Federal Data Talk Podcast

Speed Data-ing Data Team

Federal Data Talk an engaging podcast series with hosts Stephen Colon and Andrew Ventresca, where we dive into the dynamic world of defense data analytics. Each episode features casual yet insightful conversations with industry experts, exploring innovative solutions to complex data challenges in the defense sector. Tune in to spark your creativity and join the discussion on harnessing the power of data for a more secure future.

Episodes

  1. 16/05/2024

    John Dodson - Federal Data Talk Podcast - Ep 3

    The main topics and segments provide a comprehensive overview of the topics covered in the video, focusing on the transition of large language models to production, the tools available for managing these models, and the governance and access control mechanisms in place. 2:14 - Introduction to LLM OPS: John Dodson discusses the transition of large language models from experimental to production environments, focusing on the complexities of scaling these models for enterprise use. 5:28 - LLM OPS vs. ML OPS: The differences and similarities between LLM OPS and traditional ML OPS are explored, emphasizing the unique challenges in managing large language models. 17:39 - Prompt Flow Tool: Introduction of Prompt Flow, an open-source tool for building pipelines for generative AI concepts, highlighting its utility in managing prompt variations and endpoint connections. 28:16 - Azure Machine Learning Platform: Showcasing Azure Machine Learning Studio as a comprehensive platform for managing machine learning tasks, including data set management, asset management, and compute management. 43:52 - Model Governance and Access: Discussion on model governance and user access, explaining that governance is managed through model cards and monitoring, while user access is controlled through Active Directory permissions.

    45 min

  2. 13/05/2024

    COL Kristin Saling - Federal Data Talk Podcast - Ep 5

    Data-driven talent management refers to the approach of using analytics and data to inform decisions in human resources and talent management. This method involves analyzing various data points to understand and predict employee behavior, performance, and potential, enabling more strategic and informed HR decisions. It encompasses aspects like identifying talent needs, optimizing recruitment processes, enhancing employee engagement, and planning for future workforce requirements. The conversation highlighted the importance of leveraging data to create a culture change, innovate in the HR space, and improve talent management practices within the Army. 2:39 - Data-Driven Talent Management: Discussion on Call COL Kristin Sailing's upcoming book, focusing on analytics in HR and talent management within the Army.  4:58 - Talent Management Perspectives: Insights into talent management, including the importance of data in making informed decisions about personnel. 7:48 - Technology and Data in the Army: The role of technology and data in improving Army operations, personnel management, and decision-making.  23:50 - Family Involvement in Military Service: Considerations on the impact of military service on families, particularly regarding dual professional couples and spouse employment. These topics cover a range of discussions from the podcast's content to specific aspects of talent management and the impact of military service on families.

    38 min

  3. 04/04/2024

    John Kelbley - Federal Data Talk Podcast - Ep 7

    John Kelbley is described as the Azure Advanced Migration Lead for the public sector. He has been with Microsoft for 21 years, focusing on infrastructure, particularly providing storage infrastructure for on-premises deployments for SQL and related technologies. Although he mentions not being a database person, he has been involved in a lot of Azure-related work over the last eight years. Main topics discussed in this episode are:  4:22 - Introduction to John Kelbley: Discussion about John Kelby's role and background, including his work with Azure and the public sector. 5:14 - Data Talk Show Premise: Explanation of the show's focus on informal discussions around cloud technologies and data management. 6:31 - Azure Advanced Migration: John Kelby discusses his role in Azure advanced migration and his work with DoD and intelligence sectors. Nutter Butters Story: A humorous anecdote about John Kelby's nickname "Nutter Butter" originating from a snack choice during meetings. 8:05 - "90210 Reference": An inside joke about a colleague resembling a character from the TV show 90210. 11:16 - Cloud Technology in Public Sector: Observations on the evolution of cloud technology use in the public sector, especially in defense and intelligence. 14:42 - Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) Use Cases: Discussion on the benefits and use cases of AVD, including its scalability and security features. 18:55 - Linux Desktop Access via AVD: Explanation of how AVD can provide access to Linux desktops for data scientists and developers. 29:47 - Various technical discussions on Azure and cloud technologies.

