Data Masters Podcast

TAMR
Data Masters Podcast

Data Masters is the go-to place for data enthusiasts. We speak with data leaders from around the world about data, analytics, and the emerging technologies and techniques data-savvy organizations are tapping into to gain a competitive edge. Our experts also share their opinions and perspectives about the hyped, or overhyped, industry trends we may all be geeking out over.

  1. Balancing Innovation and Security in Analytics with Oren Falkowitz of Gigasheet

    JUN 26

    Balancing Innovation and Security in Analytics with Oren Falkowitz of Gigasheet

    Security isn’t just a checkbox — it’s the foundation of trustworthy data analytics. Oren Falkowitz, Advisor at Gigasheet, joins us to explore what it really takes to secure data in the digital era. With a background spanning NSA, US Cyber Command, Amazon and Cloudflare, Oren brings a deep understanding of how to strike a balance between access and protection, especially as analytics demands grow. He explains why most companies fail to define what they need to protect, why phishing remains a top vulnerability and how treating security as a technology — not just a human — problem changes the game. Key Takeaways: (03:24) Government and private sector data security face similar foundational challenges. (06:08) User training alone won’t stop phishing — it’s like expecting drivers not to text. (10:29) Apache Accumulo shows cell-level controls matter more than having all the data. (18:50) Intelligence turns technical data into real decisions. (24:42) LLMs need rich, licensed data — scraping alone isn’t enough. (27:59) Cyberattacks work because they look real, visually or organizationally authentic. (31:03) Security improves by mastering the basics, not chasing the newest trend. (32:43) Strong analytics matter more than the breach itself when it comes to security impact. Resources Mentioned: Oren Falkowitz https://www.linkedin.com/in/orenjfalkowitz/ Gigasheet | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/gigasheet/ Gigasheet | Website https://gigasheet.com/ Apache Accumulo https://accumulo.apache.org/ Cloudflare https://www.cloudflare.com/ Thanks for listening to the “Data Masters Podcast.” If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss our latest discussions and insights into the ever-changing world of data. #DataStrategy #DataManagement #DataMastersPodcast

    35 min
  2. Amplifying Community Voices Through Data with Russell Stevens of MIT Center for Constructive Communication

    JUN 13

    Amplifying Community Voices Through Data with Russell Stevens of MIT Center for Constructive Communication

    Data doesn’t just reflect communities — it can help shape more inclusive, constructive conversations. We’re joined by Russell Stevens, Head of Strategy and Development at the MIT Center for Constructive Communication, to explore how qualitative data, storytelling and ethical AI design can bridge gaps in society and decision-making. Russell shares how his team moved beyond traditional media analytics to build a platform that amplifies unheard voices through small-group conversations. He explains why trust, local context and human-in-the-loop sense-making are critical for turning narratives into actionable insight. Key Takeaways: (03:50) MIT used early language models to analyze media data and gauge public opinion. (09:27) Ingesting more data only amplified the loudest voices, not diverse perspectives. (18:31) Peer-led talks in Newark schools revealed stories that would never be revealed to adults. (24:55) Like Tamr, the process uses humans to guide AI through iterative coding. (30:40) Radical transparency and consent are core to ethical data use. (37:07) Hearing humanity in others is essential to overcoming division. (41:32) Replacing people with AI personas is a rejected dystopian shortcut. (43:12) Without humanity, all you’re left with is empty thematic summaries. Resources Mentioned: Russell Stevens https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell5mit/ MIT Center for Constructive Communication | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/cccatmit/ MIT Center for Constructive Communication | Website https://www.ccc.mit.edu/ Cortico https://cortico.ai/ Thanks for listening to the “Data Masters Podcast.” If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss our latest discussions and insights into the ever-changing world of data. #DataStrategy #DataManagement #DataMastersPodcast

    45 min
  3. Building Emotional Loyalty Through Data with Claudia Infante of Margaritaville

    MAY 21

    Building Emotional Loyalty Through Data with Claudia Infante of Margaritaville

    Data is the backbone of every great brand, but for Margaritaville, it’s also the bridge to a lifestyle of laid-back escapes and unforgettable memories. Claudia Infante, Chief Data Officer of Margaritaville, joins us to explore how this iconic brand blends data-driven decisions with the spirit of escapism. Claudia shares insights into the company’s unique licensing model, their approach to data governance, and how they prioritize customer experience while managing diverse data sources. Key Takeaways: (02:12) Margaritaville grew from a song to a lifestyle brand, starting with a t-shirt shop in Key West. (06:26) Hotels handle more complex customer and operational data than restaurants. (11:56) Margaritaville is an emotion, creating deep connections and lasting memories. (17:27) Strong brands build community and connections beyond just products. (20:43) Intentional data collection focuses on purpose and meaningful use over hoarding. (27:03) Clear data purpose reduces risk and aligns with business goals. (31:23) Marketing focuses on storytelling and letting customers engage on their terms. (37:36) Margaritaville offers diverse experiences, letting customers choose their own path. Resources Mentioned: Claudia Infante https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiainfante/ Margaritaville | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/margaritaville/ Margaritaville | Website https://www.margaritaville.com/ Thanks for listening to the “Data Masters Podcast.” If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss our latest discussions and insights into the ever-changing world of data. #DataStrategy #DataManagement #DataMastersPodcast

