Crafting Narratives for Data Storytelling - Jeff Nieman - Making Better Decisions - Episode #39

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

#Business #Ringmaster Conversational Marketing #Ryan Sullivan #Decisions #Leaders #Data

33:58

In this episode, we delve into the concept of being "qualified" in the workplace, examining who gets labeled as such, who doesn't, and the underlying reasons. We explore "competency checking"—the practice of scrutinizing individuals' abilities—and how it disproportionately affects underrepresented groups, often going unnoticed or unchallenged. Our discussion aims to redefine qualifications in a fair, equitable, and actionable manner. Our guest, Shari Dunn , is an accomplished journalist, former attorney, news anchor, CEO, university professor, and sought-after speaker. She has been recognized as Executive of the Year and a Woman of Influence, with her work appearing in Fortune Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Ad Age, and more. Her new book, Qualified: How Competency Checking and Race Collide at Work , unpacks what it truly means to be deserving and capable—and why systemic barriers, not personal deficits, are often the real problem. Her insights challenge the narratives that hold so many of us back and offer practical solutions for building a more equitable future. Together, we can build workplaces and communities that don’t just reflect the world we live in, but the one we want to create. A world where being qualified is about recognizing the talent and potential that’s been overlooked for far too long. It’s not just about getting a seat at the table—it’s about building an entirely new table, one designed with space for all of us. Connect with Our Guest Shari Dunn Website& Book - Qualified: https://thesharidunn.com LI: https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/sharidunn TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesharidunn Related Podcast Episodes: How To Build Emotionally Mature Leaders with Dr. Christie Smith | 272 Holding It Together: Women As America's Safety Net with Jessica Calarco | 215 How To Defy Expectations with Dr. Sunita Sah | 271 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music…

рік тому 44:36

MP3•Головна епізоду

Key Takeaways:

Prioritize Data Trust and Accessibility: Develop an easy-to-navigate data catalog to make data sources easily searchable and accessible.
Harness AI for Efficiency: Use AI tools to automate and streamline data cataloging and metadata creation processes.
Utilize Storytelling Techniques: Develop data visualizations and dashboards that not only present data but also tell compelling stories that are easy to understand.
Cultural Change from the Top: Ensure executive leadership is educated on the value and potential of data analytics.
Quantify the Value of Analytics: Tie predictive models and analytics projects directly to business outcomes and financial performance.

Quote of the Show:

“ It's not just enough to get good data. You have to know how to understand the data. How to better tell the story, how to better help people become literate and fluent in the area of the data.” - Jeff Nieman

Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreynieman/
Website: https://www.bestbuy.com/

Ways to Tune In:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586
Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts

47 епізодів

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

Crafting Narratives for Data Storytelling - Jeff Nieman - Making Better Decisions - Episode #39

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

published рік тому

Поширити

MP3•Головна епізоду

Key Takeaways:

Prioritize Data Trust and Accessibility: Develop an easy-to-navigate data catalog to make data sources easily searchable and accessible.
Harness AI for Efficiency: Use AI tools to automate and streamline data cataloging and metadata creation processes.
Utilize Storytelling Techniques: Develop data visualizations and dashboards that not only present data but also tell compelling stories that are easy to understand.
Cultural Change from the Top: Ensure executive leadership is educated on the value and potential of data analytics.
Quantify the Value of Analytics: Tie predictive models and analytics projects directly to business outcomes and financial performance.

Quote of the Show:

“ It's not just enough to get good data. You have to know how to understand the data. How to better tell the story, how to better help people become literate and fluent in the area of the data.” - Jeff Nieman

Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreynieman/
Website: https://www.bestbuy.com/

Ways to Tune In:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586
Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts

47 епізодів

#Business #Ringmaster Conversational Marketing #Ryan Sullivan #Decisions #Leaders #Data

