
Data Driven
Data Driven: the podcast where we explore the emerging field of Data Science. We bring the best minds in Data, Software Engineering, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence right to you every Tuesday.
The field of data science mashes up the worlds of statistics, database architecture and software engineering. Data Scientist has been labelled by the Harvard Business Review, as "the sexiest job of the 21st century." A quick search of job search sites reveal that this field is in high demand.
In a world where Data is the new Oil, Data Science the new Refineries, consider this Car Talk for the Data Age. Every week we bring the best minds in this emerging field straight to you. Our goal is to educate and inspire our listeners so that they can be prepared to thrive in a Data Driven world.
Latest episodes

Jul 24, 2024 • 39min
Kevin Latchford on the Security Risks of Large Language Models
In this episode, we explore real-world cases that showcase the susceptibility of AI chatbots to manipulation, as illustrated by a shocking incident where an AI was manipulated to sell a Chevy truck for just $1. Kevin Latchford sheds light on the dual-use knowledge risks and the potential for unauthorized leaks and malicious backdoors within AI plugins.Frank and Kevin dive into the implications of quick technological adoption, drawing parallels to the early web era. We discuss the impact of network setups, access controls, data supply chain integrity, and the ongoing investigations into the security implications of these burgeoning technologies. This episode is packed with expert insights and practical advice on navigating the complex world of AI security.Show Notes05:04 Public space tech meant to have safeguards.09:39 Security issue in enterprise AI adoption concern.12:53 Understanding security implications is crucial for mitigation.16:40 Chatbot manipulated to sell Chevy truck for $1.17:57 Found something during cybersecurity exercise, not sharing.21:11 Uncertainty about security in remote interfacing.24:00 Utilize specialized LLM to analyze prompts precisely.29:15 Understanding cybersecurity first is key to AI.32:32 Implement outbound stateful connection to prevent automatic calls.34:31 IT field is interesting with its vulnerabilities.37:15 Data-driven podcast highlights AI security vulnerabilities. Stay vigilant.About the SpeakerKevin Latchford is an esteemed expert in the cybersecurity realm, renowned for his comprehensive understanding and proficiency in both offensive and defensive strategies. Drawing from concepts rooted in military practice, Kevin adeptly navigates the intricate dynamics of red teaming and blue teaming. As an advocate for offensive cybersecurity, red teaming, also known as opposing force operations, he challenges the vulnerabilities within systems to enhance their integrity. Conversely, his expertise in blue teaming, the defensive counterpart, focuses on shielding and fortifying friendlies. Through his dedicated efforts, Kevin ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility of computer networks and systems, whether they are natively hosted or web-based, culminating in fortified cyber defenses and resilient information security.Mentioned in this episode:WITI BOGO Deal!Special Offer:
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Jul 1, 2024 • 55min
Dr Yossi Keshet on Decoding Speech, AI, Morality, and the Future
In this episode, we explore linguistic and cultural influences on language with Dr. Yossi Keshet—a renowned expert in automated speech recognition.We cover the intricacies of jargon, code-switching, and the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence. Listen to discover how the convergence of linguistics and computer science is revolutionizing our interaction with technology.Show Notes05:26 YOLA targets foundational industries through AI.07:34 Automatic speech recognition similar to KJGPT model.11:17 American English research bias in speech intelligibility.13:33 Studying foreign languages improved understanding of grammar.18:35 Passionate about linguistics and cognitive sciences. No AI has this capability.20:23 Phenomenal correlation between artificial and neural mechanisms.26:24 Innovating transcription: improving on old industry practices.27:35 GPT's influence on various fundamental industries.31:56 Using multiple languages can enhance comprehension.35:07 Switching between languages in code-switching research.40:47 Superego: Freud's guilt and fear mechanism. Evolutionary.42:11 Book writing claiming need for non-standard regulations.46:46 AI movie plot illustrates ethics in robotics.50:25 GPT discussion focuses on personalized and helpful interaction.53:20 End of insightful data-driven episode, future technology.Mentioned in this episode:WITI BOGO Deal!Special Offer:
WITI is offering an incredible Buy One, Get One sale on memberships until Labor Day in the US. This is a perfect chance to access valuable networking opportunities, cutting-edge resources, and career advancement perks.
Exclusive Discount Code:
Use the coupon code DATADRIVEN at checkout to take advantage of this special offer. Whether you’re aiming to elevate your career or support a fellow tech enthusiast, now is the perfect time to join WITI.
Visit WITI.com to grab your BOGO membership before it’s too late!

