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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, host Ben Parker talks with Anju Gupta, the Chief Data and AI Officer at BNSF Railway, to explore her successful career journey to date and discuss AI adoption.

    Anju reveals her career journey, sharing pivotal moments that shaped her path and the profound influence of AI on various industries. She discusses overcoming challenges, the significance of collaboration, and essential skills like resilience, humility, and influencing.

    Anju provides a detailed exploration of AI adoption at scale, highlighting common roadblocks, strategic approaches for aligning AI with business goals, and the importance of a well-rounded build, buy, and partner strategy.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:39 Anju's Early Career Journey

    03:43 Pivotal Moments and AI Adoption

    06:15 Overcoming Challenges and Building Influence

    17:23 The Importance of Mentors and Sponsors

    24:32 Handling Setbacks and Learning from Failure

    29:04 The Dangers of Comparison

    31:15 Skills for Success in the Industry

    34:10 Challenges in AI Adoption

    42:50 Moving from AI Experimentation to Full-Scale Adoption

    46:48 Common Mistakes in Early AI Adoption

    50:55 Aligning AI Initiatives with Business Goals

    53:26 Leveraging External Expertise for AI Success

    56:42 Final Thoughts and Advice

    Thank you for listening!

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    Why do so many data and analytics projects fall short, even in the most well-funded companies?

    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, host Ben Parker talks with Murli Buluswar, Head of Analytics at Citibank's US Personal Bank, to explore what companies are doing wrong in data and analytics solutions.

    We also explore his impressive career journey, from statistician to leader and unpack what it really takes to scale impact in data and analytics.

    00:00 Introduction to the Guest and Episode Overview

    00:48 Career Beginnings and Early Insights

    03:50 Transition to Leadership and Enterprise Thinking

    06:37 Continuous Learning and Self-Improvement

    17:53 Challenges and Skills in Data-Driven Leadership

    36:41 Common mistakes companies make when building analytics solutions

    40:55 Companies' obsession with the latest tools and technologies

    45:29 Poor leadership or lack of accountability at the top

    46:23 Industry guilty of overcomplicating data strategies

    48:21 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, host Ben Parker talks with Shashi Kumar, Head of Data Engineering & Analytics at Hearst, to explore how the rise of generative AI is reshaping the role of data engineering.

    Whether you’re an aspiring data leader or a hands-on engineer, this episode is packed with practical insights, career advice, and how top organisations adapt to the new AI landscape.

    You’ll learn:

    How Shashi transitioned from DBA to senior data leader and what helped him stand outThe key skills, tools, and certifications that are shaping the modern data engineerHow generative AI is changing data architecture, pipeline design, and collaborationWhy governance, unstructured data, and real-time pipelines are now mission-criticalWhat strategic investments should companies make to scale Gen AI effectively

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:41 Shashi Kumar's Career Journey

    03:42 Transition to Leadership

    05:44 Key Career Moments

    08:57 Facing Career Setbacks

    11:31 Skills for Success in Data Engineering

    16:50 Impact of Generative AI on Data Engineering

    20:52 Modern Data Engineering Tools and Skills

    24:21 Collaboration Between Data Engineering and Data Science

    28:42 Modern Data Architectures and Gen AI

    33:57 Strategic Investments for Gen AI Adoption

    34:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, Ben Parker chats with Gerrit Grotewold, Head of Personalisation at BMW Research, to explore what it takes to build a long, impactful career in data and AI.

    With his career at BMW, Gerrit shares how he transitioned from electrical engineering into AI leadership, the key challenges he faced stepping into management, and the learning habits that keep him ahead.

    👉 Whether you’re a data professional just starting or an experienced expert, this episode is packed with great insights to help you grow and learn.