Усі епізоди

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

1
The Human Touch in Analytics - Bhupi Arora - Making Better Decisions - Episode #46 44:57

4 дні тому44:57

44:57

Today we discuss the human touch in analytics with Bhupi Arora, VP of Business Data Analytics and Insights at Hitachi Vantara. The discussion delves into the challenges of using data to inform decision-making in an era of overwhelming data abundance. Bhupi shares insights on connecting fragmented data, ethical AI use, and the importance of maintaining a narrow focus on business outcomes. They also explore the future of analytics, the role of change management, and the human elements essential to navigating the evolving landscape of data and AI. Throughout the conversation, Ryan and Bhupi emphasize the need for a strategic approach to data and analytics, balancing technological advancements with empathetic leadership. The episode wraps up with reflections on the optimistic potential of AI to drive positive change across diverse sectors and regions. Key Takeaways: Focus on Strategic Objectives: Clearly define what your organization aims to achieve with data and analytics. Empathy in Change Management: Use empathy to understand stakeholders' motivations and resistance. Scaling Analytics: Create a coherent, unified vision for data across the organization to improve decision-making. Blinders for Focus: In the face of overwhelming data and tools, focus on the most critical business questions and use cases. Then, gradually expand your scope rather than attempting to address all at once. Promote Analytics Internally: Address the "marketing problem" for analytics by clearly defining and demonstrating its value within the organization. Quote of the Show: “ Making sense with the data that we have today without drowning in its chaos is what matters the most.” - Bhupi Arora Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhupindersarora/ Website: https://www.hitachivantara.com/en-us/home/ Check out our SubStack! https://substack.com/@makingbetterdecisions1 Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

1
Driving Data-Driven Change - Robin Sutara - Making Better Decisions - Episode # 45 46:39

11 днів тому46:39

46:39

What happens when technically inclined people work with non-technical individuals? Robin Sutara, Field Chief Data Strategy Officer at Databricks, says that is where the most valuable contributions come from. Robin shares her journey from repairing Apache helicopters in the U.S. Army to holding prominent roles at Microsoft, and her contributions to the field of data strategy and AI. She discusses the importance of using data in everyday decisions, the challenges of implementing data-driven transformations in organizations with legacy systems, and the crucial role of data engineering. Robin also emphasizes the need for greater diversity in data roles and highlights her involvement with Women Leaders in Data and AI, an initiative aiming to increase gender representation in the field. The conversation provides valuable insights on the evolving landscape of data and technology and the importance of bridging technical capabilities with domain expertise. Key Takeaways: Recognize Everyday Use of Data: Understand that data is already a part of daily decision-making processes. Encourage organizational members to see data usage as a natural extension of their current habits. Rethink People, Process, and Operations: Emphasize the role of people and processes in successful data transformation. Foster Domain Expertise Integration: Use diverse perspectives to enrich data solutions and spark innovation. Articulate the Value of Data Engineering: Communicate the ROI of data engineering efforts by referencing cost savings, productivity gains, and unique insights. Establish Clear Data Governance: Define and enforce policies for data quality, metadata management, and lifecycle management. Quote of the Show: “ I really wish people would come to the realization that data is not this outlier thing. It's not a new or novel concept. It is something that you're already using today.” - Robin Sutara Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-sutara/ Website: https://www.databricks.com/ Check out our SubStack! https://substack.com/@makingbetterdecisions1 Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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Embracing Human Elements in Data - John Giaquinto - Making Better Decisions - Episode # 44 41:55

18 днів тому41:55

41:55

Biases are the setback to human involvement in data-driven decision-making. This episode with John Giaquinto, VP of Loyalty, Personalization, and Analytics at Rite Aid, discusses the intricate dynamics of human behavior and data-driven decision-making. John shares his extensive experience in marketing, advertising, and customer analytics, emphasizing the importance of interpreting data correctly and challenging preconceived biases. Throughout the conversation, John and Ryan explore the concept of proactive vs. reactive data analysis and the significance of exploratory efforts. They delve into the specifics of loyalty-based marketing, discussing long-term incrementality, consumer behavior, and the challenges faced in a constantly changing business environment. Key Takeaways: Understand the Difference Between Data and Insights: Ensure that your team and stakeholders understand that raw data is not inherently insightful. It needs to be analyzed and contextualized to extract actionable insights. Balance Reactive and Proactive Analysis: Determine an effective balance between reactive reporting (answering specific business questions) and proactive analysis (exploring new opportunities). Foster Exploratory Analytics: Allocate resources and create an environment that supports exploratory analysis. This can help uncover new avenues and opportunities that would otherwise remain hidden. Human Element in Analytics: Acknowledge and address the biases and cognitive limitations. Train your team and stakeholders on fundamental behavioral economics concepts to improve decision-making and reduce bias. Leadership Buy-in: Strive for top-down support and belief in the power of data. The data culture has to be endorsed from the executive level to permeate effectively throughout the organization. Quote of the Show: “ You need to do things to make sure you're taking your own bias out of it and that you're actually providing information with that data.” - John Giaquinto Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johngiaquinto/ Website: https://www.riteaid.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

