LEAD WITH DATA Podcast

Konnexus

Where we explore the career stories & experiences of some of the most successful people in the field of Data and Analytics.

  1. Season 6 - Episode 2 - “Why data and AI teams need translators not just tools” with Clare Kitching

    27 APR

    Season 6 - Episode 2 - “Why data and AI teams need translators not just tools” with Clare Kitching

    Why Data Teams Need Translators, Not Just ToolsIn this episode of Lead With Data, Rina Gami sits down with Clare Kitching, a senior data leader who works closely with organisations navigating complex data and AI decisions. The conversation explores why many data and AI initiatives stall and not because of tooling gaps. The conversation unpacks how data teams are navigating generative AI, agentic AI and increasing pressure to move quickly, often without the shared language, context and alignment required to succeed. Clare shares what she is seeing first-hand across organisations grappling with executive expectations, shadow AI, governance concerns and the widening distance between technical teams and business leaders. This episode focuses on the growing importance of translators in data teams' people who can bridge strategy, technology and value and what leaders should be paying attention to before scaling AI. In this episode, we cover: Why tools alone do not solve AI and data challengesThe shift from traditional data initiatives to generative AI and agentic-based AIThe critical role of senior executive sponsorship in AI successHow translators help close the gap between technical teams and the businessPractical ways organisations can start or scale AI responsiblyEvolving roles in data teams, including analytics translators and AI governance specialistsCommon challenges such as shadow AI, data quality and organisational buy-inIndicators that signal true readiness to scale AIWhy value-led AI initiatives matter more than experimentation Timestamps00:00 – AI as a high-return capability in modern data teams 01:32 – Claire’s career journey and move into consulting 03:16 – What has changed in data and AI over the last five years 04:00 – Where organisations are really at in their AI journeys 05:24 – Pressure to move quickly and what gets missed 06:03 – Executive sponsorship and its impact on outcomes 07:30 – Data team structures and emerging gaps 08:53 – Organisational barriers to AI adoption 10:38 – Shadow AI and responsible use 12:34 – Initial assessment points when working with organisations 14:47 – Asking the right questions to align AI to value 17:11 – Why communication is now a core data capability 19:09 – Telling the data story in a way the business understands 22:18 – Structuring data teams for sustainable AI outcomes 25:26 – Evolving roles across data, engineering and governance 28:11 – Everyday AI, generative AI and agent AI explained 32:21 – Leadership priorities when advancing AI initiatives 33:49 – Signs an organisation is ready to scale AI responsibly 35:11 – Maintaining momentum without creating risk 36:08 – Hiring for AI capability beyond technical skills 38:25 – When and why to involve external expertise 41:17 – The value of an external perspective 44:48 – Avoiding stagnation in AI programs 45:27 – Communication and storytelling as critical capabilities 46:16 – Leadership alignment and organisational readiness 46:44 – Final reflections and next steps Resources & LinksExperian Data Studio – supporting stronger data governance and trustClaire Kitching Linkedin Website - cambiq.com.au

    47 min
  2. Season 6 - Episode 1 - Why "fail fast" is a powerful mindset if you want to succeed in Data Innovation

    13 APR

    Season 6 - Episode 1 - Why "fail fast" is a powerful mindset if you want to succeed in Data Innovation

    In this episode, Nick Jameson shares his journey from aerospace engineering and defence to data leadership. He discusses why the fail fast mindset is important for Data Innovation, how high-stakes environments influence building resilient data platforms, the importance of problem-solving, stakeholder engagement and managing technical debt. Gain insights into effective leadership, balancing innovation with foundational stability and the future of data engineering and analytics. Data Engineering, Data Leadership, High-Stakes Environments, Data Platforms, Analytics, Tech Debt, Leadership, AI, Data Strategy Key topics: Transferable skills from aerospace to dataBuilding resilient and scalable data platformsManaging technical debt and platform maturityLeadership principles in data teamsThe impact of AI and emerging technologies Chapters 00:00 Embracing Opportunities and Learning from Failure 02:50 Transitioning from Aerospace to Data Analytics 05:58 Core Principles from High-Stakes Engineering 08:33 Decision-Making Under Pressure 11:41 Balancing Processes and Flexibility in Data Analytics 14:36 Managing Expectations and Prioritization 17:16 Building Robust Data Platforms for Future Challenges 20:04 The Interplay of Data Engineering and Advanced Analytics 22:25 Building Robust Data Pipelines 23:23 The Risks of Premature Analytics 25:46 Challenging Assumptions in Data Teams 27:16 Balancing Investments in Data Tools 28:43 Leadership Lessons from Engineering 31:03 Managing Stress in Leadership 34:38 Advice for Nonlinear Moves into Data 36:07 Building a Modern Data Platform 38:26 Investing in People as a Leader 40:15 The Future of Data Engineering and Analytics Resources Experian Data Solutions Nick Jameson on LinkedIn

    39 min
  3. Episode 20 - AI at the tipping point: Governance, Trust and ROI

    02/12/2025

    Episode 20 - AI at the tipping point: Governance, Trust and ROI

    As we wrap up the final episode of Season 5 of the Lead with Data podcast, we explore why so many AI pilots fail. Joining me is Noel Hanssens, and together we unpack the biggest challenges organisations face when implementing AI, including governance gaps, misconceptions and misalignment with strategy. We also discuss the need for AI literacy across teams and the critical role of CFOs in guiding AI investments. Packed with real-world insights, this episode highlights how to unlock AI’s potential while keeping implementation responsible and strategic.