    You’ll learn:

    How domain knowledge gives you a competitive edge in dataWhy curiosity and soft skills matter more than ever in techHow to stay relevant in the age of LLMs and AI disruptionPractical tips for transitioning from technical expert to people leaderThe mindset shift required to grow your career and enjoy the journey

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    01:06 Gerrit's Early Career and Education

    01:43 Joining BMW and Career Growth

    02:53 Transition to AI and Data

    03:40 Passion for the Automotive Industry

    05:22 Key Career Moments

    08:00 Challenges and Overcoming Them

    09:21 Management Transition

    13:01 Skills and Traits for Success

    17:28 Continuous Learning and Staying Relevant

    21:18 Career Advice and Reflections

    27:28 Pride in Achievements

    28:27 Conclusion and Farewell

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, host Ben Parker sits down with Sassoon Kosian, Corporate Vice President of Data Science at New York Life, to explore the journey from early challenges in physics to becoming a leader in the data and AI space.

    Gain insights into managing high-performing teams, staying relevant in a fast-paced industry, and navigating corporate politics.

    Key topics include:

    Navigating a career shift from consulting to in-house leadership.Overcoming “orphan initiatives” and creating impactful data solutions.Essential skills for data science success: strategic thinking, technical depth, communication, and adaptability.Staying ahead in the fast-moving world of GenAI.Building strong, trusted relationships with business stakeholders.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:40 Career Journey and Early Interests

    02:26 Transition to Data Science and Consulting

    04:10 Current Industry Challenges

    06:56 Key Career Moments and Management Transition

    13:04 Challenges in Large Organisations

    16:32 Skills for Leadership in Data Science

    20:53 Staying Relevant in a Fast-Paced Industry

    23:14 Job Market and Advice for Aspiring Data Scientists

    25:55 Proudest Achievements and Building Relationships

    27:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Thank you for listening!

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    Is ethical AI just a buzzword?


    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, host Ben Parker chats with Mark Brady, Deputy Chief Data Officer at KBR, who reveals the real risks behind today’s AI systems and why most organisations are unprepared.

    Mark breaks down the Six Laws of Safe AI, a practical, no-fluff framework for securing the future as AI gains power, autonomy, and physical-world access.

    We also discuss:

    Why “data science” today feels more like alchemyThe broken culture of data hoarding in organisationsWhat hiring managers are getting completely wrongHow to spot real AI danger before it’s too lateWhy transparency and interoperability are non-negotiable

    Episode Breakdown:



    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:34 Mark Brady's Career Journey

    02:01 Transition to Leadership

    02:57 Key Moments in Data Science

    07:35 Challenges in Data Management

    11:56 Hiring the Right Data Scientist

    18:15 AI and Security Concerns

    23:58 Future of AI and Defensive Measures

    34:56 Conclusion and Upcoming Events






    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, host Ben Parker sits down with Aaron Hand, Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer at ArcelorMittal, to reveal what life is really like in the C-suite.

    With a career spanning UBS, Holcim, and now leading AI strategy at one of the world’s largest manufacturing companies, Aaron shares candid insights on the challenges, pressures, and strategic thinking required to succeed as a modern CDO or CAIO.

    You'll discover:

    What a typical day looks like at the CDO/CAIO levelHow to juggle innovation, governance, and business deliveryWhy many CDOs don’t last more than 18 months — and how to surviveThe power of domain knowledge, adaptability, and knowing your blind spotsHow a WhatsApp idea revolutionised cement salesWhy “AI-first” needs to be more than a buzzword

    🎧 A must-listen for data professionals, leaders, and anyone eyeing the C-suite in data & AI.

