The Analytics Power Hour
Michael Helbling, Moe Kiss, Tim Wilson, Val Kroll, and Julie Hoyer
Attend any conference for any topic and you will hear people saying after that the best and most informative discussions happened in the bar after the show. Read any business magazine and you will find an article saying something along the lines of "Business Analytics is the hottest job category out there, and there is a significant lack of people, process and best practice." In this case the conference was eMetrics, the bar was….multiple, and the attendees were Michael Helbling, Tim Wilson and Jim Cain (Co-Host Emeritus). After a few pints and a few hours of discussion about the cutting edge of digital analytics, they realized they might have something to contribute back to the community. This podcast is one of those contributions. Each episode is a closed topic and an open forum - the goal is for listeners to enjoy listening to Michael, Tim, and Moe share their thoughts and experiences and hopefully take away something to try at work the next day. We hope you enjoy listening to the Digital Analytics Power Hour.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 4, 2025 • 59min
#266: AI Projects: From Obstacles to Opportunities
Kathleen Walch, Director of AI Engagement Learning at the Project Management Institute, shares her expertise on overcoming obstacles in AI projects. She emphasizes the importance of clearly defining problems before implementing solutions. With humorous anecdotes, she highlights common pitfalls, like treating AI as mere software projects, and advocates for a data-centric approach. Kathleen also explores the necessity of realistic ROI expectations and evolving skill sets in project management, providing insightful frameworks to navigate the complex world of AI.
13 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 55min
#265: Connected Wellness in the Age of AI with Michael Tiffany
Michael Tiffany, Co-founder and CEO of Fulcra Dynamics, delves into the realm of connected wellness and personal data sovereignty. He discusses the allure of self-tracking through devices like smartwatches and continuous glucose monitors, exploring their impact on health and privacy. The conversation emphasizes the balance between leveraging technology for proactive wellness and safeguarding personal data against misuse. Tiffany also envisions future AI interactions in health management, highlighting ethical considerations of data ownership in an increasingly connected world.
Feb 4, 2025 • 1h 8min
#264: When the Analyst’s Toolbox Includes Assessing the Zeitgeist with Erika Olson
In this engaging discussion, Erika Olson, co-founder of fwd., shares her expertise on brand strategy, drawing insights from her work with major brands like Nike and L'Oréal. She highlights the challenges of quantifying brand effectiveness when data is lacking and emphasizes the importance of intuitive judgment and cultural context. The conversation touches on the shift towards 'quiet luxury' in branding, the necessity of authentic brand strategies, and the evolving consumer narratives that influence marketing decisions. Erika's real-world examples illuminate these complex topics beautifully.
9 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 1h 6min
#263: Analytics the Right Way
Dr. Joe Sutherland, a consultant and founder of the Center for AI Learning at Emory University, joins the discussion about his co-authored book, 'Analytics the Right Way.' He debunks common misconceptions about data and emphasizes the importance of human decision-making in analytics. The conversation introduces the 'Ladder of Evidence,' showcasing how to validate hypotheses effectively. Joe also shares insights on workforce development in AI and tips for improving focus while engaging with self-help audiobooks, all wrapped in light-hearted camaraderie.
13 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 23min
(Bonus) 2024 Listener Survey...Wrapped!
The hosts reflect on their newly launched listener survey and share insights into the audience's professional backgrounds and expertise in analytics. They highlight surprising data about how listeners discover the show, primarily through platform recommendations. Feedback reveals a positive reception for their authentic style and engaging discussions. Exciting freebies and valuable takeaways are promised, emphasizing a commitment to enhancing content based on listener preferences.
Jan 7, 2025 • 1h 8min
#262: 2025 Will Be the Year of... with Barr Moses
Barr Moses, co-founder and CEO of Monte Carlo, shares her expertise on the future of data analytics. She discusses the evolution of data reliability, emphasizing the growing need for observability amidst emerging technologies. The conversation touches on the critical distinction between data quality and quantity, and the unique challenges posed by unstructured data in decision-making. Moses also highlights the role of reliable data in the age of generative AI, and how organizations can navigate this complex landscape while maintaining high data standards.
13 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 1h 4min
#261: 2024 Year in Review
The hosts reflect on a decade of podcasting, celebrating diverse perspectives in the analytics field. They discuss innovations in data collection, especially with Snowflake's new features. Collaboration emerges as a key theme, highlighting the importance of teamwork and best practices. Challenges in consent management are analyzed, emphasizing privacy and functionality. The role of AI in streamlining communication within analytics teams is examined, alongside evolving strategies in consulting that prioritize effective outcomes over mere data collection. Humor and personal anecdotes make for an engaging retrospective.
Dec 10, 2024 • 1h
#260: Once Upon a Data Story with Duncan Clark
Duncan Clark, co-founder and CEO of Flourish and Head of Europe for Canva, brings a wealth of experience as a former data journalist at The Guardian. He dives into the art of data storytelling, stressing the difference between merely 'explaining' and truly 'exploring' data. The conversation highlights crafting engaging narratives, the importance of clear communication, and the power of interactive visualizations. Listeners gain practical insights on connecting with audiences and presenting complex data effectively, making the concepts relatable and actionable.
Nov 26, 2024 • 1h 2min
#259: Dateline Data
Exploring the massive popularity of true crime shows, the hosts analyze data misinterpretations in media. They dive into trends in gender and substance use, questioning the reliability of self-reported statistics. A humorous take on health data reveals surprising insights into disease impacts on life expectancy. The conversation also highlights risks associated with cleaning products and the complexities of streaming data, including the dominance of reruns. Overall, critical thinking about data is emphasized throughout.
5 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 1h 6min
#258: Goals, KPIs, and Targets, Oh My! with Tim Wilson
Tim Wilson, Head of Solutions at Facts and Feelings and analytics expert, dives deep into the nuances of goal-setting and KPIs. He argues against relying solely on AI for meaningful business alignment, emphasizing the need for clear objectives. The conversation unpacks the confusion surrounding marketing metrics, stressing the importance of connecting outcomes to real business success. Tim also highlights challenges in defining success and the importance of communication between analysts and marketing teams to avoid misalignment.
