

Making Data Simple
Making Data Simple
Hosted by Al Martin, WW VP of Technical Sales at IBM, Making Data Simple cuts through the hype to reveal how data and AI reshape the modern enterprise.Thought leaders, researchers, and innovators share firsthand lessons on leading teams, scaling analytics, and driving real-world impact—delivered in Al’s signature straightforward, witty style.Tune in to Making Data Simple today. From data and AI breakthroughs to leadership hacks, top experts drop actionable gems that help businesses thrive in a data-driven world. #MakingDataSimple #AI #Leadership
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 25, 2024 • 40min
"The story is the difference" What story do you tell? Learn how to tell a story with impact with Vinca LaFleur, West Wing Writers {Replay}
Send us a textWe all need to tell a better story.Meet Vinca LaFleur of West Wing Writers. As a writer, the West Wing is the dream job. Learn how to embody "The story is the difference". Fascinating and only Part 1.02:28 Meet Vinca LaFleur, the diplomate, wait?!08:25 Politics? Continuous news?10:40 "Hanging" with Bill Clinton18:41 The craft of writing23:53 Not a PowerPoint hater, but...26:53 A writers process (case study)President Clinton at the Mackie Plant: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLCBP3o2kOMLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vinca-lafleur-28909315Website: https://www.westwingwriters.com/Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.

Sep 18, 2024 • 37min
How do you make real-time decisions with data? Talking data with Dima Spivak, Director of Product Management, StreamSets, an IBM company.
Send us a textTalking data with Dima Spivak, Director of Product Management, StreamSets. Data integration and real-time decision making.02:02 Dima Spivak is Here! 04:19 Why StreamSets?06:00 What is StreamSets?09:48 On Demand Expense11:34 Regulated Industries12:36 Secret Sauce14:41 A Competitive View15:50 Data Fabric and StreamSets18:25 StreamSets and AI21:12 Use Cases24:02 The Future of Streaming25:48 Quality and Testing31:19 For FunLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/dmitryspivakWebsite: https://www.ibm.com/blog/announcement/ibm-acquires-streamSets/Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun. Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.

Sep 11, 2024 • 33min
Design. AI Method. Music. Drop in on some smart watercooler conversation with Distinguished Engineer Greg Hintermeister
Send us a textA watercooler talk with the incredibly smart, Greg Hintermeister, IBMDistinguished Engineer, Master Inventor, and AI+ EnterpriseTransformation Lead. From Design, the AI Method, to Music.00:40 What Are You Singing?03:09 Meet Greg Hintermeister06:16 The Role of Design09:19 Becoming a Distinguished Engineer11:33 The Game Changer12:47 Monolithic Applications to Cloud17:34 Avoiding Egress Charges19:05 The AI Method22:34 Reference Architectures26:59 High Quality Data Sets28:50 Finding Greg29:04 Proving Musical TalentLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/greg-hintermeisterWant to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to usat almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. TheMaking Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP TechnicalSales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation,and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.Greg Hintermeister NotesTuesday, September 10, 2024 5:33 PMWant to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.

Sep 4, 2024 • 58min
Curiosity and Client Obsession deliver exceptional results. An interview with Chris Konarski, VP Client Engineering, IBM
Chris Konarski, VP of Client Engineering at IBM, shares his insights on client obsession and innovative co-creation. He highlights the role of multidisciplinary teams in enhancing user experience and business value through collaborative AI solutions. Konarski discusses the transformative power of AI when integrated with robust communication and cultural shifts. He also delves into the significance of measuring success beyond traditional metrics and fosters a fun atmosphere by sharing personal anecdotes about outdoor adventures and bourbon.

Aug 28, 2024 • 57min
The master of Artificial Intelligence: Ruchir Puri, Chief Scientist of IBM Research, an IBM Fellow, and Vice-President of IBM Corporate Technology. {Replay}
Send us a textThe master of Artificial Intelligence: Ruchir Puri, Chief Scientist of IBM Research, an IBM Fellow, and Vice-President of IBM Corporate Technology. AI questions you were afraid to ask, from hallucinations to watsonx. #makingdatasimple #watsonxWelcome to the enlightening world of AI with Ruchir Puri, the Master of Artificial Intelligence and esteemed guest on our podcast. Join us as we embark on a captivating journey, delving deep into the realms of AI that you've always been curious about but hesitant to ask. From hallucinations to WatsonX, we leave no stone unturned in our quest for knowledge. Ruchir Puri, Chief Scientist of IBM Research and IBM Fellow, as well as Vice-President of IBM Corporate Technology, shares his expertise and insights, unraveling the complexities and potential of AI. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of AI's capabilities and its impact on our lives. Prepare to have your questions answered and be amazed by the wonders of AI.02:17 Meet Ruchir Puri the "Maker"09:24 A day in the life 14:22 The AI hype 24:21 Why now?27:36 The AI triangle35:57 Why IBM 40:58 Deciding factors43:57 Is bigger better?47:59 Hallucinations 49:53 watsonx52:33 Who are you betting on?54:23 First stepsLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ruchir-puri-b117021aWebsite: https://www.ibm.com/watsonxWant to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun. Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.

