Mavens of Data

We live in a world where people are concerned about social media tracking their data—but at the same time, willingly send their DNA to companies like 23andMe. Why does this happen? What do companies actually do with our data? And how can we, as individuals, become more data-literate to make informed decisions? In this episode, we sit down with Kathy Rondon , author of "We The People: A Playbook fo...

If you were only going to learn a few statistical techniques as an analyst, where should you focus? Josh Starmer, Founder of StatQuest, shares how learning these skills can boost your career. We dive into why linear regression is the bedrock for advanced statistical tests like the t-test, and why understanding Principal Component Analysis (PCA) can give you an edge in working with complex datasets...

Thinking about transitioning into analytics but worried about starting over? Andrew Madson has been in your shoes. Once a compliance executive, Andrew successfully pivoted into analytics and now is a Professor of analytics at five universities. In this episode, we dive deep into what it really takes to make a career shift when you're already successful. Don't miss this conversation packed with rea...

What if your next data presentation felt less like a spreadsheet and more like a blockbuster movie? In this episode, we're joined by Angelica Lo Duca, Researcher at IIT-CNR and a master of transforming numbers into narratives, to explore the intersection of cinematography and data storytelling. Learn how to extract a "hero" from your data, structure your analysis like a compelling story, and tailo...

In this episode, we'll chat with Carly Taylor, Field CTO of Gaming at Databricks, to explore the fascinating world of data analytics in the gaming industry, where every click, quest, and respawn generates insights that shape the games we love. Carly shares her experience working in gaming to help harness data for better gameplay and smarter monetization. She'll break down what analysts, data scien...

What does it take to turn raw data into actionable insights, especially in high-stakes environments? In this compelling episode, we sit down with Doug Needham , author of Data Structure Synthesis and The Enrichment Game. From his fascinating work updating data virtually during Desert Storm to insights on leveraging third-party data for enterprise decisions, Doug brings a wealth of real-world stori...

If you are interested in a career in Data Science, this one is for you! In this episode with Kimberly Fessel (Dr. Kim Data) & Maven's own Chris Bruehl , you'll learn about the most important skills Data Scientists need, and where you should be focusing your energy. You'll walk away with a solid understanding of the Data Scientist role, core responsibilities, tools of the trade, and a concrete road...

What happens when AI becomes your coworker, not your replacement? In this episode, we sit down with Sadie St. Lawrence , founder of HMCI, to explore the rapidly evolving future of work, where AI isn't just a tool, but a teammate. We dig into how blue-collar and white-collar jobs will be shifting as AI and automation move from the periphery into our daily workflows. From analysts to factory floors,...

As AI agents become more powerful and widely adopted, enterprises face a new challenge: how to build them on a foundation of trustworthy, AI-ready data that includes both structured and unstructured data. Unstructured data introduces new complexity for organizations already contending with large and growing volumes of data that is often distributed and disconnected, and from more information sourc...

The analytics industry is evolving faster than ever, and staying ahead requires more than technical expertise—it takes community building, internal advocacy, and the ability to drive impactful projects. In this episode, Dustin Schimek , Data Fluency Program Manager at MedStar Health, discusses the state of analytics in 2025. We explore what analysts are working on today, the importance of internal...

Data professionals often excel at technical skills but struggle to connect their work to broader business goals. In this show, we're joined by Jordan Morrow, Senior VP of Data and AI Transformation at AgileOne and author of Business 101 for the Data Professional, to discuss bridging the gap between data and strategy. Jordan offers practical advice on developing business acumen, aligning data work...

What happens when a passion for data science meets the fast-paced world of stock trading? In this episode, we're joined by Matt Dancho , Founder of Business Science, Quant Science, and the creator of the popular tidyquant package, who shares his journey from data scientist to launching Business Science and the projects and packages he's built along the way. We explore how he leverages Python and R...

In business, ideas don't stand alone; they have to be communicated effectively to drive action. Whether through reports, presentations, or product pitches, success comes from not just having data expertise but knowing how to make it matter. Yet many in the data world focus on just establishing a "personal brand" rather than developing something tangible. So, what does it take to turn expertise int...