    39 min
  4. Reducing Documentation Burden Through Real-Time Data Capture with Dr. Stephanie Lahr of Artisight

    MAY 9

    Reducing Documentation Burden Through Real-Time Data Capture with Dr. Stephanie Lahr of Artisight

    AI isn’t magic — it’s science powered by quality data. Dr. Stephanie Lahr, Chief Experience Officer of Artisight, sits down with us to explain how data, computer vision and ambient sensors are transforming patient care. She reveals how Artisight helps clinicians reclaim time by automating documentation, improving the quality of data and restoring focus to human connection. Stephanie also shares her journey from internal medicine physician to healthcare technology leader, emphasizing that reducing burnout and elevating care begins with smarter data collection.  Key Takeaways: (03:04) Stephanie’s journey from clinician to digital health leader started with a hurricane and an EMR revelation. (08:38) Even in the time of Hippocrates, medicine has always relied on data through observation and testing. (12:08) In healthcare, patient care comes first — data entry comes second. (17:40) Computer vision captures real-time patient data without burdening clinicians. (21:30) Virtual care uses real-time support without recording or storing sensitive data. (27:39) High-quality insights depend on high-quality data — it’s a continuous cycle. (31:20) AI success in healthcare requires collaboration between clinicians, data scientists and system leaders. (34:41) Precision medicine improves treatment, but restoring humanity to care is what truly drives innovation. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Stephanie Lahr https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-lahr-md-chcio-767b916/ Artisight | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artisight/ Artisight | Website https://artisight.com/ Thanks for listening to the “Data Masters Podcast.” If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss our latest discussions and insights into the ever-changing world of data. #DataStrategy #DataManagement #DataMastersPodcast

    36 min
  5. Using Real-Time Insights To Drive Manufacturing and Supply Chain Agility with Tom Ferrucci of Natco Home Group

    APR 30

    Using Real-Time Insights To Drive Manufacturing and Supply Chain Agility with Tom Ferrucci of Natco Home Group

    Real-time data from the factory floor is becoming a powerful driver of operational efficiency and competitive advantage. We’re joined by Tom Ferrucci, Chief Information Officer of Natco Home Group, to unpack how data is transforming the manufacturing floor. With over 30 years of experience in IT and digital transformation, Tom shares how manufacturing processes are not just supported by data but are actively producing it, offering new insights into efficiency, automation and supply chain resilience. Key Takeaways: (02:26) The manufacturing floor holds valuable data that drives cost savings and efficiency gains. (06:37) Real-time telemetry from machines replaces outdated manual tracking and offers deeper insights. (07:46) RFID tags, originally for compliance, are now enhancing internal visibility in warehousing operations. (10:17) Automated systems use sensor data to reduce scrap, speed up repairs and trigger maintenance workflows. (11:37) Linking data to key metrics such as mean time to repair helps drive operational improvements. (15:47) Applying data-driven strategies to the supply chain helps improve predictability in a volatile environment. (21:00) Strong data governance and classification ensure fast-moving insights stay accurate and reliable. (22:18) Manufacturing is data-rich and full of untapped potential when fully leveraged. Resources Mentioned: Tom Ferrucci https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomferrucci/ Natco Home Group | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/natco-home-products/ Natco Home Group | Website https://www.natcohome.com/ Thanks for listening to the “Data Masters Podcast.” If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss our latest discussions and insights into the ever-changing world of data. #DataStrategy #DataManagement #DataMastersPodcast

    23 min
  6. Building Credibility in the Age of Misinformation with Paul Smith of Amnesty International

    APR 9

    Building Credibility in the Age of Misinformation with Paul Smith of Amnesty International

