The Inquisitive Analyst

Marcus Udokang
  • 5.0 (1)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

It’s the show where we chat with business analysts and project managers about their challenges and triumphs, their ideas and their contribution to their field. It’s inspiring, it’s upbeat, it's exciting, but most of all, it’s inquisitive. Sponsored by The Lewis Institute: Website - https://lewisinstituteinc.com/; Courses - https://lewisinstitute.kartra.com/page/Wif255

  1. 2D AGO

    The Power of Prototyping: with James Dean

    In this interview, James Dean explains how prototyping strengthens business analysis by turning complex requirements into visual, collaborative conversations. Prototyping helps clarify user needs, and reduce rework. It also helps stakeholders better understand user journeys, validate assumptions, and provide timely feedback. James argues that even imperfect prototypes add value by revealing gaps early and supporting better decision-making through shared understanding. He points out that visual collaboration enhances engagement, separates needs from wants, and supports clearer, more informed decision-making throughout the analysis and delivery process. See the YouTube video at https://youtu.be/hSQb16d-9LI. See the book's website at evolvinganalyst.com.

    9 min

  2. MAR 31

    Digital Transformation that Delivers: with Yulia Kosarenko

    For Yulia Kosarenko, successful digital transformation requires close collaboration between business analysts and business architects. In this interview Yulia explains that bypassing early architecture leads to risks, integration gaps, technical debt, and failed projects. To avoid these issues Yulia recommends that BAs adopt a strategic mindset, projects align with enterprise goals, and proactively build relationships with architects to deliver coherent, customer-focused outcomes. See the YouTube video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFBAEmEns8s See the book's website at evolvinganalyst.com.

    9 min

  3. MAR 24

    The Evolving Role of the BA: with Igor Arkhipov

    Igor Arkhipov argues that business analysis has evolved beyond requirements gathering, and is now more focused on shaping and guiding organizational change. Analysts remain indispensable by applying business analysis skills, including judgment, context, and influence, across transformation initiatives. Arkhipov emphasizes adaptability, scope, quality, and change management as critical capabilities in an increasingly fluid professional landscape. These skills are needed most to ensure initiatives deliver meaningful outcomes and sustained business value. See the YouTube video at https://youtu.be/9KWCjuuyQz0. See the book's website at evolvinganalyst.com.

    13 min

  4. MAR 17

    Data in the Age of AI: with Malcolm Hawker

    In this interview, Malcolm Hawker emphasizes that while AI can support analytics, it cannot replace human judgment. Instead, analysts add value through critical thinking, curiosity, and discernment, framing the right questions. Questioning assumptions, challenging narratives, and interpreting data within business context is key for any analyst. Hawker warns against overreliance on AI, pointing out that offloading uniquely human skills weakens the analyst's role. Curiosity and a growth mindset will matter more than tools in keeping analysts relevant and impactful. See the YouTube video at https://youtu.be/BGswL8JiMYc. See the book's website at evolvinganalyst.com.

    9 min

  5. MAR 11

    The Evolving Analyst Virtual Book Launch

    In a world accelerating through digital transformation and AI, the analyst’s voice has never been more vital. The Evolving Analyst Virtual Book Launch captures an engaging and collaborative conversation among business analysis professionals. In reflecting on the evolution of BAs, the event contributes to shared personal journeys, lessons learned, and motivations behind their articles in the book. Highlighted themes include continuous learning, adaptability, leadership, and the growing role of analysts in digital transformation and AI initiatives. At the forefront is the value of community, mentorship, and knowledge sharing in advancing the BA profession. The book launch illustrates how business analysts can move beyond tactical roles to become strategic partners who drive meaningful change within organizations, while continuously developing their skills and perspective. The future belongs to analysts who stay curious, think strategically, and lead with courage. Keep learning. Keep asking deeper questions. Keep connecting people, ideas, and value. YouTube: https://youtu.be/6pWFQOLHYZc

    52 min

  6. MAR 10

    Elicitation Pitfalls: with Bola Adesope

    In his interview, Bola Adesope emphasizes that Sr. BAs should avoid being stuck in tactical or operational thinking by evolving to a strategic, outcome-focused mindset. He discusses key elicitation pitfalls, focusing on transparency, adaptability, and knowing when to pause and reset. Bola highlights the importance of tailoring communication and facilitation styles to diverse stakeholder learning needs. And, he reinforces intentional skill development as essential for sustained relevance in the BA profession. See the YouTube video at https://youtu.be/U3F2xck6M-M. See the book's website at evolvinganalyst.com.

    9 min

  7. MAR 3

    Power BI - Data-Driven Decision-Making: with Tobi Odunow

    In this interview, Tobi Odunowo shares his professional journey from traditional HR into strategic learning, organizational development, and change management. He emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and data-driven decision-making, using tools like Power BI to simplify complex data and enable insight-driven leadership decisions. Tobi also discusses his experience supporting successful adoption of new technologies, building credibility with stakeholders, and enabling leaders to make informed decisions through structured change practices. See the YouTube video at https://youtu.be/dy4C3ySBVtc.

    19 min

  8. FEB 24

    The Joy of Shipping: with Richard Audette

    In this interview Richard Audette discusses why shipping IT work is emotionally powerful. He emphasizes that delivering real value and solving meaningful problems for users creates motivation. He explains how overly complex change processes and perfectionism block releases. Instead, Richard advocates for releasing work in small, manageable increments, gathering early feedback, and close post-launch engagement with end users. This method ensures products solve genuine problems and avoid heavy change processes, which means that teamwork and shipping are not stalled. In addition, keeping business analysts close to users after launch improves triage, learning, and outcomes. See the YouTube video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWql3l4n8Mk See the book's website at evolvinganalyst.com. Look out for more 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙀𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘼𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙮𝙨𝙩 book review interviews.

    12 min
See All (126)

Ratings & Reviews

About

It’s the show where we chat with business analysts and project managers about their challenges and triumphs, their ideas and their contribution to their field. It’s inspiring, it’s upbeat, it's exciting, but most of all, it’s inquisitive. Sponsored by The Lewis Institute: Website - https://lewisinstituteinc.com/; Courses - https://lewisinstitute.kartra.com/page/Wif255

Information

  • Creator
    Marcus Udokang
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    126
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Marcus Udokang
  • Show Website
    The Inquisitive Analyst

You Might Also Like