
The Data Stack Show
Each week we’ll talk to data engineers, analysts, and data scientists about their experience around building and maintaining data infrastructure, delivering data and data products, and driving better outcomes across their businesses with data.
Latest episodes

5 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 24min
250: The Chat Interface Debate: Is Text Really the Future?
This week’s guest is Matt, known as the Cynical Data Guy, who dives deep into the world of data, AI, and tech trends. He critically explores the debate over chat interfaces versus dashboards, advocating for user engagement improvements. The discussion introduces 'vibe revenue' as a fresh growth metric and reflects on the unpredictable evolution of AI and hardware. Matt also shares insights on the enduring relevance of SQL and the skepticism around new social networks, emphasizing authentic connections over AI-driven ones.

Jun 18, 2025 • 19min
249: Quacking Through Data: Duckdb's Emerging Ecosystem
Matt Kelliher-Gibson, known as the cynical data guy, joins to unravel the latest innovations in data analytics. The discussion kicks off with DuckDB's exciting Duck Lake announcement, emphasizing its role as a local analytics powerhouse compatible with Apache Iceberg. They dive into the complexities of data catalogs and the future of metadata orchestration, exploring how to simplify data management. Plus, a quirky demo showcases a speech-to-SQL tool while playfully quacking! Tune in for a blend of humor and insightful tech talk!

Jun 11, 2025 • 48min
248: AI and BI: The Future of Data Analytics with Michael Driscoll of Rill Data
Michael Driscoll, Co-Founder and CEO of Rill Data, dives into the revolutionary impact of AI on business intelligence and data analytics. He talks about the shift from traditional dashboard tools to dynamic, AI-powered interfaces that enable deeper insights. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of a metrics-first approach and highlights advancements in data infrastructure, including open standards and real-time analytical databases. Driscoll discusses how AI agents are becoming primary users of data tools, reshaping the landscape for data professionals.

Jun 9, 2025 • 2min
The PRQL: The Metrics-First Approach: Transforming How We Understand Data with Michael Driscoll of Rill Data
Explore the innovative metrics-first approach to data understanding with insights from Mark Driscoll. Discover how new trends in business intelligence and AI are reshaping data management. Delve into the critical role of real-time customer data in driving smarter decisions. Gain valuable perspectives on enhancing customer experiences through effective data utilization.

Jun 4, 2025 • 31min
247: Consulting Firms, AI Strategies, and the $100K Question with the Cynical Data Guy
Matt, known as the 'Cynical Data Guy,' returns with his sharp observations on corporate data trends. The conversation dives into Klarna's pivot from AI to human support, illustrating the limitations of technology in customer service. They address sensationalist media narratives surrounding AI and critique the costly strategies of consulting firms. The duo humorously reveals how simplistic tools, like Excel, still dominate data management. Lastly, Matt offers a witty take on the shortcomings of data science, emphasizing the need for practical, business-focused approaches.

Jun 2, 2025 • 3min
The PRQL: Cynical Data Guy: Unpacking Tech's Latest Hype Cycles
Dive into the world of corporate data and the evolving role of AI in customer support. Explore the cynical side of tech talk, where lighthearted commentary meets serious insights. Discover the intriguing concept of data therapy that helps organizations navigate their data struggles. It's a mix of humor and critical reflection on the hype cycles that shape the tech landscape.

28 snips
May 28, 2025 • 49min
246: AI, Abstractions, and the Future of Data Engineering with Pete Hunt of Dagster
Pete Hunt, CEO of Dagster and ex-Facebook engineer known for his work on React.js, dives into the evolution of data practices and the impact of generative AI on data engineering. He discusses the challenges of integrating acquired companies and the importance of abstraction in managing complexity. The conversation highlights the role of collaboration, trust in AI, and the necessity of guardrails within workflows. Pete also shares valuable insights into fostering empathy in tech and how innovation can shape the future of data integration.

May 26, 2025 • 3min
The PRQL: Breaking Down Silos: Collaborative Data Engineering in the AI Era with Pete Hunt of Dagster
The discussion dives into innovations transforming data engineering. It highlights the impact of emerging technologies, like large language models, on the industry. The guest from Dagster shares insights about breaking down silos in collaborative data work. The conversation emphasizes the blending of AI with data processes to drive smarter decisions and improve customer experiences.

9 snips
May 22, 2025 • 44min
245: The Future of Data: Postgres, Iceberg, and Operational Analytics with Pranav Aurora of Mooncake Labs
Pranav Aurora, the founder of Mooncake Labs and a former Microsoft and SingleStore expert, shares his journey in data innovation. He discusses the transformative power of PostgreSQL and the challenges of integrating Iceberg for enhanced data management. Pranav emphasizes the significance of community feedback in product development and the role of AI in evolving data interaction. He also offers insights into building a successful go-to-market strategy and shares the inspiration behind the name Mooncake Labs, hinting at exciting upcoming product releases.

May 21, 2025 • 2min
The PRQL: Zero to One: Navigating the Challenges of a Data Infrastructure Startup
Dive into the challenges of building a data infrastructure startup. Discover innovations that simplify data management for businesses. Hear insights from industry experts navigating the complexities of the current data landscape. Learn how to drive better outcomes through effective data strategies. This discussion is packed with tips and experiences that every data enthusiast will appreciate!