and who they're doing it with. It's critical to bring together people with a diversity of thought and background. Bring a variety of different viewpoints to the table. [7:28] Tim believes it's critical to get to know your people. What motivates and drives them? What are their goals and aspirations? How do they like to absorb information? [7:55] Tim views it as his job to listen, to motivate, and to remove obstacles. It's about being authentic. Don't play the role, especially for first-time leaders. You have to be open and transparent, and true to yourself. [8:32] Tim says the role of the broker has changed with the world. If brokers did the same things they did 10 to 15 years ago, they would be at risk of being obsolete. [8:44] Fifteen years ago, there was no Instagram or TikTok. You were probably on MySpace, playing music on your iPod. Some of the emerging risks that are at the forefront of today's discussions range from autonomous vehicles to data centers to digital assets and currency. [9:04] The pace of change in the industry is fast, and it's only increasing. The constant emergence of new and evolving risks requires greater specialization and the use of data analytics to deliver deeper insights into our clients' businesses. [9:18] As you look ahead, you can start to see how AI is going to have a dramatic impact on how we do business in the not-too-distant future. [9:26] Despite these advances and changes, for a broker, one thing is unchanged. Clients want us to help them see around corners. They want us to help them understand what's coming next. They look to us to provide expertise and help make decisions. [9:46] Tim says our job is to be a fierce advocate for them, to be that trusted advisor. We need to know and understand their business, the industry they operate in, and the risks associated with it. We need to understand their risk tolerance and help them solve their business need. [10:04] Quick Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [10:26] Since 1999, Spencer has awarded over $2.9 million to create more than 570 Risk Management Internships. The Internship Grants application process is now open through October 15th, 2025. [10:43] To be eligible, risk managers must be based in the U.S., Canada, or Bermuda. A link to the Internship Grants page is in this episode's show notes. You can always visit SpencerEd.org, as well. [10:57] RIMS Events! On September 18th, the 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum will be held at The Old Post Office in Chicago. Register at ChicagoRIMS.org. [11:11] On September 14th through the 17th, we will be in Calgary for the RIMS Canada Conference 2025. Visit RIMSCanadaConference.ca to register. [11:21] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today! [11:37] On November 17th and 18th, elevate your ERM Program and career at the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is live, and early rates are available until September 5th. Register now to save $110 and secure your spot at the ERM event of the year. [11:59] Canadian listeners, take note, that's just a little bit South of the border in British Columbia. That's a great way to extend your knowledge after the RIMS Canada Conference. Visit RIMS.org/ERM2025 to register. [12:14] At the top, Justin mentioned RISKWORLD 2026. Through September 4th, the RISKWORLD education content submission process is still open. [12:23] RIMS invites you to share your experiences, best practices, and innovative strategies that represent the global outlook of risk management. Send us your submission, and who knows? We might select you to speak at RISKWORLD 2026 in Philadelphia! The link is in the show notes. [12:41] Let's Return to Our Interview with Lockton U.S. President Tim Ryan!  [13:03] Tim Ryan talks about cultivating the next generation of risk and insurance professionals. His motivation comes from his story. It's all about paying it forward. He wouldn't be where he is today without the guidance and support of some great mentors throughout his career. [13:16] Tim's mentors had no reason to want to help him, but from early on, they decided to help him reach his potential. Tim started his career as a trainee at Fireman's Fund Insurance in a branch office North of New York City. [13:36] The office manager was incredible. He was generous with his time. He was never too busy to help or answer questions. He always found ways to give Tim opportunities in meetings, in projects, or with clients. [13:49] Opportunities that Tim probably wasn't ready for, but that were part of his developmental process. Tim is incredibly grateful for the impact this manager had on his career and his life. Almost 35 years later, Tim still thinks of him as a person that he tries to emulate. [14:12] Tim says, “ So, John Lience, if you're listening, thank you! It made a difference. Give me a call. I'd love to catch up.” [14:20] Justin is glad to hear the shoutout by name. It's a small world in risk management, and everybody knows each other. John may be listening. Tim agrees, for as big an industry as it is, it is definitely a very small world. [14:33] Tim continues, fast forward to today, this is something that we're passionate about because we see it as a strategic priority for the business. Lockton invests an incredible amount of time and money into the technical and professional development of all its associates. [14:53] It starts with the first-year analysts, many of whom came out of Lockton's intern program. Leaders have an obligation to grow and develop the next generation of talent. [15:04]  It's about creating a culture of continuous learning, one where people feel valued, included, and connected to the purpose of the work and the people that they work with. [15:14] What drives and motivates Tim is that shared sense of purpose that brings everyone together. [15:34] What must the sector do differently to attract, engage, and top rising talent? Tim says the industry has made progress, but we're still not where we need to be. We have to expand the talent pool by building stronger partnerships with different schools and organizations. [15:55] The Spencer Educational Foundation is already doing the work to engage more diverse communities. These relationships help us reach individuals who may not have considered a career in risk and insurance, but bring valuable perspectives and skills. [16:08] Tim continues, beyond sourcing talent, retention has to be a priority. It's great to get people into the industry, but can we keep them? That means investing in leadership development programs accessible to a broader audience, including underrepresented groups.  [16:22] It also means helping young talent understand their purpose and how they fit within the vision of the company they're working in. When people see a path for growth and feel connected to the purpose, they're more likely to stay and thrive. [16:35] Building that workforce that better reflects the communities and businesses we serve isn't just the right thing, but it also makes our industry stronger, it makes it more innovative, and it makes it better equipped to meet the evolving needs of our clients. [16:53] Tim has attended Spencer Educational Foundation's Funding Their Future Gala for years. He was there last year for Lilian Vanvieldt-Gray. She was great! The grant recipients also spoke. They were incredibly impressive. Lockton asked two of them for their numbers and resumes. [17:26] Justin comments that the event itself can be a networking and career advancement opportunity. Tim says it was great to hear from the recipients. It brings it back to what impact the Spencer Educational Foundation has. [17:50] Justin had a great time last year, and he looks forward to seeing Tim this year, on September 18th. The Spencer Educational Foundation supports students and educational programs across the risk and insurance professions. [18:14] Tim says most young people don't have any idea what a broad, vibrant, and dynamic industry this is. We have to do more to generate awareness and excitement about our industry. [18:23] Partnerships like the one with Spencer Educational Foundation are critical. They bring awareness and help us reach smart, young, talented individuals who might not otherwise consider a career in this field. The scholarship program is a big part of that. [18:35] Lockton has been involved in the Foundation since the early days. 20 years ago, they established the John T. Lockton Memorial Scholarship through the Spencer Scholarship Program. [18:47] Lockton continues to support that program, donating over $1 million in funding for about 200 scholarships. The program is just one of the many ways Spencer is driving awareness and engagement in the industry. [18:57] Tim praises the Spencer Educational Foundation for the great work they do with colleges and universities, helping build risk management programs, facilitating internships, and bringing new people into the industry through the scholarship program. [19:06] These partnerships are essential for the future of risk and insurance because they create pathways for students to discover the unique value the profession offers. Tim says many scholarship recipients are working at Lockton today, and they are excellent. [19:37] Tim shares advice to students or early career professionals discovering risk management. “Every year, I meet with our first-year analysts and interns, and I talk to them about this very subject.” [19:45] “We talk about how big the industry is and that there are so many opportunities and career paths available to them. But the backdrop of that conversation is about the pace of change and the importance of being a continuous learner.” [19:59] “You're going to have to reinvent yourself many times over the course of your career to stay relevant, so now, at this early stage of your career, is the time to invest in yourselves. Don't get caught up in worrying about the next promotion or the next step in your career.” [20:13] “Just be patient. You're going to have plenty of time for all that. All that's going to work itself out. Just focus on gaining new experience and knowledge, and figure out what you're good at. Don't just do things. Seek to understand why.” [20:27] “Look, you can have a job or you can have a career, and they're different. But that's ultimately going to be up to you. It's your responsibility. If you focus on what you're doing and do it well, your next job will likely come from someone you're impressing today.” [20:47] “Get out of your bubble, build relationships, network, and go meet with people. Make people want to invest in you.” [21:00] “If you take nothing else out of this conversation, try to remember these things: Be curious. Ask questions. Understand why you're doing things. Show up and be present. If you can do those things, you'll ultimately be successful.” [21:20] Special thanks to Tim Ryan of Lockton for joining us here on RIMScast! We look forward to seeing him on September 18th at the Spencer Funding Their Future Gala in New York City. Visit the link in this episode's show notes for tickets and SpencerEd.org for more information. [21:40] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [22:09] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [22:27] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [22:44] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [23:01] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [23:15] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. Please remember to subscribe to RIMScast on your favorite podcasting app. You can email us at Content@RIMS.org. [23:27] Practice good risk management, stay safe, and thank you again for your continuous support!   Links: RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov. 17‒18 Spencer Educational Foundation 2025 Funding Their Future Gala — Sept. 18, 2025, in NYC! The call for RISKWORLD 2026 submissions is open through Sept 4. Spencer Internship Program — Registration Open Through Oct. 15. RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration open! 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration! Register through Sept 30! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now “Tim Ryan to Receive Honor at Spencer Educational Foundation's 2025 Gala” RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Lockdown & Level Up: Turn Up Your Cyber Security Game Against Creative Cyber Criminals” | Sept. 4, 2025 | Sponsored by AXA XL “Driving Better Incident and Claims Management with Data, Technology & Strategic Collaboration” | Sept. 18 | Sponsored by Origami Risk “Natural Hazards: A Data-Driven Guide to Improving Resilience and Risk Financing Outcomes” | Oct. 9 | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants “Jury Dynamics: How Juries Shape Today's Legal Landscape” | Oct. 16, 2025 | Sponsored by Zurich “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times” | Oct. 30, 2025 | Sponsored by Swiss Re “Geopolitical Whiplash — Building Resilient Global Risk Programs in an Unstable World” | Nov. 6 | Sponsored by Hub   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — November 11‒12 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “The Strengths of DE&I Initiatives with Lilian Vanvieldt-Gray of Alliant Insurance Services”, Spencer Gala Honoree 2024   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Tim Ryan, U.S. President, Lockton Spencer Educational Foundation Funding Their Future Gala's 2025 Honoree   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

New rims. New tyres & a new episode. Ronny's come with a fuel saving tip, we get an elite Tough Dog tip & we chat soundproofing a 4WD.Music by The Southern River Band.Tyrepower powering the podcast!Tough Dog Making Tracks Across the World!Autoline is a trusted supplier of 4WD and light vehicle parts to the mining, mechanical maintenance, civil, and hire industries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   In this episode, Justin interviews Ondrea Matthews, Sr. Director, Risk Management & Benefits at CoorsTek. Ondrea is also on the board of RIMS. She will be presenting at the RIMS Western Regional on October 2, “Gone But Not Forgotten: Mastering Absence, Disability, and Risk Without Losing Your Sanity!” Justin and Ondrea cover her risk career, the history of CoorsTek, her risk philosophy, and her experiences on the RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter Board and the RIMS Global Board. She suggests how risk managers can work with HR to bring value to the organization.   Listen to learn about Ondrea's upcoming presentation at the RIMS Western Regional Conference.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:14] The call for educational content submissions for RISKWORLD 2026 is open through September 4th! A link is in this episode's show notes. [:28] About this episode of RIMScast. We will discuss HR risks with Ondrea Matthews, the Senior Director of Risk Management and Benefits at Coorstek. She is also a RIMS Board Director. She will share her risk perspective. [:55] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next Virtual RIMS-CRMP exam prep, co-hosted by Parima, will be held on September 2nd and 3rd. [1:06] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be held on November 11th and 12th, and led by Joseph Mayo. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:22] RIMS Virtual Workshops! RIMS has launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” It will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [1:39] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [1:50] The next RIMS Webinar will be held on September 4th and will be led by AXA XL. It is titled “Lockdown & Level Up: Turn Up Your Cyber Security Game Against Creative Cyber Criminals”. [2:03] On September 18th, Origami Risk will present “Driving Better Incident and Claims Management with Data, Technology & Strategic Collaboration”. [2:12] On October 30th, Swiss Re will present “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times”. [2:20] On November 6th, Hub will present “Geopolitical Whiplash — Building Resilient Global Risk Programs in an Unstable World”. Register at RIMS.org/Webinars. [2:32] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is jam-packed with educational sessions that will resonate with risk practitioners in all stages of their careers. [2:53] See the full agenda at RIMS.org/ERM2025. [2:59] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through May 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [3:14] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [3:26] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to join us. Visit RIMS.org/membership and build your risk network with us here at RIMS. [3:41] On with the show! Our guest today is Ondrea Matthews. She is the Senior Director for Risk Management at CoorsTek. She is also a RIMS Board Director. On October 2nd, she will have a key role at the RIMS Western Regional Conference at the Santa Clara Marriott in California. [4:02] On the afternoon of October 2nd, she will be co-leading the session “Gone But Not Forgotten: Mastering Absence, Disability, and Risk Without Losing Your Sanity!” We're going to get a preview of that session, and she'll be speaking to us from experience. Let's get to it! [4:19] Interview! Ondrea Matthews, welcome to RIMScast! [4:25] As of January 2025, Ondrea is on the RIMS Board of Directors. Ondrea will be a presenter at the RIMS Western Regional Conference on October 2nd, partnering with ESIS, talking about Gone But Not Forgotten, touching on absence management. [5:04] Ondrea started as an engineering major. With an engineering degree, Ondrea moved from Michigan to Colorado and landed in claims. She was a Workers' Compensation claims adjuster and manager for about 11 years. She decided that claims was not where she wanted to be. [5:29] Eighteen years ago, Ondrea moved to CoorsTek as their Risk Manager. It's been great at CoorsTek with a lot of opportunities, from Risk Manager to her current role, Senior Director of Risk Management and Benefits. She oversees insurance. [5:59] CoorsTek has nothing to do with beer. Adolph Coors founded CoorsTek in 1910. He is also the Founder of Coors Brewing. He branched out into ceramics. CoorsTek is the leading global manufacturer of technical ceramics in the world. It's headquartered in Golden, Colorado. [5:36] Justin and Ondrea comment on the beauty of Golden, Colorado. Justin likes the Coors Brewery and recommends the tour. He says Coors Ceramics (CoorsTek) is a close second. Both Coors Brewing and CoorsTek are owned and managed by the Coors family. [7:08] CoorsTek has 30 facilities across 10 countries. Ondrea has visited the majority of the CoorsTek facilities and has built relationships with the local leadership teams in Finance, Human Resources, and Health and Safety. [7:34] CorsTek manufactures thousands of parts, but the processes and materials are fairly consistent. They have a very low claim volume. That allows the risk team to focus on streamlining renewals, process improvements, and communication flow. [7:48] They prioritize larger strategic initiatives in alignment wth their corporate vision. It's not challenging when they all come together for the same common purpose. [8:13] Ondrea's team includes Ondrea, with a full-time Risk Manager and a part-time Workers' Compensation Manager. It's a department of 2.5. The work ebbs and flows. Between renewals and with low claim volume, there is some downtime to work on projects and other initiatives. [8:36] CoorsTek is looking at further developing its fleet management and maintaining alignment with global partners. The size of the risk team is good for CoorsTek. [8:51] Ondrea prioritizes risks by the largest exposure. CoorsTek pays attention to what is most impactful and prioritizes the health and safety of its employees. That's through Workers' Compensation, Health and Safety Partnerships with the global EHS staff. [9:12] CoorsTek looks at its property exposures. Its property insurer has a robust Risk Engineering department. CoorsTek has a dedicated Property Protection Engineer. CoorsTek prioritizes people first, and then the balance sheet and the financials. [9:31] CoorsTek is a very innovative company. The teams are always bringing a new product or process to the table. They look for ways to protect the company's financials while still enabling growth; for ways to say yes to the business while making them aware of the risks and costs. [10:17] Ondrea explains how she oversees benefits. Benefits represent a large strategic risk and opportunity, as well as increased fiduciary responsibility. [10:39] Ondrea explains that changing a health care provider requires not just a detailed financial analysis but also assessing the risk related to employee engagement, comprehensive communication, access to care, and employees' emotional well-being. [11:00] It's a framework of risk identification, assessment, and response. [11:05] Ondrea monitors risks like medical inflation, pharmacy management shifts, compliance, and vendor performance, to continually reduce financial exposure to the company and employees, related to large losses, changes in prescription coverage, deductibles, and more. [11:24] CoorsTek works with partners, consultants, and local human resource teams on responses to support and clarify for its employees. [11:44] At CoorsTek, risk doesn't just belong to Ondrea and her team. Risk is addressed by every function, every day. CoorsTek has a wide expanse of expertise, and they've brought everyone together to support the company. [12:01] They have a global trade department, a supply chain, and a government affairs position, and they've kept on top of the tariffs for the organization, reporting on changes weekly or bi-weekly. CoorsTek's Health and Safety team is also global. They stay on top of regulations. [12:19] Ondrea appreciates the collaboration they all have at CoorsTek. It makes her job easier. When they say risk, it doesn't mean Ondrea and her team. Every department comes together to face all the new challenges they are seeing recently in the economy. It's in the KoorsTek culture. [12:57] Ondrea is fortunate to have access to CoorsTek's leadership. Most of the employees do. The CEOs have direct email lines, and any employee is welcome to reach out at any time. [13:24] In Ondrea's unique role, combining risk and benefits, she has the opportunity to join the Human Resources team and the Finance leadership teams, and she reports directly to the CFO for the family company. [13:40] The family has helped build and support mechanisms for communicating with leadership. They do skip-levels. Everybody feels respected as individuals. Ondrea joined the company when they had one global location, and the company was a lot smaller. [14:05] Ondrea has been able to grow with the company and see the evolution that has come with that growth. It's exciting to see all the innovation and all the ways that CoorsTek continues to contribute to the communities and the world. [14:23] Quick Break for RIMS Events! On September 18th, the 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum will be held at The Old Post Office in Chicago. Register at ChicagoRIMS.org. [14:38] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today! [14:55] On November 17th and 18th, elevate your ERM Program and career at the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is live, and early rates are available until September 5th. Register now to save $110 and secure your spot at the ERM event of the year. [15:17] Canadian listeners, take note, that's just a little bit South of the border in British Columbia. That's a great way to extend your knowledge after the RIMS Canada Conference. Visit RIMS.org/ERM2025 to register. [15:32] At the top, Justin mentioned RISKWORLD 2026. Through September 4th, the RISKWORLD education content submission process is still open. [15:41] RIMS invites you to share your experiences, best practices, and innovative strategies that represent the global outlook of risk management. Send us your submission, and who knows? We might select you to speak at RISKWORLD 2026 in Philadelphia! The link is in the show notes. [15:59] Let's Return to My Interview with RIMS Board Director Ondrea Matthews!  [16:11] Ondrea is a member of the RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter. Rocky Mountain Chapter members Emily Buckley, Emily Bloedel, and Neil Colclough have been guests on RIMScast. Ondrea joined about 18 years ago when she started at CoorsTek. She's glad she joined. [17:02] The RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter has been amazing. It helped create a community for Ondrea. She joined, not knowing a lot about risk management. The chapter has been a source of support for her for her entire career. She wouldn't be where she is today without that community. [17:40] Ondrea joined the chapter board and has held a lot of board positions, including Past President, Community Service Chair, and Secretary. She finds her time with the chapter to be invaluable. She was excited that Neil Colclough won the Volunteer of the Year award. [18:07] It's exciting to see the energy that the current board has. [18:21] As of January of this year, Ondrea is a member of the Global RIMS Board. She loves her interactions with RIMS. She likes the camaraderie and impact that you have from serving on a board. [18:53] The opportunity to serve on the RIMS Global Board came up. It was an intense process to be nominated. She's learning a lot. She's surrounded by great leaders who have been on the board for a couple of years. She loves the energy Kristen Peed brings to the board. [19:46] RIMS emphasizes professional development, inclusivity, and innovation in risk management. Ondrea's passion is giving back to the community. She appreciates the inclusion that RIMS brings. It brings together people from every walk of life and level of risk management. [20:45] Ondrea feels that RIMS's culture is very inclusive. She was welcomed with open arms. She hopes that everyone else in the RIMS community is feeling welcomed and that we want their thoughts, ideas, and their participation. [21:03] Ondrea appreciates the inclusion around RIMS. Professional development and innovation go hand in hand. You need to educate to innovate. Risk managers need to stay ahead of innovation, bring ideas to the table, and not just solve problems as they are presented. [21:31] Ondrea talks about workforce well-being and risk management, and the risks of recruitment, retention, absenteeism, and presenteeism. These are not as easy to quantify as an actuarial analysis for future claims and IBNR projections. They rely on human behavior. [22:12] CoorsTek gathers data through annual engagement surveys and Great Places to Work surveys, and addresses those results with action items, identifying areas of risk to its human capital and employee well-being. [22:27] Ondrea thinks you need to look at employee well-being through a different lens than “How is everybody feeling today, and how are they reacting to surveys?” You need to look at them with respect to absenteeism. Why are employees not showing up? [22:56] What are you doing to improve their work-life balance or get them other supports that they may need in their lives so that they can be present at work? [23:07] A Final Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [23:27] Since 1999, Spencer has awarded over $2.9 million to create more than 570 Risk Management Internships. The Internship Grants application process is now open through October 15th, 2025. [23:43] To be eligible, risk managers must be based in the U.S., Canada, or Bermuda. A link to the Internship Grants page is in this episode's show notes. You can always visit SpencerEd.org, as well. [23:57] The Spencer 2025 Funding their Future Gala will be held on Thursday, September 18th, at the Cipriani 42nd Street in Manhattan, New York. This year's honoree is Tim Ryan, the U.S. President of Lockton, and we look forward to having Tim join us here on RIMScast very soon. [24:16] A link to the Gala is also in this episode's show notes. Buy a ticket, enjoy a great night in the city, and support the future of risk management. [24:24] Let's Conclude Our Interview with Ondrea Matthews! [24:31] Ondrea will be at the RIMS Western Regional Conference on October 2nd. She is very excited. This is her 3rd Western Regional Conference. She's kicking herself for not having gone all these years in the past. [24:50] Ondrea says the vibe there is one of connections. It's a lot smaller than RISKWORLD. The Western Regional Conference is a little more laid back. There's more time to create connections and have meaningful conversations. [25:16] It provides the opportunity to create a network with people who have the same challenges as you. There's a session on wildfires. Someone in another region may not have a wildfire exposure like they have in the Western Region. It brings people together. [25:46] Ondrea will have a session on October 2nd, “Gone But Not Forgotten: Mastering Absence, Disability, and Risk Without Losing Your Sanity!” She will co-present with Brett Wilson of ESIS, a Chubb company. [26:04] The session title is a mouthful! Ondrea says she is excited to present the topic with Brett. They are getting to know each other now. [26:35] Ondrea has sat on the planning committee for the Western Regional Conference for the last couple of years. Ondrea is the conference liaison for ESIS. ESIS wanted to present this topic, and they asked Ondrea if she knew anyone who would be able to speak on this with them. [27:05] As Ondrea was already familiar with the ESIS team and currently leads absence management within CoorsTek, it seemed that she would be a really good fit, so she will be co-presenting with ESIS. [27:20] Ondrea says there are so many changes in compliance and regulation regarding absence management that it is an organizational risk. It's not just an employee well-being risk, but it's also a compliance and financial risk. [27:39] The regulations change quickly. If you are a national company across the U.S., every state has its nuance. You have to know what every state is doing where you have employees, whether it's a virtual employee or hundreds of employees.  [28:02] Regulations can put your organization at significant risk for non-compliance. There's also a reputational risk that goes along with non-compliance. [28:24] The presentation will include tips and thoughts on avoiding the common pitfalls that organizations face in navigating these regulations. [28:37] Ondrea suggests helping risk leaders connect more with their Human Resource partners, create more value for them within the company, and create more value for the company. [28:53] Ondrea will give the audience time to ask questions and share stories. Ondrea says the best sessions are interactive. Presenters learn as much from an audience as they hope the audience is going to learn from them. [29:12] Each attendee has a unique mindset and situation. Sharing unique situations helps broaden everyone's overview of how to address and potentially help solve problems. [29:27] If you're going to attend, everybody bring your questions! Ondrea's very personable and easy to speak with. Even after the session, people come up to her. She will be at the Western Regional Conference for the entire time, hoping to get some good sessions in. [29:43] Ondrea says she is available anytime through LinkedIn or email. She is happy to connect. [30:09] Ondrea shares how empathetic communication can help defuse a risky or contentious employee absence situation. Keep in mind that when an employee is on leave, it's because they are going through a significant life event. We need to have ongoing communications with them. [30:30] People think that when an employee's not at work, they shouldn't talk to them or bother them. Ondrea says you need to continue to let your employees know they're a part of the organizational family still and that you care for them. [30:51] Empathy goes a really long way. Listening and active listening help, even if you don't have answers for what they're going through. Let them know that you are going to help them navigate this. [31:04] CoorsTek has a great internal team that helps manage, leads, and is the point for employee communication. CoorsTek outsources its leave management to distance itself from the regulatory environment and focus on the employee as a person. [31:30] Justin adds that it's that sort of perspective that you're going to get at the RIMS Western Regional Conference when you go to Ondrea's session on October 2nd, “Gone But Not Forgotten.” Do not forget to go and attend! Ondrea is looking forward to seeing everyone there! [31:52] Special thanks again to Ondrea Matthews of CoorsTek and the RIMS Board of Directors for joining us here at RIMScast. Remember to see her at the RIMS Western Regional Conference from October 1st through the 3rd. [32:06] Ondrea will deliver the session on October 2nd, “Gone But Not Forgotten: Mastering Absence, Disability, and Risk Without Losing Your Sanity!” The conference will be held at the lovely Santa Clara Marriott in California. [32:20] Register, attend, and tell Ondrea that you heard her first here on RIMScast! [32:27] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [32:55] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [33:13] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [33:31] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [33:47] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [34:01] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. Please remember to subscribe to RIMScast on your favorite podcasting app. You can email us at Content@RIMS.org. [34:13] Practice good risk management, stay safe, and thank you again for your continuous support!   Links: RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov. 17‒18 The call for RISKWORLD 2026 submissions is open through Sept 4. RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration open! 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration! Register through Sept 30! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation 2025 Funding Their Future Gala — Sept. 18, 2025, in NYC! Spencer Internship Program — Registration Open Through Oct. 15. RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Council RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now www.coorstek.com RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars Lockdown & Level Up: Turn Up Your Cyber Security Game Against Creative Cyber Criminals | Sept. 4, 2025 | Sponsored by AXA XL “Driving Better Incident and Claims Management with Data, Technology & Strategic Collaboration” | Sept. 18 | Sponsored by Origami Risk “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times” | Oct. 30, 2025 | Sponsored by Swiss Re “Geopolitical Whiplash — Building Resilient Global Risk Programs in an Unstable World” | Nov. 6 | Sponsored by Hub   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — Sept 2‒3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — November 11‒12 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Vendor Management with David Neikrug” “ERM, Retail, and Risk with Jeff Strege” “Supply and Bike Chains with Emily Buckley”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Ondrea Matthews, Sr. Director, Risk Management & Benefits, CoorsTek   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   In this episode, Justin interviews David Neikrug, CEO at Optimatum Solutions, about managing vendors of employer-sponsored healthcare and a recent Optimatum Solutions report, “A Path Not Taken: Vendor Management in Employer-Sponsored Healthcare”. David explores with Justin the topic of applying risk management tools to HR programs and plans, an area that risk managers rarely visit. They touch on ways for risk managers to contribute at the table using the risk management skills and tools that they have applied to recognized risk areas for years.   Listen to learn about the benefits of managing benefit plan vendors.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. Our topic is vendor management. We will dive deeply with Optimatum Solutions CEO, David Neikrug. [:40] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next Virtual RIMS-CRMP exam prep, co-hosted by Parima, will be held on September 2nd and 3rd. [:50] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be held on November 11th and 12th, and led by Joseph Mayo. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:07] RIMS Virtual Workshops! RIMS has launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” It will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [1:24] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [1:35] The next RIMS Webinar will be held on September 4th and will be led by AXA XL. It is titled “Lockdown & Level Up: Turn Up Your Cyber Security Game Against Creative Cyber Criminals”. [1:48] On September 18th, Origami Risk will present “Driving Better Incident and Claims Management with Data, Technology & Strategic Collaboration”. [1:56] On October 30th, Swiss Re will present “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times”. [2:05] On November 6th, Hub will present “Geopolitical Whiplash — Building Resilient Global Risk Programs in an Unstable World”. Register at RIMS.org/Webinars. [2:17] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is jam-packed with educational sessions that will resonate with risk practitioners in all stages of their careers. [2:38] See the full agenda at RIMS.org/ERM2025. [2:44] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through May 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [2:58] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [3:11] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to join us. Visit RIMS.org/membership and build your risk network with us here at RIMS. [3:26] On with the show! You wanted to hear about vendor management, and that's why I reached out to Optimatum Solutions CEO, David Neikrug, to discuss the findings in Optimatum's new report, “A Path Not Taken: Vendor Management in Employer-Sponsored Healthcare”. [3:50] It's got some fascinating insights, and I wanted to extend the dialogue beyond the PDF, so let's get started! [3:56] Interview! David Neikrug, welcome to RIMScast! [4:07] Justin hasn't covered vendor management much on RIMScast. Justin invited David on the show to talk about Optimatum's publicly available paper, “A Path Not Taken: Vendor Management in Employer-Sponsored Healthcare.” This speaks to a risk management audience. [4:28] There is a link in this episode's show notes. The average cost of healthcare in 2025 is pushing north of $25K total cost, per employee per year, and it's an outsourced function. It's a large amount of money. [5:08] HR generally doesn't have the traditional service level agreements (SLAs) or performance guarantees that are present in an IT services agreement. That's a major disconnect that leads to financial, operational, and risk issues that go unchecked. [5:44] Traditionally, we don't see risk managers getting involved in HR things like employer-sponsored healthcare. David encourages risk managers to take the tools and skills they know and apply them to HR and employer-sponsored healthcare and retirement plans. [6:23] David suggests risk managers should demand vendor transparency when it comes to fees, debits, and credits. David talks about pharmacy rebates, segregation, and how credits are captured and applied. [7:09] David says vendor harmonization can be applied vertically or horizontally. The vertical side is when a company has acquired several HR benefits and programs, and then merges them into one program. The value creation by doing that is immense. [7:56] David says horizontal harmonization applies to anybody who aggregates companies of various kinds, including family offices. Each company may have a disparate benefits plan. Bringing plans together can save hundreds to thousands of dollars per employee per year. [8:46] Those are the types of numbers Optimatum Solutions is seeing as the opportunity for a risk manager to focus on as a quantifiable value proposition of bringing 10 vendor programs into one aggregated program. [9:14] From a risk standpoint, you have a single source to manage across enterprises. [9:31] David often speaks using numbers to convey the point. He says risk managers have a wealth of information and know what they are doing. When it comes to opportunities to create value, HR is an area they're not thinking about. [10:25] David suggests surveying risk managers and asking what percentage of risk managers are focused on the HR side, employer-sponsored healthcare, and retirement plans. You'll see the opportunity is almost endless. [10:44] Quick Break for RIMS Events!  On September 18th, the 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum will be held at The Old Post Office in Chicago. Register at ChicagoRIMS.org. [10:59] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today! [11:15] On November 17th and 18th, elevate your ERM Program and career at the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is live, and early rates are available until September 5th. Register now to save $110 and secure your spot at the ERM event of the year. [11:37] Canadian listeners, take note, that's just a little bit South of the border in British Columbia. That's a great way to extend your knowledge after the RIMS Canada Conference. Visit RIMS.org/ERM2025 to register. [11:52] At the top, Justin mentioned RISKWORLD 2026. Through September 4th, the RISKWORLD education content submission process is still open. [12:02] RIMS invites you to share your experiences, best practices, and innovative strategies that represent the global outlook of risk management. Send us your submission, and who knows? We might select you to speak at RISKWORLD 2026 in Philadelphia! The link is in the show notes. [12:20] Let's Return to My Interview with David Neikrug!  [12:42] David says the first thing to do is make sure risk managers have a seat at the table of employer-sponsored healthcare. They need to look at and understand all the terms and conditions of the contracts, looking for the low-hanging fruit. [12:55] Look for Service Level Agreements, Performance Guarantees, and Built-in Reconciliation Clauses for the vendor to provide a self-reconciliation of all the debits and credits from the plan year. Understand the contracts. [13:17] Second, make sure that you're a part of the team. Look at what you can do, bringing all the tools that you've acquired, dealing with the risk side over the years, and applying them to the HR benefits side. [13:54] For organizations of between 500 to 5,000 employees, there is ample opportunity. Those are going more unwatched than the larger organizations. The vendors aren't used to being held as accountable as they are for a Fortune 100. [14:21] David would say there isn't an organization that doesn't have an opportunity. It's a matter of focusing on it and bringing your expertise to the table to help your organization hold those vendors accountable, drive savings and performance, and create value. [14:59] David said Optimatum Solutions had a client that was a rapidly growing organization. They had acquired a company and decided to change the acquired company's vendor because they had been using a different vendor. [15:22] David mentions that Optimatum Solutions has a focus on improving or fixing relationships with vendors, versus running an RFP and finding a new vendor. It's better to fix a problem than to replace it. [15:40] Someone at the client company decided to move the pension plan business of the acquired company to a new provider. The plan was started in 1972, before the ERISA regulations on how pension plans are managed. The new vendor did no due diligence and took it over. [16:37] Within the first year, there was a claim by a retiree that the lump sum payment should have been 10 times what it was, stemming from one example in a plan document of how a benefit will be calculated. The company had to defend an $18 million potential claim. [17:11] It took three years to resolve. This taught the new vendor what the old vendor had been doing seamlessly for all those years. The former vendor knew how to deal with various situations, including payments to international employees. [17:49] The new vendor hadn't understood what they were acquiring. That led to a colossal mess. [18:10] It was an HR issue. They had a risk manager, but hadn't thought of having the risk manager at the table for this event. [18:20] A Final Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [18:40] Since 1999, Spencer has awarded over $2.9 million to create more than 570 Risk Management Internships. The Internship Grants application process is now open through October 15th, 2025. [18:56] To be eligible, risk managers must be based in the U.S., Canada, or Bermuda. A link to the Internship Grants page is in this episode's show notes. You can always visit SpencerEd.org, as well. [19:10] The Spencer 2025 Funding their Future Gala will be held on Thursday, September 18th, at the Cipriani 42nd Street in Manhattan, New York. This year's honoree is Tim Ryan, the U.S. President of Lockton, and we look forward to having Tim join us here on RIMScast very soon. [19:29] A link to the Gala is also in this episode's show notes. Buy a ticket, enjoy a great night in the city, and support the future of risk management. [19:38] Let's Return to the Conclusion of My Interview with Optimatum Solutions CEO, David Neikrug! [19:47] Behavioral and mental health are workforce concerns and reputational risks. David says the real number is productivity. If a factory has employees out for behavioral health issues, it has to replace those employees with temporary workers while still paying them. [20:43] The total cost of unmanaged behavioral health in a workforce is not just the behavioral health medical claims, pharmacy claims, or inpatient claims; it's also the lost working hours of those employees and the replacement costs of those employees. [21:15] That's a much larger number than just the surface of behavioral and mental health. Today, all health plans have strong behavioral programs. Organizations have Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). [21:38] There are also point solutions adding a layer of a microbenefit on top of the program to ensure that employees are receiving the right care at the right time, in the right place.  [22:01] Organizations have the right tools. An employer will have all these programs, but they're disconnected. No one is bringing everyone to the table. [22:24] For a certain cost per employee per month, an EAP vendor will provide a given number of behavioral health visits. They will support the process within the traditional healthcare delivery system. Organizations can have point solutions for behavioral health. [23:00] Organizations can have these vendors at the table to understand what's going on at the organization. Are there RIFs? Are there acquisitions? Does the organization have seasonal issues driving stress? Is there an issue with the community where the organization is located? [23:20] Look at it holistically. Bring all these vendors to the table and discuss what's going on.  [23:30] In an unfortunate situation where employees are very stressed and have some sort of episode while at work, that's a material reputational risk, internally, and it may become an external issue. Most employers today have the vendors in place who can support them. [24:05] The steps are bringing the vendors to the table and managing them to ensure that they're aligned with the intended outcomes, and everyone's goal is aligned accordingly. [24:20] When you're discussing the organization with vendors, what about trade secrets, such as expansion and strategy? David says if you have the right vendor, they're about confidentiality. [24:46] If you're about to announce a Reduction in Force (RIF) or an acquisition, you will want your EAP in place to train managers to deal with employees who may be stressed. [26:01] David talks about AI risks. Ensure that when your employees are using any AI platform, you have thoroughly vetted the platforms you are allowing them to use to make sure that none of your proprietary or confidential information lands in public. [26:36] When using AI with confidential information, unless it's a closed system, you have a material risk of it being exposed. [27:02] AI is here for the future. It will change the face of every single profession. Justin assures that there will be no bots hosting or guesting on RIMScast! [27:35] David asks organizations, in the face of AI, What are you doing about it? How are you training and supporting your employees so that they can be part of the future, versus being a former employee who has been replaced due to AI? [27:54] In analytics, AI is simplifying delivery and crunching numbers like we've never seen before. These are incredible benefits for organizations in the future. [28:27] David thinks that you need internal tools to ensure that your employees are not divulging confidential information within public tools and that your vendors and their vendors are all aligned to apply the same rules for confidentiality. [29:12] David, you have been such a wonderful guest! I'm so glad that you were here to provide a little extra insight into the recent Optimatum Solutions paper, “A Path Not Taken: Vendor Management in Employer-Sponsored Healthcare”. A link is in this episode's show notes. [29:35] At the end of the paper is David's contact information. [29:53] Special thanks again to Optimatum Solutions CEO, David Neikrug, for joining us here on RIMScast. You can find the link to A Path Not Taken, the professional report, at OptimatumSolutions.com and in this episode's show notes. [30:11] I've also got links to RIMS coverage of vendor management in this episode's show notes. [30:17] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [30:45] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [31:03] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [31:21] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [31:37] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [31:52] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. Please remember to subscribe to RIMScast on your favorite podcasting app. You can email us at Content@RIMS.org. [32:04] Practice good risk management, stay safe, and thank you again for your continuous support!   Links: RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov. 17‒18 The call for RISKWORLD 2026 submissions is now open! RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration open! 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration! Register through Sept 30! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation 2025 Funding Their Future Gala — Sept. 18, 2025, in NYC! Spencer Internship Program — Registration Open Through Oct. 15. RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now Optimatum Professional Report: “A Path Not Taken: Vendor Management in Employer-Sponsored Healthcare” OptimatumSolutions.com RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Lockdown & Level Up: Turn Up Your Cyber Security Game Against Creative Cyber Criminals” | Sept. 4, 2025 | Sponsored by AXA XL “Driving Better Incident and Claims Management with Data, Technology & Strategic Collaboration” | Sept. 18 | Sponsored by Origami Risk “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times” | Oct. 30, 2025 | Sponsored by Swiss Re “Geopolitical Whiplash — Building Resilient Global Risk Programs in an Unstable World” | Nov. 6 | Sponsored by Hub   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — Sept 2‒3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — November 11‒12 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “ERM, Retail, and Risk with Jeff Strege” “Supply and Bike Chains with Emily Buckley”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: David Neikrug, CEO at Optimatum Solutions LLC   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Every girl likes the BONUS at the make-up counter! How about the words “GIFT with purchase”?! Well, THIS episode is a bonus gift and you don't even have to purchase anything!! Recording Artist Hope Darst is incredibly gifted and genuinely kind, expressive, and conversational. At one point, I wasn't sure if she was the guest or the interviewer! You will enjoy every minute of our time with Hope! Be sure to share it with that friend that comes to mind while you're listening! She'll be glad you did!!Direct questions & comments to: podcast@wearethebridge.orgDenise Harper's new book, “Treasured Inside - Devotions With Denise,” is available at Amazon, Apple, Target, and more. For more information, email Denise at: denise@wearethebridge.orgDid you know you can now watch Over the Rims of Mugs?Visit https://www.wearethebridge.org/mugsvideoPlease share Over the Rims of Mugs with a friend if you enjoyed this episode. Over the Rims of Mugs is still growing, and your positive review and 5-star rating would help.The Bridge Podcast Network is made possible by generous support from The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel and Victoria's Restaurant on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware - Open 7 days a week, year-round - Learn more at https://boardwalkplaza.comFeedback, or Show Ideas? Send an email to podcast@wearethebridge.orgDownload The Bridge Mobile App to get the latest podcast episodes as soon as they are published!