Breaking away from the corporate ladder to carve your own path is a journey filled with challenges, growth, and unexpected rewards. In this episode, we host Christina Stathopoulos : a trailblazer who transitioned from a Google role to entrepreneurship and gained experience trying to build her own company in Spain!  Together, we explore what it means to make an impact in your career, the art of bui...

Data science isn't just about models and code—it's about people, connections, and shared knowledge. From online forums to in-person hackathons, communities play a crucial role in shaping careers and innovations. In this episode, we're joined by Yujian Tang — an expert in building and fostering data-driven communities — to discuss how these spaces can help you grow and why developer advocacy is a g...

Agentic AI is here, but what is it? What are the differences between the traditional LLMs and this new agentic AI we're hearing about? With AI systems making autonomous decisions, driving analytics, and reshaping data strategies, what does this mean for analysts? We're joined by Vin Vashishta , CEO at V Squared and an expert in AI strategy and data science. Vin's book, From Data to Profit , lays o...

Are you ready to level up your analytics game and tackle the challenges that come with data-heavy projects? In this episode, Harpreet Sahota , a data science leader with years of experience helping analysts and teams thrive, shares actionable insights and strategies for staying ahead in the fast-evolving world of data. Harpreet will help you develop a practical mindset to tackle real-world challen...

Artificial Intelligence is transforming the world of analytics, but how much of the job is changing? In this episode, we explore the AI-powered future of analytics: real-time insights, smarter Business Intelligence (BI) tools, and how Excel is turning heads with ChatGPT integration. Will AI replace analysts or supercharge what they already do best? Ravit Jain , Founder of the Ravit Show, will dive...

Ready to land your dream analytics job? In this episode, we sit down with Nick Singh —author, career coach, and Founder of DataLemur—to share insider tips for crushing analyst interviews. Nick will guide us through mock interview questions to sharpen your skills and discuss his portfolio project using Spotify hip-hop data that grabbed recruiters' attention. If you're preparing for interviews, buil...

If you want to elevate your data career, mastering communication is key…and to do that, you do not want to miss this show about the people side of analytics! Tiankai Feng , Head of Data Strategy & Governance at Thoughtworks, dives deep into language's critical role in how data analysts work with business stakeholders—and why getting it right matters. You'll leave the show with practical tips for b...

How do you stand out as an analyst or gain the support you need to succeed? Join Jason Krantz , a renowned analytics leader, in this eye-opening session designed to help you thrive in your role and make a meaningful impact. Jason brings a wealth of experience and actionable insights, helping analysts improve their skills and influence within their organizations. Whether you're just starting or loo...

Collaboration is key in analytics, but working with product, sales, and developer teams can often feel like navigating different worlds. In this episode, Eric Sims —Sr. Data Scientist at NRG Energy—joins us to share proven strategies for building successful cross-functional relationships. We'll also dive into some of Eric's most interesting projects in manufacturing, utilities, and finance, highli...

If you're interested in AI but not sure if you're leveraging it to its full potential, this show is for you. Michael Tiffany , Founder and CEO of Fulcra Dynamics, is here to help you get your head around AI, its best use cases today, and where things are heading in the future. You'll leave the show with a better understanding of AI, trends to keep an eye on, and how you can take full advantage of...

If you want to build a strong career in data, this show is for you. We welcomed the new face of Mavens of Data, Kristen Kehrer , who shared her best advice for data professionals and those aspiring toward a data career. You'll leave the show with some actionable tips and some of the best career advice directly from one of our favorite data pros of all time. What You'll Learn: What you should focus...

If you're trying to transition into a data career and are struggling to get your first job offer, this one is for you. Elijah Butler is here to help you navigate a difficult job market. He'll help you make sure you are focusing on the right skills, talk through how to find jobs and apply the right way, and prepare you for your next interview. You'll leave the show with a solid understanding of how...