Jun 20, 2024 • 52min
Aviad Harell's Insights on Tech, AI, and Venture Capital
In this exciting episode, Frank La Vigne and Andy Leonard sit down with Aviad Harell, managing partner at Team 8, to explore the transformative power of technology in today's business landscape. Aviad shares his mission to eliminate day-to-day bureaucracy and leverages technology to automate processes, drawing from his vast experience in the tech industry. Beyond business, Aviad reveals his passion for traveling in South America and his book recommendation, "The Mom Test," which acts as a guide for proper idea validation.As the conversation unfolds, we explore how venture capital has evolved from a hobby to a disciplined, professional field, much like the maturity models in software development. Aviad details Team 8's innovative approach to venture capital, partnering with founders early in their journey, sometimes before even fully forming ideas. This unique model includes building a robust support system of 85 professionals to ensure the success of the startups they invest in.Discover the importance of critical thinking, loving the problem more than the solution, and the journey from idea to execution. Hear Aviad's insights on why execution is more crucial than the original idea and his belief in adaptability, quoting the famous military adage, "No idea survives contact with reality."Show Notes04:56 Founders seek validation, partners provide early support.07:57 Teammate model founded on deep cybersecurity understanding.10:51 Query about venture capitalist process's modernization and perception.15:28 Entrepreneurship challenges led to significant personal growth.19:07 Unintended tech consequences changing finance and daily lives.22:47 Interested in different applications of agile methodologies.27:22 Fascinating insights into approaching venture capitalists today.30:31 Passion for skill, idea improvement, crucial teamwork.31:23 Seek advice, consider other ideas, and collaborate.36:26 Entrepreneur becomes angel investor, supports Tel Aviv.37:52 Considered new company, resisted VC, became investor.43:58 Automating bureaucracy, taxes, and legal document review.47:53 Focus on problem, not solution; meaningful feedback.50:38 Data-driven episode with Aviad Harrell from Team 8.Mentioned in this episode:WITI BOGO Deal!Special Offer:
WITI is offering an incredible Buy One, Get One sale on memberships until Labor Day in the US. This is a perfect chance to access valuable networking opportunities, cutting-edge resources, and career advancement perks.
Exclusive Discount Code:
Use the coupon code DATADRIVEN at checkout to take advantage of this special offer. Whether you’re aiming to elevate your career or support a fellow tech enthusiast, now is the perfect time to join WITI.
Visit WITI.com to grab your BOGO membership before it’s too late!

May 28, 2024 • 53min
Chris Cooney on Exploring Data Evangelism
In this episode, Frank La Vigne and Andy Leonard dive deep into the world of developer advocacy and data observability with special guest Chris Cooney from CoreLogix. From discussing the evolution of Microsoft Evangelism to the intricacies of data retention and real-time decision-making, this conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the impact of AI technology, the importance of community in software engineering, and the challenges of connecting with engineers at trade shows.Join us as we explore the intersection of technology, advocacy, and data engineering in this insightful episode featuring Chris Cooney on "Data Driven".New Season Means a New Theme SongLet us know what you think! Don't worry, we will use a shortened version for future shows. We were just so excited to get to Season 8!Show Notes03:54 Experienced engineer transitioned into leadership in technology.07:40 Dan delivers insightful speech on tracking activity.12:33 Developers must adapt to new technology continually.13:45 Conference talk success measured by engagement metrics.17:15 Uncertainty about outcome of video creation.20:00 The trend in the field is evolving.25:45 Retain all data, use case-driven storage. Avoid rehydration.27:11 Core principles: smart data science, streaming architecture.32:34 Efficient streaming processes allow for easy scaling.36:16 Instantly triggered alarm blocks malicious IP addresses.37:22 Enormous architecture demonstrates remarkable data management practice.42:13 Struggle with learning Arabic dialect using AI.44:41 Language differences reflect cultural and historical influences.47:55 Regularly listens to audiobooks, recommends "Team Topologies" and "Team of Teams."51:32 Data-driven podcast season 8 debut summary prompt.Mentioned in this episode:WITI BOGO Deal!Special Offer:
WITI is offering an incredible Buy One, Get One sale on memberships until Labor Day in the US. This is a perfect chance to access valuable networking opportunities, cutting-edge resources, and career advancement perks.
Exclusive Discount Code:
Use the coupon code DATADRIVEN at checkout to take advantage of this special offer. Whether you’re aiming to elevate your career or support a fellow tech enthusiast, now is the perfect time to join WITI.
Visit WITI.com to grab your BOGO membership before it’s too late!