1
Navigating the Last Mile - Nachiket Mehta - Making Better Decisions - Episode #43 47:28

25 днів тому47:28

47:28

Nachiket Mehta, the Head of Data and Analytics Engineering for Global Operations at Wayfair joins today to discuss navigating the last mile of data decision making. Nachiket shares his extensive experience in software development, consulting, and data engineering. They also discuss the importance of translating data into actionable insights and the best practices in data governance and AI application. Nachiket emphasizes the importance of stakeholder alignment, data contracts, and automated governance. He also explores upskilling employees for AI and the role of data in making better strategic decisions. Key Takeaways: Focus on Business Impact: Always start with the question of what business impact you're trying to achieve. Data Contracts and Governance: Implement a solid governance model with data contracts. This could include defining roles, maintaining clear ownership, and using a versioned repository for data contracts to avoid miscommunication and errors. Handling Ad Hoc Requests: Differentiate between ad hoc and long-term data use cases. For urgent, short-term needs, use scrappy solutions temporarily but ensure anything productionalized meets governance standards. Balancing Speed and Governance: Develop a balance between the need for quick answers and the adherence to governance policies. Establish a flowchart or decision tree that guides staff in correctly prioritizing tasks. Structured Planning Processes: Link your data initiatives to the company’s strategic planning processes. Make sure data-related goals are clear and aligned with the company's larger objectives. Quote of the Show: “ Don't try to overcomplicate it and add a lot of additional layers, middlemen, middle steps.” - Nachiket Mehta Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nachiketmehta/ Website: https://www.wayfair.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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Diving Into Data: Beyond Lakes and Swamps - Mark Brady - Making Better Decisions - Episode # 42 52:09

5 weeks тому52:09

52:09

Mark Brady, Deputy Chief Data Officer for TRMC at KBR joins the show today to hone in on data knowledge and management best practices. With an extensive background in mathematics and computer science and experience in various industries, Mark discusses the essential elements of effective data management. He critiques common data science practices, such as the flawed concept of the data life cycle and the misuse of terms like 'data lake.' Mark emphasizes the need for rigorous, structured approaches and outlines the four levels of knowing in data science. He also introduces the notion of next-generation data management and models like the Active User Model and the Notified User Model. This episode is packed with insights on how organizations can improve their data practices to make better, more informed decisions. Key Takeaways: Adopt Next Generation Data Management Principles: Focus on structured, well-defined data management practices rather than relying on buzzwords like "data lakes." Ensure your data is integrated and not siloed to avoid "data swamps." Emphasize Data Structure: Use structured data models to enable automation and ensure accurate and consistent data processing and analysis. Understand the Four Levels of Knowing: Having the data, knowing what data you have, understanding the data, understanding the data in the context of other data. Clarify Terminology: Make sure everyone involved has a common understanding of key data management terms like "data lake," "data warehouse," and "data mesh." This avoids confusion and ensures everyone is on the same page. Focus on Rigor and Precision: Adopt a rigorous and precise approach to your data practices. This will lead to more reliable outcomes and better decision-making capabilities. Quote of the Show: “ It turns out that we don't actually manage data in a data life cycle, nor should we manage in a life cycle.” - Mark Brady Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-brady-18274321b/ Website: https://www.kbr.com/en Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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The Automation Conversation - Keith Aumiller - Making Better Decisions - Episode #41 43:25

6 weeks тому43:25

43:25

Keith Aumiller, Director of Advanced Analytics at AmeriGas joins the podcast today to discuss automation within the data field. Keith shares the insights he’s gained from a career spanning financial services, aerospace manufacturing, and the energy sector. They discuss the importance of data quality, the limitations and hype surrounding generative AI, and the role of advanced analytics in business automation. Keith also delves into the philosophical implications of full automation and offers practical advice on implementing and understanding large language models. This episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions on the future of analytics and its impact on business decision-making. Key Takeaways: Educate on Data Limitations: Ensure your organization understands the limitations of data analytics tools like generative AI. Emphasize that they generate text, not ideas. Focus on Data Quality: Reinforce the importance of data quality. Implement robust data collection and cleaning practices to avoid the "trash in, trash out" problem. Balance Complexity with Simplicity: Use advanced analytics and automation tools where they add value but don’t neglect the power of simple, descriptive analytics for everyday decision-making within teams. Automate Wisely: Identify clear business cases for automation and ensure they have a solid ROI before proceeding to enhance efficiencies without causing undue disruptions to existing processes. Customize Data Practices by Industry: Understand that data quality and processes vary significantly by industry. Tailor your data governance and analytics strategies to fit the specific needs and realities of your industry. Quote of the Show: “ You can have the best algorithms in the world, and if you don't have good data to base them off of, then you're not going to get good results.” - Keith Aumiller Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithaumiller/ Website: https://www.amerigas.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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Knowing the Data’s Purpose - Charles Link - Making Better Decisions - Episode # 40 50:28