    What if the truth was buried in a sea of misinformation and it was your job to find it? Paul Smith, Chief Information Officer of Amnesty International, joins us to explore how unstructured data drives advocacy in the fight for global human rights. Paul highlights the ethical and operational complexities of data in the nonprofit world, making this a must-listen for anyone navigating data integrity in high-stakes environments. Key Takeaways: (03:16) Unstructured data is key to documenting human rights abuses. (06:43) Amnesty International verifies data using reverse image search, metadata and cross-referencing. (12:34) SharePoint and Preservica help manage, archive and access multilingual data. (16:35) AI adds speed and scale across Amnesty International’s research and evidence processes. (20:21) Generative adversarial networks help mitigate AI risks like bias and censorship. (24:18) Nonprofits need to guide people, from learning about the cause to becoming advocates. (28:33) The future of advocacy depends on AI, crowdsourcing and protecting privacy. (30:13) The flood of false information is an important area to watch out for in advocacy efforts. Resources Mentioned: Paul Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/pdsmithmba/ Amnesty International https://www.linkedin.com/company/amnesty-international/ Preservica https://preservica.com/ Microsoft Sentinel https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/products/microsoft-sentinel/ Microsoft Defender https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/microsoft-defender-for-individuals SharePoint https://www.microsoft.com/en/microsoft-365/sharepoint/collaboration Thanks for listening to the “Data Masters Podcast.” If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss our latest discussions and insights into the ever-changing world of data. #DataStrategy #DataManagement #DataMastersPodcast

    33 min
  7. Building a Data-Driven Future in Construction with Annette Cooper of Graham

    MAR 27

    Building a Data-Driven Future in Construction with Annette Cooper of Graham

    Gut instinct alone isn’t enough in construction — data is now a game-changer. Annette Cooper, Director of Data and Analytics at Graham, sits down with us to explore how data is transforming the construction industry. She explains how Graham leverages analytics to manage risk, optimize efficiency and improve project execution. Annette emphasizes that success comes from solving real business problems rather than simply generating reports. Key Takeaways: (03:17) Graham is expanding rapidly through acquisitions, creating new data challenges. (04:05) Risk management is a priority in an industry with long project timelines and tight margins. (07:26) Many project managers are eager for data insights but lack access to the right tools. (09:05) A standardized data strategy is essential for integrating multiple systems post-acquisition. (12:45) Project estimations require a balance of historical data and real-world unpredictability. (17:22) Effective data teams focus on solving problems, not just collecting data. (20:01) Data should drive decisions, not just generate reports that frustrate users. (25:42) Predictive models can highlight risks early, but human expertise remains crucial. (31:55) The future of AI in construction lies in automating insights, not replacing workers. (35:10) AI can streamline building code compliance by identifying design issues before construction begins. Resources Mentioned: Annette Cooper https://www.linkedin.com/in/annette-cooper-2aa442bb/ Graham | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/grahambuilds/ Graham | Website https://www.grahambuilds.com/ New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment https://www.mbie.govt.nz/ Thanks for listening to the “Data Masters Podcast.” If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss our latest discussions and insights into the ever-changing world of data. #DataStrategy #DataManagement #DataMastersPodcast

    37 min
  8. Understanding Audience Intent Through Content Consumption with Joetta Gobell of Dotdash Meredith

    FEB 21

    Understanding Audience Intent Through Content Consumption with Joetta Gobell of Dotdash Meredith

    Joetta Gobell, Senior VP of Data Strategy and Insights at Dotdash Meredith, joins us to discuss strategies for reaching consumers in their moment of need. She explains how Dotdash Meredith leverages its vast network of brands to provide timely, relevant content. She highlights how D/Cipher helps advertisers connect with audiences based on their content interactions rather than invasive data collection. She emphasizes prioritizing user experience over ad revenue to ensure advertising enhances rather than disrupts content engagement. Key Takeaways: (02:31) Leveraging the power of brands to help people in their moment of need. (04:14) Joetta’s background in math, psychology, and cognitive science shapes her approach to data. (06:09) Publishing has constantly evolved, requiring adaptability. (08:58) Human needs haven’t changed — only the way we deliver information. (10:28) Prioritizing user experience leads to better long-term success. (14:07) Targeting needs and behavior is more effective than using user data. (19:25) Data is not the only source of insight — context is more powerful than identity-based targeting. (24:50) Balancing AI and human teams by understanding each other’s strengths and weaknesses. (31:05) Understanding content meaning is key to effective advertising. (40:26) Interpreting data is more valuable than simply collecting it. Resources Mentioned: Joetta Gobell - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joetta-gobell-9378832/ Dotdash Meredith | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/dotdashmeredith/ Dotdash Meredith | Website - https://www.dotdashmeredith.com/ D/Cipher by Dotdash Meredith - https://www.dotdashmeredith.com/advertising Thanks for listening to the “Data Masters Podcast.” If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss our latest discussions and insights into the ever-changing world of data. #DataStrategy #DataManagement #DataMastersPodcast

    43 min
5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Data Masters is the go-to place for data enthusiasts. We speak with data leaders from around the world about data, analytics, and the emerging technologies and techniques data-savvy organizations are tapping into to gain a competitive edge. Our experts also share their opinions and perspectives about the hyped, or overhyped, industry trends we may all be geeking out over.

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