    38 min

  4. 20/03/2024

    Vishal Amin - Federal Data Talk Podcast - Ep 1

    Main ideas discussed: Data Governance and Visibility, Implementing comprehensive governance and visibility across organizations, Focusing on ethical AI through governance and visibility, Ensuring data cleanliness for AI effectiveness, Innovation and Security, Adapting military principles to data security and innovation, Prioritizing data classification and discovery for security, Investing in insider risk management for data protection, Community Engagement and Diversity, Encouraging diverse perspectives in security and data discussions, Participating in cross-community collaborations for innovation, Challenging traditional views and asking tough questions for progress: 1:21 - Data Perspectives: Stephen Colon emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives on data, highlighting that data can vary widely in form and significance depending on the context. 1:52 - Guest Introduction: Stephen Colon introduces Vishal Amin as a distinguished guest, indicating a focus on his insights during the episode. 2:15 - Technical Competence and Strategic Impact: Stephen and Vishal discuss the importance of balancing technical competence with an understanding of strategic impact, using Megan Malley as an example of someone who embodies both.  3:37 - Social Intelligence in Technical Fields: Stephen highlights the value of social intelligence in technical fields, particularly in compliance and governance. 7:01 - Security Professionalism: Vishal shares his extensive background in security, emphasizing the importance of visibility and governance in security practices. 10:49 - Data Governance and Visibility: Vishal stresses the significance of governance and visibility in managing data, particularly in the context of AI and compliance. 13:35 - Aviate, Navigate, Communicate Principle: Vishal applies the aviation principle of "aviate, navigate, communicate" to data management and security, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing actions based on immediate needs and strategic direction. 22:05 - Community Collaboration: Vishal encourages participation in diverse forums and organizations to foster innovation and collaboration across different sectors and disciplines. 26:22 - Challenging Traditional Approaches: Vishal urges listeners to challenge traditional approaches and ask tough questions to drive progress in data management and security.

    27 min

  5. 27/02/2024

    MAJ Lucas Gebhart - Federal Data Talk Podcast - Ep 4

    Key Topics include the Data Mesh Project: 5:10 - Major Lucas Gephardt discussed the ATEC data mesh project, highlighting its goal to standardize IT and testing processes across geographically diverse Army test centers. The project aims to centralize data environments, agree on naming conventions, and streamline data processing for faster insights. 5:38 - Data Standardization Concerns: Lucas Gephardt raised concerns about the challenges of disparate data sources, inconsistent nomenclature, and the difficulty in accessing and analyzing comprehensive data. He emphasized the need for a centralized data environment to overcome these challenges. 8:30 - Learning and Future Proofing: Lucas Gephardt expressed his focus on learning from Microsoft experts to ensure compatibility and future-proofing of the ATEC data mesh project. He aims to reconcile current knowledge with expert insights and future offerings from Microsoft to build a solution that remains relevant and effective.

    10 min

  6. 14/12/2023

    Megan Maley - Federal Data Talk Podcast - Ep 6

    Megan Maley is an expert in data security, particularly in the context of the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Megan discusses topics such as the importance of data security, the shift towards a zero-trust framework, Microsoft's role in enhancing data protection, and the significance of data governance in deploying AI technologies like M365 Copilot. Main topics discussed in this episode are:  4:22 - Data Security and Zero Trust: Discussion on the importance of data security within the DoD, emphasizing the shift towards a zero-trust framework. 12:21 - Microsoft's Role in Data Security: Insights into Microsoft's approach to data security, including the use of Microsoft Purview and the Defender suite for enhancing data protection. 26:38 - Data Governance and AI: The importance of data governance in the context of deploying AI technologies like M365 Copilot, highlighting the need for proper data protection measures. 28:56 - Cloud Migration: The benefits of migrating to the cloud for better security and efficiency, with a focus on Microsoft's capabilities in this area.

    32 min

  7. 04/12/2023

    Carley Salmon - Federal Data Talk Podcast - Ep 2

    Carley Salmon's journey from a cyber auditor to a technical specialist at Microsoft showcases her deep involvement in data security and compliance, particularly within the government and defense sectors. Main topics discussed here included: 0:14 - Data Security and Compliance: Discussion on the role of a compliance technical specialist focusing on data security, particularly in the context of M365 and Azure. Microsoft Purview: Insights into Microsoft Purview as a suite of tools for data security and how it integrates with Azure workloads. 0:59 - Career Background: The speaker shared their background in cyber compliance and auditing for the DoD and their transition to Microsoft.  DoD and Federal Space: Mention of the limited number of compliance technical specialists available for the entire DoD and federal space. 1:21 - Data Security Journey: Discussion on working with customers on their data security journey, leveraging past experiences in cyber compliance. Cyber Auditing and Compliance: Insights into the process of auditing DoD contractors for cyber compliance and the evolution of data security roles.  15:46 - Data Classification and Protection: Detailed discussion on the importance of data classification, protection, and the role of Microsoft Purview in identifying and classifying data. Sensitive Information Types: The use of sensitive information types in Microsoft Purview to identify and manage sensitive data. 24:25 - Compliance and Regulatory Requirements: Discussion on compliance manager and Defender for Cloud as tools for meeting regulatory requirements and managing compliance.

    41 min
  • 7 Episodes

About

Federal Data Talk an engaging podcast series with hosts Stephen Colon and Andrew Ventresca, where we dive into the dynamic world of defense data analytics. Each episode features casual yet insightful conversations with industry experts, exploring innovative solutions to complex data challenges in the defense sector. Tune in to spark your creativity and join the discussion on harnessing the power of data for a more secure future.

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