The Joe Reis Show

The discussion kicks off with personal insights on creative endeavors and entrepreneurial challenges. It then dives into the struggles many face in their careers, highlighting feelings of burnout and dissatisfaction. The conversation shifts to the decline of traditional job security and how success is redefined across different sectors. As automation and AI transform corporate landscapes, proactive career adaptation becomes crucial. Finally, the importance of personal branding and continuous skill investment is emphasized in navigating this evolving work environment.

Willis Nana, a data engineer consultant and YouTube content creator, shares insights into the challenges of data engineering leadership. He discusses the transition from technical roles to management and emphasizes the need for training in this field. Nana also explores the complexities of Agile methodologies in data projects and the importance of foundational skills. Additionally, he shares his passion for creating educational content on YouTube for the francophone audience, enriching the data community while balancing personal milestones like family adventures.

Salma Bakouk, CEO of Sifflet and expert in data and AI, shares her insights on the booming field of data observability in Paris's tech scene. She discusses how this trend reflects the changing perceptions of data as a vital asset. The conversation highlights the need for effective communication between startup founders and their customers. Salma also reflects on her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing resilience and the balance between personal and professional life, while underscoring the importance of mentorship in fostering growth.

Jordan Morrow, a public speaking expert known for his engaging presentations, shares invaluable insights on effective communication. He discusses how to conquer public speaking anxiety, offering practical tips like managing caffeine intake and using beta blockers. Morrow emphasizes the importance of authenticity, encouraging speakers to connect with their audience without relying on slides. He also shares strategies for engaging Q&A sessions and maintaining a conversational rapport, proving that spontaneity can enhance any presentation.

Simon Späti, a Swiss data engineering expert and author, shares his journey from business intelligence to writing. He discusses the intricate balance of intuition and observation in selecting writing topics while emphasizing the evolving dynamics of data roles in the age of AI. Simon explores the impact of linguistic diversity on creativity and the transition from physical books to audiobooks. He also addresses the significance of feedback in technical writing and the challenges of monetizing creative content in a rapidly changing field.

Todd Beauchene, an early employee at Snowflake and now at Rebify, discusses his journey in the data industry. He shares insights from his time at Amazon, focusing on data challenges in e-commerce and the shift to cloud solutions. Todd explores the intersection of AI and data platforms and how it impacts business strategy. He highlights the startup culture's emphasis on innovation and teamwork at Snowflake. The conversation also touches on managing cloud costs and the transformative power of data to address global issues.

In this episode, I explain how I use (and don't use) AI for writing.

Matthew Kelliher-Gibson, known as 'The Data Cynic,' is a data expert at Rudderstack and a contributor to the Data Stack Show. He shares insights on navigating the challenges of data management and skepticism in corporate cultures. Matthew critiques the inefficiencies of meetings, likening them to Dilbert cartoons, and discusses the impact of AI on workforce dynamics. He also dives into the importance of motivation in data learning and the complexities of leading data teams, emphasizing the need for patience and accountability.

My semi-regular co-host and bestie Carly Taylor joins me once again. This time we chat about the true cost of replacing engineers with AI. We explore the implications of mass layoffs, the importance of company culture, and the potential for burnout among tech workers.

Many data professionals are stressed from pressure to deliver quickly instead of taking time to think deeply. There’s a discussion on the clash between agile practices and effective data modeling, emphasizing the need for a solid foundation. The importance of distinguishing between Deep Work and Delivery Work is highlighted. Finally, the conversation encourages a balanced approach to project planning that respects both speed and depth in complex workflows, rather than forcing everything into short sprints.