Catalog & Cocktails: The Honest, No-BS Data Podcast

Tim and Juan meet in person with Jean-Georges Perrin for a longer-than-usual episode. Together, they unpack the real meaning behind data contracts, explaining how these agreements serve as the backbone for successful data products and the practical framework for data mesh implementation. If you want to cut through all the jargon and buzzwords and get to an Honest, No-BS discussion, this is the episode for you!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Frances O'Rafferty, Senior Manager at Baringa, explore sthe critical gap between data-driven aspirations and decision-making reality. While many organizations claim to be "data-driven," leaders often revert to gut instinct when making crucial decisions. We'll examine how fragmented data experiences erode confidence and how a user-centric approach that brings together data, metadata, quality metrics, and lineage in one place can build the foundation of trust necessary for truly data-driven decision making. Frances shares practical insights on creating holistic data experiences that empower everyone across the organization to trust in their data and make confident, fact-based decisions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Frances O'Rafferty, Senior Manager at Baringa, explore sthe critical gap between data-driven aspirations and decision-making reality. While many organizations claim to be "data-driven," leaders often revert to gut instinct when making crucial decisions. We'll examine how fragmented data experiences erode confidence and how a user-centric approach that brings together data, metadata, quality metrics, and lineage in one place can build the foundation of trust necessary for truly data-driven decision making. Frances shares practical insights on creating holistic data experiences that empower everyone across the organization to trust in their data and make confident, fact-based decisions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Krystin Kim, VP of Data & Analytics at Post Holdings and a seasoned expert in data analytics, joins for an enlightening discussion. She shares key takeaways from the Gartner Data & Analytics Summit 2025, emphasizing the transformative shift towards user-centric data governance. The conversation highlights the importance of clean data for collaboration and the critical need for clear KPIs to drive business success. Additionally, they tackle the democratization of data access, the role of AI in workflows, and the value of learning through incremental governance.

Tim Gasper and Juan Sequeda share insights from their travels, highlighting six impactful data trends they've uncovered. They discuss the rise of data marketplaces, focusing on curated data products and user-centric solutions. A fascinating look at the shift-left strategy emphasizes data quality accountability early on. Operational governance is explored, stressing the need for transparency. They also delve into the critical role of metadata in enhancing AI applications, showcasing how it can streamline processes and foster faster development.

Winfried Etzel, a data governance enthusiast and host of MetaDema, rethinks the role of governance for the AI era. He proposes a fresh approach, viewing data governance through the lenses of Data Negotiator, Director, and Accountant. The conversation navigates the need for adaptable strategies that foster a culture of accountability, emphasizing that every data professional can be a governance champion. Winfried illustrates the transformation of data governance in automated environments and the critical balance between compliance and human oversight.

Data governance is evolving in the age of AI, challenging traditional models. Winfried Etzel presents a fresh framework that encourages a cultural shift, where every data professional acts as a governance champion. The discussion emphasizes integrating governance within teams, rather than segregating it, and highlights the importance of data literacy and accountability. Automation plays a key role in streamlining governance tasks, setting a strategic direction for modern businesses.

Alexander Torrenegra, CEO of Torre.ai and expert in AI recruitment, shares how data governance can be a game changer in business. He discusses the evolution from traditional voice casting to AI-driven recruitment. Torrenegra emphasizes the need for transparency over privacy in hiring, exploring different cultural attitudes toward data governance. The conversation also delves into the impact of AI on national security and urges companies to leverage data governance for competitive advantage. Pour yourself a drink and uncover the secrets of effective data management!

Alexander Torrenegra discusses transforming data governance from a hindrance into a competitive advantage. He emphasizes the crucial role of data management in AI success. The conversation dives into the balance of transparency versus privacy in today’s digital world. Torrenegra’s journey from voice actor casting to AI recruitment highlights revolutionary insights on the future of hiring. Pour a drink and enjoy an engaging exchange about the intersection of AI and data governance!

Olga Maydanchik, a data management expert known for her ability to simplify complex concepts, joins the hosts for a deep dive into the essentials of being data-driven. They discuss the importance of creating an Enterprise Business Glossary to improve decision-making and clarify terminology. Olga shares best practices for governing glossaries, the challenges of data classification, and the need for strong foundational processes in data management. Insights on metadata architecture further elevate the conversation, making a case for valuing metadata just as much as data itself.