In this podcast episode, the transformative impact of AI on the insurance industry takes center stage. Mark McLaughlin, IBM's Director of Insurance, discusses how the industry is shifting from reactive claim handling to proactive risk management with the help of AI. He highlights three main applications: personalized conversational AI for customer support, digital labor to boost efficiency for underwriters, adjusters, and auditors, and modernizing IT to improve security and performance. The conversation also covers the evolution of AI strategies, moving away from costly, large models towards a more tailored approach that uses smaller, purpose-built models designed for specific business needs and data sources. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the value of a balanced, human-centered AI approach that enhances customer experiences, streamlines workflows, and ensures responsible data governance.