Episodes

  • This week, we dive deep into the world of data, decision-making, and uncertainty with Dale Nesbitt, a lecturer at Stanford and principal at Arrowhead Economics.

    Drawing on his unique upbringing in a mining town, Dale Nesbitt shares how witnessing raw data collection firsthand shaped his perspective on what it really takes to make informed decisions—hint: it's not just about having more data.

    Together, we explore the pitfalls of relying solely on data for critical choices, the importance of understanding probability and risk, and why data-gathering itself is often a noisy and imperfect process.

    From commodity pricing and speculation in oil markets to the real-world impact of data-driven decisions in healthcare, Dale Nesbitt reveals why true analytic power comes from combining rigorous analysis, sound judgment, and the right kind of data—not just more of it.

    Join us as we challenge myths around "data-driven" decisions, unpack lessons from COVID-era data science, and discover why wisdom of the crowd, probability, and a healthy respect for uncertainty are key to navigating our data-rich world.

    Links

    Dale's LinkedIn profile -https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-nesbitt-b574a83a/Watch on YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USOKgv1avHo

    Time Stamps

    00:00 Growing up in a mining town

    05:44 Data as the New Crude Oil

    07:31 Estimating and Understanding Stochastic Processes

    12:49 Impact of Strait of Hormuz Closure

    14:19 Challenges of AI in Economics

    17:05 Betting on events and elections

    21:43 Bayesian analysis and hydroxychloroquine data

    23:28 Understanding data and judgment

    26:38 Analyzing data for better decisions

  • On this episode of Data Driven, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by hardware and open source expert Michael Makowski to discuss the shifting landscape of developer workstations and AI hardware. As Windows usage declines among developers and AI engineers, Linux is experiencing a surge in desktop adoption. Michael takes us inside the latest efforts to make Linux not just accessible, but enterprise-grade—sharing how his team is driving advancements in stability, reliability, and user experience for validated Linux hardware.

    We talk about the dramatic improvements in Linux desktop support, the importance of privacy and avoiding surveillance-driven proprietary systems, and the game-changing features coming to market—like automated system rollback and curated app installs. Plus, we explore the current state of gaming on Linux, the technical edge unified memory brings to AI development, and why companies are increasingly opting for supported, Linux-based workstations. Whether you’re Linux-curious, rethinking your hardware choices, or just passionate about the future of developer tools and data engineering, this conversation will equip you for what’s next.

    LinksMike's Company Website -https://kfocus.org/Mike's LinkedIn Profile -https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-mikowski-7601393/Watch this show on YouTube -https://youtu.be/E03EObEa2lQ
    Time Stamps

    00:00 Website security concerns and solutions

    05:03 Supporting KDE for long-term stability

    09:45 Desktop environment compatibility issues

    10:46 Conflicts in desktop environments

    15:07 AMD vs Intel & Nvidia Performance

    18:58 Showing the production site

    23:49 Steam's Linux runtime environment

    25:43 Running Windows games on Linux

    29:47 Concerns about software privacy issues

    33:31 Migrating from Windows challenges

    37:48 Setting up machine learning hardware

    41:31 Resolving system issues efficiently

    42:59 Setting up a VPN correctly

    47:40 Running VMs on alternative OS

    52:49 Upcoming OS Upgrade Details

    56:19 Rigorous testing and development process

    57:25 Tuning BTRFS for performance

  • In this episode of Data Driven, we're diving into the rapidly evolving world of agentic AI—where autonomous AI agents collaborate, communicate, and occasionally collide. Our guest, Vlad Luzin, co-founder and CTO of Band, joins us to explore the technical challenges and real-world implications of building collaboration layers for agents that act like distributed, non-deterministic microservices.

    We’ll unpack the myths and realities surrounding orchestration, governance, and security, and discuss how enterprises can operationalize these agent ecosystems safely. Tune in as we share lessons learned, amusing engineering mishaps, and get a glimpse of what the future holds as agents become everyday colleagues in the digital enterprise.

    LinksVlad's LinkedIn Profile -https://www.linkedin.com/in/luzin/Watch this episode on YouTube -https://youtu.be/MZztFagEX_EBand Website -https://www.band.ai/Band Docs -https://docs.band.ai/
    Time Stamps

    00:00 Explaining orchestration in tech

    03:42 Understanding models and harnesses

    09:38 Misconceptions about A2A communication

    10:41 Understanding multi-agent systems

    16:18 Observability for distributed systems

    18:54 Agent communication and collaboration

    24:28 Unauthorized agent interactions

    25:49 Remote agent collaboration ideas

    28:54 How foundational AI models communicate

    33:20 Agent communication protocols overview

    35:39 Discussing tech standards and AI velocity

    40:53 Learning to Work with AI Agents

    42:41 Using Band AI tools

  • Imagine waking up to find a thousand AI agents silently making decisions across your company—and no one knows exactly what they're accessing.