    Episode Breakdown:

    00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome
    00:41 – Aaron Hand's Early Career Journey
    02:26 – Transition into AI and Big Data
    03:38 – Career Progression at UBS
    05:21 – Leading AI at Holcim
    07:28 – Inside the Role of a Chief AI Officer
    16:39 – Managing Expectations and AI Hype
    25:27 – The Value of Great Mentors and Managers
    26:11 – Listening, Trust, and Collaboration
    26:44 – Innovation from the Ground Up: WhatsApp Sales Case
    28:06 – Workshops, Hackathons & Cross-Functional Teams
    29:34 – Flexibility in Strategy and Delivery
    35:48 – Continuous Learning & Staying Ahead with Podcasts
    40:04 – Major Setbacks, Mergers, and Resilience
    43:16 – Career Reflections and Proud Moments
    46:19 – Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of the Data Analytics podcast, we welcome Pablo Vega Behar, Director of Machine Learning at Fitch Group.

    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Pablo Vega-Behar, Director of Machine Learning Engineering at Fitch Group, as he shares his journey in the AI industry. From navigating career pivots to leading innovative machine learning projects, Pablo reveals practical strategies for success and leadership in a rapidly evolving field.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:37 Pablo's Journey into Data Science

    04:04 Transitioning Industries and Leadership

    09:13 Current Industry Challenges in AI

    13:00 Career Highlights and Advice

    18:42 Staying Relevant and Overcoming Setbacks

    26:59 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of the Data Analytics podcast, we welcome Milan Dhore, Director of AI Strategy and Cloud Engineering at The Hartford.

    Milan discusses his career journey, the pivotal moments that shaped his path in the industry and identifies current challenges in the data and AI space. He offers insights into the importance of ROI, data quality and the evolving landscape of cloud and AI technologies.

    Milan also shares career advice for those entering the field, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and strategic thinking.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:42 Milan's Early Career and Transition to Data

    01:41 Embracing Cloud and Big Data

    04:48 The Evolution of Data Engineering

    07:53 Challenges in Data Governance and Quality

    09:14 AI and Business Value

    16:50 Key Moments in Milan's Career

    19:45 Overcoming Career Challenges

    20:34 Navigating Stakeholder Alignment and Embracing Change

    22:23 Overcoming Challenges in Machine Learning

    23:57 Skills and Traits for Success in the Field

    28:29 Staying Relevant in the Evolving Data and AI Landscape

    31:53 Career Advice for Aspiring Data Professionals

    36:37 Reflecting on Career Achievements and Future Aspirations

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, we welcome Swetha Devabhaktuni, Head of Data & Analytics at Synechron.

    Swetha shares her career journey and the pivotal moments that shaped it. In this episode, we discuss the hot topic of getting data ready for generative AI, the importance of data quality and governance, and how companies can overcome common pitfalls when preparing their data for advanced AI applications.

    Don't miss valuable insights on leveraging both structured and unstructured data, ensuring data privacy, and developing a data-first risk management strategy.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:41 Swetha's Career Journey

    05:54 Key Career Moments and Lessons

    08:22 Challenges and Setbacks

    11:44 Generative AI and Data Preparation

    19:51 Governance and Privacy in Data

    22:12 Traditional vs. Modern Data Pipelines

    24:19 Assessing Data Readiness for Generative AI

    28:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, we welcome Shaina Boone, Chief Analytics Officer at PHD Media.

    Shaina shares her unique career journey from an arts background to becoming a leader in marketing science and analytics. We learn about the pivotal moments that shaped her path, her views on AI's role in marketing, and the essential skills and traits for career growth in the rapidly changing data analytics landscape.

    Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with valuable career advice and industry insights!

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:45 Shaina Boone's Career Journey

    02:25 Leadership in Analytics

    05:03 Challenges in AI and Analytics

    10:57 Key Career Moments and Training

    16:23 Advice for Aspiring Analysts

    22:41 Staying Relevant in a Rapidly Changing Industry

    33:51 Proudest Achievements and Conclusion

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, we welcome Robin Sutara, Field Chief Data Strategy Officer at Databricks.

    Robin shares her unusual journey starting from the US Army to becoming a Chief Data Officer at Microsoft, and now at Databricks. She discusses key career moments, her dedication to diversity in tech, and how pivoting her role aided her career growth.

