The Data Storytellers Podcast

What happens when a technology starts to look, sound, and reason like us? Taylor Black, Director of the AI Ventures Ecosystem in the CTO’s Office at Microsoft, has spent his career at the intersection of data, venture building, and emerging technology. From bootstrapping a SaaS company to helping shape early stage AI innovation inside one of the world’s largest technology organizations, Taylor bri...

In this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast, we speak with Albert Mangahas, a data and analytics leader now at Roo. Albert shares how his path from industrial engineering and SQL led him into data leadership roles across PwC, Green Dot, Facebook, Turo, and now Roo. We explore how trust in data became a foundation of Albert’s career, how marketplaces like Turo balance supply, demand, safety, a...

In this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast, we speak with Dejan Mitkovski, a data and technology leader whose career has spanned Microsoft, Amazon, Google, FanDuel, and BetMGM. Dejan reflects on the last 25 years of digital transformation, from the early days of relational databases and BI tools to the rise of big data, data science, machine learning, and AI. We explore how data leadership h...

What separates analytics teams that get a seat at the table from those stuck in the reporting queue? Anthony Jackel, Senior Director of Business Intelligence & Analytics at Ferrara , has spent his career answering that question, from Kraft to one of America's largest candy companies. In this conversation, we explore: What "data-driven enterprise" actually means The shift from data providers to...

In this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast, we sit down with Ylan Kazi, Chief Data & AI Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, to cut through the noise around enterprise AI. Ylan explains why early machine learning hype never matched operational reality, how LLMs changed the game once they became accessible to anyone, and why most AI failures stem from cultural friction rathe...

In this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast , we speak with Jodi Blomberg , VP of AI and Machine Learning at Cox Automotive. Jodi shares her experience leading AI transformation at scale in a highly regulated, legacy-rich environment. We explore how to balance long-term R&D with immediate impact, why trust and humility are critical in AI leadership, and how to move from proofs of concept...

In this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast , we speak with Elena Alikhachkina , Chief Data and AI Officer at TE Connectivity. With a background spanning Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Nestlé, and now one of the world’s largest industrial tech companies, Elena shares what it takes to lead AI transformation across global, complex organizations. We talk about the realities of operationalizing d...

In this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast , we speak with Rangan Gangavaram , Senior Director of Analytics & Insights at Verizon, about the promise and pitfalls of agentic AI. Rangan shares why agentic AI is more than just another automation wave, how it differs from RPA, and why its reasoning capabilities could redefine customer interactions. We discuss the decision frameworks enterpri...

In this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast, we speak with Nurtekin Savas , VP and Head of Global Credit Infrastructure, Data & AI at PayPal. Nurtekin shares how PayPal balances innovation with responsibility as it scales global credit products powered by data and AI. From structuring modern analytics platforms to influencing stakeholders and fostering experimentation in regulated environ...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast, we speak with Mikel Davis, VP of Strategic Analytics at Peacock. Mikel shares her journey from early analytics roles in sports and entertainment—including the Cleveland Cavaliers and Legendary Pictures—to leading customer and growth strategies at one of the world’s top streaming platforms. We explore how data is transforming marketing, content, and...

In this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast, we reconnect with Juan Gorricho—former Chief Data Officer at Disney Credit Union and senior data leader at Visa and TD Bank. Juan shares what he’s learned across two decades leading data strategy in some of the world’s most recognized organizations. We discuss the rise of AI-washing, how to lead with impact amid transformation, and the leadership p...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast , we explore how data science is transforming the sports and entertainment industry with insights from Scott McDade, VP of Data Science at Aramark. Scott shares how his team leverages real-time data, predictive analytics, and AI to enhance fan experiences, optimize operations, and drive profitability at major venues across the U.S. We discuss buildi...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast , we sit down with Eric Hornyak, Director of Data Visualization at Sunbelt Rentals, to discuss how data teams can bridge the gap between analytics and business action through better communication, data storytelling, and strategic reporting. Eric shares his playbook for engaging business leaders, breaking down complex analytics into actionable insigh...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers Podcast , we welcome back Aaron Fossum, Senior Director of Digital Analytics at Norwegian Cruise Line, to explore how data teams can bridge the gap between insights and business action. Aaron shares the playbook he presented at the Leading Business Change with Analytics & AI Masterclass, detailing how his team translates analytics into meaningful busine...

In this long-waited episode of  The Data Storytellers Podcast , we welcome back Alex Dragan, Vice President of Enterprise Data and Analytics at Four Seasons, to dive into the transformative power of data-driven decision-making in the luxury hospitality industry. Alex shares his perspective of the evolution of data-driven enterprise transformation, the challenges and successes of innovation, and hi...

In this episode, we welcome back Ylan Kazi, Chief Data and AI Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, to discuss the transformative power of data strategy and AI in healthcare. Discover how Ylan and his team are building data literacy, overcoming organizational challenges, and leveraging generative AI for innovation." Connect with us: • Website: https://thedatastorytellers.com/ • Linked...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers podcast, we dive deep into the evolution and future of data analytics. Join us as we explore the journey of Alix Rice from Compass Group, who shares his insights on transforming organizations through data mastery, the importance of data governance, and the critical role of human-centric design in analytics. We discuss the challenges of digital transformatio...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers podcast, we explore the critical role of data analytics in transforming the car rental industry with insights from Albert, the Chief Data Officer at Turo. We delve into the importance of data quality, trust, and transparency in business, and discuss how Turo leverages machine learning, predictive models, and data governance to enhance customer experience an...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers podcast, Kate Goodine joins Laszlo Mucsi to share her journey from Expedia to Miro and now Shutterstock. We delve into the transformative power of data-driven cultures, the importance of experimentation, and the evolving roles in modern data companies. Kate offers insights on leadership, effective data storytelling, and strategies for overcoming challenges...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers podcast, Dejan Mitkovski joins us to explore the intricacies of mastering data strategy and governance. We delve into the importance of building a customer-centric data culture, overcoming data challenges, and leveraging data-driven decision making for business transformation. Dejan shares insights on crafting effective data narratives and the advanced data...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers podcast, we delve into the transformative journey of data analytics at Emerson, exploring the integration of agile methodologies, the strategic alliances formed with finance and supply chain teams, and the challenges of implementing effective data visualization tools. Our guest, Nicole Coolidge, shares her experiences in leading Emerson's centralized data a...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers podcast, Lance Glosemeyer joins Laszlo Mucsi to discuss his journey of driving data transformation at Dairy Queen. We explore the challenges and successes of building a data-driven culture, the transition from manual reporting to automated insights, and the power of self-service analytics. Lance shares valuable leadership lessons and strategies for creating...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers podcast, Pete Scherf shares his insights on embracing agile principles in data science and transforming teams through agile leadership. We explore the journey from waterfall to agile, the challenges of organizational change, and strategies for building high-performance data teams. Pete offers valuable lessons on overcoming resistance to agile transformation...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers podcast, Kyle Herrman shares his experience and insights on building a successful hub and spoke model for data analytics at Purina. We explore the challenges of organizational design, strategies for managing data teams at scale, and the importance of creating a community of data practitioners. Kyle offers valuable lessons on data governance, leadership, and...

On this episode of The Data Storytellers podcast, Jodi Blomberg joins Laszlo Mucsi to discuss her journey from Waste Management to Cox Automotive, the transformative power of AI in business, and strategies for building impactful data-driven solutions. Jodi shares insights on navigating the AI and data science landscape, overcoming challenges, and driving business transformation. Connect with us: •...