
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

Apr 14, 2025 • 3min
The PRQL: Willz Tolbert’s Journey Through Real Estate and AI
Explore the intriguing crossroads of real estate and technology as a former broker shares insights on transitioning to software entrepreneurship. Delve into the evolving role of AI and data in the commercial real estate landscape. The discussion teases the complexities of integrating innovative solutions into traditional industries. Expect engaging anecdotes and expert opinions that illuminate the future of both real estate and AI.

20 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 54min
236: Ringing Out the Old: AI's Role in Redefining Data Teams, Tools, and Business Models
Dive into the fascinating impact of AI on data teams and business models. Explore how AI is reshaping traditional roles and creating new structures within organizations. The discussion covers the significance of clean data, the evolving landscape of data tools, and the recent industry acquisition by Snowflake. Speculations on a dystopian future for data management are intriguing, while the importance of user-friendly interfaces and creative solutions in software development takes center stage. Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation!

Apr 7, 2025 • 4min
The PRQL: AI, SaaS, and the End of Job Titles with Eric Dodds and John Wessel
The conversation kicks off with a fun look at the whirlwind evolution of data and AI technologies. The hosts highlight the booming investments from top tech companies, signaling a major shift in how we view data management. They delve into the contrast between the stability of traditional databases and the dynamic nature of front-end technologies. Expect insights on how these changes might redefine job titles in the tech industry, sparking a lively debate about the future of roles in the data landscape.

26 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 43min
235: Pete Soderling on the Evolution of Data Engineering
Pete Soderling, founder of Data Council and Zero Prime Ventures, shares his vast experience in data infrastructure and venture capital. He discusses the intersection of AI and data engineering, emphasizing the evolving roles of engineers amid advancing technologies. Insights into high-frequency trading and the unique advantages of San Francisco's tech ecosystem reveal the dynamic nature of innovation. Soderling also highlights the significance of in-person events and offers advice for aspiring AI startup founders, pointing towards a transformative future in data management.

Mar 31, 2025 • 3min
The PRQL: What AI Founders Need to Know About Data (Before It’s Too Late) with Pete Soderling of Zero Prime Ventures
Dive into the crucial relationship between AI technologies and robust data engineering practices. The conversation highlights what AI founders need to grasp about data infrastructure to thrive. Discover why having a strong foundation in data is essential before diving into AI ventures. Explore insights from an expert on the intersection of these two fields and the implications for future innovations. Don't miss the chance to learn how mastering data can set businesses up for success in an AI-driven world.

16 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 36min
234: The Cynical Data Guy on AI, Data Tools, and the Future of Coding
Matt, known as The Cynical Data Guy, shares his sharp insights on the evolving landscape of AI and data tools. He discusses the transformative power of AI in transcription services and coding, highlighting both opportunities and risks. Their conversation dives into the importance of balancing AI use with foundational programming knowledge to avoid pitfalls. Matt also touches on how user-friendly data tools are reshaping the industry, making data access easier for everyone, and emphasizes the significance of clear communication in an AI-driven world.

6 snips
Mar 24, 2025 • 9min
The PRQL: From Code to No-Code: How AI is Reshaping Data Work with the Cynical Data Guy
Discover the transformative impact of AI tools on data work and transcription services. Learn how foundational AI models are reshaping the industry and threatening traditional tools. Hear insights on user experiences with adaptive AI models and products like Raycast, as the hosts discuss the benefits and challenges of these innovations. Dive into personal anecdotes that reveal a shift in corporate data practices, showcasing the evolving landscape of data technology.

Mar 19, 2025 • 58min
233: The Power of a Triple Threat in Data: Business, Engineering, and Strategy with Solomon Kahn of Delivery Layer and Top Data People
Solomon Kahn, Founder of Delivery Layer and Top Data People, shares his extensive experience in building data teams and monetizing data. He emphasizes the value of a triple threat in data professionals who blend business acumen, engineering skills, and strategy. The conversation highlights the challenges of implementing AI in business, innovative data delivery models, and practical steps for monetizing data assets. Solomon also stresses the importance of personal branding on platforms like LinkedIn and mastering fundamental skills for professional growth in the data industry.

4 snips
Mar 17, 2025 • 2min
The PRQL: From Data Engineer to Data Entrepreneur with Solomon Kahn of Delivery Layer and Top Data People
Dive into the fascinating journey of transitioning from a data engineer to a data entrepreneur. Discover the unique challenges faced in the field, from client reporting to navigating the startup versus corporate landscape. Insights on professional growth and the evolving nature of data careers are explored. Perfect for anyone passionate about leveraging data to drive business success!

18 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 48min
232: Building a Business Solo: Streaming Data, Synthetic Testing, and Startup Lessons with Michael Drogalis of ShadowTraffic.io
Michael Drogalis, founder of ShadowTraffic.io and an expert in streaming data and synthetic testing, shares his entrepreneurial journey. He discusses the nuances of solopreneurship, revealing the balance between technical work and business strategy. The conversation dives into the challenges of synthetic data generation and the importance of reliable testing methods in the B2B SaaS space. Michael also reflects on lessons learned from past startups and the significance of a customer-centric approach while navigating growth.