    Robin emphasizes the importance of mentorship, building a supportive network, and leveraging one's unique strengths and competencies in a career.

    Listen for insights on career transitions, leadership in data, and overcoming challenges in the industry.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    01:13 Robin's Early Career and Transition to Microsoft

    04:30 Climbing the Ladder at Microsoft

    08:20 Transition to Databricks and Current Role

    09:23 Insights on Learning and Career Development

    16:57 Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Tech

    24:02 Overcoming Challenges and Career Advice

    42:10 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, we welcome Oscar Carrasco Zevallos, the former Director of Data at Johnson & Johnson and now a startup founder.

    Oscar shares his extensive background in biomedical engineering, AI initiatives in the pharmaceutical space, and the moments that shaped his career.

    We discuss the challenges of transitioning from corporate to startup, the importance of soft skills, effective networking, and maintaining relevance in the ever-evolving data and AI industry.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    01:06 Oscar's Early Career and Education

    01:48 Transition to AI and Data Analytics

    03:57 Leadership and Startup Journey

    06:03 Networking and Building a Startup

    09:20 Key Career Moments and Challenges

    12:13 Soft Skills and Management

    24:02 Staying Relevant in a Rapidly Changing Field

    28:57 Career Setbacks and Resilience

    32:55 Final Thoughts and Career Advice

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this engaging episode of Data Analytics Chat, host Ben Parker interviews Stephen Harris, an industry expert in cloud, data, and AI.

    Stephen shares his unique career path, which began with his aspirations in air traffic management and evolved into leading data initiatives at prominent global firms, including Microsoft, VMware, Facebook, and Wells Fargo.

    He offers insights into the key moments and strategies that shaped his journey, the evolving role of data in businesses today, and the importance of continuous learning.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:57 Stephen Harris' Career Journey

    03:17 Evolution of Data Science and AI

    06:39 Leadership and Mentorship Insights

    13:25 Navigating Challenges and Setbacks

    25:49 Career Advice for Aspiring Professionals

    28:26 Proudest Achievements and Final Thoughts

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, host Ben Parker interviews Parag Shrivastava, Head of Data and Analytics Portfolio at Hewlett Packard Enterprise.

    He discusses his career journey, key moments that shaped his path, strategies driving data and AI innovation, and the challenges of managing large global teams.

    Parag offers advice for those looking to enter the data and AI field and highlights the importance of continuous learning and collaboration.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

    01:11 Parag Srivastava's Career Journey

    03:59 Transition to the U.S. and Cultural Adaptation

    05:54 Key Moments and Career Challenges

    08:27 Driving Change and Adoption in Data and AI

    17:26 Skills and Traits for Success

    21:28 Learning and Staying Relevant

    37:54 Advice for Aspiring Data and AI Professionals

    40:14 Proudest Achievements and Leadership Insights

    43:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, we explore how AI and Generative AI is transforming the healthcare industry.

    Amit Shukla, VP for Global Consulting Services at IQVIA, joins us.

    Amit shares his insights on the impact of AI and generative AI in the healthcare sector. We explore the advancements in drug discovery, data integration, and patient outcomes, as well as the challenges of implementing AI technologies.

    We discuss how healthcare organisations can become more data-driven and build a culture of innovation, making healthcare more efficient and accessible worldwide.

    Happy New Year to all!

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
    00:40 Amit Background and Career Journey
    05:42 The Impact of AI in Healthcare
    07:15 Accelerating Drug Discovery with AI
    14:13 AI in Clinical Trials and Patient Outcomes
    20:25 Challenges in Implementing AI in Healthcare
    24:04 The Scale of FMCG and Pharmaceutical Industries
    25:00 AI's Role in Manufacturing and Supply Chain
    26:23 Data Integration and Privacy in Healthcare
    29:16 Generative AI in Healthcare
    32:11 Marketing Innovations with AI
    34:37 Becoming Data-Driven in Healthcare
    37:31 Building a Culture of Innovation
    42:07 Strategic Focus on Pharmaceutical Companies
    45:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, we discuss whether generative AI has overshadowed traditional AI models.