Aug 21, 2024 • 42min
Master Your Circle: Leadership Coaching for Thriving and Influencing in a Messy World. With Lynne Snead, Founder and Coach at Talent Evolution Systems
Send us a textI took a much needed vacation and invited my favorite coach back on the show. Lynne Snead, Principal and Owner of Talent Evolution Systems, discusses how to maintain focus and expand influence, using the three circles model. Leadership is is influence; are you a manager or leader? Would people follow you even if they didn't have to? If the answer is yes, that's leadership.02:47 Meet Lynne Snead Again03:47 The Circles Model 09:30 The Circle of Personal Control14:05 It’s the How You Say It, Also to Yourself!20:43 Thought Management22:53 Leadership = Influence25:08 A Manager vs a Leader27:05 Mindset & Energy29:59 Stress31:11 Atomic Habits 33:47 Mindmapping36:19 Emotional Intelligence39:38 Read, Study, Learn or Be Left Behind Lynne Snead LinkedinTalent Evolution SystemsKatherine MayneReading list:Stephen Covey, 7 HabitsJames Clear, Atomic HabitsJohn A Daly, Advocacy: Championing Ideas and Influencing OthersWant to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun. Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.

Aug 14, 2024 • 47min
Electrical Engineers in Test, this is your episode! Reliable performance through Systems Engineering - Genuen
Send us a textFor the Electrical Engineers in Test out there, this is your episode. Todd VanGilder, CTO and CRO, and Ryan Smith, Tech Fellow, for Genuen join the podcast to talk about achieving reliable performance through Systems Engineering and Custom Test Equipment. And their secret sauce: Replica.02:26 Meet Genuen Leaders08:33 Boeing09:21 Genuen15:11 2-min Pitch16:11 Client Profile18:25 Use Cases23:00 Replica33:10 Reflective Memory Secret Sauce37:16 Monetizing Replica40:06 Coolest Use Case41:42 True but No One AgreesLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/todd-vangilder, linkedin.com/in/hryansmith Website: https://www.genuen.com/Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun. Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.

Jul 31, 2024 • 45min
Learn AI Ethics, Risks, and Regulation! Christina Montgomery, IBM's Chief Privacy and Trust Officer. Yes, Law can be fun AND very interesting.
Send us a textLearn AI Ethics, Risks, and Regulation with Christina Montgomery, IBM's Chief Privacy and Trust Officer. Yes, Law can be fun AND very interesting. 01:00 Christina Montgomery!04:36 My Daughter and the Bar08:36 Chief Privacy and Trust Officer11:37 Keeping IBM Out of Trouble13:34 Client Conversations16:23 Where to Be Bullish and Bearish20:52 The Risks of LLMs24:21 NIST and AI Alliance28:26 AI Regulation36:13 Synthetic Data38:00 Misconceptions40:07 Worries41:27 The Path to AI43:13 Aspiring Lawyers Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/christina-montgomery-8776b1a Website: https://www.ibm.com/impact/ai-ethicsWant to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun. Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.

Jul 24, 2024 • 42min
Learn about Digital Adoption Platforms and scale new heights (!) with Meg Gallagher, Director of Sales, WalkMe
Send us a textAn avid rock climber and passionate advocate for digital services, Meg Gallagher, Director of Sales, WalkMe. WalkMe is a digital adoption platform (DAP) that helps businesses simplify the user experience and increase user engagement on their websites, mobile apps, and software platforms. 01:19 Meg Gallagher!02:09 Favorite Spirits04:47 Jeff City MO07:38 Meg's Background13:57 WalkMe16:53 A Double Click19:14 The How23:40 Human Process Automation26:42 SLED31:53 Monetization33:04 The 1-Min Pitch33:33 Technology behind WalkMe34:04 Finding Meg35:01 Rock Climbing36:20 True but No One Agrees37:55 Advice for Women in Tech39:58 Reading RecommendationsLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/megfgallagherWebsite: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walkme/Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun. Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.

Jul 17, 2024 • 33min
Mastering SEO and Consumer Insights with Sam Torres, CDO of Gray Dot Company. And getting educated on gaming. {Replay}
Send us a textMastering SEO and Consumer Insights with Sam Torres, CDO of Gray Dot Company. And getting educated on gaming. Sam Torres is the Chief Digital Officer and co-founder of The Gray Dot Company, Gray Dot Company is a consulting firm that specializes in search engine optimization. Sam outlines expertise in complex digital analytics and consumer insights data. 03:40 Meet Sam Torres05:57 Marketing Platforms07:49 Digital Consumer Intelligence14:55 Defining Success17:55 AIs Impact on Google22:07 Should I Trust Sponsored Adds?23:58 GenAI Positives LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/samantha-torres-seoWebsite: https://thegray.company, https://legendarypodcasts.com/sam-torres/ Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us atalmartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The MakingData Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, wherewe explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... whilekeeping it simple & fun. Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.Want to be featured as a guest on Making Data Simple? Reach out to us at almartintalksdata@gmail.com and tell us why you should be next. The Making Data Simple Podcast is hosted by Al Martin, WW VP Technical Sales, IBM, where we explore trending technologies, business innovation, and leadership ... while keeping it simple & fun.