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   The inaugural RIMS Texas Regional was held Aug. 4‒6 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio. Nearly 500 attendees filled the hall for the groundbreaking event, which united the Texas RIMS chapters and welcomed risk management professionals worldwide.   In this episode, Justin interviews Conference attendees Tiara Wallace, DFW RIMS Inclusivity Chair and Director of RISK Invesco US, Jason Turk,  Director of Operations for Bondy Law Group, and Founder of Swag for Schools, and Maximilian Glodde, Co-Founder and CEO of MEO Continuity. They discuss their experiences at the inaugural RIMS Texas Regional Conference, their risk management backgrounds, and their advice for risk managers today.   Listen to learn more about this inaugural annual RIMS Texas Regional event.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast, recorded and produced live onsite at the RIMS Texas Regional Conference 2025 in San Antonio. We have three fascinating perspectives today. [:47] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next Virtual RIMS-CRMP exam prep, co-hosted by Parima, will be held on September 2nd and 3rd. [:58] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be held on November 11th and 12th, and led by Joseph Mayo. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:14] RIMS Virtual Workshops! RIMS has launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” It will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [1:32] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [1:43] The next RIMS Webinar will be held on September 4th and will be led by AXA XL. It is titled “Lockdown & Level Up: Turn Up Your Cyber Security Game Against Creative Cyber Criminals”. [1:56] On October 30th, Swiss Re will present “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times”. [2:04] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is jam-packed with educational sessions that will resonate with risk practitioners in all stages of their careers. [2:25] See the full agenda at RIMS.org/ERM2025. Nominations are open for the RIMS Global ERM Award of Distinction 2025. The nomination deadline is Saturday, August 16th. The award is presented annually at the RIMS ERM Conference. There is a link in this episode's show notes. [2:52] If your organization's ERM program or one you know of deserves this recognition, we want to hear about it. Remember to send in that nomination form by August 16th. [3:03] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through May 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [3:18] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [3:31] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to join us. Visit RIMS.org/membership and build your risk network with us here at RIMS. [3:45] On with the show! The RIMS Texas Regional Conference 2025 was a smashing success, with nearly 500 attendees in the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio! [3:58] Feedback has been wonderful, on everything from keynotes to educational sessions to networking opportunities. If you missed it this year, mark your calendar for August 10th through 12th, 2026. We will be back at the convention center in San Antonio next year. [4:14] Justin interviewed a few of the attendees, the first of whom is very well-known in the DFW RIMS Chapter. Tiara Wallace is a long-time DFW RIMS Chapter member, and she is also the Inclusivity Chair. [4:30] In her full-time job, Tiara is the Director of Risk Management for Invesco US. We're going to talk about construction risk in Texas and the power of inclusivity, and what it means for her and everyone at DFW RIMS. Let's get to it! [4:44] Interview! Tiara Wallace, welcome to RIMScast! [5:26] Tiara says it is amazing to see all four chapters come together with Global RIMS! It's been great meeting new folks, seeing new vendor partners, and meeting risk professionals from across the state of Texas. It's been a great event and a great turnout! [5:55] Tiara is part of the DFW RIMS Chapter and also sits on the Board for the Texas Regional as one of the contributors, to help bring together DFW's POV for the Texas Regional. [6:25] Tiara says we are stronger together, and it's been great to collaborate across the different chapters and meet folks she wouldn't ordinarily have met.  [6:44] Tiara is the Director of Risk Management for Invesco Real Estate. Invesco acquires real estate assets and develops and constructs new assets. Tiara handles the insurance for liability, property, environmental, claims management, and contract review. [7:07] Everything for risk management for a major property owner in Texas and across the U.S. [7:36] Tiara says that since the pandemic of 2020, Texas has seen an increase in folks flocking to DFW for the cost of living. That brought in more development, construction, and congestion on the roads. This required more labor and construction employees to build offices. [8:20] Tiara says there are issues in keeping up with the pace of people coming in. There is a labor shortage, and extreme weather with heat and flooding. For a couple of years, Texas had bad freezes that they were not prepared to handle. Justin says Texas faces unique exposures. [9:22] Tiara says, post-pandemic, we have supply chain issues. Some companies buy warehouses to store materials. Tiara worked for an owner-developer who had land and facilities to store materials. Manage great relationships with your vendors. Purchase locally. [9:53] Tiara looked at ways to shorten the pipeline so that when they had disruptions, they didn't delay projects. Invesco wanted to be able to continue construction so that folks would have a place to live, work, and play. [10:14] Tiara elaborates on partnerships and contract management. What does the contract say? What are we doing to protect not only ourselves but our vendor partners, to fulfill our fiduciary responsibility to continue to produce, build, and not go bankrupt? [11:37] Tiara thinks that safety takes a couple of things: first, your alignment and partnership with safety managers, even outside of your organization, to discuss challenges, and discussing claims history with teams on the ground to help them practice safety. [12:24] The second thing is to leverage your carriers' risk control/loss control department so they can come in and give you tools. [12:37] Typically, a risk manager is a team of one, so you have to be resourceful about whom you work with, and run it up to the organization to make sure they're aligned with it. [13:01] At Invesco, Tiara is in a team of three, and they partner with a larger risk management consulting group. Tiara has a risk analyst and a risk manager on her team, and they attack everything together. Tiara lays out the division of tasks between them. [13:44] Tiara is the Inclusivity Chair at RIMS DFW Chapter. It's a new role. They wanted to bridge the gap between ages, risk managers, carrier partners, and vendor partners. [14:34] They wanted everyone coming to a DFW RIMS event to know that they have a place where they feel they belong. They are a part of a community working together to advance the risk management and insurance industry within Dallas-Fort Worth. [15:20] Tiara says people have not taken a moment to pause and use a common-sense approach about inclusivity. We need to be intentional. Some of us are getting ready to exit our industry. We need to recruit people into it. [16:02] How are we making sure this industry will be around for the rest of our time? Insurance is an industry that touches everything. Inclusivity means everybody should be included in it. [16:54] Tiara is a transplant from Oklahoma City to Dallas. She knew few people here. When her boss asked her for risk management connections, she started with LinkedIn. She asked her broker, and they started a real estate council to help her with the questions she had. [18:53] Justin tells Tiara it has been inspiring to hear her story. He is glad she is doing so well and was able to join us on RIMScast live from the RIMS Texas Regional Conference 2025. Thank you, Tiara! [19:22] Quick Break for RIMS Events!  On September 18th, the 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum will be held at The Old Post Office in Chicago. Register at ChicagoRIMS.org. [19:36] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today! [19:53] On November 17th and 18th, elevate your ERM Program and career at the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is live, and early rates are available until September 5th. Register now to save $110 and secure your spot at the ERM event of the year. [20:15] Canadian listeners, take note, that's just a little bit South of the border in British Columbia. That's a great way to extend your knowledge after the RIMS Canada Conference. Visit RIMS.org/ERM2025 to register. [20:30] On with the Show! Our next guest was highly visible at the RIMS Texas Regional. He is Jason Turk, the Founder and Project Coordinator of the charity program, Swag for Schools. He is also the Director of Operations for the Bondy Law Group in Encino, California. [20:50] Jason is the former Membership Director for DFW RIMS. We will discuss his fascinating risk career and work with risk managers. We will learn about how Swag for Schools emphasizes sustainability by redistributing conference giveaways and giving back to the local community. [21:16] Interview! Jason Turk, welcome to RIMScast! [21:22] If you've been to DFW RIMS events, you may remember the Swag for Schools booth, which is manned by former Membership Director for DFW RIMS, Jason Turk. Jason, welcome to RIMScast! [22:03] Jason joined the Marine Corps in the early '90s and got out in '97. He worked as a security guard at the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board in San Bernardino. From there, he did surveillance and investigations in Southern California and then returned home to Texas. [22:36] Jason went to work for an investigation company in Dallas and became involved with the DFW RIMS Chapter. He worked in claims, Medicare compliance, and medical canvassing, and he was a California workers' compensation claims adjuster in the Dallas office of Crum & Forster. [22:58] He has a well-rounded career in claims. He's been involved with the DFW RIMS chapter since the early 2000s. [23:06] Jason is the Director of Operations of the Bondy Law Group. They do California workers' compensation defense. Jason tracks performance and maintains smooth communication in operations throughout the firm and with its clients. [23:36] Jason's goal has been to build relationships with the risk managers. His job directly impacts their bottom line, their employees, and the culture they set within their companies. [23:48] In Jason's experience, the workers' compensation world in California is a litigious area. He tries to make a positive impact on those employers and maintain long-term relationships. Jason's LinkedIn page link is in this episode's show notes. [24:19] Swag for Schools was born from an experience Jason had at a conference in 2019. Exhibitors were leaving, a storm was coming, and they abandoned boxes of marketing materials in the hall. Jason thought there had to be something he could do with those items. [24:48] He thought of donating the items, saving the exhibitors' shipping costs and time, saving the materials from going to a landfill, and doing some good, providing items to school teachers. There are a lot of items that the school teachers would go and purchase on their own. [25:04] That gave Jason the idea in 2019 to create Swag for Schools. He ran pilot tests in California and Texas, and it was very successful. Then COVID-19 hit, and conferences came to a grinding halt. [25:24] When Jason returned to the industry and the Bondy Law Group, he reinvigorated the program. Now they're on the 10th or more conference since resuming the program. [25:47] As a charity program, not a 501(c)(3), and not a non-profit, Swag for Schools does not seek or accept monetary donations. As a pass-through program, they will accept gift cards. They facilitate the donation to a local school in the area of the conference. They don't ship. [26:07] They accept typical conference swag: pens, notepads, water bottles, towels, and hand sanitizer. Many of the schools that receive the swag also support battered women's shelters, adult education, and other programs. Items not needed for schools can help other folks. [26:43] The stress balls they use in arts and crafts. Koozies get turned into hand puppets. The teachers find a way to utilize these items. [27:04] Swag for Schools doesn't have an expectation from the exhibitors. The items cost the exhibitors. Often, they want to take them home. Last year, they filled half of a 26-foot box truck with donation items that went to a school's foundation that went to K-12 and adult education. [27:35] Swag for Schools doesn't discriminate on the items because schools will find a way to use them. Unless it's a shot glass or something sharp, Swag for Schools will take it. [27:56] The items donated at the RIMS Texas Regional 2025 Conference will be boxed up and taken to Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in San Antonio, about four miles away from the Conference Center. [28:18] Woodrow Wilson School will put the items in a school store where the teachers can pull the items they need without paying for them or accounting for them, as they are donations. Every little bit helps. You never know what use someone is going to have for these items. [29:02] It helps the teachers who don't have to buy things for their class, and it helps the exhibitors on their ESG goals, not putting swag in a landfill. [29:14] Jason, it has been such a pleasure to see you again. As a reminder to the listeners, a link to the Swag for Schools LinkedIn page is in this episode's show notes. Jason, thank you for doing such wonderful work for yourself and on behalf of the greater risk community. [29:53] A Final Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [30:12] Since 1999, Spencer has awarded over $2.9 million to create more than 570 Risk Management Internships. The Internship Grants application process will open on August 15th, 2025. It will close on October 15th. [30:32] To be eligible, risk managers must be based in the U.S., Canada, or Bermuda. A link to the Internship Grants page is in this episode's show notes. You can always visit SpencerEd.org, as well. [30:46] The Spencer 2025 Funding their Future Gala will be held on Thursday, September 18th, at the Cipriani 42nd Street in Manhattan, New York. This year's honoree is Tim Ryan, the U.S. President of Lockton, and we look forward to having Tim join us here on RIMScast very soon. [31:05] A link to the Gala is also in this episode's show notes. Buy a ticket, enjoy a great night in the city, and support the future of risk management. [31:14] Our next guest is the Co-Founder and CEO of MEO Continuity, a risk management software company that helps you optimize business disruption response. [31:25] His name is Maximilian Glodde, and we discuss risk management and why it was so important for him, as the Founder and CEO of a startup, to join RIMS. [31:43] Interview! Maximilian Glodde, welcome to RIMScast! [31:45] Maximilian has been in RIMS and the risk management space for 10 years. MEO Continuity is a relatively young startup of just over three years. [32:29] Maximilian believes the biggest challenge for a startup is getting your word out. They had early validation that we had something people found valuable. We had to stay disciplined about staying in our lane. The big challenge is getting your name out and staying focused. [32:51] Maximilian says there is a lot that comes with starting a company. He has a completely different appreciation for HR. You take it for granted. He gives HR a big shoutout for the policies and procedures you don't think about. [33:11] Once you grow past your founding team, HR becomes very important. You need to think about what people care about at work and what makes them happy. [33:37] When Maximilian and Justin met in Denver at the ERM Conference 2023, MEO Continuity was just Christopher Wegman and Maximilian Glodde. They now have a team of over 15. They've grown fast, and they have wonderful clients in all different industries. [34:24] Maximilian had come from a large carrier, and RIMS was an event the carrier sponsored. Maximilian got to see what RIMS was all about. He knew, when he came out with MEO Continuity, they needed to start the journey by attending RIMS conferences. [34:45] RIMS conferences are attended by a high caliber of companies, vendors, and prospects. The first conference where MEO Continuity exhibited was RISKWORLD 2024 in San Diego. That event was a huge success. MEO Continuity got their message out. [35:28] Since exhibiting at RISKWORLD 2024, MEO Continuity has streamlined their conference preparation process. Maximilian liked that the RIMS team was very responsive to their many questions and answered them quickly. They felt super supported for a successful event. [35:57] That support and success is why they came back to RISKWORLD 2025 in Chicago. MEO Continuity will exhibit at the RIMS Canada Conference 2025, from September 14th through 17th, and at the RIMS Western Regional from October 1st through 3rd. [36:22] MEO Continuity will also exhibit at the RIMS ERM Conference in Seattle, on November 17th and 18th, and will co-present a session on November 17th, “Are You Mapping Your Value Chain Backwards?” with Emily Buckley of Specialized Bicycle Components. [36:52] Maximilian believes the value chain mapping process lives at the core of the risk management process. It's very difficult to manage and mitigate risk if you don't understand what's important in your value chain. [37:27] MEO Continuity is a proponent of starting at the end of the value chain, with your customers and working your way backward toward raw materials. When you map backward, wherever you stop, up to that point, you get some decision-useful information. [37:49] That's what the presentation will be about. Maximilian and Emily have been working together on it. [38:14] Maximilian shares his advice for risk professionals considering starting a company. You have to be somewhat crazy! If Maximilan had known all the things that could go wrong, he likely would not have taken that leap. Don't look too far forward. It will scare you to death! [38:35] Don't be afraid to get your name out there. Attending these RIMS conferences was very valuable for MEO Continuity. Maximilian adds that conferences increase the conversations you have and how often you talk about your product. You improve your presentation quickly. [39:02] Presenting in person is invaluable. It is authentic. Go to conferences. People are open to supporting and having those conversations. [39:24] Maximilian Glodde, thank you so much for joining us here on RIMScast!  [39:30] Special thanks again to all of my guests, and to everyone who attended, sponsored, and exhibited at the RIMS Texas Regional Conference  2025. This inaugural event was fantastic! [39:44] Be sure to mark your calendars for the 2nd Annual RIMS Texas Regional Conference from August 10th through 12th, 2026, back here in San Antonio! Be sure to check out the RIMS.org/events page for more information. [40:02] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [40:31] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [40:49] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [41:07] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [41:23] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [41:37] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. Please remember to subscribe to RIMScast on your favorite podcasting app. You can email us at Content@RIMS.org. [41:49] Practice good risk management, stay safe, and thank you again for your continuous support!   Links: RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov. 17‒18 | RIMS Global ERM Award of Distinction 2025 Nominations Open Through Aug. 16 RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration open! 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration! Register through Sept 30! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation 2025 Funding Their Future Gala — Sept. 18, 2025 in NYC! RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Lockdown & Level Up: Turn Up Your Cyber Security Game Against Creative Cyber Criminals” | Sept. 4, 2025 | Sponsored by AXA XL “Parametric Insurance: Providing Financial Certainty in Uncertain Times” | Oct. 30, 2025 | Sponsored by Swiss Re   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — Sept 2‒3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — November 11‒12 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Leadership Lessons with Major General (Ret.) Robert F. Whittle Jr., RIMS Texas Keynote” “Risk and Clarity with Huw Edwards, RIMS Texas Keynote” “ERM, Retail, and Risk with Jeff Strege” “Supply and Bike Chains with Emily Buckley”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guests: Tiara Wallace, DFW RIMS Inclusivity Chair, Director of RISK, Invesco US Jason Turk, Bondy Law Group, Director of Operations (California), Swag for Schools on LinkedIn Maximilian Glodde, CEO of MEO Continuity   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

If hookless rims weigh less while being more aero and stronger than the antiquated and surely inferior hooked rim design, why are some of us so hesitant about using them? Today's show features Velo editors Josh Ross and Alvin Holbrook debating which rim design makes the most sense, while Levy questions whether changing from the proven hooked system is even worth the hassle. The guys also dig into loose-fitting tires, ever-changing compatibility lists, and whether pressure limits matter or not. 00:00 intro 02:30 Josh got a nail through his rim 13:00 Hook vs hookless on the road 22:10 dimensional consistency and tire pressure choice? 30:10 Why is there fuzziness in compatibility? 35:00 Claimed benefits of hookless 47:00 Issues with secondary and tertiary owners 1:01:20 conclusion Further reading ‘When Riders Express Concerns, It Worries Me:' Hansen Welcomes Urgent UCI Review of Hookless Rims and Tires No Really, the Point of a Hookless Wheel Is Safety Riders' Association President Calls For Further Action Relating to Hookless Tires and Rims UCI Announces Initial Findings in Its Urgent Review into Hookless Rims and Tires

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   In this episode, Justin interviews Amanda Lindhout, RIMS Canada Keynote, bestselling author, and globally sought-after keynote speaker known for her powerful insights on resilience and transformation. Justin and Amanda discuss her 460 days in captivity in Somalia, the resilience she learned to develop in her darkest days, and the lessons she brings to the world on resilience and inner strength. They discuss Amanda's New York Times bestselling memoir, A House in the Sky, how hard but cathartic it was to write, and why she shared it with the world after writing it for her healing. She discusses her Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and how she evolved past being homebound for two years.   Amanda gives a preview of her message for the closing keynote of the RIMS Canada Conference 2025 and what the audience can expect to learn.   Listen to learn how you can strengthen your resilience through intention, presence, gratitude, and mindset.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:14] The RIMS Canada Conference 2025 will be held from September 14th through the 17th in Calgary. Visit RIMSCanadaConference.ca to register. [:26] About this episode of RIMScast. Our guest today is the author of the New York Times bestselling book, A House in the Sky, and she will deliver a keynote address at the RIMS Canada Conference 2025 on September 17th. I'm talking about Amanda Lindhout. [:57] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next Virtual RIMS-CRMP exam prep, co-hosted by Parima, will be held on September 2nd and 3rd. [1:07] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be held on November 11th and 12th, and led by Joseph Mayo. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:23] The next RIMS Webinar will be held on September 4th and will be led by AXA XL. It is titled “Lockdown & Level Up: Turn Up Your Cyber Security Game Against Creative Cyber Criminals”. Register at RIMS.org/Webinars.  [1:38] RIMS Virtual Workshops! RIMS has launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” This is a two-day course. The first two-day course will be held on August 12th and 13th and will be led by former RIMS President, Chris Mandel. [1:56] The course will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [2:05] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [2:16] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is jam-packed with educational sessions that will resonate with risk practitioners in all stages of their careers. [2:37] See the full agenda at RIMS.org/ERM2025. Nominations are open for the RIMS Global ERM Award of Distinction 2025. The nomination deadline is Saturday, August 16th. The award is presented annually at the RIMS ERM Conference. There is a link in this episode's show notes. [3:02] If your organization's ERM program or one you know of deserves this recognition, we want to hear about it. Remember to send in that nomination form by August 16th. [3:14] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through May 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [3:28] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [3:41] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to join us. Visit RIMS.org/membership and build your risk network with us here at RIMS. [3:55] On with the show! Our guest today is the best-selling author of A House in the Sky. That's her memoir, which chronicles surviving 460 days in captivity in Somalia. [4:07] It is an intense read, in which she shares hard-earned wisdom that inspires individuals and organizations to grow through adversity. Her name is Amanda Lindhout, and she has delivered over 500 keynotes in 28 countries. [4:21] Amanda is a native of Sylvan Lake, in Alberta, Canada, between Edmonton and Calgary. We are delighted that she will be delivering the closing keynote for the RIMS Canada Conference 2025 in Calgary on September 17th. We will discuss resilience and get a preview of her keynote. [4:44] Interview! Amanda Lindhout, welcome to RIMScast! [5:02] Seeing that Amanda would be a guest on RIMScast, Justin read A House in the Sky. It's an intense read. Justin has never read anything like it before. It opened his eyes and took him to different places. Justin thanks Amanda for writing such a strong memoir. [5:38] It was a challenging memoir to write. It was about a five-year process after Amanda was released from 460 days in captivity. The writing was insular. She wasn't thinking about the audience who would eventually read the book. It was part of her healing process. [6:06] Amanda says when you go through anything difficult, it's imperative to give it a voice by writing about it or talking it through. Being a former journalist, writing about it came naturally to her. She wanted to write about it. She didn't rush it. She took her time with it. [6:26] There are some pretty intense chapters. She worked on an intense chapter for a lot of time, taking breaks to process what the writing process was provoking in her. It was cathartic. [7:04] Amanda says, for maintaining her sense of dignity, while violence is part of the story, it felt important not to be graphic about it, not for her future audience, but for herself and the way she was processing the experience. It was tied to her dignity around what had happened to her. [7:40] Justin suggests that the threat of violence is already there, and it doesn't serve Amanda well to go that graphic. She was writing it for herself, not thinking about others, but the time came when it went into the world and was a big success, a New York Times bestseller. [8:17] It's one of the top-selling Canadian memoirs ever written. There was not only an audience, but a big audience. That took a lot of adjusting for Amanda. It was a difficult time for her. The success came from a very challenging experience. [9:04] There was an adjustment period, where people knew about what happened when she was in the dark house, when she had chains on her ankles. She moved through that adjustment period relatively quickly because it brought out an incredible connection with others.  [9:32] Can people who haven't gone through 460 days in captivity relate to Amanda? The way it was written, people were able to link it back to difficult experiences in their lives. They felt a profound connection to Amanda. That was beautiful to her. [9:56] As Amanda moves through the world, people read about the most vulnerable days of her life, and they connect to her with care, compassion, and empathy. She is greeted with a lot of hugs. That connection is an important piece of healing for anybody. [10:16] Amanda has found that connection in droves, in a way that most people won't, because her story is public. Amanda says it's almost like people are overcome with this need to make contact with her. [10:39] Many years ago, when she was struggling with complex post-traumatic stress disorder, if a man came at her with kindness and a desire for connection, that could activate something in her. That never happens to her anymore. She welcomes that sense of connection with people. [11:03] Amanda has had to move through stages of comfort to get to where she is now. After a Q&A at the end of a keynote, Amanda will say, I welcome all the hugs, and people will line up to do that. [11:48] Amanda converted to Islam while she was held captive. That was a strategic move and a survival strategy. As a journalist, she had spent a lot of time in the Middle East and had a foundation of understanding of Islam. [12:17] The teenagers who had abducted them along the side of the road were radicalized. They were not practicing the version of Islam that the vast majority of people around the world are. [12:32] Amanda recognized that if they did this false conversion, that might work to humanize them to the captors. Justin reads a passage from the book. [12:47] “We made vows to accept Allah as our only God and Mohammed as his messenger. What I felt in that moment was not surrender, and it wasn't defiance. This was simply a chess move. An uncertain knight slid two squares ahead and one to the side.” (Justin's favorite line.) [13:04] “It was not a betrayal of faith, of mine, or Nigel's, or theirs. It was a way to feel less foreign, and in feeling less foreign, we could be less afraid. We were doing what it took to survive.” When Justin read that, he realized this was Phase 2 of the book. [14:02] Amanda notes that there was a lot of strategy in surviving those 460 days. That was one of their moves. [14:12] In the early days of their captivity, they tried to form connections with their captors by answering questions about life in the West. The captors weren't allowed to look at images of people or listen to music in their culture. [15:21] Amanda says it's a human impulse, in crisis, to build connections with adversaries when it's about life and death. It's also Amanda's nature as a journalist. Her world was about human connection and understanding others, those who had different cultures from hers. [15:50] Amanda has been to 92 countries. She has always been very interested in the stories of others. The landscape in which those boys grew up was so foreign to us in North America, and the privilege we have, which we don't even recognize. The youngest captor was 14. [16:31] The captors had grown up without school and a real value system or role models. They're radicalized in one of the poorest places on Earth, where people are dying of hunger. [16:46] Amanda tried to understand how they came to the conclusions they did about Amanda and the other captives. That helped her during her toughest moments when she could hardly fathom how human beings could behave like they did toward Amanda and the others. [17:06] They behaved like they had no conscience at all. Amanda says those teenagers were the teachers to her about the adage that hurt people hurt people. It doesn't excuse what they did. [17:26] When Amanda tried to reconcile how it could have been so bad, it was because they had a life that held death, disease, pain, and war, and that was their starting point. The way they treat others is a reflection of what is inside of them. That was important for Amanda to understand. [17:50] Toward the end of the book, Amanda describes a sort of out-of-body experience where she could see the trauma the boys lived through. Understanding the root cause doesn't excuse the behavior. [18:21 That insight came to Amanda from some of the most difficult days she had in captivity. She almost died. In the deepest part of her being, she knows that hurt people hurt people. That serves her in her life on the other side of captivity. [18:54] Every day, you see the headlines and ask how the world can be this messed up, and you try to make sense of it. Amanda was fortunate to have that lived experience. Something opened up inside of her where she has a sense of understanding in a way that many people do not.  [19:14] This never excuses the actions of anyone. She just has a profound understanding of how those actions can happen. [19:43] Justin asks if the massacre on October 7th, 2023, was a triggering event for Amanda. She says Definitely yes. Even seeing hostage-taking in the headlines creates an activation in her. Amanda has had to learn to navigate a world that has a lot of triggers. [20:17] Amanda was given the diagnosis of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) immediately upon her release from captivity. She has had to learn to navigate a world that is very provocative relative to her CPTSD. [20:38] Over the years, Amanda has learned to reframe things that are difficult for her. She has habits and a mindset she has chosen that help her. She committed to doing the things that move her toward healing and growth, and doing those things repeatedly, for many years. [21:16] Amanda is an example of what is possible. She was very active by October 7th, but it didn't linger. She knew what to do to bring herself back to center, to ground herself, and look around her reality. Even though terrible things happen, she can orient to what is working well. [21:37] Amanda focuses on what is in her immediate surroundings that feels good, while acknowledging that these difficult feelings are there. She knows that they will lessen. Even a couple of days later, she wasn't in the grip of October 7th. [21:57] Every time she feels activated, she turns toward it. She doesn't try to tuck it away in a back pocket. She gives it her full attention. By doing so, she dissipates the intensity of the trigger's energy. Justin believes everyone can learn from this approach to triggers. [22:25] Amanda's story and October 7th are big events that most people can't wrap their heads around. Yet, almost everyone is going to go through things that are different, that feel unbearable, and so overwhelming. The circumstances are different, but the feeling inside is not so different. [23:14] The skills and habits we're talking about today don't just relate to big headline events. They apply to the hard things we each go through every day and what they provoke in you. Amanda wants people to see themselves in this conversation. [23:35] That's the preview of Amanda's keynote at RIMS Canada. Amanda does a few different talks. She will give her resilience talk for the closing keynote at RIMS Canada. With her life experience, there are lots of things she could talk about. [23:50] These days, everyone is doing their best to get through these difficult times. What we can learn from each other about resilience matters a lot; almost more in 2025 than it ever has. [24:07] RIMS Events! On September 18th, the 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum will be held at The Old Post Office in Chicago. Register at ChicagoRIMS.org. [24:23] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today! [24:39] On November 17th and 18th, elevate your ERM Program and career at the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is live, and early rates are available until September 5th. Register now to save $110 and secure your spot at the ERM event of the year. [25:01] Canadian listeners, take note, that's just a little bit South of the border in British Columbia. That's a great way to extend your knowledge after the RIMS Canada Conference. Visit RIMS.org/ERM2025 to register. [25:17] Let's Return to Our Interview with RIMS Canada Conference Keynote Amanda Lindhout!  [25:26] Understanding what resilience is is the first step in building it and accessing it. To Amanda Lindhout, resilience is an inner strength that helps a person navigate life's challenges with adaptability. It's not about navigating with hope and optimism. It's about adaptability. [26:27] We live in this ever-changing world. Day by day, what we have to face is different. Adaptability is so important. Amanda thinks that we are all born with resilience as part of our human blueprint, but most of us have not been taught how to utilize this inner resource. [26:55] Amanda thinks most people don't know how to access and utilize their resilience. Look at the statistics of poor mental health, burnout, and climbing suicide rates. It's pretty easy to see that most people don't feel like they can access their resilience. [27:16] Amanda sees resilience as inner strength. She compares it to outer strength, your physical strength. You do something again and again, and that builds muscle strength. Resilience is an inner quality, an inner resource. It also needs to be worked on to become strong. [27:57] While we're born with the ability to develop resilience, it has to be developed to be a usable skill. It takes focus to develop it. It takes intention. Most people are going to have to work at it a little to have a felt sense of their inner resilience. [28:27] In Amanda's experience, resilience is not a passive quality. It requires a choice. You have to choose to create habits that are going to support growing that inner strength. [28:46] Amanda's book talks a bit about her difficult childhood in an abusive home. People assume that gave her more resilience, but she says she had less resilience than the average person, going into her experience in Somalia, because of the difficult childhood that she had. [29:27] Much of how you see the world and can respond to challenges comes from your youngest years. If bad things happen around you and there's no adult to guide you through it to bounce back, you internalize that difficulty, and it feeds issues like depression and self-defeat. [30:03] Because of her difficult childhood, Amanda did not have a surplus of resilience, going into Somalia. But, in Somalia, Amanda discovered that, in the intense, life-or-death, trauma environment she was in, resilience was part of her blueprint. She had to learn to access it. [30:31] Amanda's first step was choosing to figure out how to access it. What gave her a sense of inner strength? What made her optimistic and hopeful? Amanda is a good example that it can be done, no matter how difficult things are. She searched daily to connect to resilience. [31:05] Despair was all around her, but there was something else there, too. She learned that two things can be true at the same time. Despair can be there, but she can, at the same time, learn to reach and grow her inner resilience. [31:33] Justin reads another passage from the book about what happens when you are alone and there are no distractions. In the month after Amanda and Nigel were separated, Amanda felt a new sort of energy. It felt physical and also not physical. [32:01] It worked for Amanda in a life-or-death situation, in a dark room, with chains on her ankles. Amanda promises that if you just say “yes” to life, no matter what comes, it opens you up to the possibility of connecting to that intrinsic, resilient part of yourself, no matter how faint. [32:43] Once you touch on it, even for a second, there are habits you can create that are going to strengthen that and make it easier to feel it. The despair may be there in the background, but you're simultaneously strengthening this other part of yourself that will carry you through. [33:01] Eventually, the despair will go away. Amanda's experience in captivity ended. It took a long time, but she came out of it. The resilient part of herself was the loudest part at that point. [33:17] Final Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [33:36] Since 1999, Spencer has awarded over $2.9 million to create more than 570 Risk Management Internships. The Internship Grants application process will open on August 15th, 2025. It will close on October 15th. [33:56] To be eligible, risk managers must be based in the U.S., Canada, or Bermuda. A link to the Internship Grants page is in this episode's show notes. You can always visit SpencerEd.org, as well. [34:10] The Spencer 2025 Funding their Future Gala will be held on Thursday, September 18th, at the Cipriani 42nd Street in Manhattan, New York. This year's honoree is Tim Ryan, the U.S. President of Lockton, and we look forward to having Tim join us here on RIMScast very soon. [34:29] A link to the Gala is also in this episode's show notes. Buy a ticket, enjoy a great night in the city, and support the future of risk management. [34:37] And Now, Let's Return to the Conclusion of My Interview with RIMS Canada Conference 2025 Keynote, Amanda Lindhout! [35:01] Amanda says she is so excited to be invited to connect with RIMS Canada! She has done a lot of keynotes around the world in something like 28 countries, sharing what she has learned. This is genuinely exciting to her. It's a room she wants to be in. [35:25] Amanda has a lot to share. Her resilience teachings come down to mastering four sequential pillars. The best time to grow the resilient streak inside of you is in the calm before the storm. Grow these qualities. When the crisis comes, you'll know how to access this. [36:18] The first pillar is Intention. Most people don't think daily about intention. Living an intentional life is so important for your mental health. For Amanda, in Somalia, and afterward, when she was struggling in the depths of PTSD, her intention was about healing. [37:01] Healing was far off on the horizon, initially, but that intention anchored everything else; all of the other actions she would take throughout the day. Is this decision in line with my intention, or is it not? [37:34] All day long, do I choose to feed the healthy parts of myself that will reorient me toward health, or do I choose the opposite? Do I choose to doomscroll on my phone and go into the dark pockets of the world, which only confirms my belief that the world is dangerous? [37:52] Or do I put my phone away and say I'm not going to go on social media today, I'm not feeling good today? I don't need to dive down that rabbit hole. [37:58] Instead, my intention to regain my health is going to guide me to consume inspiring podcasts, pick up an uplifting book, and have conversations with the people I can count on to lift me up. That overarching intention is really important. [38:21] You need to be clear and specific with yourself. What are the words of your intention? If you change your intention, then get clear about what your new intention is. It's not vague. [38:36] Then you want to cultivate your sense of Presence in your life. We are so distracted by our devices and screens. We may welcome the distraction to take us out of the moment because we have a very challenging, overwhelming world. [39:08] If you are not present in your life, you can't connect to your resilience. You can only connect to that optimism when you are in the present moment, not fearing the future or reliving the difficult past, but in the moment, orienting in your environment to what is working well. [39:40] In the present moment, choose to look around your life and say, OK, all these difficult things are happening, but there is always something to be grateful for. [39:54] Gratitude is the next pillar. Train yourself to become a grateful person by challenging yourself every day to look for things to be grateful for. With her husband, at the end of dinner, they both say something they're grateful for. Amanda started this in the worst times of captivity. [40:31] Amanda could immediately see the connection between gratitude and resilience. When you look for the good around you, you will begin to see more of it. In a dark room, chains around her ankles, Amanda could always find something to be grateful for. She could hear the birds. [41:04] You can always find things to be grateful for. It requires training your mind to look for it.  [41:11] The last pillar is Mindset. We don't have control over a lot of things. But we have complete control over our mindset, how we choose to engage with the world. In your dark days, you feel like everything is out of your control, but you always have control over your mindset. [41:43] You have control over what you orient to. Even during the worst part of her CPTSD journey, when Amanda was bedridden and homebound from overwhelm, for a couple of years after she returned home, that was when she began to go looking for her health. [43:05] Amanda had learned from Somalia that two things can be true at the same time. It was true that she had debilitating PTSD, and it was also true that there was still health in parts of her body. What she chooses to give her attention to will grow in influence over her life. [43:29] That is a choice that she has. She didn't have control in that moment over how the PTSD lived inside of her, but she had control over her orientation. What is she choosing to focus on, repeatedly? [43:45] In the dark house in Somalia, she couldn't take those chains off her ankles and leave, but she could choose to focus on things to be grateful for. This is extraordinary. You train yourself to think like this. People aren't born navigating challenges with this kind of mindset. [44:03] When you begin doing it again and again, as a practice, when difficult things come, you may wallow in it a little bit but then at a certain point, you remember, there is still choice: What can I orient to that feels good, that is uplifting, and that is healthy, even if it's a small thing? [44:23] Choose to put your attention there. That's not denying difficult things that are happening, or trying to bypass them. Recognize them as an important part of healing. Two things can be true at the same time. What you give your primary attention to will shape your reality. [44:50] Amanda's concluding words, “I feel so privileged to be able to connect with this room of people who are doing really important work. I know the work can come in many different forms, navigating all kinds of crises and risks in the world.” [45:07] “One final little piece of advice for this room of people: When you're helping someone go through a time of crisis, the most important thing you can do is to manage yourself; your nervous system.” [45:47] “That is the most effective way you can bring someone down out of a heightened state of fear and frustration. There can be a frantic quality when things are falling apart for people. The best thing you can do is be in the present moment and stay grounded.” [46:16] “There's a co-regulation that happens. Just being in that grounded state will help to de-escalate the situation and bring the other person into coherence. Coming back to your own regulation is always the best thing you can do for another person.” [46:51] Special thanks again to Amanda Lindhout for joining us here on RIMScast. To learn more about her, visit AmandaLindhout.com and check out her book, A House in the Sky. [47:02] It is an intense read, but it demonstrates her resilience and why she's going to be a great keynote for us here at the RIMS Canada Conference 2025. She'll be closing the RIMS Canada Conference 2025 on September 17th. Check it out and register at RIMSCanadaConference.ca. [47:22] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [47:50] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [48:08] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [48:26] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [48:42] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [48:56] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. Please remember to subscribe to RIMScast on your favorite podcasting app. You can email us at Content@RIMS.org. [49:09] Practice good risk management, stay safe, and thank you again for your continuous support!   Links: RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov. 17‒18 | RIMS Global ERM Award of Distinction 2025 Nominations Open Through Aug. 16 RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration open! 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration! Register through Sept 30! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation 2025 Funding Their Future Gala — Sept. 18, 2025 in NYC! RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov 17‒18 in Seattle! [Save the Date!] RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now www.AmandaLindhout.com RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Lockdown & Level Up: Turn Up Your Cyber Security Game Against Creative Cyber Criminals” | Sept. 4, 2025 | Sponsored by AXA XL   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — Sept 2-3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — November 11‒12 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Aug. 12‒13 | Instructor: Chris Mandel “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Leadership Lessons with Major General (Ret.) Robert F. Whittle Jr., RIMS Texas Keynote” “Live From Vancouver! with Maryam Salmasi, Fred H. Bossons Award Winner 2024” “Exploring Risk in Extreme Environments with Kevin Vallely” “Thoughts and IDEAs on Inclusivity with Michael Bach” “Change Management and Strategy with Jay Kiew, RIMS Canada Conference 2024 Keynote”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Amanda Lindhout, Expert on Resilience & Extraordinary Mindset Author: A House In The Sky   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

