

Hub & Spoken: Data | Analytics | Chief Data Officer | CDO | Data Strategy
Cynozure
The original data podcast. The Hub and Spoken podcast is a series of fascinating discussions with today's top data and business leaders from across the business world. The conversations explore how to add most value to organisations through the use of data and analytics, and how best to organise yourself to achieve that value. It talks about how to define and deliver data strategy, and the best way to return business value.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 20, 2025 • 33min
Insights from Data Means Business, Second Edition
Jason's co-author, Barry Green, joins this next episode as they discuss the release of the second edition of "Data Means Business" on 25th March. Returning for his third conversation on the podcast, Barry shares updates on the evolving landscape of data and AI, the impact of generative AI, and the importance of business capabilities. They delve into the changes since the first edition, including the role of the Chief Data Officer and the significance of adaptability in today's fast-paced world. Tune in to hear their thoughts on driving transformational change and delivering value with data & AI. The second edition of Data Means Business will be out on 25th March and will be available on Amazon. *********** Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023 and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. Cynozure is a certified B Corporation.

Mar 6, 2025 • 40min
Gender Diversity in Data & AI with Lou Hutchins, Director of Data Culture and Literacy at Cynozure and Rose Attridge, Strategy Advisor at Cynozure
This episode is a special edition in honour of International Women's Day on 8th March. Host Jason Foster is joined by Lou Hutchins, Director of Data Culture & Literacy at Cynozure, and Rose Attridge, Strategy Advisor at Cynozure. Together, they explore gender diversity in data and AI, the importance of sponsorship and allies, and challenges in male-dominated industries. They also discuss the role of data and AI in driving change, the need for role models, early engagement, and company action. *********** Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023 and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. Cynozure is a certified B Corporation.

Feb 20, 2025 • 36min
Measuring the impact of sustainability with Adam Elman, Director of Sustainability - EMEA, at Google
In this episode, host Jason Foster is joined by Adam Elman, Director of Sustainability - EMEA, at Google. Together they explore defining sustainability from environmental, social and governance perspectives, and the role of AI in sustainability, including AI's potential to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by up to 10% by 2030. They also discuss the future of sustainability and possibilities around technology's role in combating climate change, including advancements in clean energy and expanded AI applications. *********** Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024.

Feb 6, 2025 • 46min
The impact of AI on young people and education with Amanda Bickerstaff, CEO & Founder, AI for Education
In this episode, host Jason Foster is joined by Amanda Bickerstaff, CEO & Founder, AI for Education. Together they explore the impact of AI on young people, particularly in the context of education. They discuss AI literacy, the need for AI literacy among students, teachers, and policymakers and the need for understanding AI's capabilities, limitations, and ethical considerations. They also discuss social media & AI integration and challenges in the education system. The conversation touches on how AI is embedded in platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and video games, influencing young people's perceptions and behaviours, sometimes without their awareness. *********** Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. Cynozure is a certified B Corporation.

Jan 23, 2025 • 40min
The Psychology of Leadership with Lara Menke, Leadership Psychologist & Executive Coach
In this episode, host Jason Foster is joined by Lara Menke, Leadership Psychologist & Executive Coach. Together they explore leadership development and the application of business psychology to improve workplace dynamics and team performance. They also discuss the transformative potential of emotionally intelligent, self-aware, and empathetic leadership in fostering resilient and effective teams. *********** Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024.

Jan 9, 2025 • 43min
The Future of the Chief Data Officer with Barry Panayi, Chief Data and Insight Officer at John Lewis Partnership
In this engaging conversation, Barry Panayi, Chief Data and Insight Officer at John Lewis Partnership, shares his journey from coding novice to strategic data leader. He discusses the emerging role of Chief Data Officers, emphasizing the shift from technical expertise to business leadership. Barry delves into the impact of AI on data strategies, the importance of building trust within organizations, and how CDOs can enhance their commercial acumen. His insights offer valuable guidance for aspiring data leaders navigating the evolving landscape of data management.

Dec 19, 2024 • 37min
Unlocking retail innovation through data with Susie Moan, CDO at Currys
In this episode, host Jason Foster is joined by Susie Moan, Chief Data Officer at Currys and member of Cynozure's Advisory Board. They explore some of the highlights of Susie’s accomplished career in data and AI, highlighting the significance of data value in a commercial business context. The conversation also covers how Currys successfully balances growth with cost-saving initiatives, and emphasises the importances of aligning AI initiatives with an organisation’s overarching business strategy. *********** Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024.

Dec 5, 2024 • 42min
Shaping the Future: How data and AI are transforming higher education with Osama Khan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Professor in Finance at Aston University, Birmingham
In this episode, host Jason Foster sits down with Osama Khan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Professor in Finance at Aston University, Birmingham. Together, they explore how data is transforming the landscape of higher education, from revolutionising decision-making to navigating the challenges and opportunities brought about by AI. Osama also shares insights into Aston University's pioneering initiatives, including programs designed to equip students with essential skills in AI, sustainability and future-focused competencies that prepare them for the evolving world. *********** Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024.

Nov 21, 2024 • 41min
How AI has confused the boardroom and what to do about it
AI has made its way into the boardroom, bringing with it a wave of excitement—and for some, a dose of confusion. For those in the know, AI has become an accelerator for operational and strategic improvements. But for others, the rapid pace and mixed messages have led to uncertainty. In our latest episode, Cynozure’s CEO and Founder, Jason Foster explores the current state of AI in leadership spaces and the opportunities it presents for data leaders and professionals. *********** Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024.

Nov 14, 2024 • 37min
Reshaping the future of retail with Paula Bobbett, Chief Digital Officer at Boots
In this episode, host Jason Foster sits down with Paula Bobbett, Chief Digital Officer at Boots. They discuss her extensive digital experience, which includes roles at Dixon’s Carphone, British Airways, Debenhams and Avon. They also explore the importance of an omnichannel strategy that bridges online and in-store customer experiences, using customer insights and AI tools. *********** Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times’ fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023, and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024.