Apr 24, 2024 • 57min
Dr. Julia DiGangi on the Neuropsychology of Stress and Success
In today’s episode of the Data Driven podcast, we delve into the intricate dance of the human brain with uncertainty, guided by the insightful and optimistic Dr. Julia DiGangi. Dr. DiGangi’s work transcends traditional academic boundaries, focusing on the neuropsychological underpinnings that shape our responses to the ever-shifting sands of our times. With a blend of deep scientific knowledge and a hopeful outlook, she sheds light on how understanding our brain's mechanics can enhance our navigation through life's complexities. Join us as Dr. DiGangi illuminates the pathways of our cognitive landscapes, offering clarity and guidance through the fog of uncertainty.Show Notes00:00 Neuropsychologist studies brain domains, human vs. machines.05:06 Technology layoffs causing career uncertainty, sparking concern.08:54 Brain is allergic to uncertainty, scientific study.10:24 People choose painful shocks over uncertainty in lab.15:44 Lead life wisely, brain is most powerful.19:21 Jordan Belfort, inspiration for Wolf of Wall Street.20:09 Theory powerful across contexts, emotional intelligence vs. artificial intelligence.25:30 Leadership is about influential emotional signals.29:22 Emotion sets human consciousness energy, fixing pain.31:43 Questioning our connection to somatic intelligence.35:26 Questions about recovery, healing, and enduring patterns.38:22 Challenges are inevitable, despite our circumstances.42:38 Emotions are a richer carrier of meaning.44:07 Transition from academic to public mental health advocacy.46:30 Talk therapy integrates thinking and emotions in the brain.52:17 Tired of politics, focused on substance and policy.55:45 Engaging podcast featuring AI and human mind.

Apr 8, 2024 • 1h 11min
A Data Driven Retrospective: A Look Back Through Seven Seasons and 360 Episodes
In this landmark 360th episode of Data Driven, we take a full-circle journey back through the past seven seasons, exploring the highs, lows, and everything in-between. Frank and Andy, in their signature style, veer off the beaten path, offering listeners not just a trip down memory lane, but an off-road adventure filled with insights, laughter, and a few unexpected detours. Join us as we reflect on where we’ve been and, more importantly, where we’re headed next in the ever-evolving landscape of data and technology. It’s an episode you won’t want to miss, complete with the wisdom and whimsy that only Frank and Andy can provide.Moments00:00 Simpsons celebrates 360 episodes, announces new shows.06:48 Struggling with impostor syndrome, sibling dynamics, and survival.14:37 Experiments with AI feedback, brief show intros.20:19 Challenging start, surprised by success in audio.25:17 Uneven distribution; learned from former Microsoft colleague.29:47 Struggle with communication, engineer writes terse responses.35:47 Detective describes transit system in detail.38:25 Relieved when Amazon took over sci-fi series.43:28 Discussing latest blog post on OpenAI's capabilities.52:15 Obfuscation and difficulty in accessing information persist.56:41 Equal time for Democrats and Republicans in media.01:02:36 December is a mad time due to birthdays.01:05:06 Originally planned as a video podcast, logistics issues.01:09:44 360-degree journey concludes with data-driven discussions.

Mar 6, 2024 • 56min
Jennifer Swanson on Reinventing Business for the Era of Data and AI
In this episode Frank and Andy welcome Jennifer Swanson explains how businesses can reinvent themselves for the data driven age of AI. From recognizing the importance of defining clear strategies and outcomes to the struggles of change management, Jennifer reveals that the heart of digital transformation lies in aligning individuals to the company's objectives, and significantly, that it's less about the technology itself and more about the people and processes. Whether you're a leader in your organization, part of a cross-functional team, or simply intrigued by the intersections of technology and business, this episode is a rich exploration of what it really means to be digitally transformed.Show Notes05:31 Technology now integral to every business operation.07:07 Offline businesses integrating technology for improved experience.10:04 First wave of digital transformation: applying technology.14:09 Data governance key to organization's predictable success.16:54 Organizational governance ensures strategy, priorities, and outcomes.21:47 Training, support, and focus key for empowerment.25:57 Selecting narrow slices drives model implementation success.28:49 "Positive experiences with scrum and DevOps"32:22 Leadership defines market, customer, and problems.36:12 In cross functional teams, sticking to lanes.38:53 Embrace collaboration and diplomacy for success.40:26 Smart professionals promoted to leadership roles, questioning suitability.44:15 Found work through family influence and adaptability.47:23 Experimenting with tech is now very accessible.50:28 Family loves Audible, enjoys romance novel series.55:23 Jennifer, thanks for the great digital transformation explanation.