You may think that sex trafficking only happens in third-world countries. It certainly doesn't happen here! The truth is, human trafficking is happening right here in our local communities. It's heartbreaking. It's ugly. And it's hard to imagine what we could do to make a difference.Yolanda answered the call God placed on her life to do something about it. That's how Zoe Ministries was birthed. Answering the call. This story may not be suitable for younger ones to hear (in case you're listening with little ones in the room), but this story must be heard because you and I CAN do something to help save the ones who have been trapped and lied to over and over. There is hope for the hopeless, and maybe, just maybe, God is asking us to help provide hope and healing to those who desperately need to know that their identity is in Jesus.Show Notes:Yolanda (Schlabach) Montgomery, ED.D.Zoe Ministries, Founder and Executive DirectorFor more information on Zoe Ministries & Hannah's House:zoe-delaware.orgPolaris (holds the HT hotline number): polarisproject.orgHOTLINE NUMBER TO REPORT HT: 888-373-7888Shared Hope for each state's report card: https://sharedhope.orgDirect questions & comments to: podcast@wearethebridge.orgDenise Harper's new book, “Treasured Inside - Devotions With Denise,” is available at Amazon, Apple, Target, and more. For more information, email Denise at: denise@wearethebridge.orgDid you know you can now watch Over the Rims of Mugs?Visit https://www.wearethebridge.org/mugsvideoPlease share Over the Rims of Mugs with a friend if you enjoyed this episode. Over the Rims of Mugs is still growing, and your positive review and 5-star rating would help.The Bridge Podcast Network is made possible by generous support from The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel and Victoria's Restaurant on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware - Open 7 days a week, year-round - Learn more at https://boardwalkplaza.comFeedback, or Show Ideas? Send an email to podcast@wearethebridge.orgDownload The Bridge Mobile App to get the latest podcast episodes as soon as they are published!

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   In this episode, Justin interviews Thomas Brandt, Chief Risk Officer of the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB) and one of the 2024 RIMS ERM Award of Distinction winners. Thomas shares some of his experiences at the IRS, where he won the 2021 RIMS ERM Award of Distinction, and how he moved from the IRS to join the FRTIB. Tom covers how he successfully integrated strategy and ERM at the FRTIB. He tells how the FRTIB moved from a high-level to a medium-level cyber risk posture, with improved Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) scores. Tom shares how the FRTIB  works with a managed services model in a way that's scalable and sustainable. Tom relates his views on risk culture and the portfolio view that a mature ERM program supports.   Listen to learn how to nominate your organization's ERM Program for the RIMS ERM  Award of Distinction.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:14] RIMScast is a proud nominee of the 20th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards. We are nominated in the category of Government and Organizations, and we would appreciate your support. [:26] Help us win that award by visiting PodcastAwards.com and the link in this episode's notes.  [:36] About this episode of RIMScast. We will be joined by Thomas Brandt, Chief Risk Officer of the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board and one of the 2024 RIMS ERM Award of Distinction winners. [1:05] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next Virtual RIMS-CRMP exam prep, co-hosted by Parima, will be held on September 2nd and 3rd. [1:17] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be held on November 11th and 12th, and led by Joseph Mayo. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:34] RIMS Virtual Workshops! On August 5th, we have a day-long course about “Emerging Risks.” [1:42] RIMS has launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” This is a two-day course. The first two-day course will be held on August 12th and 13th and will be led by former RIMS President, Chris Mandel. [1:56] The course will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [2:05] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [2:17] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is jam-packed with educational sessions that will resonate with risk practitioners at all stages of their careers. [2:38] See the full agenda at RIMS.org/ERM2025. Nominations are open for the RIMS Global ERM Award of Distinction 2025. The nomination deadline is Saturday, August 16th. The award is presented annually at the RIMS ERM Conference. There is a link in this episode's show notes. [3:05] If your organization's ERM program or one you know of deserves this recognition, we want to hear about it. Remember to send in that nomination form by August 16th. [3:16] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through May 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [3:31] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [3:44] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to join us. Visit RIMS.org/membership and build your risk network with us here at RIMS. [3:58] On with the show! Our guest today is one of the winners of the 2024 RIMS ERM Award of Distinction. He is also the Chief Risk Officer for the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB). [4:15] Tom Brandt is here to discuss ERM and how it has been a guiding light throughout his risk career, which includes several years at the IRS. He recently participated in the RIMS ERM Q&A Series, and we're going to extend the dialogue beyond those digital pages, so let's get to it. [4:35] Interview! Tom Brandt, welcome to RIMScast! [4:42] At long last, Tom Brandt is here on RIMScast! Tom is one of the members of the Strategic and Enterprise Risk Management Council and one of the recipients of the 2024 ERM Award of Distinction. There's so much to discuss when it comes to ERM! Tom loves ERM. [5:18] Tom was also a 2021 ERM Award of Distinction recipient for his work at the IRS, where he worked for about 27 years, for the last eight of which, he was their Chief Risk Officer. There, he got into the whole ERM space. [5:38] Then, in late 2021, an opportunity opened at the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB), and Tom took on the role of Chief Risk Officer. He enjoys the opportunity to work in a small organization with a different focus. [5:55] The FRTIB is sort of the 401(k) for federal employees and uniformed services. They have a singular mission around that plan. [6:13] Tom was brought into the FRTIB to integrate strategy and ERM. He stresses the importance of linking risk and strategy. When Tom started, the offices of Enterprise Planning and Enterprise Risk had just been brought together. [6:51] They were looking for the first Director of Planning and Risk/CRO. Tom applied and was selected for the role. Even though it's a small agency of 250, those functions had been siloed. [7:07] Tom's first area of focus was getting the staff to know each other and learn more about what each process entailed, and then working with the team to look at how to bring these processes together. [7:23] Tom says, when we're identifying risks and needing to mitigate risks, the next question is, where do we get the resources? When the process is not integrated into your planning and budgeting process, that becomes very challenging. [7:36] As we go through our annual planning process, we work with our business offices, and if they're risk owners, we talk about what risks they are managing or mitigating, and if there are related initiatives or resources needed. [7:51] That information gets captured in the annual plan and becomes an input to the budget process. We're not only raising the risks and talking about them, but also identifying initiatives and getting funding, support, and resources to manage and mitigate those risks. [8:16] Tom's risk group has seven or eight people. They also do internal controls, policies, and procedures. They are the agency's anti-fraud group. They do brand monitoring and run the third-party risk monitoring program. They do work beyond the enterprise risk component. [8:51] The FRTIB moved from a high-level to a medium-level cyber risk posture, which improved Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) scores. FISMA is an annual cybersecurity audit of federal organizations. [9:27] Years ago, the FRTIB was scoring in the 1s and 2s on most domains in this audit, out of a possible score of 5. That coincided with cybersecurity being one of the FRTIB's high risks. They needed to put in place better governance and protections. [9:53] Because cybersecurity had been one of the FRTIB's high risks, they require any of their enterprise risks that are medium high or higher to have a risk treatment plan. They work with their CISO and the cyber team to develop risk treatment plans each year. [10:08] The risk treatment plans identify resource needs and specific areas of focus. They use the FISMA domains, questions, and assessment criteria to keep in mind where they need to shore things up. [10:20] Justin clarifies that FISMA, the Federal Information Security Modernization Act, is a U.S. Federal law that requires federal agencies to develop a document and implement information security programs to protect government information. [10:36] Tom remarks that as a result of great work done by the CISO and the cyber team, the FRTIB scored a 5 in each domain on their 2024 FISMA audit. That moved the cybersecurity risk score down. It's still at a medium level because the threat landscape continues to evolve. [10:56] Threat actors are always out there, trying to stay one step ahead of you, so you have to stay on your game to get ahead of them. [11:15] The cyber threat is so significant that collectively, we all need to be working as hard as we can to maintain our defenses. Tom says the CISO community is working together to integrate the latest technology and developments and understand where the threat is. [11:49] The CISO community is staying on top of what's happening in the AI space to be able to share good practices across agencies and ensure that our posture government-wide is as strong as possible in detecting and preventing the cyber threat. [12:06] One of the strategic goals for FRTIB is the managed services model. Tom speaks about assessing and monitoring third-party and vendor risks in a way that's scalable and sustainable. [12:18] When Tom moved into his position, in December 2021, the agency was about six months away from implementing that managed services model for their record-keeping service. Record keeping is a huge part of the FRTIB's work. They have almost 7.5 million participants. [12:36] Managing participant transactions and keeping their information is a core responsibility for the agency. They were moving to a managed service model. [12:48] When you shift to that type of model, you don't give up accountability and responsibility for the program. You work with a provider. The Agency needed to look at what its mechanism for oversight was, to manage and understand third-party risk. [13:06] The Agency had some capabilities in place for vendor monitoring and supply chain risk management. Tom's area of focus was to build up the third-party risk management program. [13:18] Tom did a maturity assessment to compare what they were doing to good practices and look for opportunities to enhance their capabilities. He brought in some services from external providers to help with access to data about the performance of third-party services. [13:42] Quarterly, Tom reports to the FRTIB board on their top vendors, their overall operations, whether there are any risks he has concerns about, and if so, what is being done to address those risks. That has helped to put in place a strong third-party risk management program. [14:03] When Tom joined the FRTIB, his predecessor had already built a strong, mature ERM program. There was a repeatable process in place with a risk register and a risk profile. [14:22] The opportunity was in integrating risk with planning and looking at how to enhance the program and bring it to the next level of maturity and build out that third-party risk management monitoring capability.  [14:42] RIMS Events! The very first RIMS Texas Regional Conference will be held from August 4th through August 6th in San Antonio at the Henry B. González Convention Center. Public registration is open. The full conference agenda is live, so you can start planning. [15:00] Don't miss the post-conference workshop, the RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep course available on-site. This event is open to any RIMS chapter member. [15:10] If you are local to the area, you might consider becoming a RIMS member today so you can get all the benefits and begin networking with your new RIMS Texas peers. Visit RIMS.org/TexasRegional. [15:22] Just a month later, we will be up North for the RIMS Canada Conference 2025, which will be held from September 14th through the 17th in Calgary. Registration is open. Visit RIMSCanadaConference.ca and lock in those favorable rates. We look forward to seeing you! [15:41] On September 18th, the 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum will be held at The Old Post Office in Chicago. Register at ChicagoRIMS.org. [15:52] Also on September 18th, the Spencer Educational Foundation will host the 2025 Funding Their Future Gala at the Cipriani 42nd Street. Visit SpencerEd.org. [16:03] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today! [16:20] Let's Return to My Interview with RIMS 2024 ERM Award of Distinction Winner, Tom Brandt! [16:37] Shortly after Tom won the 2021 ERM Award of Distinction, along with Melissa Reynard, for his work with the IRS, he left to go to the FRTIB. Tom talks about the switch. [16:57] Tom had a great career with the IRS. He had a range of different roles and responsibilities. For his last eight years with the IRS, he was the CRO. [17:23] Tom was ready to make a change. He learned about the opportunity at FRTIB to help them bring risk and strategy programs into one department. He was happy to be selected and see the value of having risk and strategy come together. [18:12] Tom was the second CRO at the IRS. In 2013, the IRS had a crisis, so they brought in a CRO from the GAO for about a year. Tom had been doing risk work in one of the business units of the IRS. He was chosen for the CRO position in 2014. [18:50] The IRS crisis in 2013 related to concerns about how the agency had been handling applications for tax-exempt status. It led to Congressional hearings and IRS leadership changes. [19:04] Before going to the FRTIB, Tom was contacted by a recruiter. Someone in the risk community knew of the position and suggested Tom for it. He's thankful he was contacted because it has turned out to be an excellent opportunity. [19:35] Through RIMS, Tom connects with public and private sector colleagues. He sees a lot of similarities. The public sector has been practicing ERM for just under a decade. [20:16] The most essential ingredient in ERM is leadership support. Tom has support at FRTIB from leadership and the Board. Without leadership support, ERM is a compliance exercise. If ERM is truly leveraged, it can add a lot of value. [20.42] Tom thinks we're seeing too many instances where organizations have not had robust risk programs and have had risk events that could have been prevented or had the impact lessened, had they had a risk program.  [21:02] Tom thinks the challenge in the public sector is that there isn't much room for government error. Anything that doesn't go according to plan tends to get attention. [21:22] That oversight creates an environment that tends to be more risk-averse. That's not the way we want to run our risk program, because we want to take advantage of the opportunity that risk prevents, but it's a factor of the environment we operate in. [21:44] Part of what led to the establishment of the IRS ERM program was the 2013 crisis and an after-event assessment of what went wrong. Bad news didn't make it to the top quickly enough. Information that leadership should have been made aware of didn't get there in time. [22:05] As a result, issues and problems were allowed to fester and go out of control. In the IRS, people took a lot of pride in fixing and solving their problems. Sometimes you don't have a lot of time to fix an issue before it goes sideways. [22:41] A real benefit from sharing information is that often you can find other parts of the organization that can help because they've experienced a similar type of issue. They might have additional resources. Ignoring or hiding the problem doesn't make it go away. [23:01] The key value of ERM is creating a culture where people are willing to speak up, information gets escalated quickly, and you're able to bring the right people and resources together to work collectively to manage and mitigate those risks. [23:15] At FRTIB, Tom focuses on creating an environment where people feel comfortable speaking about risk, where it's part of the regular way they operate. [23:32] Since starting in risk many years ago and working with his teams, Tom's approach has been doing risk with offices and not doing risk to offices. He wanted to meet them where they were, understand where they needed help, and nudge them, rather than drag them, along. [24:00] Tom says take time to understand the organization, the unique needs of each office, and work with them to help manage and mitigate a risk, versus trying to force something on them. [24:18] A Quick Plug! If you tuned in to the recent episode featuring James Lam, you will know he is hosting a new six-module workshop for us, the “RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management”. [24:33] The inaugural summer course is completely sold out! We are filled to the virtual capacity! Don't worry, in the Fall, the bi-weekly course will begin on October 9th. Registration closes on October 2nd. A link is in this episode's notes. Check it out and register today! [24:52] If you're getting inspired by Tom Brandt and his ERM Award of Distinction win, remember that nominations are now open for the ERM Award of Distinction 2025. Be sure to listen closely for the tips that he offers about what makes a strong nomination! [25:10] The link to the nomination form is in this episode's show notes. Good luck! [25:13] Let's Return to the Conclusion of My Interview with Tom Brandt! [25:18] Before becoming the CRO at the IRS, Tom was the Director of Planning and Research for the Large Business and International Division with responsibility for case selection, determining risk on corporate and international tax returns, and which ones should be selected for audit. [25:52] This was a compliance risk experience. That provided the stepping stone to take on a more strategic, operational view of risk within the division. When the broader CRO opportunity became available at the IRS, he was considered and ultimately selected for that position. [26:14] Tom's view of risk has evolved. Within a business unit, he focused on the day-to-day operational and compliance risk. He didn't take a view of the whole organization or what choices he made for his unit ight create risk for another part of the organization. [26:51] It's a real value for ERM to have a portfolio view of the most critical risks across the organization, and understanding how actions to address risks in one area could create or exacerbate a risk somewhere else. [27:08] Tom tells of reputational risk. Sometimes decisions don't factor in how they will be perceived. Tom helped people at the IRS understand reputational risk and the stakeholders they may need to engage to help them understand why particular decisions are made. [28:22] Tom shares advice for nominating an ERM Program for the ERM Award of Distinction. What are the results? What are the outcomes that the program accomplished that you can talk about? How did ERM help the organization? What value did it bring? [29:07] Take an example of something you can share, and explain how ERM was able to surface the risk and bring the right people together to help with that risk and help the organization. [29:24] It's critical to have letters of recommendation. At the IRS, Tom had two Deputy Commissioners write letters about what they saw as the value that ERM brought to the agency. [29:42] At FRTIB, Tom had letters from the Executive Director and a member of its Board, who had served for over a decade and had historical knowledge of how ERM had helped the Agency. [30:04] Tom notes that the process of going through the application is a great learning opportunity to reflect on accomplishments as well as areas of remaining opportunity. [30:17] If you are fortunate enough to be selected to receive recognition, it's a great way to recognize the team. Tom used the Awards to recognize his teams at the IRS and at FRTIB, who are the ones who make all of this possible. The recognition turns out to be great kudos for them. [30:41] You can learn more about Tom's achievements through the links on this episode's show notes, which feature his recent ERM Q&A from 2025. I've also included one with his former coworker from the IRS, Melissa Reynard, from 2022. [30:58] This should give you a great sense of not just the great work that Tom has done but also, what it takes to have your nomination seen and heard and get the recognition that you deserve. [31:13] Tom, it's been great getting to know you these past few years, and I look forward to seeing you in Seattle. Thank you for joining us here on RIMScast! [31:32] Special thanks again to Tom Brandt for joining us here on RIMScast. Be sure to check out the links in this episode's show notes for recent ERM Q&A interviews about his work with the FRTIB. [31:46] Tom is a recipient of the RIMS ERM Award of Distinction. The Call for Nominations is open through August 16th. Check this episode's show notes for the link and details. [32:00] The Awards will be presented at the RIMS ERM Conference 2025, November 17th and 18th in Seattle. A link to that event is also on this page. [32:08] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [32:36] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [32:54] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [33:12] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [33:29] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [33:43] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [33:50] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: 20th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards! Vote for RIMScast (Gov't & Organizations) To vote for RIMScast, please sign up with your email, then select RIMScast on the pulldown under Government and Organizations. Thank you! RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov. 17‒18 | RIMS Global ERM Award of Distinction 2025 Nominations Open Through Aug. 16 “Embedding ERM Into One of the World's Largest Retirement Programs.” — RIMS Interview with Tom Brandt (2025) RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Registration open. RIMS-CRMP In-Person Workshop in Texas Aug. 6 & 7 RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration open! 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration! Register through Sept 30! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation 2025 Funding Their Future Gala — Sept. 18, 2025, in NYC! RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov 17‒18 in Seattle! [Save the Date!] RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Summer course sold out! | Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — Sept 2‒3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — November 11‒12 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Emerging Risks” | Aug 5 | Instructor: Joe Mayo “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Aug. 12‒13 | Instructor: Chris Mandel “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Risk and Clarity with Huw Edwards, RIMS Texas Keynote” “James Lam on ERM, Strategy, and the Modern CRO” “ERM, Retail, and Risk with Jeff Strege” “Bigger Risks with the Texas State Office of Risk Management” | Sponsored By Hillwood “ERMotivation with Carrie Frandsen, RIMS-CRMP” “Live from the ERM Conference 2024 in Boston!” “Risk Quantification Through Value-Based Frameworks”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Thomas Brandt, Chief Risk Officer at the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews Major General (Ret.) Robert F. Whittle, Jr., RIMS Texas Keynote speaker, about his experience as Deputy Commanding General of Operations for U.S. Army North, responsible for homeland defense and coordination with civil authorities, about his experience with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and its work in water resource management, and the lessons he can share for flood preparedness. Justin and Robert (Bob) discuss risk management training that engineers receive and how it applies to combat operations and domestic situations. Bob talks about building trust in different cultures. Finally, he shares some of what he will cover in his closing keynote on August 6th for the RIMS Texas Regional in San Antonio, Texas, from August 4th through 6th.   Listen to learn military lessons that apply to risk management in industry.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:15] To our friends and RIMS members in Texas, it has been heartbreaking to witness the devastation caused by the floods in the Lone Star State. [:23] Your RIMS community extends its heartfelt thoughts and wishes for your health, safety, and well-being during this challenging time. [:30] The floods are a stark reminder of the critical role that risk professionals play in a crisis. The RIMS Hurricane and Storm Risk Management Resource Center offers several informative articles and resources about flood and storm preparedness and recovery. [:45] As you navigate through your recovery efforts, please know that you have the support of RIMS.  [:50] About this episode of RIMScast. Our guest today is Major General (Retired) Robert F. Whittle, Jr. He will be the closing keynote speaker at the RIMS Texas Regional Conference on August 6th. We will talk about his military career and flood risk and leadership. [1:23] RIMScast is a proud nominee of the 20th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards. I'm hoping I can count on you to help us bring this win home! Vote by going to PodcastAwards.com and the link in this episode's notes.  [1:40] Sign up with your email, find RIMScast under Government and Organizations, and save your nomination. Every vote counts! Thank you so much for your support! [1:50] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next Virtual RIMS-CRMP exam prep, co-hosted by Parima, will be held on September 2nd and 3rd. [2:00] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be held on November 11th and 12th, in conjunction with George Mason University and led by Joseph Mayo. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [2:17] RIMS Virtual Workshops! We have a day-long course on July 24th, “Risk Taxonomy for Effective Risk Management.” On August 5th, we have a day-long course about “Emerging Risks.” [2:30] RIMS has launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” This is a two-day course. The first two-day course will be held on August 12th and 13th and will be led by former RIMS President, Chris Mandel. [2:45] The course will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [2:54] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [3:05] If you tuned in to the recent episode featuring James Lam, you will know he is hosting a new six-module workshop for us, the “RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management”. [3:19] The inaugural summer course is completely sold out! We are filled to the virtual capacity! Don't worry, in the Fall, the bi-weekly course will begin on October 9th. Registration closes on October 2nd. A link is in this episode's notes. Check it out and register today! [3:38] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The Call for Nominations for the ERM Award of Distinction has been distributed. There is a link in this episode's show notes. The nomination deadline is August 16th. [3:59] If your organization's ERM program or one you know of has generated and retained value and led to the growth of your organization, consider nominating that ERM program and manager for the ERM Award of Distinction 2025. [4:13] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through May 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [4:27] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [4:40] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to register at RIMS.org/membership. [4:50] On with the show! Robert F. Whittle Jr. was a Major General of the U.S. Army. He retired in 2023 as the Deputy Commanding General of Operations for the U.S. Army North. He is also Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff to the CEO at USAA. [5:06] On August 6th, he will deliver the closing keynote at the RIMS Texas Regional, providing highlights from his 33 years in the Army, including years as the Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Great Lakes and Ohio River Division. [5:20] I'm so glad he's here to provide a preview of his keynote and also discuss flood risk and leadership. Let's get to it! [5:28] Interview! Retired Major General Robert F. Whittle Jr., welcome to RIMScast! [5:35] Joining us now is one of the RIMS Texas Regional's keynotes, Major General (Retired) Bob Whittle. [5:46] Major General (Retired) Bob Whittle, Jr. asks Justin to call him Bob. [6:03] This is the inaugural Texas Regional event. Bob is excited about it. He loves Texas, and he knows people are coming from all over the country to attend. Justin adds that it's a big deal for the Texas chapters, which are some of the most active and voluminous RIMS chapters. [6:27] Bob's keynote will close out the Conference on August 6th.  [6:31] Today's discussion will be about flood risk and then about leadership. [6:47] Bob's bio is on the RIMS Texas Regional page. [6:52] Bob was Deputy Commanding General of Operations for the U.S. Army North, responsible for Homeland Defense and coordination with civil authorities. One major event occurred domestically while he was there. [7:17] That was the integration of 70,000 refugees from Afghanistan to the United States. When the U.S. left Afghanistan, a lot of interpreters, their families, and other key players were able to come to the United States. They needed help integrating into U.S. society with jobs and homes. [8:05] Bob says there was never an expectation that we would have to move 70,000 people here. We thought that Afghanistan would continue to move forward after we left, but it fell pretty rapidly. Some Afghan interpreters and officers who were under threat were brought to the U.S. [8:52] One of the challenges in any kind of operation like that is that it involves Federal, state, and local officials, and non-governmental organizations. Within the Federal side, we have FEMA, the State Department, and the Department of Defense. [9:14] These agencies worked together to build a framework and partner with the other authorities. The first risk is that politics or ego get in the way of accomplishing the mission. [9:28] The mitigation for that is trying to build relationships well ahead of the crisis, so people trust each other and can work together. They constantly emphasized the unity of the mission. [9:41] It's not unity of command, as there's no chain of command with all the partnerships, but there must be unity over the mission of resettling the Afghan refugees. [10:06] Justin asks if Bob is as easygoing as he seems. Bob says, you'd have to ask the people he worked with to get a solid understanding of who he is, versus how he self-reports. He says he is known for being cool, calm, and collected. When he needs to step it up, he can do it rapidly. [10:35] Bob found that projecting a calm personality helped him build trust. From years in the military, Bob learned that you succeed by making your peers successful. The more you help your peers, the more likely it is that you will earn a promotion or the assignment that you want. [11:37] Bob was in the Corps of Engineers for 33 years. He's a Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Virginia. He led the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Great Lakes and Ohio River Division. The civilian side of the Corps of Engineers deals with infrastructure. [12:13] Bob speaks of dam safety. The Corps of Engineers is responsible for the dams in Federal Navigation channels. They work through the inherent risks of the dams, making sure they have the right controls in place and testing to ensure that the controls are there. [12:42] There are so many other dams in the U.S. Some of them are private. While Bob was at the Great Lakes and Ohio River Division, two private dams failed in Michigan, the Edenville Dam and the Sanford Dam. The Corps went up there to assist and help determine the root cause. [13:07] It was a lesson in making sure you are doing all the right things from a risk perspective. Controls weren't in place. Some issues had been identified but not mitigated. The State of Michigan stepped in and worked with the private company to mitigate the issues. [13:35] The dams had failed, and there was a lot of flooding in that area. It was unexpected as it had not happened before. It was in May 2020, a month after COVID-19 started hitting. [13:53] When things happen, you have to look forward. The Corps of Engineers is key. If the Ohio River drops too low for barge traffic to go through, eventually, Nashville starts to have a lot of trouble with power. It's very important to keep the Corps of Engineers running. [14:15] During COVID-19, the Secretary of Defense stated, “I want everybody in the Defense Department to stop moving. Stay where you are.” Bob was the Acting Deputy of the Corps of Engineers then. He immediately communicated to the 37K in the Corps, Don't stop moving. [14:32] If the Army Corps of Engineers had stopped, it would have been a huge issue. There were repair shifts at work, making sure things were running. In Michigan, when those two dams failed, the Corps put their masks on and moved out to help solve issues. [15:03] The risk framework the Corps of Engineers uses for dam safety is similar to what Bob has seen in industry and similar to what the Army does, even at a small unit level. The Army has a risk document that they use for training or going into combat. [15:26] The Army's risk document covers inherent risk, the probability of an issue, mitigation and controls, residual risk, and what the impact would be. The controls are the most important thing. They help ensure a low probability of a huge issue. The risk document is simple, and it works. [16:17] On the topic of the tragic recent Texas floods, how should leaders be thinking about flood risk mitigation? Bob knows that everyone involved in the situation is doing the absolute best that they can. If you want to be prepared for any disaster, it starts with simple planning. [17:24] You have to look at what the disaster may be, what the probability of it may be, and if it does occur, the key things that will need to happen on the ground in response, the people who will need to be involved, the resources they will need, and the timing of those activities. [17:46] It's like deliberate project management. You have to make assumptions in the beginning about what will happen. The next thing is getting funding for the resources, the people, and the tasks that have to occur. [18:01] There's a lot of deliberate planning and, for any domestic emergency in the U.S., the planning has to be done at the Federal level, the State level, the local level, and with non-governmental organizations that will be involved.  [18:15] The first step is building relationships ahead of time. Step two is to have rehearsals. The rehearsals can be with a map and some key leaders on site. Rehearsals help to validate the planning you've done. [18:51] In a disaster, one of the first steps is to allocate resources. There were decisions about resources when COVID-19 hit all over the U.S. They couldn't just send money to one area. The Federal government, states, local governments, and NGOs decided how to allocate resources. [19:23] Bob points out that you can decide with no information or with 100% of the information. In an emergency, you don't have time to get 100% of the information out there, so you need to determine if you have enough information to make this decision and if you need to act now. [19:46] It's about risk. Do you take a chance? Risk is all about the probability of success. It's achieving an objective. [20:04] After the disaster is over, a lot of people evaluate those decisions and take two years to study whether the right decision was made. You've got to be in the shoes of the person making the decision, with the same timing, to understand how they did it and why. [20:24] You do want to review the decisions, to learn from them, but you have to know that these leaders are making decisions based on the time available and the necessity of moving things forward. [20:36] Plugs with Roma Rishi, Sr. Sales Executive, Origami Risk! Origami Risk is excited to be a sponsor at the RIMS Texas Regional Conference. Origami Risk will have a booth there to demonstrate their products. They will also speak at one of the sessions. [21:17] They will be talking with Roy Hock, the Director of Excess Insurance at Valero Energy, about leveraging technology to manage your captive. See Origami at its table, at its session, or both! [21:30] Origami Risk will be at the RIMS Texas Regional Conference from August 4th through August 6th. Origami Risk will also be at the tenth Chicagoland Risk Forum, on September 18th at the Old Post Office in Chicago. [21:44] Origami Risk will have a booth there, and Roma's colleague, Gina Rothweiler, is going to be speaking. Come find Origami Risk at the Chicagoland Risk Forum! [21:54] Registration is complimentary for members of risk management departments in the nearby area. A link to the registration page is in this episode's show notes. You can visit ChicagoRIMS.org as well. [22:15] On October 1st through the 3rd, Origami Risk will be in the Bay Area, California, for the RIMS Western Regional Conference. They will have a booth and will speak at a session with the Risk Manager of Sprouts about leveraging data and technology for proactive risk management. [22:44] Origami Risk will be at RIMS ERM, on November 17th and 18th in Seattle, Washington. That agenda is being built. Origami Risk will have a kiosk and hope to speak, too. [22:59] Origami Risk will have a presence at the 2025 Florida RIMS Educational Conference from July 29th through August 2nd. Connect with Roma's colleague Alex and Origami Risk there. [23:19] Roma, it's always great to see you and the Origami Risk team. Connect with Roma and Origami Risk online at LinkedIn and OrigamiRisk.com, in the Contact Us area on the website. [23:34] Let's Return to the Conclusion of My Interview with RIMS Texas Keynote Speaker Major General (Ret.) Robert F. Whittle Jr.! [23:44] What's the vibe at a Bob Whittle keynote? Bob focuses on the lessons he's learned over his career. A lot of the lessons are from mistakes that he has made, or vicariously from mistakes others have made. [24:00] Bob's goal is to make it humorous with some anecdotes; people remember anecdotes. He plans for an enjoyable session. Bob feels that when you're speaking to an audience, it's a hostage crisis. You owe it to them to entertain them a bit while providing valuable information. [24:34] Bob says it's not a hostage crisis if people are glad they went. [24:44] At the end of his keynote, Bob takes questions from the audience. He says it's the most enjoyable part because it's a free flow of information. [25:01] Bob has led troops in combat and peacekeeping missions across multiple continents. Bob says he learned a lot about cultural risk and adaptability in leadership. He says the Armed Forces learned a lot during that process, and the U.S. government did, as well. [25:22] After major combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and moving into a stability effort, Bob says they learned about human terrain, the culture of the people. The culture can vary from place to place and village to village. [25:58] An American isn't ever going to understand the cultures as well as the interpreters (many of whom had emigrated to the U.S. and had come back to interpret) and the NGOs in place. Have them help you learn the culture. [26:34] Bob talks about how these experiences shaped his strategies. He became more of an active listener to gain situational awareness. To develop a relationship with an Afghan officer, you visit him at least three times and have tea with them. [27:11] Bob speaks of vision. Afghanistan, for thousands of years, had not been a democracy. Are you going to make it a democracy in a year or even in one generation? You have to know the human terrain. What is the best governance for the people to make the country not a threat? [27:55] Within the culture, how do you make that as benign as possible and effective, the way that they like to do it? [28:17] Bob talks about decision-making under pressure. It is harder in some ways and easier in others than your regular decisions. You're not going to get to 100% of the information under pressure. [28:33] You have to accelerate the decision-making. The more you know about your environment and the probability of different things happening, the more comfortable you can be with that.  [28:50] A leader has to stay as cool, calm, and collected as possible in that environment. Everyone who works for you or with you, whom you want to influence, is looking to you for how they should feel. How bad is it? If you can keep that posture, they're going to perform better. [29:18] It's easier to do that when you're a leader because you know people are counting on you. If you focus on that, the cool calmness just comes. [29:31] Bob was Commandant of the U.S. Army Engineers School. Bob talks about preparing the next U.S. Army Engineers. The key is training. If you know your job well and you've trained as much as possible, then you'll be more apt to take the right actions and be cool and calm. [30:05] The Army does a great job of investing in training for its people. An Engineer Officer goes to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, for seven months right after they're commissioned. They come back, four years later, for a year. [30:19] They'll come back again as they get different promotions and constantly sharpen their edge. They are trained in every task that they're going to do, domestically in the U.S., or combat. [30:37] The training is repeated so the officers will gain good instincts and be able to take action without having to think long and hard about it; at the same time, being able to realize that every situation is different; How do they need to make this decision? [30:53] The U.S. Army Engineers School specifically teaches risk management. When the Army goes into a new nation for combat operations, they have to assess the bridges there. The bridges won't be in a U.S. database. A lot of the bridges are small. There may be many streams. [31:15] Bridges over streams may be small, and the Army has huge tanks. The Army has float bridges that they assemble in streams. The speed of the river and the types of banks affect how much material those bridges can handle. [31:51] They need engineers to go out there and evaluate the load classification for each bridge. When the Army went into Bosnia, they crossed the Sava River, which was in flood stage at the time. That takes a much longer bridge. It took a lot of ingenuity and more resources to cross. [32:34] When it comes to risk management, it's important to look at all the different controls. For bridges, one control is that one vehicle crosses at a time. You don't need three tanks on the bridge. Engineers need to decide if a float bridge can handle two tanks or limit it to one. [32:55] They could limit it to day crossing only, with people guiding the tank. There are all kinds of things to make sure they get right. [33:04] Justin looks forward to hearing more about Bob's experience on August 6th at 11:00 a.m. at the RIMS Texas Regional Conference 2025 in San Antonio. [33:17] Bob is a graduate with a Master's Degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin, so a little Texas accent comes through. He loves Texas, and he got there as soon as he could. [34:23] Special thanks again to Retired Major General Bob Whittle for joining us here on RIMScast. Visit RIMS.org/TexasRegional to see the full agenda and register. I've got a link to the opening keynote's RIMScast episode. Huw Edwards joined us recently to discuss his address. [34:41] Huw will present “Your Insurance Policy for Success: Eight Mental Toughness Lessons I've Learned from Running 100 Miles through the Mountains.” Be sure to check that out. We look forward to seeing you August 4th through the 6th in San Antonio, Texas! [35:01] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [35:28] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [35:46] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [36:04] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [36:21] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [36:35] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [36:42] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: 20th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards! Vote for RIMScast (Gov't & Organizations) To vote for RIMScast, please sign up with your email, then select RIMScast on the pulldown under Government and Organizations. Thank you! RIMS Risk Management Magazine 2025 Awards Edition RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Registration open. RIMS-CRMP In-Person Workshop in Texas Aug. 6 & 7 RIMS 2025 Florida Educational Conference | July 31‒Aug 2 | Registration open. RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration open! 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration! Register through Sept 30! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation 2025 Funding Their Future Gala — Sept. 18, 2025 in NYC! Spencer Education Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov 17‒18 in Seattle! [Save the Date!] RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Summer course sold out! | Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — Sept 2-3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — November 11‒12 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Risk Taxonomy for Effective Risk Management” | July 24 | Instructor: Joe Mayo “Emerging Risks” | Aug 5 | Instructor: Joe Mayo “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Aug. 12‒13 | Instructor: Chris Mandel “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Risk and Clarity with Huw Edwards, RIMS Texas Keynote” “James Lam on ERM, Strategy, and the Modern CRO” “ERM, Retail, and Risk with Jeff Strege” “Bigger Risks with the Texas State Office of Risk Management | Sponsored by Hillwood”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Major General (Retired) Robert F. Whittle, Jr., Senior Vice President and CEO, Chief of Staff at USAA   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Josh Poertner, the former chairman of the Bicycle Wheel Technical Committee, dropped a bombshell recently when he issued a powerful rebuttal of the case for hookless road rims – one of cycling's most controversial topics in recent years. Specifically, Poertner claims “Hookless rims are a scam”, with “zero performance advantages”, and that they are “a safety risk” with too little margin for error. In this episode of the BikeRadar podcast, Jack Luke sits down with Simon von Bromley – BikeRadar's most learned correspondent on this topic – to discuss Poertner's comments, and why this debate refuses to die. "Hookless rims are a scam," claims former chairman of Bicycle Wheel Technical Committee Hookless rims explained | How new standards have finally improved compatibility Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of The Insuring Cyber Podcast, take a look back on four interviews recorded on site at RIMS 2025 in Chicago! This episode features Michael Von … Read More » The post EP. 105: What Insurance Experts Said About Cyber at RIMS 2025 appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