    43 min
  4. Episode 19 - The Data You Don’t Control Controls You with Pushkar Mishra

    18/11/2025

    Episode 19 - The Data You Don’t Control Controls You with Pushkar Mishra

    Joining me in this week’s episode is Pushkar Mishra, who brings sharp insights into the powerful connection between data risk, governance and organisational transformation. Pushkar shares why neglecting data quality can be costly, how engaging stakeholders effectively can showcase the true business value of data governance and the pivotal role data champions play in driving change. We also dive into the ethical implications of AI and the emerging risks shaping the future of data management. This episode is packed with actionable insights for leaders looking to turn data governance into a strategic advantage that fuels growth and innovation. Key topics we discuss include: The Interconnection of Transformation and Data RiskChallenges in Perception of Data GovernanceThe Cost of Ignoring Data GovernanceExecution Challenges in Data Governance StrategiesUnderstanding Business Value in Data GovernanceFuture Data Risks and Ethical Considerations

    43 min
  5. Episode 18 - The Truth About Technical Debt That No One Talks About with Mark Sergeant

    04/11/2025

    Episode 18 - The Truth About Technical Debt That No One Talks About with Mark Sergeant

    Joining me in this week’s episode is Mark Sergeant he offers a candid perspective on why managing technical debt requires more than quick fixes; it demands strategic thinking and collaboration. Our conversation dives into: - Measuring and managing technical debt effectively - Building transparency between data teams and business leaders - Adopting a thoughtful approach to modernisation Mark also shares practical advice on tackling visible pain points first and ensuring data initiatives deliver consistent, long-term value. For data and technology leaders, this episode provides actionable insights to balance innovation with sustainability and drive meaningful business outcomes.

    42 min
  6. Episode 17 - The Real Reason You Can’t Keep Data Talent

    22/10/2025

    Episode 17 - The Real Reason You Can’t Keep Data Talent

    In this episode, I sit down with Lucas Dahan to unravel the complexities of building and retaining effective data teams. We tackle the challenges of high staff turnover and explore how shifting from a support to a product mindset can transform team dynamics. Lucas shares his insights from working across different sizes of organisations, from scale-ups to large corporates, emphasising that no matter how big or small, you can still transform your teams. Join us for a conversation that might just get you to rethink and reshape your approach to running your data teams. Key Topics: The Structure and Challenges of Data Teams The Shift from Support to Product Teams Implementing Change in Large Organizations Transforming Engineering Mindsets Shifting from Reporting to Problem Solving Fostering Ownership and Accountability Managing Diverse Skill Sets Empowering Team Members for Ownership

    47 min
  7. Episode 16 - Unlocking Business Value with Data Governance with Martin Soley

    07/10/2025

    Episode 16 - Unlocking Business Value with Data Governance with Martin Soley

    In this episode of the Lead with Data podcast, I sit down with Martin Soley to talk data governance and unlocking business value. We discuss the complexities and challenges organisations face, the importance of aligning governance with business strategy and the evolving role of data governance leaders. Martin shares insights on the importance of engaging with business owners and where using technology can improve data quality. The conversation highlights the need to understand business drivers to show the value of data governance and why you can’t afford not to do this. Key Takeaways Data governance can often feel like a box-ticking exerciseOrganisations face various challenges in data quality and governanceCommon mistakes include lack of buy-in and misalignment with business goalsData governance should be part of the business cultureEffective governance is about turning data into actionable knowledgeEngaging with business owners is crucial for data insightsTechnology can help automate data quality processesCommunication skills are essential for governance leadersThe future of data governance will require more business literacy

    52 min
  8. Episode 15 - How Flow, Failure & Curiosity Shaped My Analytics Career with Danny Sittrop

    20/09/2025

    Episode 15 - How Flow, Failure & Curiosity Shaped My Analytics Career with Danny Sittrop

    In this episode, I sit down with Danny Sittrop, GM of Advanced Analytics, and we talk about his unconventional journey from engineering to data leadership. Our conversation gets into how curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to fail forward shaped his career and how flow, focus and empathy drive impact in the analytics space. Whether you're a technical expert or a business professional, this candid conversation offers insights into building a meaningful career in data providing reassurance and tips to those thinking about a pivot to analytics or those who may be facing some of these hurdles.

    45 min
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About

Where we explore the career stories & experiences of some of the most successful people in the field of Data and Analytics.

Information

  • Creator
    Konnexus
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    73
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Konnexus
  • Show Website
    LEAD WITH DATA Podcast