7 weeks тому50:28

50:28

Today, Ryan Sullivan is joined by Charles Link, Senior Director of Data and Analytics at ReWorld Waste. Charles shares his extensive experience spanning marketing, financial analysis, IT, and data management. They discuss the importance of understanding the purpose behind data creation, the significance of having clear data definitions, and the value of conversations with both data creators and stakeholders. Charles also emphasizes the importance of artificial intelligence as a tool that needs to be understood properly and integrated thoughtfully. This episode brings practical strategies for balancing data accuracy with practical business processes, securing sensitive data, and embracing AI for future business enhancement. Key Takeaways: Understand the Purpose of Data: Data is created for specific purposes. It's crucial to ensure that you understand the context and intended use of data before acting on it. Balance Sales and Data Quality: Organizations need to find a balance between minimizing sales friction and maintaining clean data. This can be achieved by integrating data requirements into the normal workflow of sales activities. Adopt a Process-Oriented Approach: View data as an integral part of business processes. Engage with data creators and stakeholders at the beginning of any project to ensure clear data definitions and requirements. Implement a Data Dictionary Incrementally: Start with the immediate data needs of current business initiatives and build out your data dictionary graduall. Focusing on what delivers business value will provide compound returns over time. Enhance Human Communication: Use advanced technologies to augment rather than replace human interactions. Quote of the Show: “ Look at everything as a matter of process and think of data as the blood cells that flow through the veins of those processes.” - Charles Link Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-a-link/ Website: https://www.reworldwaste.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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Crafting Narratives for Data Storytelling - Jeff Nieman - Making Better Decisions - Episode #39 44:36

8 weeks тому44:36

44:36

Today, Ryan interviews Jeff Nieman, Senior Director of Data Strategy and Visualization at Best Buy. Jeff shares his extensive experience in data governance, data literacy, and AI's role in improving data cataloging and storytelling. He emphasizes the importance of trust in data, creating accessible data catalogs, and achieving balance in data strategy to ensure ROI. Jeff also sheds light on the concept of proactive data analytics and predictive modeling, underscoring the need for strong business partnerships and a thorough understanding of business contexts to maximize data utilization effectively. Key Takeaways: Prioritize Data Trust and Accessibility: Develop an easy-to-navigate data catalog to make data sources easily searchable and accessible. Harness AI for Efficiency: Use AI tools to automate and streamline data cataloging and metadata creation processes. Utilize Storytelling Techniques: Develop data visualizations and dashboards that not only present data but also tell compelling stories that are easy to understand. Cultural Change from the Top: Ensure executive leadership is educated on the value and potential of data analytics. Quantify the Value of Analytics: Tie predictive models and analytics projects directly to business outcomes and financial performance. Quote of the Show: “ It's not just enough to get good data. You have to know how to understand the data. How to better tell the story, how to better help people become literate and fluent in the area of the data.” - Jeff Nieman Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreynieman/ Website: https://www.bestbuy.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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The Trifecta for Better Business Decisions - Nikhar Shah - Making Better Decisions - Episode #38 47:27

9 weeks тому47:27

47:27

In this episode of Making Better Decisions, host Ryan Sullivan speaks with Nikhar Shah, VP of Data Analytics and Forecasting at LPL Financial. Nikhar shares his academic background in computer science, management information systems, and data science and recounts his extensive experience in the data industry. He discusses crucial skills for making data-driven decisions, emphasizes the importance of combining technical skills, problem understanding, and communication, and delves into the differences in working in data analytics between India and the United States. Nikhar also touches on current challenges in the field and the impact of AI and ML on business processes. Key Takeaways: Develop a Balanced Skill Set: Emphasize the importance of technical skills, problem-understanding, and communication in your team. Embrace AI and ML Applications: Leverage your company’s internal data to create personalized GPT models to enhance decision-making and productivity. Foster Mathematical Intuition: Provide resources for team members to develop these skills, which are crucial for making better decisions using data. Implement Forward-Looking Analytics: Move from historical BI reporting to integrating forecasting and predictive analytics in your business intelligence tools. Promote a Culture of Learning and Adaptation: Encourage curiosity and the exploration of new technologies and methodologies relevant to data science and analytics. Quote of the Show: “ It's fundamental to have a quantitative mindset and outlook to any problem. If you have that, I think you will be better equipped with making better decisions using data and having a little bit of more foresight on what you're trying to solve.” - Nikhar Shah Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikharshah/ Website: https://www.lpl.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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Data Predictions and Strategies for 2025 - Ryan Sullivan - Making Better Decisions - Episode #37 25:35