    Hugo Delgado, a Senior Data Executive, joins us.

    We explore why generative AI is currently dominating conversations. Hugo shares his journey from a fixed-income trader to a data science consultant, offering insights into the challenges and limitations of AI adoption.

    The topics covered include the differences between generative and traditional AI, the cultural shifts required for AI integration, and how companies can build effective AI strategies.

    00:00 Introduction to the Episode
    00:21 Guest Introduction: Hugo Delgado
    01:33 Diving into Generative AI
    04:23 Generative AI vs Traditional AI
    08:10 Challenges in Scaling Gen AI
    08:57 Cultural Impact and Change Management
    14:50 Traditional AI Solutions and Their Value
    21:12 Building Effective AI Strategies39:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, we explore the transformative impact of AI and machine learning on the workforce.

    Barbara Widholm, VP of Bionics at State Street, a leading financial services company, joins us.

    She shares insights from her nine years at State Street, covering topics like AI's impact on data-intensive tasks, generating strategic insights, and the future of AI in financial services. We discuss strategies for integrating AI, managing resistance to change, and fostering a culture of continuous learning.

    00:00 Introduction to AI and Workforce Transformation
    00:31 Meet Barbara Widholm, VP of Bionics at State Street
    03:06 Impact of AI on Job Roles
    05:30 AI: Augmenting vs. Replacing Jobs
    07:37 Overcoming Resistance to AI Adoption
    12:15 Skills for Success in an AI-Driven World
    14:25 Challenges in Integrating AI
    15:45 Effective Upskilling and Reskilling Strategies
    22:18 Managing Stress and Preventing Burnout
    24:51 Advice for AI Newcomers
    26:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, we explore the transformative impact of data analytics and AI in the fintech sector, particularly focusing on startups and maturing businesses.

    Manil Manohar, Head of Data at Ratepay, a FinTech organisation based in Berlin, joins us.

    We discuss many topics, including advancements in AI and analytics, customer experience personalisation, fraud detection, risk assessment, and the operational efficiencies of AI technologies.

    00:00 Introduction to Today's Topic: Fintech and Analytics
    00:31 Meet the Expert: Manil Manohar from Ratepay
    00:56 The Role of Data in Decision Making
    03:27 AI's Impact on the Fintech Industry
    07:11 Leveraging Analytics for Market Opportunities
    08:58 The Future of Crypto in Fintech
    10:27 AI in Business Operations and Decision-Making
    13:12 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Adoption
    25:00 AI for Customer Experience and Fraud Detection
    34:16 Optimising Operations and Reducing Costs with AI
    36:26 Balancing AI Power with Data Privacy
    38:03 Emerging Trends and Future Predictions in Fintech
    42:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Thank you for listening!

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    In this episode of Data Analytics Chat, we discuss the impact of AI on clinical research.

    Ben Gmeiner, Director of Medical Data Strategy and Science at Novartis, a global pharmaceutical organisation, joins us.

    We discuss AI's massive potential to revolutionise healthcare, enhance precision medicine, and improve clinical trials. Ben highlights the importance of integrating AI smoothly into existing workflows, ensuring data privacy, and overcoming regulatory challenges. We explore how AI can boost patient engagement and trial adherence and overcome the biggest barriers.

    00:00 Introduction to Data Analytics Chat
    00:30 Meet Ben Gmeiner, Director of Medical Data Strategy at Novartis
    01:51 The Explosion of Health Data
    02:45 AI's Transformative Impact on Clinical Research
    04:13 Advancements in Clinical Trials with AI
    10:23 Leveraging Health Data for AI Solutions
    14:31 Challenges in AI Adoption in Healthcare
    25:56 Regulatory Environment and AI Integration
    31:39 Improving Patient Engagement with AI
    34:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Thank you for listening!