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
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.
9 snips
Oct 29, 2024 • 1h 6min
#257: Analyst Use Cases for Generative AI
Joined by Martin Broadhurst, a consultant on AI and owner of Broadhurst Digital, the discussion dives into the evolving role of generative AI in analytics. They explore how AI can enhance data democratization while navigating its complexities. Martin emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's limitations and cautions against total reliance on it. Conversations also touch on the intricacies of Marketing Mix Modeling versus traditional methods, and the necessity of human expertise in achieving effective data analysis outcomes. Expect a blend of insights and humor throughout!
6 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 1h 27min
#256: Live at MeasureCamp Chicago
For the first time since they've been a party of five, all of the Analytics Power Hour co-hosts assembled in the same location. That location? The Windy City. The occasion? Chicago's first ever MeasureCamp! The crew was busy throughout the day inviting attendees to "hop on the mic" with them to answer various questions. We covered everything from favorite interview questions to tips and tricks, with some #hottake questions thrown in for fun. During the happy hour at the end of the day, we also recorded a brief live show, which highlighted some of the hosts' favorite moments from the day. Listen carefully and you'll catch an audio cameo from Tim's wife, Julie! And keep an eye on the MeasureCamp website to find the coolest way to spend a nerdy Saturday near you (Bratislava, Sydney, Dubai, Stockholm, Brussels, and Istanbul are all coming up before the end of the year!). For complete show notes, including links to items mentioned in this episode and a transcript of the show, visit the show page.
Oct 1, 2024 • 59min
#255: Dear APH-y: Career Inflection Points
Dive into the complex career crossroads in analytics! The hosts tackle crucial decisions like transitioning from individual contributor to management and the skills needed for that pivot. They explore the importance of soft skills, communication, and networking in shaping careers. With a humorous look at parenting chaos amid career changes, they also address the shift from data analysis to data science and the evolving expectations that come with it. Join them for insights on navigating your own professional journey!
Sep 17, 2024 • 1h 5min
#254: Is Your Use of Benchmarks Above Average? with Eric Sandosham
Eric Sandosham, founder and partner at Red & White Consulting Partners, joins the conversation to challenge the effectiveness of benchmarks in business. He argues that much of the data lacks context and can lead to complacency. The hosts discuss the pitfalls of relying solely on external evaluation and the importance of internal data. They explore the nuances of using benchmarks for setting targets and even critique common metrics like the Net Promoter Score. With a blend of humor and insight, they encourage listeners to rethink the role of benchmarks in decision-making.
Sep 3, 2024 • 1h 8min
#253: Adopting a Just In Time, Just Enough Data Mindset with Matt Gershoff
Matt Gershoff, a data collection strategist from Conductrics, joins the discussion to challenge the prevalent 'just in case' data mentality. He emphasizes the need for a privacy-first approach, advocating for intentional data gathering and ethical practices. The conversation explores the pitfalls of chaotic data collection, highlighting the importance of structure and accessibility. Gershoff introduces innovative methods for mindful data practices while urging organizations to view privacy as a catalyst for innovation, rather than a limitation.
Aug 20, 2024 • 52min
#252: The Ever-Shifting Operating Environment of the Data Professional
Broadly writ, we're all in the business of data work in some form, right? It's almost like we're all swimming around in a big data lake, and our peers are swimming around it, too, and so are our business partners. There might be some HiPPOs and some SLOTHs splashing around in the shallow end, and the contours of the lake keep changing. Is lifeguarding…or writing SQL…or prompt engineering to get AI to write SQL…or identifying business problems a job or a skill? Does it matter? Aren't we all just trying to get to the Insights Water Slide? Katie Bauer, Head of Data at Gloss Genius and thought-provoker at Wrong But Useful, joined Michael, Julie, and Val for a much less metaphorically tortured exploration of the ever-shifting landscape in which the modern data professional operates. Or swims. Or sinks? For complete show notes, including links to items mentioned in this episode and a transcript of the show, visit the show page.