On this episode of The Insuring Cyber Podcast, take a look back on four interviews recorded on site at RIMS 2025 in Chicago! This episode features Michael Von … Read More » The post EP. 105: What Insurance Experts Said About Cyber at RIMS 2025 appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

On this episode of The Insuring Cyber Podcast, take a look back on four interviews recorded on site at RIMS 2025 in Chicago! This episode features Michael Von … Read More » The post EP. 105: What Insurance Experts Said About Cyber at RIMS 2025 appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews Neil Colclough, RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter President and 2025 RIMS Volunteer of the Year Award Winner, about his career path, how his Royal Marines service time helped steer his risk management path, and why he moved to Colorado. Neil tells of his years of experience in risk management, his risk philosophy, his DE&I philosophy, and how he feels about volunteerism.   Listen to learn the benefits of making your risk management career more fulfilling through volunteering.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. RIMScast is a proud nominee of the 20th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards. We are nominated in the category of Government and Organizations, and we would appreciate your support. Help us win that award at PodcastAwards.com.  [:35] About this episode of RIMScast. Our guest today is the RIMS Volunteer of the Year Award winner, Neil Colclough. We will learn about his career and all the great work he has done for us at the RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter. [1:05] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next Virtual RIMS-CRMP exam prep, co-hosted by Parima, will be held on September 2nd and 3rd. [1:17] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be led by Joseph Mayo on July 17th and 18th. Register by July 16th. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:34] RIMS Virtual Workshops! We have a day-long course on July 24th, “Risk Taxonomy for Effective Risk Management.” On August 5th, we have a day-long course about “Emerging Risks.” [1:47] We've launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” This is a two-day course. The first two-day course will be held on August 12th and 13th and will be led by former RIMS President, Chris Mandel. [2:02] The course will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [2:11] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [2:22] If you tuned in to the recent episode featuring James Lam, you will know he is hosting a new six-module workshop for us, the “RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management”. [2:36] The inaugural summer course is completely sold out! We are filled to the virtual capacity! Don't worry, in the Fall, the bi-weekly course will begin on October 9th. Registration closes on October 2nd. A link is in this episode's notes. Check it out and register today! [2:55] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is being built. Soon, we will distribute a Call for Nominations for the ERM Award of Distinction. I'll update this episode's show notes when that link is ready. [3:19] Think about your organization's ERM program or one you know of, and how it has generated value. We will have more on that in the coming weeks. [3:27] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through May 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [3:41] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [3:54] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to register at RIMS.org/membership. [4:04] On with the show! Our guest today is Neil Colclough. He has been President of the RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter since 2023. In 2025, he was named the Volunteer of the Year. A link to his profile in the Awards Edition of RIMS Risk Management magazine is in the show notes. [4:24] Justin is stoked that Neil is joining us on RIMScast to discuss his well-deserved recognition and why he shares it with many other members of the RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter. [4:37]  We're also going to learn about his military career and how that shaped his risk career and his enthusiasm for volunteerism. [4:45] Interview! Neil Colclough, welcome to RIMScast! [5:00] Neil is incredibly proud of the RIMS 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award. [5:16] Neil continues as the President of the RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter until September. [5:39] Neil has been in Colorado for 27 years. He left behind family, friends, and a job he loved to move to the Colorado Rocky Mountains to take advantage of the lifestyle the area offers. He wanted to be a semi-ski bum. [6:25] Neil had to learn to ski in the military. He fell in love with the sport. He landed a job on Vail Mountain. He skied over 100 days a year for several years when he lived in Vail. [6:51] Neil is from Stoke-on-Trent, England. As a kid, he wanted to be a soldier. He joined the Royal Marines for six years and travelled the world. He saw communities outside of the resort areas. [8:10] Neil believes his risk management career grew out of his service. Public service is managing risk, considering what could go wrong at all times, and having a Plan B and C for those instances. It's also not being risk-averse. [8:33] His military service left him with the mindset that you can do anything, you just have to put the effort into doing it properly and give it your best shot. They all kept themselves incredibly fit. The risk of not being fit didn't just impact you; it impacted the guys you worked with. [9:17] Neil enjoyed the fitness routine in the military, going for morning runs with his closest friends. [9:34] If Neil hadn't moved to Colorado, he probably would have stayed home. He was focused on moving to the Rocky Mountains. He had been to the U.S. about 10 times before he moved. He moved in 1998. [11:11] Neil says he is of the generation who “fell into” the risk management industry, versus going to school for a risk management degree. He was dragged reluctantly into risk management. [11:28] Neil was asked four times to fill a new role in the corporate headquarters of Vail Resorts. He didn't want to leave Vail, but he liked the person hiring him, and the offer made sense, so he joined the corporate office and did not look back. RIMS membership came with that job. [11:58] At the time, Neil had no idea what RIMS was. He joined the Rocky Mountain Chapter in early 2008. He's been a member of the chapter since then. He attended programming and social events. He progressed in the chapter. [12:14] The operational experience he had gained in the military and from running the Security Team at Vail Mountain fed into the risk management function. It gives him a bit of a leg up when it comes to solving issues. His experience adds credibility with his internal clients today. [12:40] Neil's career has been a natural progression. He loves his job. He loves the people he does it for. It's like a hobby. He's genuinely interested in it. [13:00] Neil loves being in the RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter as a whole. He joined the board in 2018 with Incoming President Peggy Miller and Past President Emily Bloedel. The board was a great group of people. They have great, respectful discussions. There's no negativity. [13:49] As long as Neil has been a member of the chapter, that has always been the case. He says the board feels proud to be part of the chapter and to have a positive impact.  [14:09] Justin mentions that Emily Bloedel was a RIMS Rising Star recently. Peggy Miller is with Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. Justin met Peggy at the RIMS ERM Conference in Denver. Neil ran the DEI education session at ERM, and he did a great job. [14:52] Neil says Emily Buckley is also on the board. They have a great pipeline of leadership to look forward to, and the future is super bright. [14:58] Justin mentions there's a lot of talent in Colorado. Emily Buckley was a guest on RIMScast last year for Specialized Bicycles on bicycle safety. Justin says, if you're a risk professional looking for a place to move, start with Colorado and look up Neil!  [15:33] DE&I is a passion for Neil. He's super connected to it. Justin and Neil discuss whether it's helpful to speak the words Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion for people who may be less committed. [16:53] You might lean on Inclusion a little more to help people understand that this is about making sure that everybody has the same opportunities. [17:22] Neil is the RIMS Volunteer of the Year. The award used to be called the Heart of RIMS Award, but was rebranded to be more specific. [17:57] Neil thinks that all RIMS chapters should have the succession of vice presidents and presidents built into their bylaws as the Rocky Mountain Chapter does. A lot of presidents have sat on boards for many years, and they struggle to recruit people to become board members. [18:22] Volunteerism takes effort. If you're taking an hour out of your day to do a podcast to talk about yourself, then you've got to make up that time somewhere else. If you're doing chapter work during business hours, you have to have an employer who supports what you're doing. [18:54] You have to have family behind you, that gets it. You can't just disregard your daily job duties in favor of volunteerism. [19:09] Neil says, encourage chances to have an intentional succession plan for chapter leadership. Encourage people early in their careers to serve on boards, become leaders of the chapter, and shape the future. [19:40] If you've just graduated from an RMI program and joined the workforce, you may not think you're qualified to lead on a chapter board. Neil says, we want to hear from the future of the industry so we who are in it can prioritize what is going to be meaningful after we've gone. [20:03] Reach out to younger people, let them know what a safe space it is, and give them the opportunity to serve. [20:12] RIMS Events! The 49th Annual Florida RIMS Educational Conference will be held again at the Ritz-Carlton in Naples, Florida, from July 29th through August 2nd. Visit Florida.RIMS.org for more information and to register. [20:30] The very first RIMS Texas Regional Conference will be held from August 4th through the 6th in San Antonio, Texas, at the Henry B. González Convention Center. Public Registration is open. The full conference agenda is now live. [20:46] Don't miss the post-conference workshop, the RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Course, available on site. [20:52] This event is open to any RIMS Chapter member. If you are local to the area, you might consider becoming a RIMS member today so that you can get all the benefits and begin networking with your new RIMS Texas peers. Links are in this episode's show notes. [21:07] You can also visit the Events Page of RIMS.org for more information. We look forward to seeing you in Texas! [21:15] A month later, we will be up North for the RIMS Canada Conference 2025, from September 14th through the 17th in Calgary. Registration is open. Lock in those favorable rates; Visit RIMSCanadaConference.CA. We look forward to seeing you in Calgary! [21:34] On September 18th, the 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum will be held at the Old Post Office in Chicago. Register at ChicagoRIMS.org. [21:44] Also on September 18th, the Spencer Educational Foundation will host the 2025 Funding Their Future Gala at the Cipriani 42nd Street. Visit SpencerEd.org. [21:57] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today. [22:12] Let's Return to My Interview with the RIMS 2025 Volunteer of the Year, Neil Colclough! [22:23] Neil joined Sage Hospitality Group in January 2025. He had spoken with his new boss about his role at the RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter, and she was super supportive. [22:48] The whole company understands the importance of risk management. They see the value of having me remain involved with RIMS at the chapter and society level. It was an easy conversation to have. [23:18] Neil is over a total of seven people at Sage. He says this is rare except in well-established, large companies. This is Neil's first experience with anything that comes close to that. [23:56] Two of Neil's team have been with the company for over 30 years. Another has been with the company for 11 years. That speaks volumes to Neil about the company culture and the investment the company makes in risk management. It was a huge attraction to Neil. [24:18] Neil was previously with Inspirato, another hospitality group. It was high-end luxury travel where you would subscribe to a membership and get access to a portfolio of homes. One client was mad that they didn't inform them that it was hurricane season when they were traveling. [26:06] When Neil moved to Colorado, he went to a job fair for Vail Resorts in Denver. He was offered two jobs, one as a ski instructor and one with the Security Department, a seasonal job. [26:24] When Neil showed up for work on his first day of training for the Security Team, it was October 19, 1998, the day of the terrorist arson at the Two Elk Lodge, the largest act of eco-terrorism in North America at the time. [26:42] Neil's job went from being seasonal to year-round. The department grew. He was promoted a couple of times fairly quickly. He had never ridden a snowmobile, but they put him on it, and he rode 400 miles a week on a snowmobile. [27:12] With this experience, Neil understands the principles of emergency preparedness and response. He worked closely with the public sector in Vail and Eagle County. The local government and the ski resort have to work closely together to align in the same direction. [27:31] Neil says they did some good stuff over the years to mitigate potential risks. A wildland fire was a big concern. They did mass-casualty incident drills with Vail Ski Patrol and the town of Vail. [27:59] Neil lives east of Boulder. His office is in Denver. [28:34] Neil says the award is not just one person. It takes a village. It takes a lot of people who think like you and have the same heart to make good things happen. He's never volunteered at any event where he's walked away feeling down and thinking it was a waste of time. [29:00] A little can go a long way. If you're thinking about ways to volunteer in the risk and insurance industry, the local RIMS chapter is a great vehicle to do that. You can contact Neil, and he can introduce you to some people he has networked with around the country. [29:24] Volunteerism is so rewarding. It takes effort. You can't just go to meetings. You have to put pen to paper in between meetings to take action on what you say you're going to do. Neil battles constantly with the feeling that he's not fully delivering on what he should be. [29:45] You have to give yourself a little bit of grace when it comes to those times. People's capacity ebbs and flows. Surround yourself with people who can pick up the slack when you have to step into your day job a little bit more at certain times. [30:00] When you're juggling the balls, just don't drop the glass ones! Keep your responsibilities prioritized. [30:13] Neil talks of DE&I sponsorship, advocating for somebody who's not in the group. One way to do that is to ask if you can take a young professional along with you when you're invited somewhere as a risk professional. Request that someone be at a meeting who wasn't invited. [31:02] That can create opportunities and give that person experience. It's a simple act with a potentially massive impact. [31:15] Neil, it's been a real pleasure to speak with you again! I appreciate all your insight here. Congratulations again on being named the RIMS 2025 Volunteer of the Year. We've got a link for the RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter in the notes. Locals, if you want to join, give Neil a shout! [31:37] Neil says, I'll get back to you eventually! There are about 200 professional members in the chapter through the Society, plus Chapter Associates and Student Members. There is a free membership for RIMS Affinity Partners, all of whom have been represented on RIMScast. [33:06] Justin mentions again the RIMS Western Regional Conference; register at RIMSWesternRegional.com. [33:17] Special thanks again to RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter President and 2025 RIMS Volunteer of the Year Award Winner, Neil Colclough. We appreciate him making the time for us. A link to the special Awards Edition of RIMS Risk Management magazine is in the show notes. [33:35] Check out Neil's profile as well as the other 2025 RIMS Award Winners. A link to the RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter site is in this episode's show notes. Check out all the great work they are doing. [33:48] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [34:16] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [34:35] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [34:52] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [35:08] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [35:23] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [35:30] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: 20th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards! Vote for RIMScast (Gov't & Organizations)To vote for RIMScast, please sign up with your email, then select RIMScast on the pulldown under Government and Organizations. Thank you! RIMS Risk Management Magazine 2025 Awards Edition RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Registration open. RIMS-CRMP In-Person Workshop in Texas Aug. 6 & 7 RIMS 2025 Florida Educational Conference | July 31‒Aug 2 | Registration open. RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration open! 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration! Register through Sept 30! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation 2025 Funding Their Future Gala — Sept. 18, 2025 in NYC! Spencer Education Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov 17‒18 in Seattle! [Save the Date!] RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Summer course sold out! | Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter RSVP for the RISK PAC Reception in Philadelphia | July 16, 2025 | Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — July 17‒18 RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — Sept 2‒3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Risk Taxonomy for Effective Risk Management” | July 24 | Instructor: Joe Mayo “Emerging Risks” | Aug 5 | Instructor: Joe Mayo “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Aug. 12‒13 | Instructor: Chris Mandel “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Mid-Year Update: RIMS Legislative and Risk Management News” “RIMS 2025 Rising Star Megan Smalter: Giving Yourself Grace” “Live from RISKWORLD 2025” “RIMS 2025 Risk Manager of the Year, Jennifer Pack” “Julie Bean, 2024 Heart of RIMS Award Winner”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Neil Colclough, Vice President of Risk, Compliance, and Audit, SAGE HOSPITALITY GROUP RIMS Rocky Mountain Chapter President   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Risk management in the restaurant industry is no longer just about minimizing claims. For Kurt Leisure, VP of Risk Services at The Cheesecake Factory, it's about anticipating challenges, building strong industry partnerships, and knowing when to trust people over technology.In this episode, recorded live at RIMS 2025 in Chicago, host Marc Cunningham talks with Kurt about the lessons from 35 years in risk, the art of preventing litigation before it begins, and how Cheesecake Factory is blending AI with human insight to stay ahead.Join us as we discuss:How to work with carriers early to avoid courtroom surprisesWhy people skills still matter more than automation in complex claimsWhere AI fits in risk programs—and where it doesn'tWhat forward-thinking really looks like in enterprise risk management

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews Huw Edwards, an entrepreneur, investor, and international speaker. Huw will kick off the RIMS Texas Regional Conference 2025 with his keynote speech. Huw covers the varied topics of leveraging his quantitative training in risk roles, his cybersecurity experience in the companies he helped develop, and even his extensive ultramarathon experience. Huw explores what entering the “pain cave” as an ultramarathon runner has taught him about life and risk management.   Huw believes that being AI-first will be a key factor in whether risk professionals will be promoted. He shares a preview of his keynote and his advice to risk professionals. Listen to learn about the role of quantitative analysis in entrepreneurship and risk management, and how risk management is evolving with AI tools.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. Our guest today is Huw Edwards, who will kick off the RIMS Regional Texas Conference 2025, which will be from August 4th through the 6th in San Antonio. [:44] Huw is a three-time business owner and an executive coach. We'll get a glimpse of his keynote today. [:51] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next Virtual RIMS-CRMP exam prep, co-hosted by Parima, will be held on September 2nd and 3rd. [1:02] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be led by Joseph Mayo on July 17th and 18th. Register by July 16th. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:20] RIMS Virtual Workshops! We have a day-long course on July 24th, “Risk Taxonomy for Effective Risk Management.” On August 5th, we have a day-long course about “Emerging Risks.” [1:32] We've launched a new course, “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders.” This is a two-day course. The first two-day course will be held on August 12th and 13th and will be led by former RIMS President, Chris Mandel. [1:47] The course will be held again on November 4th and 5th and will be led by Elise Farnham. RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [1:56] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [2:07] If you tuned in to the recent episode featuring James Lam, you will know he is hosting a new six-module workshop for us, the “RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management”. [2:21] The inaugural summer course is completely sold out! We are filled to the virtual capacity! Don't worry, in the Fall, the bi-weekly course will begin on October 9th. Registration closes on October 2nd. A link is in this episode's notes. Check it out and register today! [2:40] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is being built. Soon, we will distribute a Call for Nominations for the ERM Award of Distinction. I'll update this episode's show notes when that link is ready. [3:04] Think about your organization's ERM program or one you know of, and how it has generated value. We will have more on that in the coming weeks. [3:12] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through May 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [3:26] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [3:39] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to register at RIMS.org/membership. [3:49] On with the show! Our guest today is a Harvard- and Oxford-educated entrepreneur, investor, and international speaker. [3:57] On Tuesday, August 5th, he'll kick off the Inaugural RIMS Texas Regional Conference with his keynote, “Your Insurance Policy for Success: Eight Mental Toughness Lessons I've Learned from Running 100 Miles Through the Mountains.” [4:10] His name is Huw Edwards. He is the founder of multiple ventures, including Jungle Disk and CyberFortress. We're going to get a preview of his keynote and learn about his risk philosophies and risk journey. [4:21] Interview! Huw Edwards, welcome to RIMScast! [4:36] Huw is excited to be on RIMScast and to be opening the RIMS Texas Regional Conference in August. Justin loves going to Texas and is looking forward to the conference. [5:01] Huw comes from Wales. His accent comes from living in about 16 parts of the U.S. [5:55] Growing up, Huw was good with numbers. After college, being a mathematician, he landed a job with Goldman Sachs in a derivatives group. He helped big corporations manage their financial risks. [6:54] Huw tells about buying his first business. When he sold it, he didn't have the attachment of having founded it. He took it on a journey and then sold it to a private equity firm that joined it with several other companies to create a much bigger platform. [7:52] Huw is a “reluctant entrepreneur.” He was not a teenage businessman. He was good at school and at doing work. The first business he bought was a profitable going concern with existing customers. It was a business unit in a big company, stuck in a corner. [8:39] Huw saw it had wonderful economics and just had to be invested in. It had sticky customers. It was very profitable. It needed some love, care, and attention. That was Huw's easy transition into entrepreneurship. He bought the business in 2016. [9:00] In 2017, customers started asking where they could buy Bitcoin. Customers were asking about Bitcoin because they were victims of a ransomware attack that demanded Bitcoins to unlock their computers. Huw's company had backups of its clients' data. [10:00] This circumstance pulled the company into the world of cyber insurance. It was a new field. Huw's company served small businesses and helped them protect their data. Managing their clients' data, they realized they could do the job better. [10:53] Huw says two things connect him to the RIMS Texas Regional Conference. The Insurance Company, USAA, is in San Antonio. Another insurance company, Argo, was there for a time. In 2018, RISKWORLD was held in San Antonio. [11:30] In 2018, Huw and partners incubated an MGA within a large company. They showed up at RISKWORLD to do customer testing and exploration. Coming back to a RIMS conference as a keynote speaker is a full-circle journey for Huw. [12:11] Huw's company was CyberFortress. It was spun out from Jungle Disk, a larger company. Huw raised a bunch of VC money and swung for the fences, but didn't find a product market fit there. They had built a solution, looking for a problem. It was a character-building experience. [13:06] It gave Huw some great insight, working with the insurance company. They launched their insurance policy in Texas, backed by Markel. The challenge was that it wasn't well-positioned, and people didn't buy it. [13:29] Huw believes the greatest opportunity for risk managers in today's cybersecurity landscape is to understand that the big factor is human behavior. You can buy systems, but it comes down to the people running those systems. [13:52] The successful cyber insurance offerings and cybersecurity firms largely help, train, monitor, and guide behavior to avoid clients doing the dumb stuff. Don't click on dumb stuff. [14:14] Risk managers are now interested in AI. AI is just another very powerful tool that can give you a lot of leverage. You can't outsource responsibility to AI, but it can do a lot of things. You can leverage those things. [15:01] Companies are looking for employees who are AI-first. Your comfort with AI will be a deciding factor that separates the people who are promoted or kept on.  [16:12] Huw thinks risk managers get a bad rap. Huw worked for Bridgewater. When he took the job, he was given a lot of books on managing risk. He learned you're not trying to eliminate risk but trying to manage it. How do you take advantage of risk? How do you scale risk exposure? [16:59] How do you mitigate the catastrophic risk or existential risk that could kill, but be open to riding the waves of the lesser risks that could give great upsides? [17:18] Risk managers can be seen as Negative Nancy, saying no. But risk management can enable. [17:47] Huw will talk about his long-distance running. He is also a big Formula 1 fan. Formula 1 cars can go really fast. What makes the Formula 1 car go fast around the track is good brakes. Like brakes in a car, risk management can make something go faster, braking when needed. [18:55] Plugs with Roma Rishi, Sr. Sales Executive, Origami Risk! Origami Risk is excited to be a sponsor at the RIMS Texas Regional Conference. Origami Risk will have a booth there to demonstrate their products. They will also speak at one of the sessions. [19:35] They will be talking with Roy Hock, the Director of Excess Insurance at Valero Energy, about leveraging technology to manage your captive. See Origami at its table, at its session, or both! [19:48] Origami Risk will be at the RIMS Texas Regional Conference from August 4th through August 6th. Origami Risk will also be at the tenth Chicagoland Risk Forum, on September 18th at the Old Post Office in Chicago. [20:02] Origami Risk will have a booth there, and Roma's colleague, Gina Rothweiler, is going to be speaking. Come find Origami Risk at the Chicagoland Risk Forum! [20:10] Registration is complimentary for members of risk management departments in the nearby area. A link to the registration page is in this episode's show notes. You can visit ChicagoRIMS.org as well. [20:33] On October 1st through the 3rd, Origami Risk will be in the Bay Area, California, for the RIMS Western Regional Conference. They will have a booth and will speak at a session with the Risk Manager of Sprouts about leveraging data and technology for productive risk management. [21:02] Origami Risk will be at RIMS ERM, on November 17th and 18th in Seattle, Washington. That agenda is being built. Origami Risk will have a kiosk and hope to speak, too. [21:22] Origami Risk will have a presence at the 2025 Florida RIMS Educational Conference from July 29th through August 2nd. Connect with Roma's colleague Alex and Origami Risk there. [21:37] Roma, it's always great to see you and the Origami Risk team. [21:45] Connect with Roma and Origami Risk online at LinkedIn and OrigamiRisk.com, in the Contact Us area. [21:52] Let's Return to the Conclusion of My Interview with RIMS Texas Keynote Speaker Huw Edwards! [22:01] On Tuesday, August 5th, at 9:00 a.m., Huw Edwards will kick off the RIMS Texas Regional with his keynote address. He will talk about personal experiences, which include several ultramarathons.  [22:54] For Huw, it was the challenge and the uncertainty that drew him to ultramarathons. When you line up on the start line of a marathon, you might not know how well you'll do that day, but by and large, you know you'll finish. [23:40] Huw found himself drawn to these 100-mile races, in the mountains, going up and down, on trails, at altitude. It's an eating and hydration competition, and getting your electrolytes right. It's about managing the heat of the day and the cold of the night. [24:18] It's about your stomach going South, or rolling an ankle. You can have a belief on the start line that you will finish, but you don't know what's going to happen that day. It's a somewhat controlled, uncontrollable environment. It's less complex than risk management. [25:01] In risk management, you have hundreds of thousands or millions of human players and economic actors interacting. When you're running, you have yourself, knowing how hard you can push, but you don't know what the weather will bring. It's a microcosm of the game of life. [25:39] The lessons are huge. We somehow think we can control everything in life, or we try. In running this kind of distance, things just go wrong. You can't control everything, so how do you learn how to respond? That's what keeps Huw coming back to ultramarathons. [26:07] Justin sees the parallels with risk management; you're striving for greatness, but sometimes you have to settle for goodness. [26:27] You don't go all in from the start. You have to pace yourself. The races have a time cutoff. If you are too conservative, you won't get there. In risk management, if you try to mitigate all risk, you'll have to pay through the nose for insurance. It's a judgment call. [27:28] In ultramarathons, you navigate emotional highs and lows. No matter how you're feeling, good or bad, it won't last. When you're running great, enjoy it; it's not going to last. When you feel terrible, that will pass, too. [27:53] That's a glimpse of part of the keynote. Justin says it's great that Huw has risk experience and has been to RISKWORLD. [28:18] Huw has a theme, smiling on the outside, suffering on the inside. For a long time, he tried to put a brave face on things. It's OK to suffer at times, acknowledge it, and not paper over the cracks of your feelings. It's OK to be authentic. Huw will touch on that in the keynote. [28:54] Sometimes you learn a lot in those moments of suffering. Huw will talk about the pain cave. At some point in an ultramarathon, you enter the pain cave. This term was made famous by one of the greatest ultra runners, Courtney Dauwalter. [29:28] When Courtney Dauwalter talks about the pain cave, she says she used to try to push it off and delay the inevitable moment of going into the pain cave. But the whole point is to experience that edge. [29:48] So you welcome the pain cave. It was meant to hurt. What can we learn about it? [30:06] Huw will take questions at the end of his keynote. Everyone can go to the link in this episode's show notes for the registration page for the RIMS Texas Regional Conference. [30:18] Huw, it was such a pleasure to meet you! I can't wait to see you live on stage on August 5th. [30:29] Special thanks again to Huw Edwards for joining us here on RIMScast! He will be kicking off the RIMS Texas Regional Conference 2025. That's the Risk Management Roundup in San Antonio, Texas, from August 4th through August 6th. Huw will be there on August 5th. [30:48] Visit the Events page on RIMS.org and the link in this episode's show notes to register. [30:53] RIMS has negotiated a discounted rate at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk. The cutoff date for reservations is July 11th. So, register now and make those reservations! [31:06] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [31:34] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [31:52] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [32:10] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [32:26] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [32:40] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [32:48] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS Hurricane/Storm Risk Management Resource Center  RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Registration open. RIMS-CRMP In-Person Workshop in Texas Aug. 6 & 7 RIMS 2025 Florida Educational Conference | July 31‒Aug 2 | Registration open. RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration open! 10th Annual Chicagoland Risk Forum — Sept. 18 | Registration open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration! Register through Sept 30! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Education Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov 17‒18 in Seattle! [Save the Date!] RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Summer course sold out! | Next bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council OrigamiRisk.com Huw Edwards — Career Clarity Coaching RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — July 17‒18 RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — Sept 2‒3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Risk Taxonomy for Effective Risk Management” | July 24 | Instructor: Joe Mayo “Emerging Risks” | Aug 5 | Instructor: Joe Mayo “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Aug. 12‒13 | Instructor: Chris Mandel “Intro to ERM for Senior Leaders” | Nov. 4‒5 | Instructor: Elise Farnham See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “James Lam on ERM, Strategy, and the Modern CRO” “ERM, Retail, and Risk with Jeff Strege” “Stacking Habits with Olympic Gold Medalist Jon Montgomery” “Financial Risk Management with Chris Willey of American Eagle FCU” “Applying ERM Theory with Elise Farnham” “Bigger Risks with the Texas State Office of Risk Management” | Sponsored By Hillwood “Exploring Risk in Extreme Environments with Kevin Vallely”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guests: Huw Edwards, Entrepreneur, investor, and international speaker Roma Rishi, Sr. Sales Executive, Origami Risk   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Mandi shared her story with us several years ago (Episode 19). It was one of the first times she had publicly revealed her heartbreaking story of being trafficked from a very young age and how her life had continued to spiral out of control until she found Jesus.Courageous to step forward and speak out, God has opened one door after the other to give her a platform for her bravery and boldness to help others find help, hope and healing. This part of her story - what God has done through her in the last few years - is the stuff only God could do.It's Genesis 50:20 written on the pages and lived out in the life of Mandi Mendoza. To God be the glory!!Show Notes:Esperanza Events & ConsultingEmail: esperanzaevents.consulting@gmail.comWeb: https://www.esperanzaeventsconsulting.comSocial Media: https://www.facebook.com/share/1E376ntiC4/?mibextid=wwXIfrDelaware Anti Trafficking Action Council (Mandi is the Current Chair of the Council)Email: DATAC@delaware.govSocial Media: https://www.facebook.com/share/15gNUfr2ji/?mibextid=wwXIfrGreat resources through National Center on Sexual Exploitation https://endsexualexploitation.orgAlso great resources through Safe House Projecthttps://www.safehouseproject.orgDirect questions & comments to: podcast@wearethebridge.orgDenise Harper's new book, “Treasured Inside - Devotions With Denise,” is available at Amazon, Apple, Target, and more. For more information, email Denise at: denise@wearethebridge.orgDid you know you can now watch Over the Rims of Mugs?Visit https://www.wearethebridge.org/mugsvideoPlease share Over the Rims of Mugs with a friend if you enjoyed this episode. Over the Rims of Mugs is still growing, and your positive review and 5-star rating would help.The Bridge Podcast Network is made possible by generous support from The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel and Victoria's Restaurant on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware - Open 7 days a week, year-round - Learn more at https://boardwalkplaza.comFeedback, or Show Ideas? Send an email to podcast@wearethebridge.orgDownload The Bridge Mobile App to get the latest podcast episodes as soon as they are published!

