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
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.
8 snips
Aug 6, 2024 • 1h 1min
#251: The Continued Rise of the Analytics Engineer with Dumky de Wilde
In this engaging discussion, Dumky de Wilde, co-author of The Fundamentals of Analytics Engineering, dives into the rising role of analytics engineers. He highlights how these professionals blend data engineering skills with business acumen, making them essential in today’s data-driven landscape. Dumky cleverly illustrates their role using a supermarket analogy, clarifying their unique position between data and business needs. Additionally, he shares essential tips for effectively communicating the value of analytics work to senior leadership.
Jul 23, 2024 • 1h 5min
#250: Real World Data (RWD) Lessons from Healthcare-land with Dr. Lewis Carpenter
Lewis Carpenter, Director of Real World Evidence at Arcturus and expert in medical statistics, shares insights on the growing importance of real-world data (RWD) in healthcare analytics. He contrasts RWD with traditional randomized controlled trials (RCTs), emphasizing how complex human behavior generates valuable data. The discussion highlights the challenges of interpreting RCTs and the significance of innovative methodologies in study design. Carpenter also delves into off-label prescriptions, showing how RWD aids in understanding treatment effects and expanding medication labels.
Jul 9, 2024 • 46min
#249: Three Humans and an AI at Marketing Analytics Summit
In this episode, the hosts explore the distinction between human and AI-generated thoughts through a fun quiz. They discuss the characteristics of an analyst, selecting instructors for a marketing analytics summit, and navigating pitfalls as a new analyst. The importance of continuous learning in analytics and managing stakeholder expectations is also highlighted, with humorous discussions and insights sprinkled throughout.
21 snips
Jun 25, 2024 • 1h 8min
#248: The Fundamentally Fascinating World of APIs with Marco Palladino
Marco Palladino, co-founder and CTO at Kong, Inc., dives deep into the realm of APIs, showing how they are the backbone of our digital existence. He highlights their pivotal role in modern application development, emphasizing how they've evolved from optional to essential. The conversation covers the challenges in API infrastructure and security, and how AI could revolutionize API interactions. Palladino also explores the importance of thoughtful design in API management, underscoring its impact on user experience and developer productivity.
Jun 11, 2024 • 1h 3min
#247: Professional Development, Analytically Speaking with Helen Crossley
Professional development is a big topic—way more than just thinking about what job you want in five years and setting milestones along the way. Thankfully we had Helen Crossley, Senior Director of Marketing Science at Meta, join Michael, Moe, and Val to dive deep into this topic! We explored how to set really good, meaningful goals, the challenges across each stage from junior analyst to leader, and how to give great feedback. We also spent quite a bit of time discussing the new challenges that becoming a first-time manager presents and, hopefully, some helpful tips and thought exercises to help out our listeners who are or are about to be faced with this challenge. For complete show notes, including links to items mentioned in this episode and a transcript of the show, visit the show page.
5 snips
May 28, 2024 • 55min
#246: I've Got 99 Analytical Methodologies and Need to Pick Just One
Data analytics expert Simon Jackson from Hypergrowth Data joins the hosts to discuss the complexities of choosing the right analytical methodologies, emphasizing the importance of aligning data with real-world problems. They explore the strength of simple methods, considerations for new analysts, and practical advice for navigating the realm of methodologies. The conversation touches on statistical significance, communication with stakeholders, and resources for learning about neural networks and marketing.
8 snips
May 14, 2024 • 1h
#245: Dear APH-y - An Analytics Advice Call-In Show
The hosts provide advice on navigating uncertainties in analytics work, importance of seeking feedback, engaging clients with dashboards, effective communication strategies, and differences between agency and consultancy roles. They emphasize the significance of asking good questions in analytics, with a touch of playful banter and gratitude at the end.
Apr 30, 2024 • 1h 1min
#244: Data Is Everywhere. Why Do We Limit Ourselves by Default?
Jason DeRise shares stories on using alternative data for analyses, including tearing down a Tesla. The episode explores the power of diverse data sets and methodologies, emphasizing the value of unconventional sources. It discusses challenges faced during the pandemic, data acquisition for business decisions, transitioning into the insurance sector, and the benefits of data meetups and mathematical decision-making. The chapter also includes humorous anecdotes and insights into data analysis and interpretation.
13 snips
Apr 16, 2024 • 1h 14min
#243: Being Data-Driven: a Statistical Process Control Perspective with Cedric Chin
Cedric Chin, a data-driven expert, delves into statistical process control, XmR charts, and continuous improvement. They discuss systemic thinking, root cause analysis, and the impact of data literacy on operational decision-making. The podcast also touches on Excel visualization, the World Happiness Report, and generational differences in happiness levels.