9 weeks тому25:35

25:35

In this episode of Making Better Decisions, host Ryan Sullivan sets the stage for 2025 with predictions, advice, and insights on using data to drive outcomes. Ryan highlights the growing maturity of technologies like generative AI and Microsoft's Fabric platform, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to both short-term wins and long-term data strategies. He also discusses common data challenges such as integrating data from multiple sources, managing spiky demand for reports, and improving governance and communication. The episode underscores the evolving role of data in decision-making and stresses the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. Key Takeaways: Embrace New Technologies: In 2025, integrate new, mature technologies like generative AI and Microsoft's Fabric into your organization's data strategy. These tools can drive purpose-driven initiatives and make implementation easier. Balance Short-term and Long-term Objectives: Avoid overcommitting to either short-term quick wins or extensive long-term projects. Develop a balanced strategy that allows for both, ensuring that your organization sees continual value and progress. Maintain Core Analytic Functions: While adopting new tools, ensure that core data questions and infrastructure remain efficient and clear, avoiding overreliance on novel technologies for fundamental analytics. Define Clear Goals: Ensure that your technology tools have well-defined goals and that your data is organized and clean. This clarity will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your data initiatives. Improve Data Governance: Regularly maintain and clean up outdated or duplicative reports to sustain trust in your data. Ensure that knowledgeable personnel are available to explain and utilize the organization's reports. Quote of the Show: “ One of the things that I would love to see more traction on in 2025 is organizations and in particular data professionals within those organizations understanding some of these communication hurdles and having the support to tackle them head-on.” - Ryan Sullivan Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanmuldoonsullivan/ Website: https://canopyanalytic.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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2024 Data Reflections - Ryan Sullivan - Making Better Decisions - Episode #36 26:18

11 weeks тому26:18

26:18

In the final episode of the year, host Ryan Sullivan answers listener questions and reflects on the biggest data trends of 2024. He emphasizes the significance of understanding the role of humans in the data process and the importance of crafting deep relationships across organizations for impactful analytics. Ryan also discusses the importance of staying informed, the value of teamwork, and the inspiration he derives from clients. He addresses the major barriers to adopting data-driven strategies and stresses the need for well-organized governance and high-quality analytics practices. Finally, Ryan shares his personal hopes for the holiday season and expresses gratitude to listeners for their support throughout the year. Key Takeaways: Build Deep Organizational Relationships: Encourage continuous collaboration to align data initiatives with business needs and goals. Encourage a Collaborative Culture: Promote teamwork and complementary skill sets within the data analytics team to leverage diverse expertise. Adopt and Improve Human Elements: Recognize that effective data utilization is fundamentally a human endeavor. Embrace Generative AI with Caution: Focus on integrating generative AI as a complement rather than a replacement for traditional data analysis. Stay Informed and Inspired: Foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptation to keep up with the fast-paced evolution of data technologies. Quote of the Show: “ That's inspiring enough for me, seeing that light bulb and seeing the actual impact and seeing some of the folks that I've worked with have their careers just explode.” - Ryan Sullivan Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanmuldoonsullivan/ Website: https://canopyanalytic.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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Beyond Quick Wins - Aleks Lazarevic - Making Better Decisions - Episode #35 48:24