Feb 29, 2024 • 50min
Danny Maloney on AI’s Leap to Marketing Mastery
In this episode, Danny Maloney is going to lead you on a journey to explore how artificial intelligence is not just a fleeting novelty but a tool of immense utility that's changing the playing field for individuals and small businesses alike. Danny brings his passion for algorithmic innovation from his experiences as a data-loving youth to his leadership role at Tailwind, where they leverage AI to level the marketing playing field for small businesses.Show Notes06:16 Early days of prevalent AI models, feedback loop.08:37 Small businesses struggle with limited resources for marketing.12:31 AI guides marketing decisions for faster success.16:34 AI leader initiating internal discussions on AI's impact.19:18 Experts experimenting, varying responses to AI capabilities.23:43 Early phase of tech development and impact.26:35 Tool Dingo ported from C# to Python.29:47 Making prompt engineering unnecessary for average users.31:39 Requested a specific image prompt and tested.35:03 OpenAI developing GPT-5, creating internet frenzy.38:58 Helping users personalize and develop voice technology.43:24 Retro tech culture and its work ethic.45:47 Chat GPT upsets media writers, AI creativity.48:57 Digital journey ends with gratitude and encouragement.

Feb 27, 2024 • 52min
Luke Diaz on Leveraging Data for Customer Retention and Business Growth
Welcome to show 357 of the Data Driven podcast! This week, we welcome Luke Diaz to the show.Luke has an impressive track record of scaling startups to staggering annual recurring revenues, and today, he's here to shed light on the pivotal role of customer success in growing a business. We'll dive deep into the intricacies of customer success management, its impact on subscription models, and the measurements that underpin it. Luke also shares personal insights into his daily habit tracking and the data-driven approach to setting quarterly goals.But that's not all – Luke opens up about his journey from being a hedge fund manager to making a name in the software industry, cultivating unyielding ambition, and the significance of customer feedback in lieu of venture capital insights.Show Moments05:27 Marketing function has evolved, delivering value.09:15 Companies need high retention to be successful.13:34 Emphasizing the challenge of defining success in startups.17:07 Analyze customer success, product strength, usage frequency.20:01 Companies hesitant to invest in customer success.24:38 VC interviews, cautionary tales, and relationship importance.26:12 Caution to look at numbers in term sheets.32:32 Entrepreneur achieves $100 million sale in 7 years.34:13 Machine learning hype outweighs business value currently.36:40 CSMs can upload public filings to chat GPT 4 for efficient reading.39:47 Screenshots are simple, stable, and pervasively used.43:34 Star Trek technology influencing modern innovations.48:10 Recent recommended books on leadership and strategy.50:22 Thank you to guest Luke Diaz, feedback appreciated.

Feb 19, 2024 • 56min
Jeremy Utley on Crafting Smarter Conversations with AI
Today, we're thrilled to welcome a special guest, Jeremy Utley, an academic marvel from Stanford, whose work on AI and idea flows is altering the landscape of business and innovation. In this episode, titled “Jeremy Utley on Getting the Most out of LLMs”, we dive into Jeremy's FIXIT approach for leveraging Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT.Jeremy will unpack the nuances of FIXIT, showing us the importance of providing context, iterative interaction, and team incubation while using AI. We'll reminisce about how technology has evolved from cell phone minutes to AI, which is becoming as ubiquitous as smartphones once were.Frank will voice concerns about the technical aspects, like token length, while agreeing with Jeremy's method. We'll examine why AI needs to be seen as a collaborative partner rather than a magical solution. Jeremy will shine a light on his book "IdeaFlow" and share his insights on the psychological barriers hindering the effective use of AI in practice.Expect to hear anecdotal wisdom about the transformative impact of ChatGPT, the importance of prompt engineering, and the potential of AI to refine negotiation skills. Jeremy will even offer examples of how generative AI can offer fresh perspectives on personal and emotional decisions.Don’t forget Frank’s experiments with creating custom GPTs, such as for our character Bailey. Our lively discussion promises to leave you with a wealth of knowledge on interacting with and extracting maximum value from AI.For all this and much more, stay tuned in as we journey through the possibilities and realities of AI as a tool for amplifying human capacity.And before we kick things off, a quick reminder to check out Audible for the best in audiobooks, and please take a moment to rate and review Data Driven to help us grow and bring you content you love.Now, without further ado, let's get data driven.Show Notes00:00 "Idea flows: the only business metric that matters."05:35 Striving for the best is essential.06:46 Expert hesitations on using AI for knowledge.11:27 Asking for help, ended up with an image.14:41 Convince family to take job offer role-play.16:08 Learning new skills and fostering imagination through technology.19:54 Seek understanding from personal experiences and examples.25:48 Keanu Reeves movie sparks philosophical wonder.28:42 AI prompts emotional epiphanies for life decisions.32:11 Accidental query on creating GPU prompts explanations.36:08 Instructions for using voice mode during coaching.39:50 Ease of use and utility in busy life.43:18 Key to AI success: Team collaboration is essential.47:07 Kids don't care about data plans.50:45 Released groundbreaking technology; implications for all industries.53:18 Excited to buy internet access for chat.54:54 Jeremy Utley wows with innovation and wisdom.
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