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews RIMS General Counsel and VP of External Affairs Mark Prysock about the RIMS Legislative Summit in March 2025, how it went, and what to expect next. Mark mentions the registrant participation records they set and the connections they made as they lobbied.   As Mark exits, Morgan O'Rourke and Hilary Tuttle of RIMS Risk Management magazine enter the studio to talk with Justin about the mid-year in risk and four Q2 articles in RIMS Risk Management magazine on tariffs, the 2025 hurricane season, the USDA budget cuts and food safety, and minimizing risk while using AI for innovation. After lessons from the articles, Hilary invites listeners to submit risk management articles to RIMS Risk Management magazine. If you publish in the magazine, what opportunities will that open for you?    Listen to learn more about the highlights of the first two quarters of 2025 and what to prepare for the rest of the year.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. We've got three guests today. We'll get a RIMS legislative update from Mark Prysock, and we will look back at major risk management news from the first half of 2025 with Morgan O'Rourke and Hilary Tuttle of RIMS Risk Management magazine. [:48] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next Virtual RIMS-CRMP exam prep, co-hosted by Parima, will be held on September 2nd and 3rd. [:58] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be led by Joseph Mayo on July 17th and 18th. Register by July 16th. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:16] RIMS Virtual Workshops! We have a day-long course on July 24th, “Risk Taxonomy for Effective Risk Management.” On August 5th, we have a day-long course about “Emerging Risks.” RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [1:31] The full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [1:42] If you tuned in to the recent episode featuring James Lam, you will know that he is hosting a new six-module workshop for us, the “RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management”. [1:56] The inaugural summer course is completely sold out! We are filled to the virtual capacity! Don't worry, in the Fall, the bi-weekly course will begin on October 9th. Registration closes on October 2nd. A link is in this episode's notes. Check it out and register today! [2:15] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is being built. Soon, we will distribute a Call for Nominations for the ERM Award of Distinction. I'll update this episode's show notes when that link is ready. [2:38] Think about your organization's ERM program or one that you know of, and how it has generated value. We will have more on that in the coming weeks. [2:47] RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 3rd through May 6th. RIMS members can now lock in the 2025 rate for a full conference pass to RISKWORLD 2026 when registering by September 30th. [3:01] This also lets you enjoy earlier access to the RISKWORLD hotel block. Register by September 30th, and you will also be entered to win a $500 raffle. Don't miss out on this chance to plan and score some extra perks. [3:14] The members-only registration link is in this episode's show notes. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to register at RIMS.org/membership. [3:24] On with the show! Mark Prysock is the RIMS General Counsel and VP of External Affairs. It's always wonderful to have him on the show. [3:32] He is here to remind us of the RIMS legislative priorities, how they were addressed during the RIMS Legislative Summit in March, and what else we can expect in the way of public policies that RIMS would like to prevent and those we'd like to support. [3:46] There are lots of links in this episode's notes, as well, including ones to RISK PAC and an upcoming fundraiser. Let's get to it! [3:54] Interview! Mark Prysock, welcome back to RIMScast! [4:14] RIMS's top legislative or advocacy priorities for 2025 include opposing legislation on taxing non-profit associations. RIMS is working with other associations on this. The tax would have a significant impact on RIMS. [5:26] Another issue is the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act, which would allow individuals to use college savings 529 plans to pay for certifications like the RIMS-CRMP. It's a very popular issue in the association community. [5:55] Third-party litigation funding has become a very big issue, followed by nuclear verdicts. What can we do to stop that? That's an issue that's been growing in both the House and the Senate. RIMS is working within a broad coalition to address that issue. [6:14] RIMS believes, at a bare minimum, there needs to be disclosures when third-party litigation funding agreements are in place so that everyone understands who stands to benefit from a nuclear verdict. It's not the plaintiff. [6:37] The last issue is the National Flood Insurance Program. [7:01] Mark and his team spent Day 1 of the RIMS Legislative Summit in March prepping the registrants so they understood the ins and outs of the issues. They all received one-page leave-behind documents to take to the Congressional offices. [7:18] Panellists had talked to them about the issues. The registrants were prepped to be lobbyists on these issues. [7:30] On Day 2, the registrants went to the Hill and lobbied on behalf of RIMS. [7:39] There were over 60 registrants this year. That was a RIMS Legislative Summit record. They had around 100 Congressional meetings, also a RIMS Legislative Summit record. [8:15] Mark says holding the event at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce building is fantastic. It's a classic D.C. building that everyone knows. It's fairly close to Capitol Hill. You can get all the speakers you want to come and meet with your group there. It's perfect for the Summit. [8:49] A couple of years ago was the first time the Summit met at the Chamber building. Going back this year confirmed that it's going to be the new location for the Summit. Mark says it was an enriching experience for the attendees. [9:33] The Summit lobbyists focus on committees in both the House and Senate with jurisdiction over insurance. [9:47] The House Financial Services Committee has a Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. Most of the legislation the Summit is concerned about comes from the House. [10:04] That Subcommittee has a new Chair, Congressman Mike Flood from Nebraska. The Summit has made inroads with his office and with other offices, too. [10:28] The Summit's focus is on establishing relationships with newer Congressional offices that are in a position to impact RIMS's legislative priorities. [10:52] Mark says, typically when we meet with a Member of Congress, it might be that we're talking to them because they're well-situated to talk to us about NFIP. [11:02] On other issues, we don't know that they necessarily align with us, but we know that with what we're trying to accomplish with the NFIP, they are going to be a great ally. That's our foot in the door to discuss other legislative issues. [11:24] Marks says the Summit is looking to establish long-term relationships with Members of Congress and educate them on the importance of different issues. [11:58] The RIMS Public Policy Committee will continue hammering on these issues for the remainder of 2025 and into 2026. The tax issues are likely to be resolved in RIMS's favor in the Omnibus tax bill Congress is wrestling with now. [12:18] The One Big Beautiful Bill does not include language for imposing new taxes on non-profits, but it does include the language about liberalizing the use of College 529 plans, which RIMS supports. Mark thinks that it will be wrapped up soon. [12:39] NFIP has been reauthorized through September 30th, the end of the Federal Government's Fiscal Year. There is legislation out there to reauthorize it for a longer period. The RIMS Public Policy Committee is talking with Members of Congress about that. [12:57] Third-party litigation funding is an issue to keep working on for the next couple of years. [13:04] The RIMS Public Policy Committee will be working closely with the RISK PAC Trustees to figure out how they can help to raise more money for the PAC. They have some ideas for things to do at RISKWORLD 2026 in Philadelphia. [13:22] They have a fundraising event in Philadelphia in the middle of July. They'll be sending out Calendar invites to the RIMS membership. 2026 will be an election year, so they want to raise as much money as they can for RISK PAC and the right re-election campaigns. [14:02] At RIMS.org/advocacy, you can see that the RIMS Legislative Summit 2026 will be held from March 16th through 18th. Mark is more excited than ever for next year's Summit! It's an election year. They've got the details nailed down. They'll be at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. [14:53] They will have a hotel block nailed down soon. They'll start promoting this event far in advance. Mark your calendars, please! As you build your chapters next year, please include some money to send your Advocacy Ambassador to the Legislative Summit 2026 in March. [15:20] We've got the link in this episode's show notes and at RIMS.org/advocacy. You can reach out to Mark Prysock directly through his email address on the RIMS Advocacy page. Write to him if you have questions about what it takes to get there or how you can contribute. [15:43] As Morgan O'Rourke and Hilary Tuttle walk into the studio, Justin thanks Mark Prysock for being on the show. [16:04] Plugs! The very first RIMS Texas Regional Conference will be held from August 4th through the 6th in San Antonio at the Henry B. González Convention Center. Public Registration is open. [16:17] Hotel cut-off for the discounted rate is available through July 7th. The full Conference Agenda is now live, so you can start planning your experience. Don't miss the post-conference workshop, the RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Course, available onsite. [16:33] This event is open to any RIMS Chapter member. If you are local to the area, you might consider becoming a RIMS member today, so that you can get all the benefits and begin networking with your new RIMS Texas peers. Links are in this episode's show notes. [16:48] You can also visit the Events Page of RIMS.org for more information. We look forward to seeing you in Texas! [16:56] Just a month later, we will be up North for the RIMS Canada Conference 2025, from September 14th through 17th in Calgary. Registration is open. Visit RIMSCanadaConference.CA and lock in those favorable rates. We look forward to seeing you in Calgary! [17:15] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today. [17:31] Let's Get on with the Show! It is July 1st. We have reached the midpoint of 2025. On RIMScast, we like to take stock of the year in risk, so far. Morgan O'Rourke and Hilary Tuttle are going to break it all down for us. [17:54] Morgan O'Rourke is the RIMS Senior Director of Content and Publications. Hilary Tuttle is the Managing Editor of RIMS Risk Management magazine. That's our flagship, at RMmagazine.com. [18:07] We will look back on the Q2 digital issue of RIMS Risk Management magazine and discuss some of the news and trends that have been driving the risk profession. We'll talk about tariffs, AI, and more. Let's get to it! [18:23] Interview! Morgan O'Rourke and Hilary Tuttle, welcome back to RIMScast! [18:50] We are here to talk about the mid-point of 2025 in risk and what it has meant for the profession and the reporting on the profession. The Q2 digital issue of RIMS Risk Management magazine is now available. The link is on this page. [19:26] A big story from this quarter was tariff volatility. In April, Neil Hodge wrote a great article “How to Navigate the Volatile Tariff Landscape.” Many companies underestimate their exposure to tariffs through lower-tier suppliers. [20:06] Hilary says the number one tip is to map your exposure to tariffs via suppliers. Also, think about finished goods as well as what hypothetical future scenarios would mean. We've seen that tariffs are consistently volatile. Map different scenarios to see how they will play out. [20:43] In the article, Neil also mentions alternatives such as near-shoring, alternative suppliers, and technicalities about working within the system. Morgan mentions contract management. Another tip was tariff engineering by modifying your product design or where it's assembled. [21:35] Morgan shares an example. Converse All Stars have a layer of felt on the bottom, which classifies them as slippers, which have a lower tariff. They tweaked the product so it could be classified differently. Morgan just bought a new pair and saw the felt he had never noticed. [23:24] Morgan says certain auto imports may leave out features that would classify them as commercial vehicles, so they don't have a commercial vehicle duty. [24:08] Equipment that was bought before steel tariffs will be more expensive to repair after steel tariffs, and insurance that was in place before the tariffs may not cover the drastically more expensive repairs. This will affect heavy machinery. Revisit your insurance coverage. [25:06] Considering what major assets may be changing with tariff changes would be a helpful next step for people. Morgan refers to finding alternate suppliers or diversifying. If you're starting a new relationship with a supplier, tariffs need to be part of the contract conversation. [25:42] If tariffs are a risk you have not been accounting for in your supplier agreements, you may want to build more flexibility into future agreements.  [26:03] Justin mentions the 2025 hurricane season and accurate weather reporting. That relates to supply chain. Hilary includes replacement values, as materials cost more.  [26:33] Hilary wrote an article, “The 2025 Hurricane Season Outlook.” Hilary says it's interesting to tell similar stories every year in different ways. She looked at the outlook for this season and compared it to the results from last year. [27:35] She looked for the key trends that drove the results last year and that will impact this year. It's an outlook and also a strategic input. How does your organization need to adapt to this outlook? It's about seeing the overarching trends and figuring out how to act on them. [28:20] Hurricane Beryl came in the summer of 2024. It was one of the earliest major hurricanes to form. It reached Category 5 in 42 hours. What strategies should organizations take to address fast-developing storms? [28:43] Rapid intensification is a major trend with hurricanes. This is fueled by above-average ocean temperatures and other impacts of climate change. Storms are getting worse faster. The energy at the surface level contributes to faster-building hurricanes. Then there are trade winds. [29:09] It is a very big challenge for governments and private industry because you need to prepare much faster. You might only have a day of notice between a tropical storm and a Category 3 hurricane. [29:29] Preparedness is a state of being, not something you deal with if and when a storm arises. It needs to be a constant state of readiness. This year there have been significant budget cuts to NOAA and FEMA. This affects weather forecasting and the number of emergency staff. [30:22] Organizations need to understand that they need an increased amount of self-reliance. You cannot count on the cavalry coming. Preparedness means more than ever this year. [30:38] Morgan says it's less about coordinating with Federal agencies and more about making sure you have your ducks in a row. You may not have access to outside resources. You might be able to coordinate with other companies and organizations. Cooperation helps. [31:43] Hilary says, after last year, we saw with Hurricane Helene that some of these disasters are increasing and hitting in unpredictable areas that don't have the preparedness or the infrastructure because there is not a legacy sense of being at risk for hurricanes. [32:05] Preparedness is different in different regions. Taking an assessment, thinking about some of those scenarios is a strategic risk management issue that may need to shift in new ways. In some of those areas, you might not have local disaster resources because it has not been a risk. [32:38] Prepare by taking a realistic assessment of emergency resources on the ground, what has the historical risk been, and how that is shifting? [32:51] A Small Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [33:10] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centred experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process is now open through July 30th, 2025. [33:30] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. The link is in this interview's show notes. Be sure to visit the programs page of SpencerEd.org. [33:40] The Spencer 2025 Funding their Future Gala will be held Thursday, September 18th at the Cipriani 42nd Street in Manhattan, New York. This year's honoree is Tim Ryan, the U.S. President of Lockton, and we hope to have him here on RIMScast this summer. A link is in the show notes. [34:03] Let's Return to the Conclusion of My Interview with Morgan O'Rourke and Hilary Tuttle of RIMS Risk Management magazine! [34:55] Jennifer Post, one of the editors, wrote an article, “USDA Budget Cuts Present Food Safety Risks.” Budget cuts may increase the likelihood of an outbreak of foodborne diseases and compromise the USDA's ability to respond and notify consumers of an outbreak. [36:28] Hilary notes recent outbreaks with cucumbers and tomatoes, which have been deadlier than one might expect. The cucumber recall was for cucumbers that had been sold six weeks before. Hilary has never had a cucumber for more than two weeks. [37:11] Shifting responsibility to under-resourced states creates uneven safety standards. Private companies will have to incur some of the costs of testing and monitoring their food. Who is responsible for coordinating food safety between states or countries is a question mark.  [37:50] This is not a great solution. It's an area of uncertainty for now. It is likely to increase costs for individual companies. It also increases the risk exposure for companies that are distributing food that makes people sick, but they don't know it. [38:09] The number of people getting sick and the amount of money a company will lose balloon as a function of time and notice. There are a lot of components to this issue. [38:30] Hilary says we are also seeing some concern around whether some of the shifting standards are going to create different levels of safety in different types of products or from different regions. This shifts a lot of the burden onto the consumer and private companies. [38:42] Morgan adds that beyond the cuts to NOAA, FEMA, and the USDA, there are cuts to cybersecurity infrastructure with CISA. These cuts remove a level of oversight that people have come to rely on. The cuts push responsibility for risks further onto states and private industry. [39:26] Morgan says they were worried about the appetite for change in the government from the Trump administration. The administration is making changes. Some of the fallout is that it has changed the risk landscape regarding storm damage, food safety, cybersecurity, and more. [39:46] You may have to reassess your risks in the light of these cuts to Federal agencies. Hilary points out that the cuts are not fluff when you realize the functions these agencies have. [40:21] Hilary quotes a food safety professor from the article. “Oversight is not a bureaucratic formality; it's the invisible line between routine production and preventable tragedy.” Hilary thinks that quote applies across a number of the cuts that have been made. [40:39] The magazine has an article on AI called “Balancing Innovation and Compliance When Implementing AI.” Morgan reports that AI is all over the place now. The conversation has to involve implementation issues and liability risks. AI hallucinations and data security are issues. [42:03] You need to have a level of human intervention and involvement to be looking for things that you might have taken for granted are true, but that are problematic or make you liable for something. [42:17] Hilary says another big issue is that the technology is drastically outpacing regulation, safety measures, and best practices. You need to be asking, “What do we have a defensible business reason to do, and what are we putting in place to safeguard those?” [42:44] Some of the AI applications around hiring incur very real consequences in terms of human impact and regulatory impact. You may be dealing with serious employment fines or other things of that nature that regulators will catch up on. [43:06] AI systems are designed to please you. They are not designed to do the right thing or to make intelligent choices. They guide a user, and the user needs to guide them. Hilary compares using AI to riding an elephant. The elephant can go where it wants to go; you need to control it. [43:55] Hilary says that a lot of these AI engines perpetuate bias that the people who developed them may or may not have or may not realize that they have. A large company for a while only hired white men because those were the people who had been successfully hired in the past. [44:20] The content online that trains these models is the content that is published online. It requires a certain amount of privilege, experience, education, and life perspective. It doesn't draw on the body of human experience and knowledge for representative bodies. [44:49] You have to bring a certain diversity of experience, and also check those inputs with either people or other sources. Morgan talks about the feeling you might get that something like an email was written by an AI. The homogeneity starts to erode the quality of things. [45:27] Morgan has read that one of ChatGPT's quirks is that a lot of responses will have a “not this but that” structure. For instance, “It's not just soup, it's a meal!” Once you see it, you start to see it everywhere. Hilary says a giveaway is the use of inserted emojis. [46:32] Morgan and Hilary have been editing for quite a while. Morgan can identify who wrote a piece of writing by its style. If you get an email from someone with turns of phrase they would never use, you know it's AI. Losing track of what's going on is not to your advantage. [47:26] Having AI write an email is an example of something that just because you can do it, doesn't mean you should do it. Should you be working in an environment in which you don't know how to interact functionally with your coworkers, the length of an email? [48:13] Engineering prompts are one of the biggest skills people need to learn in working with AI. Prompt engineering is the most important component that Hilary had to struggle to learn in an AI course she took. It makes the biggest difference to AI being usable. Take a prompt class. [49:05] Justin shares an experience he had using AI to make an email response he had written much shorter and less defensive. It wasn't perfect, but it helped him to revise his message. [49:47] Hilary said that Justin gave a great example of prompt engineering. You want to tell it who the recipient is, who you are, and what your specific concern is to address. You can also ask it to explain the changes that it makes, so you learn how to write better emails next time. [50:43] Hilary urges caution on choosing the platform. ChatGPT is decent for writing because you can prime it. You can't prime Copilot, and she says a lot of the results are garbage.  [51:46] The Q2 edition of RIMS Risk Management magazine is online. All the articles are on the site as links and as part of the digital edition. [51:56] A reminder to the audience: RIMS Risk Management magazine is always seeking contributors and contributions, primarily from the risk profession. The topics that are important to you are the topics that are important to your colleagues. Get your voices out there! [52:37] A good submission answers two questions: Why this? And why now? Why should other people care about this issue? New regulations? New fines? A recent court case? Is there a nuance you are highlighting? Another question is, so what? What do you do about it? [53:28] Justin offers, How will the audience be able to do their job better based on the information you're telling them? Morgan comments that the idea is risk management. You want to get to the management part of it so your organization can do something about it. [53:58] Go to RMMagazine.com and see the Contribute button at the top. That's where you'll find the editorial submission guidelines and the contact information for Morgan, Hilary, and Jennifer. They are open to your ideas, so by all means, reach out. You never know what it could lead to! [54:58] Hilary says they also welcome feedback on their existing coverage and the challenges you are seeing in the field. [55:27] Hilary and Morgan are going to rejoin us at the end of the year. We always close the year with an episode when they look back on the year and forward to the next. [56:01] Special thanks to my RIMS colleagues Mark Prysock, Morgan O'Rourke, and Hilary Tuttle for joining us here on RIMScast! Visit RIMS.org/advocacy to connect with Mark, and RMMagazine.com to connect with Morgan and Hilary, and get the latest risk news and insight. [56:23] Links are in this episode's show notes, including a link to the Contribute page on RMMagazine.com. [56:29] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [56:57] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [57:15] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [57:33] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [57:49] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [68:04] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [58:11] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Registration now open. RIMS-CRMP In-Person Workshop in Texas Aug. 6 & 7 RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration now open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration now open! RISKWORLD 2026 — Members-only early registration! Register through Sept 30! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy | RIMS Legislative Summit SAVE THE DATE — March 18‒19, 2026 RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute “How to Navigate Tariff Volatility” (April 3, 2025) “2025 Hurricane Season Outlook” (June 9, 2025) “USDA Budget Cuts Present Food Safety Risks” (May 21, 2025) “Balancing Innovation and Compliance When Implementing AI” (April 30, 2025) RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Education Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov 17‒18 in Seattle! [Save the Date!] “RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management” — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Summer course sold out! | Fall bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — July 17‒18 RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — Sept 2‒3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Risk Taxonomy for Effective Risk Management” | July 24 | Instructor: Joe Mayo “Emerging Risks” | Aug 5 | Instructor: Joe Mayo See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “James Lam on ERM, Strategy, and the Modern CRO” “RIMS Legislative Priorities in 2025 with Mark Prysock” “Q1 2025 Risks with Morgan O'Rourke”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guests: Mark Prysock, General Counsel at Risk and Insurance Management Society, Inc. (RIMS) Morgan O'Rourke, Director of Publications at RIMS Hilary Tuttle, Managing Editor of Risk Management Magazine   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews Kyle Leng, Senior Compliance Officer at Airtower Networks, about the risks associated with buildings that lack strong wireless connectivity. These issues involve cellular, Wi-Fi, and public safety distributed antenna systems for first responders. Justin and Kyle discuss physical risks, but mainly the communication risks of not being able to call 911 or firefighters or police officers unable to radio out of the building. The discussion turns to IoT, and Kyle shares some of his experiences in bringing apartment buildings up to date with Wi-Fi and IoT, including scheduled technology security updates. Kyle speaks of the need to update stone buildings that block signals internally and deal with high-rises that block you from connecting to your cell tower.   Listen to learn more about updating wireless communication in your properties.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. Our topic is emergency preparedness and wireless availability and capability, with Kyle Leng of Airtower. We've got some critical insights for anyone experiencing hurricane season. [:45] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! Register by July 1st for the next RIMS-CRMP Virtual Workshop, which will be co-led by Parima. That course will be held on July 8th and 9th. [1:02] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be led by Joseph Mayo on July 17th and 18th. Register by July 16th. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:20] RIMS Virtual Workshops! We have a day-long course on July 24th, “Risk Taxonomy for Effective Risk Management.” On August 5th, we have a day-long course about “Emerging Risks.” RIMS members enjoy deep discounts! [1:35] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [1:46] If you tuned in to the recent episode featuring James Lam, you will know that he is hosting a new six-module workshop for us, the “RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management”. [1:59] The inaugural summer course is completely sold out! We are virtually filled to capacity! Don't worry, in the Fall, the bi-weekly course will begin on October 9th. Registration closes on October 2nd. A link is in this episode's notes. Check it out and register today! [2:19] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is being built. Soon, we will distribute a Call for Nominations for the ERM Award of Distinction. I'll update this episode's show notes when that link is ready. [2:42] Think about your organization's ERM program or one that you know of, and how it has generated value. We will have more on that in the coming weeks. [2:50] On with the show! Our guest today is Kyle Leng, the Senior Compliance Officer at Airtower Networks. Airtower is a wireless infrastructure provider. [3:00] Kyle is here to discuss how risk managers can play a pivotal role in building and upgrading wireless connectivity for their buildings and organizations. [3:10] We're also going to talk about some of the legislation in the U.S. that could have a national impact on wireless capability and emergency preparedness. Let's get to it! [3:20] Interview! Kyle Leng, welcome to RIMScast! [3:32] Kyle is the Senior Compliance Officer at Airtower Networks. His primary focus is working with local governing bodies to install either public safety radio systems for first responders, cellular systems, or Wi-Fi enhancement systems. [3:50] Kyle makes sure Airtower Networks is evergreen on the local requirements and expectations, and the latest security protocols for those systems. [4:00] Kyle has been at Airtower coming up on a decade, and in the public safety sector for eight years. He is in high demand at Airtower, internally and externally. [4:17] The Airtower HQ is in D.C. There are also satellite offices. Kyle lives in Maryland. [4:40] If your building lacks wireless connectivity, firefighters can't communicate on your property. This is code-mandated, so your occupancy for your property is in jeopardy, along with the lives of your tenants. [5:00] There is a risk associated with a lack of cell phone coverage. No one should be in an emergency and not be able to dial 911. It's terrifying. It's also a huge liability exposure. [5:15] Another vulnerability for first responder radio systems is that codes, requirements, and technology are constantly in flux. This is also true of cellular enhancement systems.  [5:31] The technology is updating and the requirements are changing, including Florida's SB 1190 and HB 1571, with retroactive enforcement for existing buildings. [5:52] Radio dead zones in apartment buildings are a major risk for first responders. Kyle uses an example of sister apartment buildings, with a fire spreading from one to the other, and the second building having no communication. [6:30] All these things are updating, evolving, and iterating. You might be looking at last year's requirements and be off base. [6:42] You may miss something valuable learned in the field through trial and error, that installing these systems or having certain security protocols makes a world of difference regarding the safety of the tenants and the first responders. [7:01] Kyle expects most of the U.S. will adopt legislation similar to Florida. Most of the country is watching Florida to see what works and what doesn't, planning to implement their own. [7:10] Retroactive enforcement, where older buildings are not grandfathered in, already exists in pockets around the country.  [8:07] Existing building mandates have been in the International Fire Code and the NFPA codes, which govern first responder radio systems, for a decade. [8:39] Florida is the first U.S. local authority to publish bills around these codes, including a timeline with retroactivity. They are moving to make buildings safer. [8:52] Kyle explains why Airtower Networks is excited by Florida's move. Communities become safer, and local heroes are safer while they're rescuing people. It's a tough undertaking. It takes a lot of resources and knowledge. There will be hiccups, and people will learn as they go. [9:25] Plug Time! The very first RIMS Texas Regional Conference will be held from August 4th through the 6th in San Antonio at the Henry B. González Convention Center. Public Registration is open. [9:39] Hotel cut-off for the discounted rate is available through July 7th. The full Conference Agenda is now live, so you can start planning your experience. Don't miss the post-conference workshop, the RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Course, available onsite. [9:55] This event is open to any RIMS Chapter member. If you are local to the area, you might consider becoming a RIMS member today, so that you can get all the benefits and begin networking with your new RIMS Texas peers. Links are in this episode's show notes. [10:10] You can also visit the Events Page of RIMS.org for more information. We look forward to seeing you in Texas! [10:18] Just a month later, we will be up North for the RIMS Canada Conference 2025, from September 14th through 17th in Calgary. Registration is open. Visit RIMSCanadaConference.CA and lock in those favourable rates. We look forward to seeing you in Calgary! [10:37] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today. [10:53] Let's Return to My Interview with Kyle Leng!  [11:07] The bulk of Airtower Networks' active projects are at active construction sites. There is inherent danger there. The whole team undergoes stringent safety training. They maintain all the relevant certifications to keep the team safe. They review those with the team leads weekly. [11:34] There is risk involved with the systems. If you install a bad cellular system, instead of helping, you're making that property and the surrounding area significantly more dangerous. The same thing with the firefighter radio systems. Doing that wrong is worse than not doing it at all. [12:04] It's high stakes, high risk, and you want to have expertise, going into it, because you can make the property significantly less safe and more of a liability for all parties if you do it wrong. [12:24] Kyle points out that a bad network and an obsolete network are the same. Airtower Networks has been getting a lot of new opportunities for rip-and-replace contracts to remove obsolete or poorly designed systems and replace them expertly with the latest technology. [12:54] How quickly something goes obsolete varies depending on the technology. You'll get more lifetime from a cellular system than a first responder radio system. Wi-Fi needs to be constantly updated. You need to have the latest security protocols and the latest technology. [13:17] Kyle says a lot of the systems they rip and replace in the public safety sector are in the five-to-ten-year range. They're not ancient. Often, it was a low-budget installation. Airtower Networks believes you need to go into a project with the right attitude and perspective. [13:47] The risk professionals listening should check for is when they had their systems installed. If they're coming up on that 10-year mark, they may need to reassess them. [14:00] Kyle tells how he discusses it with stakeholders. Picture someone you care about in the stairwell of a building, something scary happens, and they can't call 911. Then, police officers show up, and their radios don't work. This is incredibly dangerous and a huge liability. [14:23]  The various costs associated with upgrading those systems, getting them inspected, and having them be monitored, 24/7 to make sure there are no breaks in the coverage, are nothing compared to the risks and liability. The costs are 100% worth it, every time. [14:48] Public safety distributed antenna systems go by 17 different names across the country. They're radio systems inside your property with antennas in the ceiling. They increase the radio access for first responders in the building. Kyle's central focus is getting them into buildings. [15:50] Kyle speaks of an exciting season in his career. They turned a couple of sister apartment buildings in San Francisco into smart buildings. It was IoT everywhere. They learned a lot from working on those projects. [16:11] They worked with a software developer to build an app so that in every unit, tenants paid rent with their TV remotes and unlocked their doors with their phones. [16:29] In terms of security and risk management, they learned that a big part of these projects was keeping the networks segmented and isolated so no one had a backdoor to the Wi-Fi and keycard access. With IoT, you want the latest encryption and password security. [17:06] They learned you have to find great partners in the OEM space. You can find IoT components online, but are they safe? Find a partner that's invested long-term in their equipment, so when you install IoT devices, they will be guaranteed to be updated for years. [17:44] A Small Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [18:04] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centred experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process is now open through July 30th, 2025. [18:24] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. [18:28] Spencer's Risk Manager on Campus Program offers grants of up to $5,000 to universities and colleges in the United States and Canada to host a practicing risk manager on their campus for a one-to-three-day residency. [18:41] The Risk Manager on Campus program has been praised by both universities and risk managers as a rewarding educational experience for students and a chance to give back to the profession. The application deadline for 2026 is June 30th, 2025. Check the link in the notes. [19:00] Visit SpencerEd.org for more information. [19:04] Let's Return to the Conclusion of My Interview with Kyle Leng! [19:22] Kyle always tries to exceed the code requirements and the local expectations for each building. There is also a project spec list, drafted by the property management, legal team, and insurance policyholders. [19:46] Kyle enjoys the conversation he has with the property stakeholders about the specifications. He enjoys getting to understand what their intentions are and seeing what he can learn from this type of property. [20:06] Kyle learns a lot through these conversations because the stakeholders are looking through a very different lens. Kyle's thinking about passing inspections, and that tenants can make 911 calls. [20:19] The stakeholders are considering every liability across the property and how to plug all the holes so that risk and liability are as limited as possible. Kyle finds there's almost always a win-win situation between the intentions and the happy outcome of a very safe building. [21:39] Kyle says government buildings in particular tend to have a lot of stonework, which essentially kills all RF signals; Wi-Fi, cellular, and public safety networks. In these government buildings, there is usually no coverage. There is no system to rip out and replace. [22:06] Healthcare tends to have an antiquated system. They had the funding to put in communication systems early on, which are now outdated. Airtower Networks has had some rip-and-replace in healthcare, but they focus on government facilities without coverage. [22:36] Kyle says local authorities tell him that when they go into the courthouse or city hall, they know they're not going to make a call or use a radio. That's terrifying. [22:57] Kyle says, in the industry, they refer to these government stone buildings as sort of Faraday cages. Cell service stops at the front door. There's no system in place to replace. [24:03] With the onset of the summer heat, fire risk increases. Storms and power outages are big risks in the summer. Summer is a big time for construction. If a high-rise building goes up between you and the cell tower, you lose coverage. You might need an amplification system. [25:09] If a high-rise with a leaky Wi-Fi system goes up next to your property, it could interfere with your IoT devices. There is an inherent risk for all radio coverage when a high-rise building goes up. You need to be prepared for it and have a watchful eye. Find out how to resolve risks. [26:24] Special thanks again to Kyle Leng for joining us here on RIMScast! Be sure to subscribe to RIMScast to catch every new episode as they are released on Tuesdays and the occasional Monday. [26:46] Next week, we have one of my favorite episodes of the year coming up. It's the Midyear in Risk Review with Morgan O'Rourke and Hilary Tuttle of RIMS Risk Management Magazine. They're going to tell us “what the heck is going on!” [27:01] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [27:29] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [27:47] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [28:05] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [28:22] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [28:36] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [28:43] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Registration now open. RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration now open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration now open! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Education Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 Spencer's Risk Manager on Campus — Application Deadline June 30, 2025 RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov 17‒18 in Seattle! [Save the Date!] RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Summer course sold out! | Fall bi-weekly course begins Oct 9. RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — July 8‒9, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — July 17‒18 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito “Risk Taxonomy for Effective Risk Management” | July 24 | Instructor: Joe Mayo “Emerging Risks” | Aug 5 | Instructor: Joe Mayo See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “James Lam on ERM, Strategy, and the Modern CRO” “Company Safety and RIMS Chapter Leadership with Tamieka Weeks” “Security Risks with William Sako” “Wildfire Risks with Kevin Stein” “Safety and Preparedness in 2024 with National Safety Council CEO Lorraine Martin”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Kyle Leng, Senior Compliance Officer at Airtower Networks   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews Chris Reilly about his insurance career and how you came to join and lead Link USA. They also cover RISKWORLD 2025 and the DE&I Studio, where Chris was on a panel. Chris talks about how he volunteered for the DE&I initiative at Amwins and how it has grown over the years. Chris does not believe the current anti-DE&I rhetoric will continue for long, in light of the existing Title VII and EEOC protecting employees and applicants against employment discrimination. Chris believes organizations know what is right, and that they will do better with a strong DE&I program in place, reducing reliance on EPLI coverage. The conversation concludes with information about Link USA's upcoming events.   Listen to learn more about supporting Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion efforts in your organization.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. Our topic is inclusivity in risk management and we will be joined by Chris Reilly, the National Co-Chair of Link USA, and Senior Vice President and National Practice Leader at Amwins Group Benefits. [:45] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! Register by July 1st for the next RIMS-CRMP Virtual Workshop, which will be co-led by Parima. That course will be held on July 8th and 9th. [1:02] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be led by Joseph Mayo on July 17th and 18th. Register by July 16th. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:20] RIMS Virtual Workshops! On June 26th. Pat Saporito will return to present the very popular new course, “Generative AI for Risk Management”. [1:32] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's notes. [1:43] Starting on July 16th, James Lam will host a six-module course, the RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management. This is a bi-weekly course that will run through Wednesday, September 24th. A link to last week's episode about it is in this episode's notes. [2:04] Registration closes on July 9th. A link is in this episode's notes. [2:09] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is being built. Soon, we will distribute a Call for Nominations for the ERM Award of Distinction. I'll update this episode's show notes when that link is ready. [2:32] Think about your organization's ERM program or one that you know of, and how it has generated value. We will have more on that in the coming weeks. [2:40] On with the show! It's June 2025. It is Pride Month and RIMScast and RIMS are dedicated to fostering an environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, respected, and empowered. We'll dive into the real meanings of words and initiatives; words like inclusivity. [3:01] Joining me today to delve into those terms is Chris Reilly, the National Co-Chair of Link USA. Link is the LGBTQ+ Insurance Network. Chris is also the Senior Vice President and National Practice Leader at Amwins's Group Benefits. [3:17] We will discuss the state of diversity, equity, and inclusion in insurance and risk management, how the pendulum has swung, and what risk professionals and employers need to know about a landscape that may or may not be changing as much as you think. [3:35] Interview! Chris Reilly, welcome to RIMScast! [3:42] It's Pride Month. For Chris, it's a great time to be celebrating oneself and celebrating with the community. He says there's no reason not to celebrate 12 months of the year. [4:14] Chris Reilly has had a 30-plus-year insurance career. His dad and grandfather had an agency. His father offered him a job right out of college. Chris thought he'd step up in a year or two, but he's still doing it 30-plus years later. It's a great career. He loves the industry. [4:47] The first part of Chris's years he spent in the Property and Casualty world as a commercial broker, most of those years with Aon. He jumped to the wholesale side when he joined Amwins in 2000. [5:05] Chris is on the employee benefits side, providing group benefit programs to companies through broker partners. [5:13] About five or six years ago, Amwins created internal DEI programs. Chris immediately volunteered to join the National Council at Amwins to participate in and help build those programs. He worked on a committee centered on making the workplace intentionally inclusive. [5:54] Chris served on that committee for two years. In the process, he came across Link, which was in the UK. Chris and a colleague convinced Link to bring it to the U.S., which they did in 2021. Four years later, Link has expanded into Los Angeles, Chicago, New York City, and Atlanta.  [6:18] Link restructured this year with a national board for a national presence. Link kicked off Pride Month with a national virtual event. It had a great turnout. Chris is excited to continue to lead Link and help support the LGBTQ+ community and its allies in the insurance industry. [7:04] Chris notes that the insurance industry is still known to be a very conservative industry but from 30 years ago to today, there has been a big difference in inclusivity. There's constant evolution and change. We can always continue to do things better. [7:23] Chis says everybody is striving to do things better. That's why Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs became so important for all industries. Justin says that saying the words Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion instead of DEI provokes thought about their meaning and impact. [8:21] Chris agrees; when we say with intention, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with intention, it's just better. Don't we all want to be included? Inclusion is an endearing word. Let's all come to the table. We need to be more intentional about the words. [9:19] Chris Reilly attended RISKWORLD 2025 for the first time and was at the DE&I Studio. There were speakers and panels. Chris represented Link USA to talk about who they are, what they do, and their mission for the LGBTQ+ community in the insurance industry. [10:21] Chris served on a panel where Link, the National African American Insurance Association, the Asian American Insurance Network, the Latin American Insurance Agency Networks, and the Association of Professional Insurance Women were represented. [10:43] The organizations work to make sure the insurance industry continues to be a diverse, inclusive, and equitable industry. They support each other and continue to press the message of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. They raise their voices for the common good of every employee. [11:17] Leaders from all of those organizations have been guests on RIMScast, with Chris Reilly and Link being the fifth organization represented. If more organizations are created, Justin will include them on the show.  [11:37] Chris brings decades of experience in the trenches to his role on Link.  [12:02] Justin says we're hearing a lot of anti-DEI rhetoric. Chris says a lot of it is noise. People are throwing things against the wall to see what sticks. In most C-Suites, smart leaders seek legal advice. If they haven't been doing anything illegal, there isn't much they need to change. [13:01] Companies that feed into the noise end up hurting their employees which can hurt their bottom line in the long term. [13:27] Companies need to cut through the noise and make sure that they know what's true and what's not true. They need to focus on continuing to do what they've been doing that has been working. [13:55] Chris thinks that a company scaling back its DEI initiative hurts its reputation. When they scale back, the employees feel it first. If employees don't feel good in the workplace about the culture that has been developed for employees, that impacts the work and the output. [14:34] Eventually, that can hit outside the walls of the insurance company. Insurance isn't a direct-to-consumer product so this industry doesn't get impacted in quite the same way as a retail store. [15:06] Plug Time! The very first RIMS Texas Regional Conference will be held from August 4th through the 6th in San Antonio at the Henry B. González Convention Center. Public Registration is open. [15:17] Hotel cut-off for the discounted rate is available through July 7th. The full Conference Agenda is now live, so you can start planning your experience. Don't miss the post-conference workshop, the RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Course, available onsite. [15:33] This event is open to any RIMS Chapter member. If you are local to the area, you might consider becoming a RIMS member today, so that you can get all the benefits and begin networking with your new RIMS Texas peers. Links are in this episode's show notes. [15:48] You can also visit the Events Page of RIMS.org for more information. We look forward to seeing you in Texas! [15:56] Just a month later, we will be up North for the RIMS Canada Conference 2025, from September 14th through 17th in Calgary. Registration is open. Visit RIMSCanadaConference.CA and lock in favorable rates. We look forward to seeing you in Calgary! [16:15] On October 1st through the 3rd, the RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held in North San Jose at the Santa Clara Marriott. The agenda is live. It looks fantastic! Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and register today. [16:31] Let's Return to Our Interview with Chris Reilly of Link!  [16:50] There's no such thing as illegal DE&I! There is no legal framework about whether a company does DE&I or not. Companies decided that having a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce was good for business. [17:30] There have been studies that show that when a company has a strong DE&I policy, it outperforms its competitors that don't by nearly 20%. Teams that are more diverse and inclusive outperform homogeneous groups by nearly 80%. [17:57] When you have a diversity of people; when you include people of different backgrounds in thought and education, you get more diverse thoughts and you can create better outcomes as a result. [18:15] This concept of illegal DE&I is thrown up there to create confusion and get people worrying about what they're doing. [18:51] Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) is what companies would buy if they have a sexual harassment suit, a discrimination suit, or a wrongful termination suit. Employers take this coverage to protect themselves from that. [19:25] Whether they have EPLI coverage or not, before the term “illegal DE&I,” nobody was concerned about it. They all felt that they had the proper policies and best practices in place to prevent employment practices claims. [19:43] If there were this rash of claims suddenly happening, maybe it's not “illegal DE&I” but you're not doing it right. Fix the problem so that it doesn't become an issue. [19:59] What companies are seeing is that their policies and best practices have been working, so there's not a problem. If companies start believing that they shouldn't have DE&I programs, that will embolden individuals to be bigots, racists, harassers, and bullies at work. [20:25] If that happens, you will get employment practices claims. [20:30] Justin feels that we are seeing uninclusive and bullying expressions more now on social media than when he was hired at RIMS eight years ago. [20:36] Chris thinks that the world has changed and the narrative has changed and people feel like they're emboldened to bring out those negative personality traits in themselves for some reason. [20:50] Chris recently talked to a company where the CEO addressed the employees, to tell them that bigotry, harassment, and hatred have no place, and will have no place in the company. [21:16] He told them the company was built with a culture that respects everybody, that is about fairness and integrity, working together, and creating inclusive and collaborative teams, to create the best outcomes they can for the company and its consumers. [21:32] He said they are going to keep doing what they're doing because everything's going just fine. He said if we start trying to tinker with the DE&I programs, that will inevitably create problems and deteriorate the great work that you have been doing. [21:53] What's the ROI on DE&I? It's hard to quantify. When your employees are happy, they're doing good work, they're being productive, and the company is successful, that comes in part from the investment of time, energy, and money put into Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion programs. [22:08] You can try to tie ROI to some of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs when you talk about EPLI, Directors & Officers, and E&O insurance. If you don't have good practices, what you will have is employment practices liability claims around discrimination and harassment.  [23:01] HR will have to deal with the HR issues of employees, potentially defending a lawsuit. If they don't have these coverages in place, those defence costs can get expensive. You might have to settle a suit, which can cost more money. It's a ripple effect. [23:27] With more claims, the premiums of these policies will go up. So, if you're not following best practices and have to start paying out claims and higher premiums to defend yourself against these claims, those are financial factors to consider in the ROI of doing the right thing. [23:51] Plug Time! Let me tell you about the Spencer Educational Foundation. Spencer's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [24:31] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centred experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process is now open through July 30th, 2025. [24:31] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. [24:35] Spencer's Risk Manager on Campus Program offers grants of up to $5,000 to universities and colleges in the United States and Canada to host a practicing risk manager on their campus for a one-to-three-day residency. [24:49] The Risk Manager on Campus program has been praised by both universities and risk managers as a rewarding educational experience for students and a chance to give back to the profession. The application deadline for 2026 is June 30th, 2025. Check the link in the notes. [25:08] Visit SpencerEd.org for more information. [25:12] Let's Return to the Conclusion of My Interview with Chris Reilly! [25:34] The pendulum has swung one way. Chris thinks that it will swing back as smarter and calmer minds prevail, in the end. Organization leaders know what's right and wrong. Once the noise calms down, people will realize that we already have things in place to protect everybody. [26:14] We already have Title VII and the EEOC in place. I have told people that with all that's being said, no laws have changed. Title VII is in place and the EEOC is still there to enforce it. If there were crazy problems with this, Title VII and the EEOC would already be addressing it. [26:44] Chris believes the pendulum will swing back to the center sooner rather than later. Executive orders and attempting to change laws are not going to sit well. There are already protections in place to prohibit employment discrimination. [27:13]  Chris is the National Chair of Link USA. A couple of days after this episode, there will be the New York City Link-Up Networking Happy Hour, Pride Edition. That's going to be in Manhattan on the Avenue. [27:33] On June 26th, in Los Angeles, there will be a Pride Movie Night and Networking Mixer at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. Chris says these events are always fun. Link tries to create personal connections between the LGBTQ+ Community and its allies. [28:04] We're all doing the same thing, feeling the same pressures, working in the insurance industry, and wanting connection. Some people work at companies that may not have anybody else like them in their firm. They're looking for connections within the LGBTQ+ community. [28:28] Link is heavily supported by its allies. They couldn't fight the fight without the allies. The events are about bringing people together in a fun way and ultimately, networking in the industry. People connect and build business relationships and develop businesses, as well. [28:55] We've got a link to Link in this episode's notes. [28:58] Chris, it's been a real pleasure to speak with you. I'm glad we're having this dialogue. I hope to see you at RISKWORLD 2026 and the Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Studio. [29:21] Special thanks again to Chris Reilly of Link, the LGBTQ+ Insurance Network. Links to the events that we mentioned and to Link's website are in this episode's show notes. [29:34] RIMS has a Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Council and page. You can visit it on RIMS.org, through the Community section, and the link in this episode's show notes. [29:49] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [30:17] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [30:35] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [30:53] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [31:09] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [31:23] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [31:31] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council Link (LGBTQ+ Insurance Network) Link USA Events in New York City and Los Angeles RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Registration now open. RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration now open! RIMS Western Regional — Oct 1‒3 | Bay Area, California | Registration now open! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Education Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 Spencer's Risk Manager on Campus — Application Deadline June 30, 2025 RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov 17‒18 in Seattle! [Save the Date!] RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Register by July 7. | Bi-weekly course begins July 16. RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — July 8‒9, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — July 17‒18 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “James Lam on ERM, Strategy, and the Modern CRO” “Live from RISKWORLD 2025” “Thoughts and IDEAs on Inclusivity with Michael Bach” “The Strengths of DE&I Initiatives with Lilian Vanvieldt-Gray of Alliant Insurance Services” “LAAIA Atlanta Chapter President Jose Aponte” “Equality and the Risk Profession with Elisa Stampf”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Chris Reilly, National Co-Chair of Link USA | LGBTQ+ Insurance Network, Senior Vice President and National Practice Leader at Amwins Group Benefits   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Hvad vil det sige at tro i dag? Og hvor finder vi håb, når verden brænder?I denne særlige liveoptagelse fra Rimsø Kirkegård samles vi til en dyb samtale om kristendom, åndelighed og menneskelig længsel efter mening. Præst Christina Philipstatt og astrolog og religionshistoriker Marcus Myhr mødes i et respektfuldt og ærligt rum, hvor deres forskellige trosforståelser udfolder sig.

