Lights On Data Show

George Firican
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Jul 11, 2025 • 23min

ROI Framework for Data Teams

In this episode of the Lights On Data Show, George Firican interviews Ollie Hughes, CEO and co-founder of Count, to explore the challenge every data team faces: showing real Return on Investment (ROI). Ollie shares a clear framework built on four principles that help data teams break free from the 'service trap' and make a measurable business impact. Get ready to dive into strategies for driving operational clarity, problem-solving, optimizing time to decision, and measuring team value effectively. Don't miss this insightful discussion on transforming how data teams add value to an organization.
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Jul 4, 2025 • 22min

Unlocking the Future of Enterprise AI with Salesforce Agentforce

Join host George Firican on the Lights On Data Show as he interviews John Kucera, Senior Vice President of Salesforce AI, to explore the transformative power of Agentforce. Learn how this technology is reshaping enterprise AI by automating digital labor, offering powerful new capabilities like observability and interoperability, and seamlessly integrating with the broader Salesforce ecosystem. Discover real-world success stories, best practices for implementation, and essential insights for tech and business leaders looking to leverage AI effectively.
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Jun 20, 2025 • 25min

How to Get Your KPIs Without the Data Hassle

Lior Gerson, Co-founder and CEO of Target Board, shares his expertise in simplifying KPI tracking to improve operational efficiency. He discusses the common data hurdles faced by executives and the importance of a cohesive data strategy. Lior highlights how automation and AI can minimize data friction and enhance decision-making. He also explores the benefits of pre-packaged KPIs and user-friendly tools that empower managers, ensuring consistent definitions and intelligent insights across different departments.
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May 30, 2025 • 26min

How to Master the New Era of Data Management - with Kamal Hathi

In this episode of the Lights On Data Show, host George Firican discusses the rapidly evolving landscape of data management with Kamal Hathi, Senior Vice President and GM at Splunk, a Cisco company. They explore the challenges organizations face as they scale and adopt AI, emphasizing the importance of digital resilience, security, and observability. Kamal shares insights from Splunk's latest report, 'The New Rules of Data Management' (https://splk.it/3RLx67g), which surveys over 1,400 IT, engineering, and cybersecurity professionals across 16 industries. Key topics include the importance of data federation, tiering, and having a clear data strategy for business success. Tune in to learn how leading organizations are overcoming data challenges to achieve better business outcomes.
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May 23, 2025 • 26min

How AI Agents Are Reshaping Data Observability

In this episode of the Lights on Data Show, host George Firican dives deep into the evolving world of data observability with guest Salma Bakouk, co-founder and CEO of Sifflet. They explore how modern data strategies are shifting, especially with the rapid advancement of AI, and discuss the increasing complexity and demand for intelligent, contextual, and scalable data observability solutions. Salma provides insights into the innovative work at Sifflet, introducing AI agents Sentinel, Sage, and Forge, which aim to enhance data reliability and efficiency for enterprises. They discuss the challenges faced by data engineers and how these AI agents are designed to assist in managing data integrity proactively. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in data strategy, AI, and the future of data observability.
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May 2, 2025 • 22min

Machine Learning in Complex Systems and Non-Linear Systems: Interview with Dr. Chris Kulp

George Firican interviews Dr. Chris Kulp, Professor of Physics specializing in non-linear dynamics and machine learning. The discussion delves into how machine learning is revolutionizing both natural and social sciences by identifying patterns in massive data sets that humans might overlook. Dr. Kulp also shares his insights on applying mathematical analysis to social systems, the challenges and benefits of AI in complex systems like economics, and his experience in interdisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, viewers will learn about Dr. Kulp’s novel 'Lost Origins,' which integrates scientific concepts within a compelling narrative, highlighting the power of creative storytelling to make advanced scientific topics accessible to a broader audience. The episode concludes with advice for aspiring researchers looking to bridge science and machine learning in their careers.
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Apr 25, 2025 • 25min

AI Compliance & Risk Management: Best Practices with Santosh Kaveti

In this episode of the Lights On Data Show, host George Firican discusses AI compliance and risk management with Santosh Kaveti, the founder and CEO of ProArch. As AI technology advances rapidly, Santosh shares valuable insights on securing and operationalizing AI in organizations, understanding data and model risks, and integrating AI securely within regulated industries like healthcare and power generation. Learn about the importance of executive buy-in, data governance, and compliance strategies to ensure successful AI adoption. Don't miss this informative discussion packed with practical recommendations for navigating the complexities of AI implementation.
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Apr 18, 2025 • 27min

Unpacking DevOps Bull: Challenges, Solutions, and the Future

Join George Firican as he hosts Cory O'Daniel, CEO and co-founder of Massdriver, in an engaging episode of the Lights On Data Show. They delve into the complexities of cloud operations, DevOps, and infrastructure management. Cory discusses his controversial article 'DevOps is Bull(bleep)' and shares insights on why traditional DevOps practices are failing modern businesses. They explore the evolving landscape of infrastructure management, the necessity of infrastructure as code, and how Massdriver aims to simplify and enhance these processes. This episode is a must-watch for anyone involved in cloud operations and looking to understand the future of DevOps and platform engineering.
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Apr 11, 2025 • 21min

Data Lineage Best Practices: Interview with Caitlyn Truong

In this episode of the Light On Data Show, host George Firican dives into the critical yet often overlooked aspect of data management: data lineage. Special guest Caitlyn Truong, co-founder and CEO of Zengines, shares her expertise from over 20 years in financial services, telecommunications, and energy. Caitlyn discusses the importance of data lineage for operational efficiency and regulatory compliance, offering best practices and the 5 steps for organizations to successfully implement data lineage. Tune in to discover how to best track data lineage, navigate legacy systems, and leverage tools to overcome challenges and achieve success.
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Apr 4, 2025 • 21min

How to Start and Thrive as a Freelance Data Scientist

In this episode of the Lights On Data Show, host George welcomes back Dimitri Visnadi, a successful freelance data scientist. Dimitri shares his journey into freelancing, emphasizing the mindset shifts and practical steps necessary to build a sustainable freelancing business in the data science field. The discussion covers Dimitri's strategies for finding clients, the impact of AI tools on freelance work, and the innovative subscription model he's experimenting with. Learn about Dimitri's insights on managing risks, the importance of a support network, and the various channels for securing clients as a freelance data professional. Don't miss this deep dive into the realities and opportunities of freelancing in the data space.

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