
The Joe Reis Show
The official podcast of tech/data nerd and "recovering data scientist" Joe Reis. He provides refreshingly candid thoughts on the world of technology and data. Each week, he broadcasts from somewhere in the world, sometimes ranting solo or with the smartest people in the business.
Latest episodes

10 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 54min
David Jayatillake - Semantic Layers, Proving Value in Data Work, and More
David Jayatillake, a seasoned data professional and VP of AI at Cube, shares insights into the evolving landscape of data analytics. He discusses the critical role of semantic layers in data querying and the shift towards AI-driven solutions. Jayatillake reflects on transforming data work into business value, the challenges of cloud migration, and the importance of adapting to rapid tech changes. He also highlights the implications of AI tools for developers, and the need for sustainability in the AI space, raising essential questions about the future of technology.

33 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 18min
Freestyle Fridays - Old School vs. New School Data Modeling
Discover the fascinating intersection of tradition and innovation in sports and data modeling. The speaker shares personal insights from their return to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, reflecting on its evolution. Dive into the debate between old school and new school techniques in data modeling, emphasizing the value of mastering conventional methods before embracing modern approaches. Plus, learn about engaging community events and workshops aimed at fostering growth in the ever-evolving field of data engineering!

Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 35min
Evan Wimpey - On Being a Data Comedian, a Bayesian, and Other Priors
Evan Wimpey, a professional comedian and data scientist at PyMC Labs, hilariously navigates the crossover of comedy and Bayesian analytics. He shares anecdotes from his journey, blending humor with insights about statistical inference. The conversation reveals how comedy can lighten the intensity of the tech world, especially the amusing dynamics of roasting engineers. Wimpey talks about the unique trials of performing for data-savvy audiences and how laughter fosters community within the data landscape.

9 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 50min
Data Day Texas Recap w/ Tony Baer, Matt Housley, and Juan Sequeda
Tony Baer, an industry veteran with a sharp focus on data dynamics, joins data expert Matt Housley and knowledge graph enthusiast Juan Sequeda. They share insights from Data Day Texas, highlighting the charm of grassroots conferences where meaningful conversations thrive. They discuss the shift from big data to AI, the rise of knowledge engineers, and the critical role of context in data usage. The trio dives into the complexities of AI governance and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, emphasizing the need for improved data practices in an evolving landscape.

14 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 46min
Freestyle Fridays - Unhinged Rants w/ Carly Taylor
Carly Taylor, a data enthusiast and writer on Substack, shares her unconventional views on careers and education. She critiques the glamorization of Big Tech and Ivy League schools, discussing the reality of job monotony and the evolving job market. Carly highlights the importance of networking over traditional degrees and recounts her own journey in data engineering. The conversation dives into creative financial education for kids, fueled by delightful anecdotes about food and lessons learned in Costa Rica.

26 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 11min
Remco Broekmans - Data Modeling, Data Vault, and More
Remco Broekmans, a data modeling expert from the Netherlands affiliated with Genesee Academy, dives deep into the art of data management. He discusses the resurgence of data modeling due to evolving vendor solutions and the critical need for effective communication between data modelers and business leaders. The conversation also navigates the challenges of non-relational data models and critiques common misconceptions about Data Vault methodologies. Remco emphasizes the transformative potential of AI in data practices and the enduring importance of human connections in a digital world.

20 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 27min
Freestyle Fridays - Bridge Skills w/ Eevamaija Virtanen
Eevamaija Virtanen, a data expert from Helsinki, discusses her insights at Data Day Texas. She emphasizes the essential 'bridge skills' needed in data management to solve long-standing industry challenges. The conversation navigates the importance of emotional intelligence and trust in organizations, contrasting societal structures in Finland and the U.S., and highlights the need for adaptability in a changing workforce. Eevamaija also explores how AI impacts employment and the critical role of human qualities in shaping the future.

16 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 45min
Chip Huyen - AI Engineering, Agents, and More
Chip Huyen, an AI engineering expert and author of 'AI Engineering,' discusses the future of AI application development. He shares insights on using advanced AI models like ChatGPT in innovative ways. Huyen emphasizes the importance of understanding foundational concepts to avoid common pitfalls in AI projects. The conversation dives into the phenomenon of AI hallucinations and the evolving roles of engineers in this space. Finally, he predicts a transformative rise of AI agents by 2025, highlighting their potential to revolutionize workplace efficiency.

14 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 51min
Jamie Davidson - Modern Data Modeling
Jamie Davidson, Chief Product Officer at Omni and former VP of Product at Looker, dives into the realm of modern data modeling. He discusses the evolution from startups to big tech and back, emphasizing the need for accessible data in business intelligence. The conversation highlights the balance between agility and structure in data modeling, and the importance of partnerships with companies like Snowflake. Davidson also shares insights on future AI advancements, the shift towards cost-effective data solutions, and innovative technologies like DuckDB.

18 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 49min
Carly Taylor & Ghalib Suleiman - Dealing with Burnout
Carly Taylor, Director of Engineering at Microsoft and LinkedIn content creator focused on burnout, joins Ghalib Suleiman, Co-founder and CEO of Polytomic. They tackle the pressing issue of burnout, especially in tech. The conversation covers the emotional toll of unfulfilling work, societal pressures on younger generations, and the impacts of AI on job dynamics. They also highlight the importance of building supportive networks and the need to acknowledge genuine struggles rather than succumbing to toxic positivity.