This episode of Culture Uncut is a must-watch for anyone who cares about hip hop, fatherhood, and the culture behind the music. DJ Nova and TRE# get real about Lil Wayne's latest album, the missing summer anthems, and whether hip hop is losing its grip on cultural relevance.They dig into:

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews James Lam about the evolving role of the CRO since the pandemic, vital competencies for today's CROs, risk appetite frameworks, and a case study of E*Trade and how they succeeded with a strong risk appetite framework. They continue the discussion with an examination of James's upcoming six-module virtual course, the RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management. James concludes with his vision of the future of ERM using AI as an enabling tool. Listen to learn more about successful strategies CROs can apply to their ERM programs.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. Our guest is one of the great thought leaders in risk management, James Lam. He returns to RIMScast today to talk about ERM and a new bi-weekly virtual course he'll be teaching for RIMS that begins in July. [:48] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! Register by July 1st for the next RIMS-CRMP Virtual Workshop, which will be co-led by Parima. That course will be held on July 8th and 9th. [1:04] The next RIMS-CRMP-FED virtual workshop will be led by Joseph Mayo on July 17th and 18th. Register by July 16th. Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:23] RIMS Webinars! The next RIMS Webinar will be held on June 17th. It will be presented by Origami Risk. It's titled “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction”. Register today through RIMS.org/Webinars [1:43] RIMS Virtual Workshops! On June 12th, Pat Saporito will host “Managing Data for ERM”, and she will return on June 26th to present the very popular new course, “Generative AI for Risk Management”. [2:00] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's show notes. [2:12] Mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The agenda is being built. Soon, we will distribute a Call for Nominations for the ERM Award of Distinction. I'll update this episode's show notes when that link is ready. [2:35] Think about your organization's ERM program or one that you know of, and how it has generated value. We will have more on that in the coming weeks. [2:43] On with the show! Our guest today is a risk management trailblazer who is widely considered the world's first Chief Risk Officer. I'm talking about James Lam. [2:54] Starting on July 16th, James will host a six-module course for RIMS, The RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management. It's a bi-weekly course that will run through Wednesday, September 24th. Registration closes on July 9th. [3:14] James is here to discuss and share his ERM philosophies, how the practice has changed in the past five years since he was last on the show, and to give us a preview of what the upcoming course will be like and how it could boost your risk career. [3:31] Interview! James Lam, welcome back to RIMScast! [3:37] James was a guest on RIMScast in the Fall of 2020. We've gone through a lot in the last five years! We've lived through a pandemic, and companies realized the importance of operational resilience and strategic risk management. [4:14] James says today we are facing unprecedented geopolitical risk. We are also facing AI risks and opportunities. Some Chief Risk Officers have stayed relevant and elevated their careers and skills, while others have failed in their organization's ERM programs. [5:01] James tells what may cause a CRO to fail. Applying a “check the box” approach or a compliance approach, without staying relevant with the evolving risk landscape. [5:29] Speaking of successful CROs, James said one CRO he worked with went from being a treasurer reporting to the CFO, to becoming the CRO, then the CFO, and eventually the CEO, all within eight years. [5:58] He and other successful CROs had learned how to add strategic value and be relevant to key decision-makers at the board level and the executive level. [6:15] A key competence is applying risk analytics to quantify and minimize unexpected earnings, helping companies maintain sustainable, predictable profitability. [6:40] Then, evolving that to understanding capital management to optimize capital allocation, dividend policies, and risk transfer strategies, ultimately, applying the same risk analytics to support corporate and business decisions. [7:05] Being able to add strategic value is the most important competence for a Chief Risk Officer today. [7:26] Management and corporate directors are concerned about the unexpected. As CROs, how do we connect our work with things that are the most meaningful to the decision-makers and key internal stakeholders? All boards, CEOs, and CFOs are concerned about earnings. [7:53] Unexpected earnings variance and guidance are things that they are concerned about. CROs can help them with predictable profitability, long-term capital management, and value creation. [8:10] How does a CRO support the leaders' decision-making at the corporate level, where there's M&A or new products, and at the business level, in terms of risk-based pricing and risk transfer decisions? [8:43] James thinks the risk appetite framework is one of the most important processes and capabilities for advanced enterprise risk management. [9:01] Frameworks that don't do well tend to be mostly or entirely qualitative. They tend to be static, maybe updated once a year, with very little change. [9:15] The frameworks that are more strategic and add more value to companies tend to be a combination of quantitative and qualitative. [9:42] Successful risk appetite frameworks also consider risk capacity in terms of capital resources, earnings, and liquidity, relative to our risk management capability and track record. [10:01] Successful risk appetite frameworks look at opportunities. What is the opportunity for profitability, growth, and innovation, relative to risk? If the opportunity is high, then we should be willing to take on more risk. [10:19] Successful risk appetite frameworks tend to be more dynamic in a way that allows the company to reduce risk when it is appropriate but also to take more risk when it is appropriate. [10:31] James says a good risk appetite framework would guide organizations to take more risk, on a selective basis. [10:57] James uses E*Trade as a case study. James was on the board of E*Trade and chaired its risk committee. This case study is in the RIMS CRO Certificate Program in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management. [11:28] James will invite E*Trade's CRO, the head of ERM, and one of the regulators, to provide first-hand experiences and lessons learned. [11:41] James gives examples of how ERM improved E*Trade's business outcomes and profitability. Based on a robust risk appetite framework, E*Trade thought it needed to take more risk in new product innovation and shorten the time to market dramatically. [12:21] Because of that, E*Trade was the first company to offer retail investors the capability to trade stocks and mutual funds on their Apple Watch. It was a very important business opportunity as the Apple Watch was hugely popular. [12:49] This tied into E*Trade's founding as the first internet company to allow retail investors to trade on the internet. It was a proud moment for E*Trade. It shows how a robust ERM program and risk appetite framework can support innovation and business growth. [13:16] In the eight years James was on E*Trade's board until it was sold, its stock went from $8 to $59 a share. It went from B to BBB, from losing money to making money, and from a weak capital position to buying back over $1 billion in stock and offering its first-ever dividend. [13:52] In addition to the E*Trade case study, the course will look into other case studies, good and bad. We will learn from organizations that didn't manage risks effectively and what we could learn from them to prevent that for our organizations. [14:13] We will learn from best-practice companies in the energy and healthcare space. [14:30] Plug Time! The very first RIMS Texas Regional Conference will be held from August 4th through the 6th in San Antonio at the Henry B. González Convention Center. Public Registration is open here. [14:43] Hotel cut-off for the discounted rate is available through July 7th. The full Conference Agenda is now live, so you can start planning your experience. Don't miss the post-conference workshop, the RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Course, available onsite. [14:59] Any chapter member can attend. Links are in this episode's show notes. [15:14] You can also visit the Events Page of RIMS.org for more information. We look forward to seeing you in Texas! [15:21 Just a month later, we will be up North for the RIMS Canada Conference 2025, from September 14th through 17th in Calgary. Registration opened today. Visit RIMSCanadaConference.CA and lock in favorable rates. We look forward to seeing you there! [15:42] Let's Return to My Interview with James Lam!  [16:00] Starting on July 16th, there will be a new course that James is leading. It's the RIMS CRO Certificate Program in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management. If you're listening to this on the week of publication, you've got about a month to register. Registration closes on July 9th. [16:22] James is one of our favorite collaborators! [16:27] James tells what led to the launch of this program. He's very excited to be partnering with RIMS! His motivation for doing this program is that he has worked in risk management for over 40 years. He has been a management consultant working with over 100 companies. [17:10] James has been an eight-time board member, chairing the risk committee, chairing the audit committee, and overseeing risk management, not day-to-day but from a board perspective. [17:22] What James wants to do in this program is to share the lessons he has learned and some of the best practices in a very practical way. He also wants to invite other risk experts to share from their different domains. James has had this idea for over three years. [17:56] He met with the RIMS board members and the Professional Development Team to talk about this. They got an agreement in place, and within a few weeks, they got the outline and the website up. James tells of the team that helped him put it together in bi-weekly meetings. [18:31] The program came together within weeks. The early registrations are above expectations. The market reception has been strong. James says this course will provide an amazing learning experience for the participants. [18:54] It's a six-module, bi-weekly course with four-hour live virtual sessions, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eastern Time, starting July 16th and running through September 24th. There will also be self-study with James's book, other articles, and research papers. [19:24] We've got the link in this episode's show notes. A brief description of each of the six modules is on the website. Module 4 is The Role of the Chief Risk Officer and Risk Appetite Statement. That's the James Lam wheelhouse! [19:44] The CRO, the risk appetite statement, and ERM will be critical topics. Other important topics are the role of the board, how risk professionals should not only serve the board but also leverage the board, and strategic decision-making. [20:13] Before the pandemic, teaching virtually was not James's favorite method. He enjoys interacting with participants. Since the pandemic, we've all learned how to learn and to teach in a virtual environment. James says we can make it dynamic and interactive, with a lot of sharing.  [22:53] James thinks they will get into individualized problem-solving. Participants can highlight challenges or opportunities they're facing. Collectively, the group will help with individualized problem-solving. [21:12] James will bring in guest speakers. He has a strong network of excellent board directors and experts with backgrounds in AI, cybersecurity, and ERM. These include former or current CROs with stories to share. He believes all that will make the program relevant and dynamic. [21:45] Plug Time! Let me tell you about the Spencer Educational Foundation. Spencer's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [22:05] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centered experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process is now open through July 30th, 2025. [22:27] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. Learn more about Spencer's General Grants through the Programs tab of SpencerEd.org. Be sure to check out Spencer's Monthly Virtual Campus.  [22:41] On Thursday, June 12th, we will have Reinsurance 101, hosted by Lee Vuu, Founder and President of the MRIA. A link is in this episode's show notes. Register today! [22:53] Let's Conclude Our Interview with James Lam! [23:22] James says the future is bright. AI and risk analytics are going to change our careers and our lives. In the next five years, we're going to see some interesting dynamics with AI and we're going to have some unintended consequences. There will be risks and opportunities. [23:54] For risk professionals, being able to help our organizations and address the risks, whether it's privacy, model risks such as hallucination, or data governance, all those are going to be in our wheelhouse, and we could add a lot of value.  [24:11] James thinks AI could create opportunities to enhance enterprise risk management by tapping into structured and unstructured data and help us minimize unexpected earnings variance, optimize capital structure, and support corporate and business-level decisions. [24:47] A basic question that any AI model asks is, “What would an expert do?” What would an expert driver do in terms of an autonomous car? What would an expert doctor do in this specific situation? In risk management, the senior risk professionals and CROs are the experts. [25:12] James says the CROs have an opportunity to design the training data that would train these AI agents. They would have an impact on training these AI agents directly in terms of being part of the feedback loop. [25:32] James is very excited about where ERM is going to be in the next three to five years. AI will become a very important tool. He doesn't think it will replace risk practitioners. [25:49] The expertise, judgment, governance, and perspective that risk practitioners bring to the table will be valuable. AI will be a huge enabler. [26:11] Looking forward 10 years, James asks, using AI, how do we help with scenario planning and scenario analysis? Regarding many of the emerging and disruptive risks that we face today, we don't have a lot of data or models, so scenario analysis is going to be a critical tool. [26:48] The ultimate level of enterprise risk management would be to create a digital twin of our organization's overall risk profile, including our strategic, financial, operational, compliance, and reputational risks, and run scenarios to stress-test that system with AI. That's not far off. [27:25] James, it has been such a pleasure to reconnect with you. I have a great feeling about the RIMS CRO Certificate Program in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management. Remember, everyone, you have until July 9th, 2025, to register. Virtual seats are filling up! Check out the link! [27:43] I have a good feeling that we're going to be hearing more and seeing more from James in 2025 and beyond, here at RIMS. James, we value you very much. That's why you're here! [28:11] Special thanks again to James Lam. Register now for the RIMS CRO Certificate Program in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management. It is a bi-weekly course that starts on July 16th. Virtual seats are filling up fast, so register by July 7th. The link is in this episode's show notes. [28:32] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [29:00] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [29:18] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [29:35] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [29:52] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [30:06] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [30:14] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS-CRO Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Register by July 7. | Bi-weekly course begins July 16. RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Registration now open. RIMS Canada 2025 — Sept. 14‒17 | Registration now open! RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Education Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 Spencer Virtual Campus — Next Course on June 12 RIMS ERM Conference 2025 — Nov 17‒18 in Seattle! [Save the Date!] James Lam & Associates RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction” | Sponsored by Origami Risk | June 17, 2025   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — July 8‒9, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and PARIMA RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — July 17‒18 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Managing Data for ERM” | June 12 | Instructor: Pat Saporito  “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “AI Risks and Compliance with Chris Maguire” “RIMS 2025 Risk Manager of the Year, Jennifer Pack” “ERM, Retail, and Risk with Jeff Strege” “Collateral Benefits Of Pre-Mortem Analysis” “ERMotivation with Carrie Frandsen, RIMS-CRMP” “Live from the ERM Conference 2024 in Boston!”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: James Lam, Founder, James Lam & Associates   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

If you saw the production of NOAH at Sight & Sound Theater in Lancaster, PA, you probably saw Karen Knight on stage in her role as “Mrs. Noah”! Growing up in a military family meant that Karen traveled a LOT. Despite her lack of ‘roots' in the physical, Karen is deeply rooted in God!She tells her story with quiet confidence that God has directed her path and opened the doors as He has led her to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ through speaking and song. She is a gifted storyteller and in this episode you'll get to know a little bit of the heart behind the microphone.SHOW NOTESKaren Knight, Heartsongs Ministries, Inc.Contact Karen:Web: www.karenknight.orgEmail: HeartsongsByKaren@gmail.comThe Three Wise Women of Christmas: Inspirational Speaking, Storytelling and Music - Prepare your heart for the Holidays with meaningful lessons about reducing Holiday stress from the women who experienced the first Christmas: The Innkeeper's Wife who had to adjust her priorities, The Shepherdess, who almost missed it, and Mary herself, whose faith gave her heavenly peace. Using props and costumes pieces, this will be the refreshment you need to start your celebrations with new meaning!Staff Writer for Unshackled.org (Unshackled! is a radio drama series produced by Pacific Garden Mission, in Chicago, Illinois, that first aired on September 23, 1950. It is one of the longest-running radio dramas in history and one of a very few still in production in the United States.)Direct questions & comments to: podcast@wearethebridge.orgDenise Harper's new book, “Treasured Inside - Devotions With Denise,” is available at Amazon, Apple, Target, and more. For more information, email Denise at: denise@wearethebridge.orgDid you know you can now watch Over the Rims of Mugs?Visit https://www.wearethebridge.org/mugsvideoPlease share Over the Rims of Mugs with a friend if you enjoyed this episode. Over the Rims of Mugs is still growing, and your positive review and 5-star rating would help.The Bridge Podcast Network is made possible by generous support from The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel and Victoria's Restaurant on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware - Open 7 days a week, year-round - Learn more at https://boardwalkplaza.comFeedback, or Show Ideas? Send an email to podcast@wearethebridge.orgDownload The Bridge Mobile App to get the latest podcast episodes as soon as they are published!

A recent survey highlights rising stress levels among executives, fueled by persistent global uncertainty. Supply chain disruptions remain the top concern for 45% of respondents, especially among international … Read More » The post RIMS RISKWORLD 2025: Why Are Executives So Stressed? Supply Chains, Uncertainty, and Economic Whiplash appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

Geopolitical tension and climate-related risks are putting pressure on global supply chains—but advanced technology is helping insurers and businesses stay ahead. By using geospatial tech, companies can pinpoint … Read More » The post RIMS RISKWORLD 2025: Can Technology Predict Supply Chain Disruptions? appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

In this interview, a risk leader shares an emerging perspective that's gaining traction in forward-thinking circles: risk isn't always a threat—sometimes it's an opportunity. By exploring how different … Read More » The post RIMS RISKWORLD 2025: What's the Risk Beneath the Risk? Exploring Intersections, Opportunity, and Future Thinking appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews John Baldwin of Discount Tire. Justin and John explore risk management topics, including Tire Safety Month, tire safety education of customers, and the tire selection tool he developed, Treadwell. John shares information about ongoing projects at Discount Tire and also his work on the board of the Tire Recycling Foundation. Listen to gain awareness of how tire selection can be a safety factor in your ERM program.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. Our guest is John Baldwin of Discount Tire. He's joining us for National Safety Month and National Tire Safety Month here in June 2025. We're going to learn about the risk tool that he developed at Discount Tire. [:49] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Workshop will be presented in conjunction with NAIT on June 10th and 11th. Register by June 9th. That course will be led by former RIMS President, Nowell Seaman. [1:11] Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:18] Virtual Workshops! On June 12th, Pat Saporito will host “Managing Data for ERM”, and she will return on June 26th to present the very popular new course, “Generative AI for Risk Management”. [1:35] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's show notes. [1:47] We have a special new 12-week virtual workshop course, The Advanced Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Certificate Program, instructed by James Lam, one of the most famous Chief Risk Officers in the world! [2:04] He will lead an intensive 12-week program, beginning July 16th, bi-weekly until September 2025. Registration closes on July 7th. [2:17] James will join us next week to discuss this program and his ERM philosophy. Check out the link in this episode's show notes and the Education page of RIMS.org. Register today before we reach virtual capacity! [2:33] On with the show! It's our first episode of June 2025. That means that it is National Safety Month here in the U.S. and also Tire Safety Month. I was delighted to book today's guest, John Baldwin, PhD. He is the Chief Product and Technical Officer of Discount Tire. [2:56] He developed a risk tool for Discount Tire called Treadwell. This is the company's personalized tire recommendation tool. [3:05] Treadwell utilizes extensive real-world testing data, including nearly a million tread depth measurements annually and evaluations of dozens of new tire models each year. [3:17] John is also a member of the Enterprise Risk Committee at Discount Tire, so we will also learn about his risk philosophies and his efforts to bolster sustainability when it comes to tires, tire manufacturing, and tire recycling. [3:33] Interview! John Baldwin, welcome to RIMScast! [3:52] John says risk management is like safety. You incorporate it in every decision you make. It's good to make it part of the daily oxygen. [4:10] John started consulting with Discount Tire in 2007 and became full-time in 2012. [4:25] John is a Senior Vice President and Chief Product and Technical Strategist. He's responsible for the fitment guide on the website. Discount Tire measures each vehicle it can and puts that in the fitment guide. [4:56] They consider product quality and performance. They test tires, wheels, and lug nuts, before offering them for sale. John's background is technical. [5:10] John is also in charge of sustainability and government affairs. [5:24] John has a bachelor's degree in chemistry and a PhD in polymer science, the study of plastics and rubber. He was at 3M for a lot of years working on filter media for filter masks, which had a resurgence 25 years after he left. [5:49] John went to automotive working in adhesives. He was hired by Ford. He was at Ford when the Ford Firestone recall happened. He got drafted onto the Root Cause Team, to find out what was going on with the tires because of his background. [6:08] John worked in advanced manufacturing on a cross-functional team. [6:22] John's advice to folks coming up in a company is “Saying No is career-limiting.” He had said No a lot, at the beginning of his career. When he started saying Yes, things changed. [6:38] Coming from the larger companies where he had worked, John says the vibe at family-owned Discount Tire is an entrepreneurial spirit. There's a lot less bureaucracy. You go talk to people to get things done. It's very comfortable for John. [6:58] John says Discount Tire is for everyone but the people who thrive here are more self-starting, think it out, and occasionally color outside the lines. It's nice. You learn a lot. [7:13] John has a small group of about 25 people. They are cohorts of the risk group. The risk group collects and manages thought processes and information. The people who own the risks have to take care of them. The risk group shares a framework for them to manage risks. [8:23] John is on the Enterprise Risk Committee. It's a group of the different functional areas, Technical Fitment, Real Estate, IT, Cybersecurity, Store Management, Product Quality, Legal, HR, and other areas from around the corporation represented. [8:52] The Enterprise Risk Committee is one level below the Steering Committee. They use a tool called Riskonnect. They analyze and bring the risks to the Steering Committee. Justin and John first connected through the last Riskonnect webinar! [9:46] There are technical issues in managing the stores, including customer safety. Customer safety is a founding philosophy at Discount Tire. Customer safety is the first consideration. [10:21] When John first came on board at Discount Tire, it was after the Firestone Tire recall and Discount Tire focused on tire quality. Everyone at Purchasing hated him for being “Dr. No.” He told them: Let's put a process together where we validate whom we're buying from. [10:51] He said, we validate the quality of the tires and wheels that we're buying and that frees you up. We could entertain buying from people we would never have entertained buying from because they meet our criteria. Suddenly, it goes from closing the box to expanding the box. [11:07] That's how we have to get people thinking. Once you have the process down, it unburdens you. It allows you to take more risks because you have a way of assessing what the risk is and doing something about it. [11:34] June is Tire Safety Month, promoted by the NHTSA. John is planning on a visit there next week. Tire Safety Month is an opportunity to engage and ask customers: Have you looked at your tires? Do you know what your air pressure is? Discount Tire does free air checks and fills. [12:20] One of the number one things for safety is making sure you have plenty of air in your tires. Most people don't think about it or check it. Talk with customers about tire tread depth and why there are treads. [12:54] Tire Safety Month is June because school is over and people will be taking road trips. Be aware of your tires. Check your air pressure and tread depth. The tread is essential for driving in rain or snow so you don't hydroplane and you can brake properly. Get your tires checked. [13:47] These things matter. There's a reason tires are designed the way they are. The public generally doesn't know. When John started working in tires he had no idea they came in different sizes. Everybody has a first day at work. [14:26] People generally don't change tires on their own, because you need a machine. [14:34] Plug Time! RIMS Webinars! On June 5th, Zywave joins us to discuss “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause and What's the Solution?”. [14:49] On June 17th, Origami Risk returns to present “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction”. [15:00] More webinars will be announced soon and added to the RIMS.org/Webinars page. Go there to register. Registration is complimentary for RIMS members. [15:11] Are you a summer intern and interested in learning more about career opportunities in the insurance industry? Are you based in the Greater Chicago area? If so, join Chicago RIMS in a free event sponsored by Origami Risk. [15:29] Students and insurance professionals will come together to explore the wide variety of career paths in insurance and the captive industry. This event will provide you with valuable insights into the industry and allow you to start building your network with peers in the area. [15:44] This is an opportunity to learn from industry experts and kickstart your career in insurance. Register at ChicagoRIMS.org and mark your calendar for this free event on July 10th at 3:30 p.m. at 222 N LaSalle, STE 2100 in Chicago, IL. [16:04] Let's Return to Our Conversation with John Baldwin of Discount Tire!  [16:23] John points out mistakes in tire safety and maintenance. Are you overloading your vehicle? If you pull a trailer, are you loading the trailer correctly? Are you overdriving your abilities in bad weather? It's not about going fast, it's about stopping fast and being able to steer. [16:57] Be mindful of the conditions around you and how other people are driving. Most people tend to overestimate their abilities, especially if they're not in those conditions often. [17:19] Fleet safety is another topic. You have to pay attention to the details. [18:10] Discount Tire is a large purchaser of tires. Tire salesmen came in and boasted about their tires and downplayed their competition's tires. Discount Tire didn't have a basis for pushing back so they hired a driver and started testing the tires. They got warranty information. [18:39] A year after Discount Tire started testing tires for internal information, Chief Strategy Officer Dave Ginsberg, a data scientist, joined Discount Tire. He was thinking of an algorithm to help people pick tires. John told him of the data they gathered to help Discount Tire pick tires. [19:10] Both Discount Tire and the consumers have the same problem, what to buy. There's a lot out there. David put together the math behind Treadwell, and John's team generated the data. It's based on what you drive, where you drive, and how you drive, on city roads or a highway. [19:48] Not every car is a commuter. Some people just drive on the weekend. On different cars, different trim levels come with different tire sizes and wheel sizes. A key issue is what mileage you can expect. Discount Tire does free rotations. That gives them data on how long a tire lasts. [20:41] Discount Tire tests in winter and rain. They also test worn tires that they've buffed down to 4/32nds and test them in the wet. Tires are only new for the first couple thousand miles. Then various changes occur in how your tires perform over time. [21:11] So that's what we're trying to get at with people. We've changed a lot about how the tire industry's looking and talking about that, all for the customer, to relay to you how this is going to work over the life of your tire. [21:26] There are annual evaluations of over 75 new tire models each year. When Cooper was bought by Goodyear, the track Discount Tire was using for testing became redundant for Goodyear, so Discount Tire purchased it. They have a third-party test for them. [22:16] John tells tire manufacturers that Discount Tire uses Treadwell internally when talking about what tires to buy. It's the same version and data that consumers see. It's a unique tool. [22:58] There were some other sellers doing testing. Tire Rack was one of them. Discount Tire bought Tire Rack at the beginning of '22. They continue to do testing. Tire Rack is for the in-depth enthusiast. [24:08] Discount Tire is for the consumer who needs a tire but doesn't know a lot about tires, doesn't have a lot of time, and doesn't want to get ripped off. There's a lot of technical data. Discount Tire Treadwell quickly boils it down to suggest which tire the customer should buy. [24:18] Another point about Treadwell is that it has nothing to do with the cost of the tire or how much money Discount Tire makes from the sale. It's about the performance of the tire. It encourages the customer to look down the list for the diamond in the rough. It's a good tool. [24:49] The tire manufacturers have looked at the tool and said they want to win at Treadwell. It's impossible to do. The local weather affects the algorithm. Chances are, a good tire in Arizona is not a good tire in Minnesota because of the weather. Treadwell is objective. [25:31] Treadwell took two years to launch from conception. They had to get enough data from the stores in the field and enough testing to launch a small subset of tires. Now, they have almost every tire tested or it's on the list to get tested. When a new tire comes, they test it. [26:16] One of the things Discount Tire found is that it took some time after launch for the store managers to buy into using it with customers. They didn't understand it was a real tool. [26:40] In the last year or so, Discount Tire has started taking store managers through Treadwell to be tire evaluators for a day, testing at the track. They get a T-shirt, The Treadwell Experience. It has been game-changing. The tool has been embraced internally. [27:32] One of the store managers said Treadwell is like having a test track behind every store. [27:41] Plug Time! The very first RIMS Texas Regional Conference will be held from August 4th through the 6th in San Antonio at the Henry B. González Convention Center. Early Bird Registration is now open through June 7th. Save up to 20% on a Full-Conference Pass. [28:03] Hotel cut-off for the discounted rate is available through July 7th. The full Conference Agenda is now live so you can start planning your experience. Don't miss the post-conference workshop, the RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Course, available onsite. [28:19] Also register by June 7th for your Early Bird Registration and save $200. Any chapter member can attend and anyone who is not a RIMS member has to email RIMStexas@RIMS.org to request a unique registration code. Links are in this episode's show notes. [28:39] You can also visit the Events Page of RIMS.org for more information. We look forward to seeing you in Texas! [28:47] About the Spencer Educational Foundation's Grants program. Spencer's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [29:04] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centered experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process is now open through July 30th, 2025. [29:25] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. Learn more about Spencer's General Grants through the Programs tab of SpencerEd.org. [29:35] Let's Return to the Conclusion of My Interview with Discount Tire's John Baldwin! [30:01] Discount Tire tests rolling resistance; how much fuel or energy per mile one tire absorbs, vs. another tire. Tires that roll easier don't take as much fuel. With battery vehicles, range is a big deal. Tire rolling resistance ranking for electric vehicles is incorporated into the algorithm. [30:47] If you have the same tire, size, construction, and everything, one on a gas vehicle and one on an electric vehicle, there is typically 10 to 15% faster wear on the battery vehicle because of the weight and a little bit of the torque. They factor the car in for the mileage estimation. [31:15] Noise becomes more of a consideration with electric vehicles because there's no engine noise. The whirring noise electric cars make is added so they're not completely silent. [31:49] Amazon made a big commitment to electric vehicles with Rivian. A lot of Uber drivers are starting to use Model 3 vehicles. There is a trend toward hybrid gas/electric vehicles. [32:41] Treadwell is testing off-road tires. If you take a truck out in the mud, you want a tire that works in the mud and rocks. Treadwell just expanded into testing winter tires. [33:27] Discount Tire is thinking about working with Tire Rack to rank summer tires and more. [33:52] John is on the Board of Directors of the Tire Recycling Foundation. The foundation is jointly put together through the United States Tire Manufacturing Association and also the Tire Industry Association, the retailers. [34:17] We need to find more recycling uses for tires. Twenty percent of scrap tires that come off today are landfilled. Thirty percent are burned in kilns. Fifteen percent are sold used. Used tires are not optimized for safety. [34:51] Is there a way to recycle these tires back into tires rubber-modified asphalt, or mats? There are so many other things you can do with tires besides burning them and burying them. [35:12] To go into asphalt, tires are ground up and then added to the mix. It's a different process, which when done right, provides a quieter surface with a better grip and it lasts longer. It's a good use of tires and would take care of the scrap tire problem. [35:37] Being in the Tire Recycling Foundation complements John's job at Discount Tire. How to recycle tires has been a problem in the U.S. tire industry for 100 years. [36:34] Municipalities sometimes have a Waste Date to drop off your hazardous waste. Instead of taking it there, you can bring it to a Discount Tire or a competitor. Then it will be recycled. [38:04] People can go to TireRecyclingFoundation.org for more information. It's a broad-based coalition. [38:59] John, it has been a real pleasure to speak with you. It's been illuminating. I'm glad that we're shining a lot on how important tires are to our daily lives and the supply chain. I don't know that we've ever done an episode devoted to tires! This is super cool for us at RIMS! [39:22] Special thanks again to John Baldwin of Discount Tire for joining us. [39:26] I've got links in this episode's show notes for information about Treadwell, the Tire Recycling Foundation, and Discount Tire's appearance on the RIMS Riskonnect on April 24th, 2025 webinar, “Better Together: The Marriage of Insurable Risk and Business Continuity”. [39:46] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [40:13] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [40:32] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [40:49] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [41:05] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [41:19] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [41:27] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 4‒6 | Advance registration rates are now open. RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 RIMS-CRMP Advanced Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Certificate Program — Featuring Instructor James Lam! Register by July 7. | Bi-weekly course begins July 16. Tire Safety Month — NHTSA The Tire Recycling Foundation “All About Treadwell” — John Baldwin Interview “Better Together: The Marriage of Insurable Risk and Business Continuity” — A RIMS Webinar, Sponsored by Riskonnect and featuring Discount Tire (April 24, 2025) RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause & What's the Solution?” | Sponsored by Zywave | June 5, 2025 “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction” | Sponsored by Origami Risk | June 17, 2025   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — June 10‒11, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and NAIT Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Managing Data for ERM” | June 12 | Instructor: Pat Saporito  “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Company Safety and RIMS Chapter Leadership with Tamieka Weeks” “Safety and Preparedness in 2024 with National Safety Council CEO Lorraine Martin” “Traffic Awareness with Carol Fritzsche of Subaru of America” “Fleet Safety with NETS Executive Director Susan Gillies-Hipp” (2022)   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: John M Baldwin, PhD, Chief Product & Technical Officer, Discount Tire   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

