
Hub & Spoken: Data | Analytics | Chief Data Officer | CDO | Data Strategy
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.
Latest episodes

Aug 10, 2023 • 38min
The relationship between humans and AI with Ken Elliott
Step into the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence with host Jason Foster and Ken Elliot, a Chief Data Officer with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Together, they discuss the essence of AI, its practical applications, and its impact on decision-making, business processes, and society. They also explore the ethical implications of AI and the intersection of human intelligence with machine capabilities.

Jul 27, 2023 • 40min
Building Responsible AI with Toju Duke
Join Jason Foster in an insightful conversation with Toju Duke, Programme Manager at Google, who leads Responsible AI programmes across Google's product and research teams. Delve into the fascinating world of Responsible AI and its critical role in shaping a safer future. From risk management and guardrails to minimising potential harm to diverse AI and ethical considerations, explore the driving forces behind responsible AI development.

Jul 13, 2023 • 45min
The environment that enables Chief Data Officers to be successful with Robert Kent
Join host Jason Foster in an insightful conversation with Rob Kent, former Chief Data Officer at Pets at Home and the Royal Mail, as they discuss the key elements of an ideal environment for Chief Data Officers to succeed. In this episode, they cover topics such as the role of CDOs, common challenges faced by organisations and effective strategies to address them, the importance of delivering value and driving growth through data initiatives, and the significance of building strong relationships with stakeholders. Tune in to gain valuable insights into creating the optimal conditions for Chief Data Officers to excel.

Jun 29, 2023 • 38min
Using data and AI to eradicate child labour in supply chains with Eleanor Harry
In this episode, host Jason Foster talks to Eleanor Harry, CEO and Founder of Hace, about the use of data and AI to eradicate child labor in supply chains. Join the conversation and discover the critical role of data in addressing the pervasive issue of child labor and how companies can leverage existing data and technology to gain actionable insights, identify high-risk areas, and drive meaningful change.

Jun 15, 2023 • 48min
Navigating AI and what it means to society and business
Join host Jason Foster in an enlightening conversation with James Lupton, CTO at Cynozure, and Keith Goldthorpe, Lead Solution Architect at Cynozure as they explore the profound implications of AI on society and business. In this thought-provoking episode, they delve deep into the intricacies of AI, its limitless possibilities, ethical considerations and its potential to reshape industries, transform societies, and revolutionise our future.

Jun 1, 2023 • 35min
Empowering data teams to deliver value with Jim Stevenson
In this episode, Jason Foster talks to Jim Stevenson, an experienced data professional with over 20 years of helping companies grow. Join the conversation to explore the power of data products in driving business growth and learn how cross-functional collaboration and agile strategies can revolutionize your organization's data initiatives.

May 18, 2023 • 39min
Using communications to create change with Caroline Sherman
In this episode, Jason Foster talks to Caroline Sherman, a seasoned communications expert and Vice President of Corporate Affairs for Mars Multi Sales. In this thought-provoking conversation, Jason and Caroline dive deep into the realm of communications and its profound impact on shaping organizational culture and driving change. Together, they explore the art of communication, discussing strategies, techniques, and real-life examples that will empower you to foster innovation, adaptability, and resilience within your team.

May 4, 2023 • 41min
Planning and starting the data journey at OFCOM with Richard Davis
In this episode, Jason Foster talks to Richard Davis, the Chief Data Officer at Ofcom, a UK-based regulator. They discuss the use of data at Ofcom, particularly in regards to its regulatory role and how to maintain a data-driven approach to identify trends, assess risks, and prioritize resources. Richard also shares his brilliant data journey from academia to his current role as a CDO, Ofcom's role in broadcast regulation and how to tackle cultural challenges to foster a culture that embraces data-driven decision-making.

Apr 20, 2023 • 35min
How the ICO is Helping the UK to Create an innovative economy with Stephen Almond
In this episode, Jason Foster talks to Stephen Almond, Executive Director, Regulatory Risk at the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). They discuss the ICO's role and how it supports the UK in creating an innovative economy. Stephen explains how the ICO works, the impact of data regulations and privacy on innovation and how the ICO helps businesses navigate the complexities of data regulations while developing innovative solutions to create a thriving and secure digital landscape.

Apr 6, 2023 • 40min
Mistakes to avoid with data literacy programmes with Greg Freeman
In this episode, Jason Foster talks to Greg Freeman, Founder and CEO of the Data Literacy Academy, to explore the critical importance of data literacy in future-proofing your organisation. Greg shares his insights and expertise on the definition of data literacy, the role it plays for organisations and how to cultivate an effective culture of data. They discuss common mistakes businesses make when developing data literacy programmes and share best practices to stay ahead of the curve.