Innovation Odyssey

Episode #26 -"Increasing operational efficiency for brokers with technology” Helen Burke, Founder and CEO of Teambase Ireland

Welcome to the new episode of Innovation Odyssey, with Helen Burke, Founder and CEO of TeamBaseIreland, a company transforming the insurance industry through smart, human-focused technology. With over a decade of experience working in the Middle East and a background in tech, Helen shares how she’s on a mission to make insurance brokers’ lives easier by eliminating the administrative burden through automation and intuitive tools. Key Takeaways: * How TeamBase Ireland simplifies complex insurance workflows, empowering brokers and agents to focus on what matters most - advising clients. * Helen’s journey from teaching in Qatar to building a tech-enabled insurance solution rooted in global experience and deep empathy for operational pain points. * The role of AI in the future of insurance, and how localized configuration with emphasis on regulatory compliance and thoughtful design are key to successful InsurTech adoption across regions. Tune in to hear how Helen Burke is challenging the status quo in insurance—and why “making boring things simple” can be the most impactful innovation of all.

Episode #25 -"Using technology and data to re-define the short-term rental insurance market” Andrew Bate, CEO and founder of Safely

Welcome to another chapter of Innovation Odyssey, where Renu explores Andrew Bate’s insights in his insurance journey. Andrew is the CEO and Co-founder of Safely, a company that’s redefining trust in the short-term rental market through data, technology and insurance.With a background spanning McKinsey, London Business School, and years of entrepreneurial experience, Andrew shares how he built Safely to help homeowners rent with peace of mind—by combining guest screening, data insights, and insurance in one smart platform. Key Takeaways: * How Safely protects short-term rental properties by combining identity verification, risk data, and tailored insurance products. * Andrew’s journey from launching a marketplace called “Trusted Guests” to founding an MGA and navigating the complexities of InsurTech. * The evolving impact of AI on underwriting, claims, and customer service—and why trust and proactivity remain central to Safely’s growth. Tune in to hear how Andrew and his team are making insurance smarter, more data-driven, and accessible for short-term rental owners around the world.

Episode #24 - “I connect dots between verticals" Kenny Estes, Chief Geek at 42Geeks, Founder & CEO of Diffuse Inc.

Buckle up for another insightful ride on Innovation Odyssey, where Renu interviews Kenny Estes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennyestes/], Chief Geek at 42Geeks [https://www.linkedin.com/company/42geeks/], Founder & CEO of Diffuse Inc. [https://www.linkedin.com/company/diffusefunds/], and a self-described “serial boutique fund manager.” Kenny shares his eclectic journey—from high-frequency trading to founding multiple venture and hedge funds- to now curating global trips that bring ambitious tech leaders together to spark serendipitous collaboration.  Key Takeaways:  * How 42Geeks organizes immersive international trips to foster trust, cross-border business, and spontaneous innovation among VCs and founders.  * Kenny’s insights on geopolitical shifts, defense tech, and how emerging ecosystems outside Silicon Valley hold massive untapped potential.  * A candid look at innovation in the age of AI, robotics, and community living—and what this could mean for the future of work and entrepreneurship.  Tune in to discover how Kenny Estes connects global dots—from capital to community—and challenges what it means to innovate across industries and borders.

Episode #23 - "Enabling insurers to build, design and operate parametric insurance on scale". Thomas Krapf Co-founder and CEO of Riskwolf

In this episode of Innovation Odyssey, Renu  talks to  Thomas Krapf, co-founder and CEO of Riskwolf, a technology company revolutionizing parametric insurance. With 25 years of experience in the insurance and reinsurance industry, Thomas shares his journey of building a platform that enables insurers to design, scale, and operate parametric insurance solutions worldwide. He also discusses his global expansion efforts, particularly in India, and the role of AI in the future of insurance.  Key Takeaways:  * How Riskwolf is bridging the gap between traditional and parametric insurance, enabling faster and more reliable payouts for clients.  * The challenges and opportunities of expanding an insurance tech company into global markets, including the key differences between Switzerland and India insurance ecosystem.  * The evolving role of AI in insurance, from improving claims processing to enhancing underwriting efficiency while maintaining trust in the system.  Tune in to discover how Thomas and Riskwolf are reshaping the future of insurance through truly data-driven parametric insurance

Episode #21 - “AI will lead to a whole lot of new businesses to be started" Nick McEvily, Serial Founder and Fractional Product Leader

In this episode of Innovation Odyssey, host Renu has a conversation with Nick McEvily, serial founder and fractional product leader, as he shares his journey from New York to Mexico City, navigating diverse business landscapes. Nick dives into his expertise in human-centric design and his approach to quickly testing new product ideas across markets. He also reflects on the stark cultural differences between building businesses in the U.S. and Mexico.  Key Takeaways:  * How human-centric design has evolved, with increasing standards making every detail in product development more impactful.  * Nick’s personal experience with company pivots and his approach to testing ideas efficiently to identify product-market fit before scaling, minimizing risks and maximizing potential.  * His view on AI and what that means for the future of business, and his outlook for LatAm