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
20 snips
Jan 23, 2024 • 1h 5min
#237: Crossing the Chasm from the Data to Meaningful Outcomes with Kathleen Maley
Kathleen Maley, an expert in data analytics, discusses the challenges of delivering meaningful business impact with Moe, Julie, and Michael. They explore unconventional analytics methods, managing data pipeline questions, effective communication, creating a conducive environment for analysis, recognizing women as analytics leaders, and using analytics for nonprofit organizations.
Jan 9, 2024 • 1h 5min
#236: The AI Ecosystem with Matthew Lynley
Matthew Lynley, AI industry news reporter, chats with the hosts about the complex and fast-moving AI landscape. Topics include emerging startups, questioning the value of the AI ecosystem, different categories in the industry, the use of unstructured data in AI training, and staying calm when facing challenges in AI technologies.
Dec 26, 2023 • 1h 7min
#235: 2023 Year in Review with Josh Crowhurst
Josh Crowhurst joins as a guest to discuss reflections on the analytics and data science industry. Topics include AI, Google Analytics 4, marketing mix modeling, generative AI, evolving user tracking in marketing, and the impact of technology complexity on those who get paid.
Dec 12, 2023 • 1h 1min
#234: Establishing Expectations for Analysts
Setting clear expectations for analysts and the challenges involved. The importance of effective communication skills, spell checking, and meeting deadlines. The distinction between task and role expectations. The need for analysts to take initiative for growth and development. Discussion on the book 'Thinking in Bets' and expressing gratitude. Also, tracking newborn's sleep and eating patterns.
Nov 28, 2023 • 52min
#233: Analytics Mentors (Having One, Being One)
The hosts discuss the importance of mentorship in analytics careers and share their personal experiences. They explore the dynamics of mentorship relationships and the need for effective communication. They also discuss the significance of finding diverse mentors and share interesting articles and projects. Overall, they emphasize the role of mentors in the analytics field.
Nov 14, 2023 • 58min
#232: The Reality of Uncertainty Meets the Imperative of Actionability with Michael Kaminsky
It's been said that, in this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes, so why is it so hard to communicate uncertainty to stakeholders when delivering an analysis? Many stakeholders think an analysis is intended to deliver an absolute truth; that if they have just enough data, a smart analyst, and some fancy techniques, that the decision they should make will emerge! In this episode, Tim, Moe, and Val sat down with Michael Kaminsky, co-founder of Recast, to discuss strategies such as scenario planning and triangulation to help navigate these tricky conversations. Get comfortable with communicating the strengths and drawbacks of your different methodological approaches to empower decision making from your stakeholders! For complete show notes, including links to items mentioned in this episode and a transcript of the show, visit the show page.
118 snips
Oct 31, 2023 • 1h 2min
#231: Estimating the Effort for Analytics Projects
The podcast explores the challenges of estimating effort for analytics projects and highlights the importance of reverse briefing and asking questions. The hosts discuss the significance of setting parameters, using a method for estimating projects in analytics, and managing perception and attitude. They also emphasize the importance of structured communication in projects and provide insights on transitioning to Google Analytics 4.
12 snips
Oct 17, 2023 • 55min
#230: First, We Must Discover. Then, We Can Explore. With Viyaleta Apgar
Viyaleta Apgar, Senior Manager of Analytics Solutions at Indeed.com, joins the hosts to discuss the importance of structured data analysis and understanding the dataset before analysis. They also touch on risk tolerance calibration, building data fluency, and the role of circumstances and luck in success. Last call recommendations include exploring the Zoom app marketplace and joining the Test and Learned Community.
Oct 3, 2023 • 53min
#229: Data and the ABCs (SERIES A, B, and C, That Is!) with Samantha Wong
Samantha Wong, partner at Blackbird Ventures, joins the hosts to explore how data and analytics play a role in early stage startups. They discuss funding rounds, investor risk, data quality, growth potential, and analyzing founder's past experiences. They also share the value of reading fiction and recommend books and articles. A funny outtake concludes the episode.
Sep 19, 2023 • 52min
#228: What AI Can't Do with Dr. Brandeis Marshall
Dr. Brandeis Marshall, AI expert and researcher, joins the hosts to discuss the limitations and misconceptions surrounding AI. They explore the importance of human intelligence in areas such as contextual awareness, conflict resolution, and critical thinking. The conversation also touches on PILIC Pro analytics tool, AI job salaries, and Google Analytics 4 tips.