With economic uncertainty, evolving global trade dynamics, and potential new tariffs, businesses are facing heightened risks within their supply chains. These disruptions make it more critical than ever … Read More » The post RIMS RISKWORLD 2025: How Global Shifts Are Reshaping Supply Chain Insurance Needs appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

This conversation highlights the vital role of the National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA) in advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) across the insurance industry. Leaders from NAAIA … Read More » The post RIMS RISKWORLD 2025: Creating Space for Everyone – NAAIA's Mission to Diversify Insurance appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews Megan Smalter about her schooling and career path and what excites her about risk management. They discuss her winning the RIMS Rising Star Award 2025 at RISKWORLD on the main stage before the triple keynote addresses. She discloses what the honor means to her. They speak about her past role in Chicago, her participation and leadership in the Chicago RIMS Chapter, and how her career has changed by moving to New York to work at Lloyd's in the Americas in December.   Listen to Megan's advice for students and young risk management and insurance professionals. Give yourself the grace to learn your way in the field, reach out and connect to people around you, and learn about all the career opportunities in the industry.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. We will be joined by RIMS Rising Star Award Winner 2025, Megan Smalter of Lloyd's. [:42] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep will be presented in conjunction with AFERM and led by instructor Joseph Mayo. This is a two-day course, June 2nd and 3rd. Register by May 26th. [1:03] The next RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Workshop will be presented in conjunction with NAIT on June 10th and 11th. Register by June 9th. That course will be led by former RIMS President, Nowell Seaman. [1:21] Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:28] Virtual Workshops! On June 12th, Pat Saporito will host “Managing Data for ERM”, and she will return on June 26th to present the very popular new course, “Generative AI for Risk Management”. [1:46] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's show notes. [1:57] We are already making preparations for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 on November 17th and 18th in Seattle, Washington. RIMS is accepting educational session submissions through May 29th. [2:14] The best submissions will address current and future challenges facing ERM practitioners as well as provide leading practices and concrete takeaways for a diverse audience of risk professionals from industries or organizations of varied sizes, disciplines, functions, and roles. [2:30] These include officers, leaders, managers, and students. The link to the submission form is in this episode's show notes. If you are listening on the day of this episode's release, this is the last call for submissions, so get them in! [2:46] We have a special new 12-week virtual workshop course, The RIMS-CRMP Advanced Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Certificate Program, instructed by James Lam, one of the most famous Chief Risk Officers in the world! [3:04] He will lead an intensive 12-week program, beginning July 16th, bi-weekly until September 2025. Registration closes on July 7th. [3:17] James will join us in early June to discuss this program and his ERM philosophy. Check out the link in this episode's show notes and the Education page of RIMS.org. Register today before we reach virtual capacity! [3:33] On with the show! Our guest this week is Megan Smalter. She is a Market Development Executive at Lloyd's and the former Chicago RIMS Chapter Rising Risk Professional Committee President. For her many achievements, she was named RIMS Rising Star for 2025. [3:48] If you were at RISKWORLD 2025, you were lucky enough to see her accept the award onstage. We're going to talk all about her contributions to the risk profession during her 9-to-5 and beyond and delve into what is a pivotal moment in her career. [4:04] Everyone listening, especially young risk professionals with big career decisions ahead of them, will get some fresh perspective. [4:14] Interview! Megan Smalter, welcome to RIMScast! [4:35] Megan Smalter talks about the honor of receiving the RIMS Rising Start Award with her entire team present as well as her family. It was a super special moment for her. [5:01] Megan grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, so she says she's from Illinois. She lived in downtown Chicago for five years before relocating. [6:04] The awards ceremonies were scattered throughout the RISKWORLD 2025 week. Megan's award was presented right before the triple threat of keynotes. Megan and her parents enjoyed the keynotes. [6:50] Megan went from being a private company management liability underwriter at CNA Insurance in Chicago to joining Lloyd's as a Market Development Executive for the Americas and relocated to New York City in December. [7:22] Megan describes changing jobs and moving. It's been interesting. She went from being established in an insurance company where she knew everyone and knew her role to starting over, new and fresh. It's exciting, being in a new environment and company. [7:54] Megan says it comes with growing pains. Learning the tasks, trying to see the fun and excitement in them, and settling down in a new region has been super interesting and a great learning curve. [8:25] Megan was previously in the retail space. Now having exposure to the E&S wholesale world and more of the international space has been fascinating. It's a direction she wants to take her career, which inspired her to take this new role. It's been gratifying so far. [9:02] Megan says it has been bittersweet, leaving the Chicago RIMS Chapter. She first got involved as a student at the Katie School of Insurance at Illinois State. There, she met one of her greatest mentors, Theresa Severson. They've stayed in touch over the years. [9:29] After being involved as a student, she joined Chicago RIMS as a Membership Committee member and became Education Chair, then Vice President, and then President, right before she moved. There's a lot to say goodbye to. Starting over after being deeply involved is a switch. [9:58] Megan's teammates joked that she should carry the award around the RISKWORLD conference the entire time. [10:34] Megan believes the risk profession allows for flexibility to adapt. Everyone in the industry and at Lloyd's is keen to help and provide their experience. It's been a great way for Megan to learn about a new company culture and a new segment of the industry. [11:08] Justin notes that most people are not going to have one job for their entire career, although he knows one person at RIMS who has been there since 1981 and somebody at Spencer who goes back even further. [11:29] Justin adds that risk is a profession where there is such a camaraderie among the professionals that they will give you time to adapt. They will extend that olive branch. [11:49] Megan thinks it's important to give yourself grace and allow yourself to recognize that you're not going to know everything on the first day. You may jump into something new and think “I've got this,” but things like that take time. Give yourself grace. [12:25] At the RIMS Chicago Chapter, the energy in the group drove Megan to get involved and come up the ranks. At the start, event attendance was low. One successful event was the Summer Mixer with the Young Risk Professionals group and the Insurance Associates group. [13:18] There were over 250 folks who attended. Seeing the demand of young professionals to network and get together on an afternoon was an awesome experience. Megan is thankful she got to be part of it. [14:25] A big part of the Chicago RIMS initiative was to have separate membership events, education events, and social events. It's easy to get people to come to social events but education events can be tougher. They tried to keep them interesting. [14:42] One educational event Megan found valuable was the MBA Information Night with a panel of four. Two represented RM&I MBA programs; two were alumni of RM&I MBA programs. To hear from them and get their experiences and advice about continuing education was great. [15:15] They hosted Negotiation Workshops and Book Clubs. One book was Atomic Habits by James Clear. Megan has kept a few key takeaways from that in her day-to-day routine. They do a variety of events through RRP. It's nice to see the support of that with the members. [15:54] Plug Time! RIMS Webinars! On June 5th, Zywave joins us to discuss “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause and What's the Solution?”. [15:59] On June 17th, Origami Risk returns to present “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction”. [16:10] More webinars will be announced soon and added to the RIMS.org/Webinars page. Go there to register. Registration is complimentary for RIMS members. [16:21] About the Spencer Educational Foundation's Grants program. Spencer's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [16:38] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centered experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process is now open through July 30th, 2025. [16:59] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. Learn more about Spencer's General Grants through the Programs tab of SpencerEd.org. [17:09] Let's Return to Our Conversation with RIMS 2025 Rising Star, Megan Smalter!  [17:18] As a Market Development Executive at Lloyd's, Megan engages with key trading partners, whether retail or wholesale brokers in the U.S., making sure that they know how to access Lloyd's in the London market. [17:51] Megan engages with insurance carriers who are interested in coming onto the Lloyd's platform, managing agents, excess lines associations in different states, and universities (one of Megan's favorite aspects of her role). [18:11] Since Megan was a student who studied risk management and insurance, she loves helping out with the next generation and trying to pull talent into the risk field. [18:19] Megan also promotes the Lloyd's Lab and helps with the Lloyd's Boot Camp Programs in Chicago and San Diego. She has a multi-faceted role and gets to touch a lot of aspects of Lloyd's which has been interesting. [18:45] Megan is part of a team representing the Americas, with people in Toronto, Canada, Miami, Florida, and Brazil. [19:10] Justin and Megan spoke in April for the article in the Awards Edition of RIMS Risk Management magazine, which may be out now. Megan mentioned that she is a calculated risk-taker. [19:38] Having a background in underwriting has helped Megan to think of questions to ask whenever a different situation or scenario has been proposed. She walks through the different exposures and thinks through things that the Average Joe probably wouldn't. [20:03] Megan says, the bigger the risk, the bigger the reward. Moving to Lloyd's in New York is an example of a high-risk, high-reward scenario that worked for Megan. She had only been to New York City once, for a conference. [20:30] When Megan looked for an apartment, she signed, sight-unseen, after a video call with the REALTOR® and a search of the area on Google Maps. She took a leap of faith and hoped for the best, but expected for the worst. It turned out in her favor. It's the biggest risk she has taken. [20:58] Megan's career goal for now is locking into Lloyd's and getting to know the nitty-gritty of the “Lloyd's-isms.” Learning the niche aspects of what Lloyd's is, the capital structure, and all the different facets of what Lloyd's has to offer to articulate that to its trading partners. [21:37] Megan is a success story, dating back to the Risk Manager on Campus program, which is how she got hooked. Not every school has a Risk Manager on Campus program.  [21:53] Megan advises young students who are considering the risk management and insurance industry, first to ask questions and ask for introductions. If there's someone who has a role that you're interested in, reach out. Everyone in the industry Megan has interacted with is so nice. [22:30] Especially get to know folks who do jobs outside of what you're considering. If you have an internship in property, get to know the liability folks and the cyber folks, the claims adjusters, and anyone else in the company, and learn what they do. [22:49] The career path opportunities are what drew Megan to the risk management field and how you can always pivot into a different segment of the industry. That keeps it exciting. [23:07] Special thanks again to RIMS 2025 Rising Star, Megan Smalter. You can read more about her in our RIMS RISKWORLD Show Daily Coverage. A link is on this page. Of course, be on the lookout for the RIMS Risk Management magazine Special Awards Edition 2025. [23:27] More award winners will be on RIMScast soon. Be sure to check out Episode 338, featuring Risk Manager of the Year, Jennifer Pack. [23:35] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [24:03] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [24:21] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [24:39] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [24:55] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [25:09] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [25:17] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Advance registration rates now open. ERM Conference 2025 — Call for Submissions (Through May 27) RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine | RIMS 2025 Awards Edition RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 RIMS-CRMP Advanced Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Certificate Program — Featuring Instructor James Lamb! Register by July 7. | Bi-weekly course begins July 16. “Career Opportunities In Insurance and Captive Industry” | Hosted by Chicago RIMS and Origami Risk | Free | July 7, 2025 in Chicago! RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause & What's the Solution?” | Sponsored by Zywave | June 5, 2025 “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction” | Sponsored by Origami Risk | June 17, 2025   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep with AFERM — June 2‒3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and AFERM RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — June 10‒11, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and NAIT Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Managing Data for ERM” | June 12 | Instructor: Pat Saporito  “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Live from RISKWORLD 2025” “RIMS 2025 Risk Manager of the Year, Jennifer Pack” “Risk and Leadership Patterns with Super Bowl Champion Ryan Harris” (RISKWORLD 2025 Keynote) “(Re)Humanizing Leadership in Risk Management with Holly Ransom” “Risk and Relatability with Rachel DeAlto”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Megan Smalter, Market Development Executive at Lloyd's   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Allen Laman, Content Editor at Insurance Journal, chats with Stacie Kroll, Managing Director – Higher Education Practice at Gallagher, about a surprising and often overlooked area of risk … Read More » The post RIMS RISKWORLD 2025: Why Business Interruption in Research Labs Is a Growing Concern appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

In this video from RIMS RISKWORLD in Chicago, Insurance Journal’s Vice President of Content Andrea Wells talks with Paul Lavelle, Former Head of U.S. National Accounts of Zurich … Read More » The post RIMS RISKWORLD 2025: How Might Geopolitics and Tariffs Reshape Business Risk Today? appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews Chris Maguire about his professional journey and what led him to focus on the intersection of legal, compliance, and innovation. This leads to a discussion about AI and predictive analytics. Chris shares examples of General Counsel and compliance offices using AI to improve risk forecasting and decision-making. Chris comments on the expanding role of Compliance in the General Counsel's office.   Listen to Chris's take on the importance of values. He shares some of the core values of Thomson Reuters.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. We will talk about how technology is driving innovation in compliance, risk, and the legal profession, with Chris Maguire of Thomson Reuters. [:41] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep will be presented in conjunction with AFERM and led by instructor Joseph Mayo. This is a two-day course, June 2nd and 3rd. Register by May 26th. [1:02] The next RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Workshop will be presented in conjunction with NAIT on June 10th and 11th. Register by June 9th. That course will be led by former RIMS President, Nowell Seaman. [1:20] Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:27] Virtual Workshops! On June 12th, Pat Saporito will host “Managing Data for ERM”, and she will return on June 26th to present the very popular new course, “Generative AI for Risk Management”. [1:45] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's show notes. [1:56] We are already making preparations for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 on November 17th and 18th in Seattle, Washington. RIMS is accepting educational session submissions through May 20th. [2:14] The best submissions will address current and future challenges facing ERM practitioners as well as provide leading practices and concrete takeaways for a diverse audience of risk professionals from industries or organizations of varied sizes, disciplines, functions, and roles. [2:30] These include officers, leaders, managers, and students. The link to the submission form is in this episode's show notes. If you are listening on the day of this episode's release, this is the last call for submissions, so get them in! [2:46] Let's get on with the show! How is your organization navigating regulatory uncertainty in 2025? Are you leveraging advancements in technology to help achieve your goals? Our guest this week is Chris Maguire, the General Manager for Corporates Risk at Thomson Reuters. [3:06] We are going to talk about how technology is driving innovation in compliance, risk, and legal. We will talk about how AI and predictive analytics are reshaping corporate legal and compliance functions, and more. Let's get to it! [3:22] Interview! Chris Maguire, welcome to RIMScast! [3:29] Chris Maguire started in a Big Four firm in the '90s, in the auto practice. It was a great way to learn business and how they worked, focusing on understanding financial controls and risk, and how to make sure that companies were behaving correctly. [3:59] After an MBA, Chris started working for Thomson Reuters. He has been with them for about 20 years in the legal tech space. He started on the strategy side and transitioned after several years to driving the commercial teams in the risk business. [4:24] Now, Chris has the role of looking at product and industry strategy for corporations. Thomson Reuters is at the intersection of legal, risk, and compliance, and how they affect enterprises. [5:07] Chris says that 20 years ago, AI was not a fast-moving industry. There have been dramatic changes in the last few years. AI adoption by Thomson Reuters customers has doubled in the last year. Generative AI has been seen in a wide range of tasks. It started with drafting NDAs. [5:38] Salespeople are always asking for NDAs and how they can be drafted more quickly and easily. Now AI conducts legal research or helps draft a research memo or a complaint from a particular point of view. We're seeing it in drafting HR employment policies and rote tasks. [6:21] Chris explains the use of AI prompts tied to data sources, such as your data, data from Thomson Reuters, or other data providers. Chris is also seeing big data AI used a lot in analyzing outside spending and looking for cost savings. [7:14] Chris tells how AI helps in decision-making, using the example of knowing the vendors you choose for your supply chain and knowing your customers. AI can weed through all the news out there to make sure you're not dealing with a sanctioned entity. [8:22] AI can help with reputation risk. Is there forced labor in your supply chain? That matters to your reputation. It's not just whether a country is sanctioned, but what the individual entities in your supply chain are doing. There's a lot of focus on reputation today. [9:10] Justin recently had the Chief Impact Officer of EcoVadis on RIMScast Episode 329. They talked about forced labor and human trafficking in the supply chain. Use AI to help identify where forced labor and human trafficking are big risks, avoid them, and report them. [9:35] This is important on the corporate side and the government side of the business. Chris says it will be interesting to see the effect of tariffs. Thomson Reuters has updated about 50 million changes to its global trade products so far this year, compared to 100 million in 2024. [10:16] Plug Time! RIMS Webinars! We are back on May 22nd, with GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company, and their newest session, “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny”. [10:33] On June 5th, Zywave joins us to discuss “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause and What's the Solution?”. [10:413] On June 17th, Origami Risk returns to present “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction”. [10:54] More webinars will be announced soon and added to the RIMS.org/Webinars page. Go there to register. Registration is complimentary for RIMS members. [11:05] Spencer Educational Foundation's Grants program is starting soon. Spencer's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [11:23] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centered experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process is now open through July 30th, 2025. [11:43] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. Learn more about Spencer's General Grants through the Programs tab of SpencerEd.org. [11:54] Back to the Conclusion of my Interview with Chris Maguire of Thomson Reuters!  [12:27] Chris refers to RIMScast Episode 335 with Jeff from Academy Sports. Jeff talked about how the Compliance function now sits in the General Counsel's office. At Thomson Reuters, more of the Compliance group has moved into the General Counsel's office in the last year. [12:48] The General Counsels are being charged with understanding the full weight of risk across an organization, from reputational risk to who you should or should not do business with. [13:16] The Sales organization at Thomson Reuters has discussed that a lot with the GC office, from a reputation, sanctions, and everything perspective. A lot of GC offices now include the Compliance role. [13:50] Chris's ERM philosophy is Trust. Companies need to trust who they are doing business with. Companies need to trust that their employees have what they need to make decisions not to deal with a risky customer, but to follow the laws and rules of global companies. It's trust. [14:29] There is so much change going on. Chris talks about values that resonate. One Thomson Reuters value is Act Fast, Learn Fast. You have to move and learn. Companies can help you, but it is on individuals to take the responsibility to act fast and learn fast about what is changing. [14:59] Thomson Reuters is bound by the Trust Principles. It started with Reuters in the 1940s around WWII, but it goes back to its 150 years of legal content. [15:17] The information Thomson Reuters provides its customers has to be free from bias. It has to be right. It has to be updated. It can't be an opinion about a philosophy. It has to be fact-based. It has to provide customers with the information they need to get work done. [15:36] Applying AI on top of trusted, unbiased, correct, up-to-date information is going to be vital, moving forward. Act fast, learn fast, and trust. [15:57] Chris believes the legal industry hasn't always been the fastest-moving industry. The technology is now there to allow us to move more quickly and learn more quickly. That's an exciting thing! [16:23] Chris says AI is no longer a future concept. It's here. It's transforming our lives; it's starting to transform our business environment. If you don't adapt quickly, you're going to be at a significant disadvantage. [16:36] For people in General Counsel's offices, people in compliance functions, the value is your expertise, your knowledge, and you as a human, and what you can bring to the situation. [16:48] If AI can help you get there, and give you a platform on which to add your judgment and expertise, knowledge, and professional opinion, that's a hugely valuable thing. [17:01] Thomson Reuters doesn't see AI taking away jobs. We see people who use AI, potentially taking away the jobs of people who don't use AI. It all comes back to the humans and how they use it. There's never been a time when Thomson Reuter's expertise has been more important. [17:34] Chris, it has been such a pleasure to have you here on RIMScast! I do appreciate that you listened to some previous episodes! Get my unique download count up there! [I7:50] I appreciate that we're reaching a very important segment of our audience and our RIMS membership. I think they're going to learn a lot in this episode. Thank you! [18:02] Special thanks to Chris Maguire for joining us here on RIMScast. Links to RIMS coverage about AI, legal, and compliance risks are in this episode's show notes.  [18:13] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [18:41] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [19:00] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [19:18 ] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [19:34] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [19:48] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [19:55] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Advance registration rates now open. ERM Conference 2025 — Call for Submissions (Through May 20) RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine “Balancing Innovation and Compliance When Implementing AI” — Risk Management magazine, April 2025 RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 2025 Coast-To-Coast Risk Management Challenge — Applications Open Through May 23 RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny” | Sponsored by GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company | May 22, 2025 “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause & What's the Solution?” | Sponsored by Zywave | June 5, 2025 “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction” | Sponsored by Origami Risk | June 17, 2025   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep with AFERM — June 2‒3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and AFERM RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — June 10‒11, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and NAIT Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Managing Data for ERM” | June 12 | Instructor: Pat Saporito “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “(Re)Humanizing Leadership in Risk Management with Holly Ransom” “AI and Regulatory Risk Trends with Caroline Shleifer”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Chris Maguire, General Manager, Corporates Risk at Thomson Reuters   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

At RIMS RISKWORLD Chicago, Andrea Wells, Vice President of Content at Insurance Journal talks with Priscilla Pazmino-Vitela about how insurers are stepping up as true partners—not just policy providers. From traditional … Read More » The post RIMS RISKWORLD 2025: How Insurers Are Partnering With Clients to Navigate Risk in 2025 appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

Professor William Roberts of Bowie State University predicts an emerging risk flying under the radar: a looming employment crisis. With possible tariffs shaking the markets and a possible … Read More » The post RIMS RISKWORLD 2025: Possible Employment Shockwave Ahead? appeared first on Insurance Journal TV.

