
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

12 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 1h 2min
220: From Box Office to Big Data: Bridging Marketing and Technology Through Data-Driven Leadership with Brian Schwartz of SIZE
Brian Schwartz, an Advisor at SIZE and former global marketing lead at Expedia, shares his impressive journey through the worlds of data and marketing. He discusses the tension between marketing and data teams and highlights the shift from traditional strategies to data-driven decision-making. Schwartz reflects on his experiences at DreamWorks Animation and offers insights into the integration of AI in business, revealing both its challenges and untapped opportunities. He also emphasizes the importance of networking and collaboration for high-growth companies.

Dec 16, 2024 • 3min
The PRQL: Bridging Marketing and Technology Through Data-Driven Leadership with Brian Schwartz of SIZE
Discover how marketing and data teams can effectively collaborate to boost business outcomes. Explore the complexities of data-driven decision-making and its impact on marketing strategies. Learn from a seasoned expert about the evolving relationship between technology and marketing. Gain insights into the different approaches companies take to harness data for improved results. This conversation dives deep into bridging the gap between creativity and analytics.

20 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 33min
219: The First 90 Days of Data Leadership: What the LinkedIn Posts Don't Tell You with Matt Kelliher-Gibson, The Cynical Data Guy
In this engaging discussion, Matt Kelliher-Gibson, known as "The Cynical Data Guy," shares his sharp insights on the real challenges of data leadership. He contrasts the rosy LinkedIn portrayals with the disillusioning realities new data leaders face. From navigating team dynamics to executive alignment, Matt explores the complexities of roles like Chief Data Officer versus Head of Product. They also delve into AI's struggle with human communication nuances, emphasizing the importance of context in data strategy.

Dec 9, 2024 • 3min
The PRQL: The Unspoken Truths of Data Leadership with Matt Kelliher-Gibson, The Cynical Data
Dive into the world of data leadership with a refreshing dose of cynicism. Discover the humorous critique of pressures and unrealistic expectations that data leaders face. The discussion highlights invaluable insights into the challenges of maintaining data infrastructure. Expect wit and wisdom as they unveil the hard truths that often go unspoken in the data community. It's a unique blend of laughter and serious reflection that will resonate with anyone navigating the data landscape.

Dec 4, 2024 • 44min
218: Breaking the Language Barrier Between Data and Business with Joyce Myers of Modern Technology Solutions
Joyce Myers, Chief Data Officer at Modern Technology Solutions and former Army logistics expert, shares her remarkable journey from paper-based systems to cutting-edge data technologies in the defense sector. She discusses the vital role of data quality and entry accuracy in decision-making and resource management. Joyce emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between data insights and business needs, highlighting how leadership and communication are essential during digital transitions. Her insights offer valuable career advice for aspiring data professionals navigating change.

Dec 2, 2024 • 2min
The PRQL: Small Errors, Big Consequences: The Reality of Data Quality with Joyce Myers of Modern Technology Solutions
Discover the critical role of data quality with Joyce Myers, who shares insights about the challenges faced in modern technology solutions. Small errors can lead to significant consequences, emphasizing the importance of meticulous data management. Learn about the intersections of military logistics and data, highlighting a unique career transition into data-focused roles. Joyce's expertise sheds light on maintaining reliable data infrastructure to drive better business outcomes.

7 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 55min
217: Bridging Data Models with Business Intuition with Zenlytic’s Founders Ryan Janssen and Paul Blankley
In this engaging conversation, Ryan Janssen and Paul Blankley, co-founders of Zenlytic, share their journey from academia to building AI-powered business intelligence tools. They discuss the intersection of AI and data, the evolution of language models, and the challenges in model training. The duo emphasizes the importance of balancing data with intuition in decision-making and highlights the significance of multimodal data insights. They also touch on the fun behind naming their AI agent and the future of AI in analytics.

Nov 25, 2024 • 4min
The PRQL: Large Language Models Haven’t Always Been Large with Ryan Janssen and Paul Blankley from Zenlytic
Discover insights from experts in data analytics as they delve into the evolution of language models. They share fascinating experiences that connect AI with business intelligence. The conversation highlights how these tools are reshaping data infrastructure and driving better outcomes. Enjoy a deep dive into the significance of data privacy and security in the realm of analytics. Tune in for an engaging discussion that blends technical expertise with real-world applications!

16 snips
Nov 20, 2024 • 55min
216: From Raw Data to Business Results: Building High-Impact Data Teams with Ethan Aaron and John Steinmetz
Ethan Aaron, Founder and CEO of Portable, and John Steinmetz, Head of Data at Gallo Mechanical, share their insights on building impactful data teams. They discuss the differences between data and engineering teams, highlighting how structure varies across industries. The importance of aligning data initiatives with business goals and navigating the unique challenges of various sectors, like finance and construction, is emphasized. Additionally, they tackle the role of data in driving daily business value and the critical nature of establishing trust in data practices.

Nov 18, 2024 • 4min
The PRQL: Understanding Business Needs Before Building Data Solutions with Ethan Aaron and John Steinmetz
Explore the significance of understanding business needs before developing data solutions. Two experts dive into the dynamics between data teams and traditional engineering groups, shedding light on how alignment can enhance efficiency. They share insights on navigating team interactions and ensuring data initiatives resonate with overarching business goals. The conversation is packed with tips for improving resource management and minimizing inefficiencies in data-driven environments.