12 weeks тому48:24

48:24

In this episode of the Making Better Decisions podcast, Ryan Sullivan speaks with Aleks Lazarevic, an experienced analytics professional who is currently a Senior Consulting Partner for Sigmoid and Founder of AI&DA Insights. They discuss the importance of asking the right business questions to effectively leverage data, the challenges organizations face in creating a data-driven culture, and the role of advanced analytics in achieving business goals. Aleks shares insights from his career across diverse industries, offers practical advice on integrating both internal and external data for better decision-making, and emphasizes the evolving role of AI in the analytics landscape. They also touch on personal interests, revealing Aleks' passion for cooking and his belief in the correlation between food and healthcare. Key Takeaways: Prioritize Quick Wins: Identify and prioritize quick wins that can demonstrate the value of data analytics early on. This helps build credibility and trust within the organization. Develop a Data-Informed Culture: Work on bridging the gap between technical teams and business users. Encourage a culture where data is integral to decision-making processes at all levels. Combine Internal and External Data: Don’t just rely on internal data. Combine it with external data sources such as public datasets, market trends, and third-party vendor data to gain more comprehensive insights. Focus on Business Questions: Always start with a clear understanding of the business objectives and the specific questions the business needs to answer. This helps in aligning data initiatives with business goals. Focus on Value, Not Just Technology: Concentrate on the business value that data initiatives can bring rather than just the technical aspects. Demonstrate how analytics can directly impact the business positively. Quote of the Show: “ I think the real magic in using data effectively is really to know what kind of business questions you are trying to answer. Data without that kind of context is just noise.” - Aleks Lazarevic Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandar-lazarevic/ Website: https://www.sigmoid.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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Making Data-Driven Healthcare Decisions - Jason Jones - Making Better Decisions - Episode #34 57:15

13 weeks тому57:15

57:15

In this episode of the Making Better Decisions podcast, Ryan Sullivan speaks with Jason Jones, the Chief Analytics and Data Science Officer at Health Catalyst. With nearly 30 years of healthcare data analytics experience, Jason offers valuable insights into the challenges and solutions for using data to make better decisions. He emphasizes the common pitfalls humans face when interpreting data and presents known methods to improve accuracy and consistency in decision-making. The discussion also covers the psychology of decision-making, the complexities of healthcare, and strategies for applying data-driven insights more effectively. Key Takeaways: Embrace Human Limitations: Acknowledge that humans are not naturally adept at drawing accurate conclusions from data without assistance. Implement tools and frameworks that can help mitigate common interpretation errors. Adopt Statistical Process Control: Utilize statistical process control (SPC) charts to identify outliers and persistent changes in performance. Integrate Advanced Tools in BI Platforms: Embed advanced analytics techniques such as automated change point detection and forecasting into standard BI tools like Power BI, Tableau, and ClickSense to enhance data-driven decision-making. Create a Culture of Revisiting Decisions: Establish a process for regularly revisiting and evaluating strategic and policy decisions. Leverage Behavioral Economics: Use behavioral nudges to align people’s actions with their best interests. This can include simple tactics such as auto-enrollment for beneficial programs or highlighting social norms to encourage better compliance. Quote of the Show: “As human beings, we will make predictable errors in interpretation and drawing conclusions. So that's thing one is we just need to know that; thing two is we can fix it.” - Jason Jones Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-jones-175833188/ Website: https://www.healthcatalyst.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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Data: A Living, Breathing Thing - Kaushik Meneni - Making Better Decisions - Episode #33 45:47

14 weeks тому45:47

45:47

In this episode of the Making Better Decisions podcast, Ryan Sullivan discusses the essential role of data in decision-making with Kaushik Meneni, Director of Commercial Analytics at Extended Stay America. Kaushik shares insights from his extensive career spanning across multiple industries such as biotech, manufacturing, and hospitality, emphasizing the dynamic nature of data. They dive into the significance of understanding business strategy, the importance of standardization and automation in data tasks, and the exciting potential of data analytics in sales and FP&A. Key Takeaways: Embrace Data as a Living Entity: Recognize that data is constantly changing and adapting. When making decisions, consider the varying timelines (daily, weekly, monthly) and how these affect the data and outcomes. Balance Between Helping and Guiding: While supporting with data, be proactive in providing unrequested insights that can add value. Create reports that not only answer asked questions but also highlight important trends and areas for improvement. Showcase Data's Role in Strategy: Emphasize that data strategy is intertwined with business strategy. Data leaders should ensure that their analytics efforts directly support and drive the larger business goals. Invest in External Data and Competitive Analysis: Look beyond internal data. Incorporate external data sources and competitive analysis to give a holistic view that can lead to more informed decision-making and business strategy alignment. Facilitate Clear Communication and Collaboration: Ensure that data is presented in a way that can be easily understood by different departments. Set up top-down reports that start with high-level KPIs for leadership and drill down to detailed analysis for managers and analysts. Quote of the Show: “Data is an ever-changing thing. It's a machine on its own.” - Kaushik Meneni Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaushik-meneni/ Website: https://www.extendedstayamerica.com/?mid=lk-LINKEDIN2019 Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts…

Making Better Decisions: Leaders in Data

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Data Empathy and Innovation - David Wendt - Making Better Decisions - Episode #32 49:21

15 weeks тому49:21