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews three RISKWORLD attendees at RISKWORLD 2025. They are first, Audrey Trim of Thomson Rivers University, second, Lucy Straker of Beazley, and third, François Beaume of Sonepar and AMRAE.   Audrey Trim shares information about her career and her experiences at RISKWORLD and on the Board at BC RIMS. She introduces the Second Annual Coast to Coast Risk Management Legacy Challenge for Canada and tells how student teams can compete.   Lucy Straker describes the growing risk of political violence and active assailant events, and what insurance products are needed on top of general liability. She offers strategies for preventing and mitigating violent events.   François Beaume presents the 17th Annual AMRAE RMIS Panorama, a survey of vendors and risk managers, with insights into the software and technology available to corporate risk teams. The Panorama and data sets are freely available online in French and English at the link below. Listen in for a glimpse of the variety of education at RISKWORLD. Be sure to save the dates May 3rd through the 6th for RISKWORLD 2026 in Philadelphia.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:16] About this episode of RIMScast, coming to you live from RISKWORLD 2025 in Chicago. There are so many topics and perspectives to cover! [:40] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! RIMS is co-hosting an intensive four-day program, which is your gateway to achieving two prestigious certifications, the DRI Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) and the RIMS Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP). [:59] This workshop will be held from May 19th through the 22nd in collaboration with DRI International. Links to these courses can be found through the Certification page of RIMS.org and this episode's show notes. [1:14] Virtual Workshops! On June 12th, Pat Saporito will host “Managing Data for ERM”, and she will return on June 26th to present the very popular new course, “Generative AI for Risk Management”. [1:31] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's show notes. [1:42] We're at RISKWORLD this week, but preparations are already underway for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 on November 17th and 18th in Seattle, Washington. RIMS is accepting educational session submissions through May 20th. [2:00] The best submissions will address current and future challenges facing ERM practitioners as well as provide leading practices and concrete takeaways for a diverse audience of risk professionals from industries or organizations of varied sizes, disciplines, functions, and roles. [2:16] These include officers, leaders, managers, and students. The link to the submission form is in this episode's show notes. [2:26] Of course, mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th, and I'll be sure to alert you when registration opens. [2:34] RISKWORLD 2025 was one of the highlights of the 75th Anniversary of RIMS. We had a fantastic time here at McCormick Place in Chicago. We've got a lot of perspectives that we're going to cover! [2:47] Our first guest is the Responsible Use of Space Coordinator in the Risk Management Department of Thomson Rivers University in British Columbia and a Board Member of BC RIMS. She is making her RISKWORLD and RIMScast debut. [3:04] Audrey Trim is here to tell us about her experience as a first-time attendee and the 2025 Coast-to-Coast Risk Management Legacy Challenge, which was a big draw among the students at RIMS Canada 2024, and we expect that to possibly outdo itself in 2025. [3:24] You could sense the energy on the exhibit room floor on Day 1 of RISKWORLD. Let's get to it! [3:32] Interviews! Audrey Trim, welcome to RIMScast! [3:38] On RISKWORLD Day 1, Audrey enjoyed the Matha Stewart opening keynote. It was a great, inspirational show. Audrey has taken in some great sessions. She's looking forward to some educational seminars. This is Audrey's first RISKWORLD; it will not be her last! [4:57] Audrey explains her job title, Responsible Use of Space Coordinator. She oversees the non-academic space, among other things, on the Thomson Rivers University campus. She focuses on the best use of the space in a responsible way. [6:07] In earlier roles, Audrey worked on the 2014 Tim Hortons Brier in Kamloops and was an Event Coordinator for the City of Kamloops. She also coordinated a Buskers Festival. Then she fell into risk management, and she's loving it. [6:28] Audrey joined the Risk Group at Thomson Rivers three years ago. She became a BC RIMS member and now serves on the chapter board. Audrey is on the organizing committee of the Coast to Coast Risk Management Legacy Challenge, working with the SA RIMS Chapter. [7:01] This is the Second Annual Coast to Coast Risk Management Legacy Challenge for Canada. They will try to outdo the premier year. The Challenge involves students in teams of four from universities across Canada. [7:31] The teams get a case study and compete for the top two spots. The top two teams will get a chance to present their findings at the 2025 RIMS Canada Conference, which will be in Calgary, Alberta, from September 14th through 17th. [7:50] This year, Ken Letander, Case Study Champion, owner and Founder of Strat First Inc., a Canadian risk management firm, has chosen the case study topic: Reporting, Set Aside, Spend: Indigenous business joint venture, ethical dilemmas, and program integrity benefits. [8:15] It's going to be a big draw. Audrey hopes lots of teams apply. Ken Letander and others will judge the entries. [8:45] Audrey describes the passion and thought that went into the submissions to the 2024 Coast to Coast Challenge. The winning submission developed a tool to measure health equity across the province. The tool was given to the Fraser Health Authority to use day-to-day.  [9:35] The Coast to Coast Challenge is open to students across Canada. One of the members of the winning team last year changed her direction from business to risk management, because she had such a great experience at the conference and during the case study. [10:38] Apply to join the Coast to Coast Risk Management Legacy Challenge by May 24th. The case study will be assigned on May 30th. Each team submits a 10-page report. The judges will pick the top two teams to present at the RIMS Canada Conference 2025. [10:55] A link to the submissions page and contact information is in this episode's show notes. [11:16] Audrey's advice to anyone considering attending RISKWORLD 2026: “Know where you're going and how to get around the conference. Also, curate your sessions. There are a lot of options here. Pick out the ones that will have an impact on you and teach you something great.” [11:35] “There are so many networking opportunities. Take advantage of those. Get out there. Don't be afraid to try new things!” [11:39] RIMS Canada 2025 will be held from September 14th through 17th in Calgary. Registration will open soon. Audrey says, “Do it! The RIMS Canada Conference was a great opportunity to meet people and network!” [12:20] Plug Time! RIMS Webinars! We are back on May 22nd, with GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company, and their newest session, “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny”. [12:36] On June 5th, Zywave joins us to discuss “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause and What's the Solution?” [12:47] On June 17th, Origami Risk returns to present “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction”. This session was rescheduled from May. If you were already registered, you do not need to take any action. [13:03] More webinars will be announced soon and added to the RIMS.org/Webinars page. Go there to register. Registration is complimentary for RIMS members. [13:15] Spencer Educational Foundation's Grants program is starting soon. Spencer's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [13:34] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centered experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process is now open through July 30th, 2025. [13:55] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. Learn more about Spencer's General Grants through the Programs tab of SpencerEd.org. [14:05] On the 7th of October, the New Jersey RIMS Chapter will return to the beautiful Fiddler's Elbow Country Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, for their Annual Charity Golf/Pickleball Event. [14:18] Registration is open, and the event proceeds are used to fund the chapter's Spencer and Kids' Chance Scholarships. It was the filming location for the upcoming movie sequel, Happy Gilmore 2. For more information and to register, please NewJersey.RIMS.org. [14:42] My next guest was a panelist on several RIMS webinars. I was delighted to see her, so we could record this special segment live at RISKWORLD 2025. She is Lucy Straker. She is the focus group leader for U.S. Political Violence & Deadly Weapons Protection at Beazley. [15:00] We will talk about the trends she's seeing in her area of practice. [15:06] Lucy Straker, welcome to RIMScast!  [15:29] In 2016, Beazley looked at the landscape as it relates to terrorism and active assailant events and realized that traditional insurance options weren't providing sufficient solutions for its clients. Beazley created a product and a marketplace around active armed assailant events. [16:02] Lucy says what you see in the media is a fraction of what's happening. The media report the biggest and worst events. The risk is far higher than what is reported in the media. [16:31] Violence and shootings have increased. People are now more aware of the risk and are trying to respond to it through insurance products and legislation such as California's SB-553, with much more focus on preventing these events from occurring. [16:54] We want to avoid workplace violence before it becomes something. A lot of clients think they already have coverage for workplace violence in their traditional general liability insurance. [17:19] Recently, general liability carriers have put exclusions on their products for AMB, firearms, weapons, or the expected or intended injury exclusion found in a traditional ISA form. [17:38] Lucy says clients need to be aware that there is a potential coverage gap. A misconception among clients is that none of them think they will have a shooting. They're in denial. When there's a shooting, you hear, “I never thought it would happen to me!” [18:03] We're at a stage where gun violence is so prevalent in the U.S. that you can't argue you didn't think something was going to happen. You have to plan and prepare for the worst-case scenario. [18:28] Lucy advises risk leaders to buy coverage to help them cover the gap. They do not have to be alone. With most shootings, there is a warning sign. There is a trail. There are things to do to prevent it. [18:52] As a company, protocols have to be embedded from top-down and bottom-up. The company has to communicate every plan and procedure to its employees. Employees have to be trained and retrained. This is not something they're going to be thinking about every day. [19:09] You have to engage with your security team. You have to screen people. You have to screen the company. You have to create a culture of reporting. People are not going to report something unless they feel comfortable reporting it. You need to have anonymous reporting. [19:24] You need to instill a culture in your company of “See something, say something, report it.” It could be someone coming in and acting funny, or someone posting on social media, “I'm going to go carry out a shooting.” [19:46] More often than not, if someone's going down a path to violence, there are signs. They don't just wake up one morning and say they're going to go carry out a shooting. There are warning signs, and we want to catch them before it becomes something more material. [20:13] There are different lines of coverage and ways that coverage can respond, such as active assailant forms. Think about your business and other areas of your business you might not have thought about. Lucy mentions the United Health Care CEO being shot off the premises. [20:38] It was a targeted event. Were there warning signs online by Luigi, the perpetrator? How can you identify those threats? Make sure you have risk management and preventive measures in place. Think of the litigious landscape. We're now seeing more nuclear verdicts. [21:02] People always want someone to blame. You've got to make sure that, if something happens, you're doing right by the people to try and eliminate and reduce that liability on the back end. [21:15] RIMS Plug! The first of hopefully many RIMS Texas Regional Conferences will be held in San Antonio from August 4th through the 6th, 2025. This groundbreaking event is set to unite the Texas RIMS Chapters and welcome risk management professionals from around the world. [21:35] Guess what, folks! Registration is now open! The advance rate is available through May 16th. A link is in this episode's show notes. You can also visit the Events page of RIMS.org to register. We look forward to seeing you in Texas! [21:51] Let's Move to My Final Guest, François Beaume, The SVP for Risks and Insurance at Sonepar and the VP of AMRAE (The Association for Corporate Risk and Insurance Management)! [22:16] François Beaume is here to discuss the findings of the 17th Edition of the RMIS Panorama that AMRAE produces in association with and with the support of several groups, including RIMS. [22:36] François Beaume, welcome back to RIMScast! [23:02] AMRAE has the 17th Annual Edition of the RMIS Panorama available. In 17 years, the most significant evolution in risk management information system offerings has been the integration of advanced technologies like AI, automation, and data visualization. [23:57] These add-ons transform the software from a pure data management tool to a much more sophisticated platform that provides productive analyses and real-time risk monitoring to enhance decision-making capabilities and processes in a wider scope of topics. [24:40] Panorama is a collection of surveys. One survey focuses on vendors and one survey focuses on risk managers. François says there is still room for improvement in this solution. Progress has been made on flexibility and integration capability, with changes to come. [25:12] François sees a need to guarantee the success of such solutions, train users, and provide support to users to streamline how they use the system. Vendors receive feedback to provide customizable solutions, enhanced integration capability, training, user clubs, and more. [26:07] Interconnection is a key area of these tools. With APIs, modular architecture, and code-based solutions, more and more, these tools can connect with other risk management information systems. Some corporations have several risk management systems. [26:45] There are more and more interconnected features in these systems, to allow the risk manager and all the teams involved in the use of the risk management programatics to extract the most important benefits from the use of the tool. [27:04] ESG is a key area where this matters more and more. In Europe, there is a strong push for ESG compliance that requires corporations to gather and manage a huge volume of data that, when organized, is helpful to fuel the risk management processes. [27:33] The report evaluates 52 solutions in four functional categories, covering 17 functional modules and 14 technical modules to allow you to compare and assess the value of the solutions and if they are compatible with your company's technology for audit, risk, and more. [28:22] AMRAE is looking at the functional scope and the depth of the features that are offered. Is the scope well-covered? They are looking at technical capabilities; is it easy to integrate a solution? Is it scalable? How is the user interface? What can the admin customize? [28:45] AMRAE also gathers user feedback and testimonials from using a given tool in real life. That feedback provides robust data capabilities, seamless integration capabilities, and more user-friendly interfaces that will benefit the users of the tool. [29:36] RMIS vendors use AI in predictive analytics of historical data. Risk management is gathering and dealing with historical data linked to risk management topics to anticipate future risks. [29:59] Vendors use AI to automate workflows and streamline data from the field and validation from the stakeholders, reducing manual intervention and increasing confidence in the data quality. All data will be analyzed more easily with AI and integrated into interactive dashboards. [30:34] Dashboarding has improved over the past year to provide more interactive dashboards for better risk insights and risk decision-making processes. [31:10] François has advice for risk managers looking for RMIS software. His most valuable advice is to use the RMIS Panorama. It's freely available to anyone. You can get it in French or English. Besides the Panorama PDF, there is an online platform that allows customization. [31:48] The entire data set from the vendor and risk manager surveys is freely available online. You can customize your analytics of the data based on your use case. [32:32] François speaks of captives and the evolving reinsurance market. The market today is favorable toward captives, a powerful tool for improving corporate risk management and the way corporations are living with ESG. There is a strong push in Europe for captives. [33:22] François has seen the creation of about 20 captives in France. Corporations need captives in the risk management process and risk financing optimization. [34:00] Special thanks again to all of our guests and all of the RISKWORLD attendees who made this year's RISKWORLD Conference so very special. Links to RISKWORLD coverage are in this episode's show notes. [34:13] Mark your calendars for May 3rd through the 6th, and join us at RISKWORLD 2026 in Philadelphia. [34:20] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [34:49] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [35:06] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [35:24] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [35:40] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [35:54] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [36:01] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Advance registration rates now open. ERM Conference 2025 — Call for Submissions (Through May 20) RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Dates RISKWORLD 2025 — Show Daily! [Bottom of page] 2025 Coast-To-Coast Risk Management Challenge — Applications Open Through May 23 AMRAE RMIS Panorama 2025 New Jersey RIMS Spencer Golf/Pickleball Outing — Oct. 7 Global Trio of Risk Leaders Inducted Into RIMS Risk Management Hall of Fame RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny” | Sponsored by GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company | May 22, 2025 “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause & What's the Solution?” | Sponsored by Zywave | June 5, 2025 “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction” | Sponsored by Origami Risk | June 17, 2025   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: CBCP & RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Bootcamp: “Mastering Business Continuity & Risk Management” | May 19‒22, 2025 | In Collaboration with DRI International Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Managing Data for ERM” | June 12 | Instructor: Pat Saporito  “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “RIMS 2025 Risk Manager of the Year, Jennifer Pack” “Risk and Leadership Patterns with Super Bowl Champion Ryan Harris” (RISKWORLD 2025 Keynote) “(Re)Humanizing Leadership in Risk Management with Holly Ransom” “Risk and Relatability with Rachel DeAlto” “Live From RISKWORLD 2024!” “The Rise of RMIS with AMRAE's VP, François Beaume” (2019)   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guests: Audrey Trim, BTM, Responsible Use of Space Coordinator, Risk Management, Risk and Safety Services, Thomson Rivers University BC RIMS Board Member   Lucy Straker, Focus Group Leader U.S. Political Violence & Deadly Weapons Protection, Beazley   François Beaume, SVP Risks and Insurance, Sonepar, VP AMRAE, [Association for Corporate Risk and Insurance Management]   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin and his guest, Jennifer Pack, RIMS 2025 Risk Manager of the Year, discuss her career and achievements, including Hyatt's VP of Risk Management. Jennifer describes how her membership in the RIMS Chicago Chapter and service on the Board impacted her career.   Jennifer helped align Hyatt's risk strategies with its evolving business model to ensure resilience in today's complex environment. Leading nearly 40 professionals, Jennifer's leadership and innovative risk solutions have helped strengthen Hyatt's risk management framework, to proactively identify risks and develop strategies to address them. Jennifer successfully redesigned and centralized Hyatt's Short-Term, Long-Term Disability, and Workers' Compensation programs, reducing manual processing by up to 80,000 hours, improving compliance, and reducing legal exposure. It is linked to millions of dollars in savings. Under her leadership, Hyatt's risk management team is overhauling Hyatt Hotels' fire safety with the first-of-its-kind Fire Life Safety Compliance and Governance Program, setting a standard for the organization and industry. The initiative includes the implementation of new technology, as well as auditing the 1,450 Hyatt hotels in 79 countries. Jennifer is a beloved mentor who has had an impact on many careers. She continues to demonstrate her commitment to advancing the risk management profession as an active member of the RIMS Chicago Chapter.   Jennifer's innovations may inspire your work for your organization's ERM program. Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:16] About this episode of RIMScast. It is one of my favorite episodes to produce, with the Risk Manager of the Year. This year's honoree is Jennifer Pack, Hyatt's Vice President of Risk Management. We will talk about her success in ERM, captives, and more. [:48] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! RIMS is co-hosting an intensive four-day program which is your gateway to achieving two prestigious certifications, the DRI Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) and the RIMS Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP). [1:08] This workshop will be held from May 19th through the 22nd in collaboration with DRI International. Links to these courses can be found through the Certification page of RIMS.org and this episode's show notes. [1:23] Virtual Workshops! On June 12th, Pat Saporito will host “Managing Data for ERM” and she will return on June 26th to present the very popular new course, “Generative AI for Risk Management”. [1:40] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's show notes. [1:51] We're at RISKWORLD this week but preparations are already underway for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 on November 17th and 18th in Seattle, Washington. RIMS is accepting educational session submissions through May 20th. [2:08] The best submissions will address current and future challenges facing ERM practitioners as well as provide leading practices and concrete takeaways for a diverse audience of risk professionals from industries or organizations of varied sizes, disciplines, functions, and roles. [2:26] These include officers, leaders, managers, and students. The link to the submission form is in this episode's show notes. [2:35] While you are at RISKWORLD, be sure to take away some inspirado and channel it into an educational session submission for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025. Of course, mark your calendars for November 17th and 18th and I'll be sure to alert you when registration opens. [2:55] The RIMS Risk Manager of the Year Program aims to raise the profile of the risk profession and the outstanding programs the honorees have implemented within their organizations. [3:04] The award was created in 1977 and the Risk Management Honor Roll was added in 1981. The 2025 RIMS Risk Manager of the Year is Jennifer Pack of Hyatt. [3:16] As VP of Risk Management, Jennifer has transformed risk management at Hyatt, embedding a culture that has provided a launchpad for organizational success. Her innovations in captive management also earned her this award. [3:28] Jennifer is a long-standing member of the RIMS Chicago Chapter and an all-around fantastic professional. Her profile will soon appear in the Awards Edition of RIMS Risk Management magazine. [3:40] Jennifer will receive the award on May 5th at 4:00 p.m., on the main stage at RISKWORLD. We're going to get to know her a little bit now. We'll talk ERM, captives, Chicago RIMS, hotel and hospitality, and more. [3:57] Interview! RIMS 2025 Risk Manager of the Year, Jennifer Pack, welcome to RIMScast!  [4:34] Jennifer has been at Hyatt, for going on 18 years. She can stay at any hotel she would like! [5:03] Some people like to leave their jobs every few years for a new company and skills. Jennifer's career at Hyatt has been an adventure! She hasn't been doing the same thing for 18 years. Every couple of years, she gets new roles and responsibilities. She's constantly learning. [5:24] She has a foundation of knowing whom to go to, what the systems are, and how to get things done. There's a base familiarity but with some excitement and learning opportunities. [5:36] If the feeling of being able to learn and grow ever stops, Jennifer will think about leaving. She's enjoying her time. It seems like she's working or a new company all the time. They're transforming. They're changing. The risk landscape is changing. There's never a dull moment. [5:56] Justin feels the same way about working at RIMS! He started as a writer but then got these responsibilities and they took on sort of a life of their own and attracted more of an audience. It's more work, but it's more fun and rewarding. [6:25] Jennifer joined Hyatt in a group called Compliance and Controls. She was hired to set up their Sarbanes-Oxley department. In reaction to the financial crisis after the downfall of Arthur Andersen and Enron, Sarbanes-Oxley was born and Jennifer became an expert on it. [6:58] Jennifer launched that group and then it was moved into Internal Audit where they were exposed to a lot more people and systems. Jennifer had the opportunity to backfill someone in the Risk Management department and never left. She's been in the risk function for 15 years. [7:30] When Jennifer joined the risk group it had seven risk practitioners in the corporate office. There were five or six Occupational Health Managers in the field, helping with Workers' Compensation and occupational safety. There are over 35 full-time members now. [8:09] They've taken on new roles in the 15 years: physical security, business resilience, fire life safety compliance, and other health and safety functions in the company. They could probably use a few more people but they're doing well. [8:38] The risk profile of the company has changed. The geopolitical risk profile of the world has changed. Hyatt's offerings have changed. They used to be mostly business, group, and convention, and now they lean into leisure, travel, and all-inclusive, which have different risks. [9:16] Hyatt has tripled its resort rooms and quintupled its lifestyle rooms since 2017. A lifestyle room is about meeting clientele where they are. Millennials want to travel the world and experience the environment, such as an attached nightclub in Miami or New York. [9:55] They're unconventional hotels with the framework of a well-known brand, where guests have comfort, safety, security, cybersecurity, and loyalty points while feeling like they're in a niche hotel with great and different experiences. It feels like a boutique, attached to the brand. [11:06] Social inflation is a risk. Liability insurance has gone up because claim payouts have gone up tremendously. Claim attorneys are targeting hospitality. [12:12] Hyatt is thinking globally about health, safety, and security, making sure policies are locked down, training is locked down, and people know how to report an incident, and when to report it. How do you de-escalate an incident to win the guest back? [12:36] Saying, “I'm sorry that happened to you. Here are some points. We care about you,” reinforcing that, versus saying, “Let my insurance company deal with it.” That's the last thing we want. If our guests had a bad incident, they had a bad experience. [12:51] Especially if you're traveling on leisure with your family, you want to know that you'll be taken care of. There's an expectation that you're going to be safe and secure. Hyatt wants to make sure to bring the level of care to them that they deserve. [13:07] Hyatt is working on the front end to retrain employees on ramping up safety and security measures and knowing how to respond when an incident happens. [13:18] Then, if it gets into the claims section, the claims management team has new robust processes to manage claims to drive down exposure. On the insurance procurement side, Hyatt is leaning into its captive to take on much higher retention in-house. [14:09] Hyatt is asking leadership in the field to bring education and awareness to the importance of risk management, what's at risk, and what the current legal environment is, and overlay that with wanting to care for people. Hyatt cares about the guest experience. [14:43] This is a macro-level environment. If you have litigation system abuse across the country, what are insurers doing about it? What are brokers doing about it? What are corporations doing about it? [14:56] Jennifer gets with her peers in the hospitality industry, working in their respective associations, to address these issues at the state and federal levels, change laws, and push for tort reform and disclosures of litigation funding. [15:28] Hyatt has partnered with the American Lodging and Hospitality Association and is considering partnering with insurance companies. You can't just hope someone else will take care of the problem. It's a much bigger problem that we all need to address. [16:06] Justin points out that third-party litigation funding is one of the top initiatives and campaigns for RIMS this year. RIMS recently had the Legislative Summit in Washington, D.C., where third-party litigation funding was a top priority. It was a top RIMS talking point on the Hill. [16:38] Jennifer says Hyatt and the hospitality industry are in with RIMS on the issue of third-party litigation funding. If it continues, guests are going to have to pay more for a stay and for the experiences they want to have as rising risk costs are passed to the consumers. [17:04] Plug Time! RIMS Webinars! We are back on May 22nd, with GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company, and their newest session, “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny”. [17:22] On May 29th, Origami Risk returns to present “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction”. On June 5th, Zywave joins us to discuss “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause and What's the Solution?” [17:44] More webinars will be announced soon and added to the RIMS.org/Webinars page. Go there to register. Registration is complimentary for RIMS members. [17:55] Spencer's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [18:16] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centered experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process is now open through July 30th, 2025. [18:36] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. Learn more about Spencer's General Grants through the Programs tab of SpencerEd.org. [18:46] On the 7th of October, the New Jersey RIMS Chapter will return to the beautiful Fiddler's Elbow Country Club in Bedminster, New Jersey for their Annual Charity Golf/Pickleball Event. [18:59] Registration is open and the event proceeds are used to fund the chapter's Spencer and Kids' Chance Scholarships. It was the filming location for the upcoming movie sequel Happy Gilmore 2. For more information, and to register, please NewJersey.RIMS.org. [19:21] Let's Return to My Interview with RIMS 2025 Risk Manager of the Year, Jennifer Pack! [19:47] Hyatt put a captive in place in 2013. Back then, Hyatt had huge insurance cost swings year-on-year that they couldn't forecast. It created a lot of “noise” on the balance sheet. They originally put the captive in place to take away that noise and remove wild cost volatility. [20:38] Over time, Hyatt started to see success and build up a surplus they saw the value of a captive, especially as market conditions changed. They brought in additional forms of insurance coverage with traditional deductible buy-downs with workers' compensation and GL. [21:04] They started to see the surplus build up and they were able to give some of the surplus back to the participants and drive down their premium cost. [21:14] In the pandemic, the hospitality business came to a halt. Before the pandemic, Hyatt's average occupancy around the world was over 75%. In April 2020, it dropped to 6%. The owners of Hyatt were under extreme pressure. [21:43] Jennifer had an extra surplus in the captive and was able to give relief to the owners and to the company in that year and the next couple of years. Claim volume went down due to lower occupancy. Hyatt used some of that cash to fund large acquisitions. [22:19] That's when Hyatt saw social inflation in gaps in coverage. There was no coverage for a pandemic. Through the captive, Jennifer was able to offer that coverage to the owners. She offered wages and hours insurance to the owners. [22:48] Coming out of COVID-19, with the impact of social inflation, the captive took on larger line sizes and larger layers in its umbrella tower. They had some acquisitions in cyber. They bought the Apple Leisure Group. [23:36] In a lot of those services, Hyatt isn't providing the service but is almost like a travel agent, connecting you to the hotel, airline, or excursion. If there is an incident, the third party has the coverage. Hyatt has exposure for connecting you to the service. [24:01] Hyatt had to get creative with coverage for these new exposures, working with broker partners to fill those gaps. They did it largely with the captive, buying time until they could get a traditional product in place. [24:17] With the captive, Hyatt filled gaps, helped grow the business, and used it as a business enabler, providing cash, relief to owners, and coverage that may not have been commercially available, either to buy time or permanently fill a gap. It's been fun! [24:53] Jennifer regularly changes which hat she wears. As the captive President, she has to look at what Hyatt is doing to protect the captive and make sure it's adequately funded and complies with regulations. From a governance perspective, is Hyatt doing the right things? [25:21] Jennifer regularly brings in third-party experts to check the captive. Jennifer's decisions as President of the captive are through the lens of the captive and as the owner of this business, what they are doing to grow revenues, manage expenses, and keep an adequate surplus. [25:44] The captive doesn't run razor-thin. To have a forward-looking approach, it needs to have an adequate surplus, reserves, and cash in the captive. They're very conservative in protecting it. [26:06] From a corporate risk management perspective, when Hyatt needs to buy insurance, Jennifer asks, can we buy it from the captive? She sometimes has tough conversations with Hyatt about borrowing versus driving up investment income to protect everyone's interests. [26:37] Jennifer has to keep top-of-mind, which lens she's looking through, whether President of the Captive or Hyatt Vice President of Risk Management. She wears two hats, managing all the key stakeholders' needs and wants. [27:17] Some of the stakeholders are Hyatt, third-party owners, the corporation itself, and guests and colleagues with short-term and long-term disability and medical, adding value for the benefits team so they don't have to go to third parties for that insurance. [28:27] As the Captive President, Jennifer is looking at loss and expense ratios, reserve to operating ratios, surplus to premiums, and surplus to reserves, making sure that they're within the set ratios. They shoot for three to one. Anything above that number can go to participants. [29:09] They won't go below three to one so they are capitalized for future unexpected losses or to back up future business growth. Jennifer believes Hyatt is unique in having those ratios and guards in place. Jennifer is looking forward to future needs. [30:15] The captive evaluates from time to time whether to change the ratios to five to one or four to one. In the liability space, claims are growing. Some of the demands are wild and the settlements reached or not reached are eye-opening! [30:46] Jennifer explains the global risk management claims software that is now also used for incident reporting to the risk department. They look at data from all incidents and are seeing a trend and looking to what could come down the pike and new coverages they may need to offer. [31:44] The technology is supporting the department and overall risk management strategy. The captive is benefiting through better data on what's happening out there so they won't get blindsided by unusual trends that aren't yet seen in the claims. [32:19] Technology helps the captive to build out platforms to manage compliance, safety, and security in the environment. [32:28] The more data insights and comfort Jennifer has over the Health, Safety, and Security diagnostic at each property, region, and the globe, and overlays those with risk assessments Hyatt does, the more comfort she can get to take on more risks knowledgeably in the captive. [33:15] RIMS Plug! The first of hopefully many RIMS Texas Regional Conferences will be held in San Antonio from August 4th through the 6th, 2025. This groundbreaking event is set to unite the Texas RIMS Chapters and welcome risk management professionals from around the world. [33:34] Guess what, folks! Registration is now open! The advance rate is available through May 16th. A link is in this episode's show notes. You can also visit the Events page of RIMS.org to register. We look forward to seeing you in Texas! [33:50] Let's Conclude Our Interview with RIMS 2025 Risk Manager of the Year, Jennifer Pack! [34:04] Jennifer Pack is the RIMS Risk Manager of the Year 2025 and she has been such a wonderful guest. This episode is coming out the morning of the awards. We will see her onstage, for anyone who has the privilege of being there. [34:19] Jennifer is honored, excited, and a little nervous to be onstage at RISKWORLD for the award. A lot of the RIMS Chicago members will be there. Jennifer has a wonderful Chicago-based team that will be there. Jennifer's parents and her husband are coming. [36:26] Jennifer says moving up the ranks at Hyatt and RIMS Chicago has been a fun and wild ride! The growth in her career, switching from being a Public Accountant to Auditor to Risk Manager has been fun with a lot of learning. [36:54] Jennifer tries to lead and grow with optimism, fun, and humor. She's been able to grow and develop a team under her. It's been a really interesting 18-year adventure. [37:11] Once Jennifer was exposed to RIMS, it opened her eyes to the wealth of resources, friendship, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing. It's been such an excellent experience for her. She couldn't be prouder of the Chicago Chapter and the great things they do to develop talent.  [37:43] Jennifer says since COVID-19, it's been wonderful to see the number of people who attend the outings and forums. It's great to have such a great community and seeing them regularly is impactful. [38:06] Jennifer is Risk Manager of the Year. The Rising Star is Megan Smalter, who has had a wonderful time with the Chicago Chapter before moving to New York. In her role on the RIMS Chicago Chapter Board, and when she ran the Golf Outing, Jennifer has worked with Megan. [38:45] Julie Bean won the Heart of RIMS Award recently. Jennifer says it's great to have the bench of expertise of long-standing members in the Chicago Chapter. Jennifer learned from them personally and in professional settings. They're great for sharing ideas and working with. [39:36] Jennifer also mentioned Theresa Severson who was RIMS 2023 Risk Manager of the Year, with Kite Realty. There's a lot of talent and deep risk knowledge in the RIMS Chicago Chapter. There's a genuine camaraderie.  [40:30] Jennifer looks ahead to see companies leaning into the concept of full risk management philosophy. Risk management is so much more than just the insurance buyers. [40:45] Risk management is “How can we bring a risk management mindset to our enterprises? How can we be business enablers? How can we leverage the wealth of data and information that comes through our department to enable mindful growth in the business?” [41:05] It's “How can we help with ESG efforts, especially with the reporting? How can we mitigate risks to the company and not just to our financial tools of insurance? What can we do in loss prevention or mitigation?” [41:26] “What can we do in claims management with more expertise, as things heat up on the litigation side with social inflation and nuclear claims?” Jennifer sees Hyatt and other companies taking more risks in the captive's or balance sheet to offset what's happening.” [42:10] Risk managers are going to have to articulate that and bring solutions to the forefront of their companies. Jennifer is excited about the future. She's looking forward to launching and rolling out more technology solutions as Hyatt leverages all its data. [42:57] Jennifer knows her team can have a lot of positive impact on the organization and she's excited about it. [43:08] Special thanks and congratulations again to Jennifer Pack, the RIMS 2025 Risk Manager of the Year. A link to RISKWORLD coverage is in this episode's show notes via the Show Daily. [43:20] That will update this episode's show notes with a link to the RIMS Risk Management Magazine coverage in our special Awards Edition. More honorees from RISKWORLD will join us here on RIMScast soon. [43:35] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [44:03] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [44:21] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [44:38] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [44:55] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [45:09] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [45:17] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Advance registration rates now open. ERM Conference 2025 — Call for Submissions (Through May 20) RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Dates Press Release: “RIMS Risk Manager of the Year Goes to Hyatt's Jennifer Pack” RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny” | Sponsored by GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company | May 22, 2025 “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction” | Sponsored by Origami Risk | May 29, 2025 “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause & What's the Solution?” | Sponsored by Zywave | June 5, 2025   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: CBCP & RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Bootcamp: “Mastering Business Continuity & Risk Management” | May 19‒22, 2025 | In Collaboration with DRI International Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Managing Data for ERM” | June 12 | Instructor: Pat Saporito  “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Risk and Leadership Patterns with Super Bowl Champion Ryan Harris” (RISKWORLD 2025 Keynote) “(Re)Humanizing Leadership in Risk Management with Holly Ransom” “Risk and Relatability with Rachel DeAlto” “RIMS Risk Manager of the Year, Steve Robles, Los Angeles County” (2024)   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RIMS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Jennifer Pack, VP of Global Risk Management, Hyatt Corporation   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

You know the adage "what doesn't kill us makes us stronger"? There are four very important words left off of that statement… "IF YOU SO CHOOSE!".Beth Fritzeen shares her journey of heartbreak and healing after going through some hard losses. How do you find courage to do the hard things? How do you survive, and more importantly, THRIVE when you find yourself struggling with injustice?Beth's story will encourage you to embrace the presence of God's goodness in your life and inspire you to find your hope, healing and courage in Jesus!Show Notes: John 16:33Jeremiah 29:11"It's Not Supposed To Be This Way"by Lysa Terkeurst"Forgiving What You Can't Forget"by Lysa TerkeurstDirect questions & comments to: podcast@wearethebridge.orgDenise Harper's new book, “Treasured Inside - Devotions With Denise,” is available at Amazon, Apple, Target, and more. For more information, email Denise at: denise@wearethebridge.orgDid you know you can now watch Over the Rims of Mugs?Visit https://www.wearethebridge.org/mugsvideoPlease share Over the Rims of Mugs with a friend if you enjoyed this episode. Over the Rims of Mugs is still growing, and your positive review and 5-star rating would help.The Bridge Podcast Network is made possible by generous support from The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel and Victoria's Restaurant on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware - Open 7 days a week, year-round - Learn more at https://boardwalkplaza.comFeedback, or Show Ideas? Send an email to podcast@wearethebridge.orgDownload The Bridge Mobile App to get the latest podcast episodes as soon as they are published!

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin and his guest, Kirti Mutatkar, discuss Kirti's journey to become President & CEO of UnitedAg and President of HCAA. Kirti speaks of her master's degrees in microbiology and finance, and how they work together in healthcare risk. Justin and Kirti explore stress awareness and mental health awareness and how these issues are managed at UnitedAg. Kirti tells how she wove attention to compassion and empathy into the fabric of healthcare administration at UnitedAg, and what that means for the financial success of the organization. She notes the significant growth of UnitedAg under her leadership, and how the scientific method of experimentation played a major role in that growth.   Kirti shares her advice for leading healthcare with compassion, and the roles supervisors and managers can play in looking for tell-tale signs of mental health needs. Listen to Kirti's leadership wisdom that may work in your organization. Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:14] Registration is open for RISKWORLD 2025. Engage Today and Embrace Tomorrow with RIMS, from May 4th through May 7th in Chicago, Illinois. Register at RIMS.org/RISKWORLD. [:25] After you register, visit your App Store, search for RIMS Events, and download the RIMS Events App. Select RISKWORLD 2025, load the show onto your phone, and start building your RISKWORLD itinerary! [:41] About this episode of RIMScast. We will talk about healthcare risk and mental health awareness with Kirti Mutatkar, CEO and President of United Ag and the President of the Health Care Administrators Association. We're going to get a unique risk philosophy, today. [1:13] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! RIMS is co-hosting an intensive four-day program which is your gateway to achieving two prestigious certifications, the DRI Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) and the RIMS Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP). [1:33] This workshop will be held from May 19th through the 22nd in collaboration with DRI International. Links to these courses can be found through the Certification page of RIMS.org and this episode's show notes. [1:48] Virtual Workshops! On June 12th, Pat Saporito will host “Managing Data for ERM” and she will return on June 26th to present the very popular new course, “Generative AI for Risk Management”. [2:05] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's show notes. [2:16] RISKWORLD registration is open. Engage Today and Embrace Tomorrow, from May 4th through 7th in Chicago. The opening Keynote has been announced. It's official. Martha Stewart will kick things off in the Skyline Ballroom, on May 5th. Register at RIMS.org/RISKWORLD. [2:35] Also, remember that there will be lots of pre-conference workshops being held in Chicago just ahead of RISKWORLD. These courses include “Applying and Integrating ERM,” “Captives as an Alternate Risk Financing Technique,” and more! The links are in the show notes. [2:51] The Spencer Educational Foundation is having a Flash Sale for sponsorships at RISKWORLD! Sponsorship pricing has been reduced for the Spencer-CNA Pickleball Social on Saturday, May 3rd, and the Spencer-Gallagher Golf Tournament on Sunday, May 4th. [3:10] Sponsorships are still available for the Spencer-Sedgwick 5K Fun Run on Tuesday, May 6th. Visit Spencered.org/riskworld2025 to learn about these opportunities and more. Also, reach out to Spencer's Executive Director Megan Miller at MMiller@Spencered.org. [3:32] April is Stress Awareness Month and May is Mental Health Awareness Month. I wanted to get a fresh perspective through a risk management or risk-management-adjacent lens, which is why I reached out to today's guest. [3:49] Kirti Mutatkar is the President and CEO of UnitedAg in California and also the President, serving a two-year term, of the Health Care Administrators Association not for profit. [4:01] We will learn about her fascinating career journey and how leading with empathy has reduced turnover and retained value at UnitedAg. [4:10] Interview! Kirti Mutatkar, welcome to RIMScast!  [4:37] Kirti came to the U.S. to do her Master's when she was 20. She was going to study microbiology and do her PhD in genetics and biotech. Her circumstances changed and she explored getting an MBA. She got a Master's in finance. This was in Connecticut. [5:15] Kirti moved to California and looked for work. She applied at UnitedAg, to work for “a year or two.” Each year since then, UnitedAg has grown like crazy, with many innovations. Kirti has never felt that she has been there so long, she could do it in her sleep. [6:06] For Kirti, it's exciting every day to come to work. She was the CFO and transitioned  10 years ago to become the CEO. [6:25] Kirti was a member of HCAA for several years and is now President for a two-year term. The HCAA is very aligned with Kirti's thinking. She learns something with every conference she attends and every board meeting. [7:36] Kirti says, if everybody in the room feels it's their idea, and it's because of them we have succeeded, and you know you've played a role in that, that's success. [8:02] Kirti says a microbiologist, or any scientist, is constantly running experiments, and learning from experiments. Kirti says UnitedAg is a lab. HCAA is a lab. They're testing out things and trying to see what works and what does not work. [8:36] You understand the risks to the healthcare industry at a deeper level by doing experiments. You watch the results and you learn from them. You create feedback loops and grow. [8:53] Under Kirti's leadership, UnitedAg has tripled in size over the last couple of years, based on experimentation, learning, and adapting. That's what being a science student had taught her. [9:14] From the finance standpoint, in the position of impacting change, just looking at the financial statements and getting a quick picture of what's happening, was one of the best things Kirti could have done for herself in the role of CEO. [9:39] As a CEO, you have a strong CFO behind you. Understanding from a financial standpoint and a risk standpoint what that risk means to the financial, has been a big part of Kirti's success at UnitedAg. Her knowledge of science and finance works well for her organizations. [10:15] UnitedAg has around 110 employees. It has an underwriting department for its health plan. [10:45] Kirti believes her interest in the scientific method of testing hypotheses relating to the human side of risk and finance is what she brings to UnitedAg. [11:25] Kirti explains her upcoming plans for underwriting models for employer group risk and administrative costs. She is testing out opening the books, educating, and working with employer groups. [12:33] With Mental Health Awareness Month in May, Kirti discusses mental health in the agricultural community. She has been thinking of this since COVID-19. Ag workers did not have the choice of working from home. They were out in the fields. [13:15] There was a lot of uncertainty around what COVID-19 meant. In 2020, the need surfaced to provide some form of benefit for mental health. Culturally, in the ag industry, there is a stigma around mental health care. There is a lot of stress in production agriculture. [13:54] Kirti decided to run an experiment. She proposed to the board to use some of the innovation dollars set aside to offer a mental health benefit free of cost to all the members, with no copays and nothing going to the deductible, and doing it for one year. [14:28] It was a huge risk. They didn't look at the financial impact. They said, there's a need for mental health; let's do it for a year. They offered it and it became a huge impact. [14:56] A lot of people did seek out that benefit and used it. UnitedAg used Care Navigators to see what level of care a member's need was, and based on that need, provide that care. They found that some needed much care but more of the risk is in the early stages of need. [15:59] In the earlier stages, individuals may not realize they need care. Kirti stresses identifying the initial need for mental health care. Providing care initially can prevent chronic conditions. Not just for health plan cost, but from a human standpoint, you don't want that to go there. [16:33] UnitedAg spends a lot of time understanding mental health. Are you just having an anxious day today or are you having chronic anxiety? With the Chief Medical Officer, UnitedAg is spending time determining the tell-tale signs of anxiety to identify and help people with it. [16:59] Free access to mental health care, using Teladoc, Spring Health, other vendors, and the Member Advocacy Department at UnitedAg can be as simple as getting on a call and talking through anxiety, whether it's caused by environmental issues like flooding, or other stresses. [18:14] Kirti says UnitedAg is seeing anxiety around ICE deportations as labor is a big part of agriculture. There are a lot of people who come to work in the ag industry and then go back home. [18:39] Employees have anxiety over whether they will be there tomorrow. Employers have anxiety over whether they'll have access to labor tomorrow. [19:12] Uncertainty creates anxiety. The ups and downs of life create anxiety. [19:28] Plug Time! RIMS Webinars! Zurich's webinar, “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” will be held on May 1st at 1:00 p.m. Eastern. Then RIMS takes a little break from webinars. [19:43] On May 22nd, webinars are back with GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company, and their newest session, “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny”. [19:55] On May 29th, Origami Risk returns to present “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction”. On June 5th, Zywave joins us to discuss “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause and What's the Solution?” [20:17] More webinars will be announced soon and added to the RIMS.org/Webinars page. Go there to register. Registration is complimentary for RIMS members. [20:29] Spencer Educational Foundation will be present at RISKWORLD 2025. Spencer's Grants Program is starting soon. [20:38] Spencer's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [20:51] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centered experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process will open on May 1st, 2025, and close on July 30th, 2025. [21:14] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. Learn more about Spencer's General Grants through the Programs tab of SpencerEd.org. [21:25] On the 7th of October, the New Jersey RIMS Chapter will return to the beautiful Fiddler's Elbow Country Club in Bedminster, New Jersey for their Annual Charity Golf/Pickleball Event. [21:37] Registration is open and the event proceeds are used to fund the chapter's Spencer and Kids' Chance Scholarships. It was the filming location for the upcoming movie sequel Happy Gilmore 2. For more information, and to register, please NewJersey.RIMS.org. [21:59] Let's Return to My Interview with Kirti Mutatkar! [22:07] Justin remarks on Kirti leading with compassion and empathy. Both at HCAA and as CEO of UnitedAg, she puts humans at the center. People remind her it's a business, but she has found that using compassion and empathy has an impact on real numbers. [23:26] Kirti reminds people she has a degree in finance and is a businessperson. UnitedAg has tripled in size. It is a quarter-billion-dollar trust. Its admin costs are very low and its loss ratio is very low. It's done very well financially. [23:53] Kirti makes a decision based on the financial aspect of it and then fits in the compassion and empathy. Eventually, compassion has a big impact on the financial. Now at HCAA, people are looking at how compassion translates into numbers. UnitedAg is a perfect example of it. [24:52] Some people may want to look at it purely from a business standpoint. Kirti feels that adding compassion and empathy manages the risk factor and has a financial impact. It's better for your business than you think it is. It's not a fluff word, you can show it in numbers. [25:52] Kirti is part of the Claims Committee at UnitedAg. Appeals come in and they make decisions on what can or cannot be approved. There is legal representation, client representation, and financial representation. Kirti shares an example of a mental health appeal. [26:41] The appeal was denied and Kirti listened to the compliance and financial positions for why it was denied. She didn't feel right about it, and after the meeting, she reached out to the employer. Then she came back to the committee and asked them to rethink it. [27:34] The committee found a solution within the compliance needs, to approve the claim. In the future, that employer will be apt to renew with UnitedAg because trust was created and help was provided to the employee. It was a financial decision that started with compassion. [29:16] UnitedAG's customer retention is over 90%. That speaks for itself. [29:26] RIMS Plug! From Ryan Harris, upcoming Keynote on the Main Stage on May 6th at RISKWORLD 2025, “Greetings RIMS members and global risk professionals! I'm Ryan Harris, Champion of Super Bowl 50, best-selling author, and award-winning broadcaster. [29:46] “I'm thrilled to be your Main Stage Keynote for RISKWORLD 2025, where we will discuss the transformative five steps to building a championship team and leading to winning! You can learn more about me and my story by listening to RIMScast. [30:01] ”And more than anything, make sure to register for RISKWORLD 2025 by visiting RIMS.org/riskworld. I'm so thrilled to see you and I'm looking forward to us building together so that you can reach your greatest success!” [30:16] Thank you, again, Ryan. We look forward to seeing you at RISKWORLD 2025 on May 6th. A link to Ryan's episode of RIMScast, #325, is in this episode's show notes. Get a preview of the Super Bowl Champion and remember to register for RISKWORLD 2025. [30:33] Let's Return to the Conclusion of Our Interview with Kirti Mutatkar! [30:46] Kirti says that bringing mental health into the Enterprise Risk Management strategy starts with the HR department. UnitedAg does a lot of training around mental health. There are good products available, but just saying we have this product, as a check mark, is not enough. [31:16] Go deeper, listen to your members, and train your supervisors and managers to identify some of the tell-tale signs of needs and bring them forward. Kirti's Chief of Staff remarked to her that physical scars can be seen, but mental scars cannot be shown. [31:49] You have to go deeper to understand mental scars. Spread the word. Talk to your employees and HR teams. Be OK with someone getting emotional at work. Give them a safe space and a trusting environment. Everybody goes through anxiety and stress. [32:20] Providing a safe space does more than providing a program. Engaging, building relationships, and having a connection would be helpful. [32:35] As a CEO, Kirti's biggest takeaway is to maintain a connection with everybody. She tries to do that as much as possible. She goes to CEO lunches and roundtables and is constantly talking to people. You never know what someone will say or do that is a tell-tale sign of need. [33:06] Kirti's advice for risk management professionals is to go a little deeper. Don't take things at face value. Take a step back and ask what is the true problem. Go one or two layers deeper looking for the real issues. Understanding the issue is good from a risk standpoint. [33:50] Are there not enough mental health professionals or should we look at the model for how we provide care for people? [34:10] Kirti also has a podcast, This Is Ag!, available on Spotify and other podcast platforms. She loves podcasting! The reason behind it is relationship and connection. It's to tell people what ag is all about. This year's focus will be on the ground workers and telling their stories. [34:58] There is so much to learn from agriculture! A lot of things still happen with a handshake in agriculture. There's a lot of trust and a lot of relationship and connection. Kirti loves working in the industry. She's very grateful for that. [35:14] Kirti tells what she likes about leading a not-for-profit organization. She runs it as a business but the core of it is the mission it serves. HCAA serves the underserved and she is testing how compassion and empathy play a role in the process. [35:44] Special thanks again to Health Care Administrators Association President and UnitedAg President and CEO, Kirti Mutatkar. There is a link to her podcast, This Is Ag!, in this episode's show notes.b Let her know you heard her first on RIMScast. [36:02] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [36:30] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [36:48] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [37:06] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [37:22] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [37:36] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [37:44] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RISKWORLD 2025 — May 4‒7 | Register today! Download the RIMS Events app! Spencer's RISKWORLD Events — Register or Sponsor! LAST CALL! RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Advance registration rates now open. RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Dates This Is Ag! — Podcast, Hosted by Kirti Mutatkar RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Understanding Third Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich | May 1, 2025 “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny” | Sponsored by GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company | May 22, 2025 “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction” | Sponsored by Origami Risk | May 29, 2025 “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause & What's the Solution?” | Sponsored by Zywave | June 5, 2025   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: CBCP & RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Bootcamp: “Mastering Business Continuity & Risk Management” | May 19‒22, 2025 | In Collaboration with DRI International Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Managing Data for ERM” | June 12 | Instructor: Pat Saporito  “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Risk and Leadership Patterns with Super Bowl Champion Ryan Harris” (RISKWORLD 2025 Keynote) “Maintaining an Award-Winning ERM Program with Michael Zuraw” “National Nurses Week 2021: How COVID-19 Has Impacted the Nursing Profession with Dr. Sophia Thomas and Vicki Good” “Mental Health in the Workplace with Darcy Gruttadaro” (2021)   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company (New!) “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Kirti Mutatkar on LinkedIn Kirti Mutatkar, CEO and President of United Ag   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

Cadie Fagg is a beautiful, vibrant young woman who has discovered why she's here and is living in the intersection of her faith, passion and purpose! The road to get here has not been easy. In fact, she ended up in multiple situations and places that could have ended very badly. But God!He rescued Cadie and she sat down recently with Denise Harper to tell her story. This is one you will, no doubt, want to share with someone once you've heard it. God is still changing hearts and lives today and there is hope for those who feel hopeless.If that's you then - this one is for you. If you're standing in the gap for someone who is struggling - this one is for you! Be encouraged. God sees you!Show Notes:Fisher of Men MinistriesWeb: www.FisherOfMenFoundation.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Fisherofmen.usTo contact Cadie, email: girlsforgospels@gmail.comDenise Harper's new book, “Treasured Inside - Devotions With Denise,” is available at Amazon, Apple, Target, and more. For more information, email Denise at: denise@wearethebridge.orgDid you know you can now watch Over the Rims of Mugs?Visit https://www.wearethebridge.org/mugsvideoPlease share Over the Rims of Mugs with a friend if you enjoyed this episode. Over the Rims of Mugs is still growing, and your positive review and 5-star rating would help.The Bridge Podcast Network is made possible by generous support from The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel and Victoria's Restaurant on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware - Open 7 days a week, year-round - Learn more at https://boardwalkplaza.comFeedback, or Show Ideas? Send an email to podcast@wearethebridge.orgDownload The Bridge Mobile App to get the latest podcast episodes as soon as they are published!

The JBP begins this episode debating whether Joe & Ish have a bromance (3:28) before taking a look at Melyssa Ford's new movie on the way (12:35). The room then shows love to Murder Inc. founder Irv Gotti after he passed at age 54 (42:00), DJ Khaled's album announcement doesn't go as planned (52:14), and Kanye West has yet another online rant (1:35:55). Also, the crew reacts to 50 Cent's post about Irv Gotti (2:06:09), Kendrick Lamar's Apple Music interview (2:21:19), Super Bowl predictions (2:34:00), Lil Wayne sets release date for ‘Tha Carter VI' and is featured on the ‘Tweaker' remix (2:54:15), new music from Rema (3:07:38) and Cardi B (3:10:50), and much more!   Become a Patron of The Joe Budden Podcast for additional bonus episodes and visual content for all things JBP! Join our Patreon here: www.patreon.com/joebudden    Sleeper Picks:   Joe | GIVĒON - “TWENTIES”   Ice | Larry June, 2 Chainz, & The Alchemist - “Colossal”   Parks | Ghostface Killah (Prod. by J Dilla) - “Whip You With a Strap”   Ish | Chase Shakur (feat. Smino) - “LUV IN DA 6”   Melyssa | Jean Deaux - “Speakerphone (Trust Issues)”