    In this episode of Data Driven, hosts Frank La Vigne and Andy Leonard sit down with Ron Longo, CEO of Trustlogix, to explore the evolving landscape of AI governance, security, and data engineering. As enterprises race to integrate AI at unprecedented speed, the noise and confusion have never been greater. Ron Longo unveils the concept of the AI control plane with a "kill switch," discusses the real-world challenges of securing both human and non-human agents, and explains why classic best practices—like least privilege and prompt engineering—are more important than ever in an era where machines operate at breakneck pace.

    Join us as we dive into how Trustlogix keeps enterprise data safe, why innovation must balance with protection, and what it takes to build systems resilient enough for the next wave of AI-driven change. Whether you’re a data engineer, business leader, or just AI-curious, this episode brings practical insights and lively stories from the front lines of AI governance.

    LinksRon's LinkedIn profile -https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronlongo/TrustLogix Web site -https://www.trustlogix.ai/TheDingo -https://www.thedingo.ai/
    Time Stamps

    00:00 Managing data security threats

    05:08 Developing the kill switch concept

    07:20 Enforcing least privilege access

    12:43 AI communication challenges and best practices

    15:40 Revoking agents and data access

    19:25 AI kill switch for security

    22:00 Managing data access with control plane

    25:59 Applying AI to complex environments

    29:45 Discussing data engineering basics

    32:16 Language experts' unique advantage

    33:49 Creating an app with Claude AI

    37:09 Balancing AI and security in enterprises

    43:43 AI's impact on job roles

    44:51 Learning from Air Force RFP

  • As we launch season 10, your favorite semi-sentient British AI co-host returns to the microphone alongside Frank La Vigne for a compelling exploration of what it truly means to be a data-driven organization.

    In this episode, Frank sits down with Sebastian Wernicke, author of "Data Inspired" and renowned expert in data and AI strategy, to discuss why turning data into action remains a formidable challenge for so many organizations.

    Together, they dive into the enduring gap between data insights and meaningful change, the crucial role of leaders in fostering cultures of evidence and inquiry, and why technology alone won’t move the needle without the buy-in—and sometimes the irrationality—of humans.

    From the evolution of data culture and the pitfalls of management by numbers, to the psychological barriers that lead to "data frustration," this episode offers a candid, nuanced look at the real obstacles standing in the way of better decisions.

    Links

    Sebastian Wernicke on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wernicke/

    Watch this episode on YouTube - https://youtu.be/2qP4p0YKxI8

    Data Inspired (affiliate link) - https://amzn.to/4xkCuBV

    Time Stamps
  • In this episode, we dive into the rapidly evolving world of AI in the financial sector.

    Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by Daniel Yoo, founder and CEO of Finmate AI, a company at the forefront of custom agentic AI solutions for financial advisors.

    Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is transforming internal operations for advisors, the surprising openness of the finance industry to new data practices, and the commodification of once elite services thanks to advanced automation. The conversation also unpacks industry challenges, from regulatory hurdles to the shifting pipeline of talent in both engineering and finance.

    Whether you're interested in the technical underpinnings of agentic AI, policy changes in fintech, or the broader societal implications of AI-driven automation, this episode is packed with insights for data and finance professionals alike.

    LinksDaniel on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/smyoo/FinMate's Websitehttps://finmate.ai/Watch this episode on YouTube -https://youtu.be/NV5zOiOXhI0
    Time Stamps

    00:00 Industry's response to data policies

    03:28 The closure of White's Ferry

    09:14 Improving AI for form filling

    11:19 Releasing new Notetaker features

    14:49 Different approaches to technology integration

    18:33 Comparing tool to movie exo suit

    23:04 Human capital in financial industry

    24:34 AI assisting financial advisors

    28:58 AI automating podcast tasks

    30:20 Challenges in AI development costs

    35:15 Son opting out of computer class

    39:47 Early computing and gaming memories

    41:03 Convincing parents about computer science

    44:10 Finding Finmate AI online

  • In this episode, Frank La Vigne sits down with his Red Hat colleague Christopher Newland for a deep dive into the evolving challenges and opportunities at the intersection of AI, open source, and enterprise technology.

    Fresh off attending both IBM Think and Red Hat Summit, Christopher Newland shares insights from two very different industry perspectives—executive strategy and hands-on engineering. Together, they explore the elusive “last mile” problem in AI adoption, the rise of agentic systems, the critical role of harnesses and runtimes, and why memory management is becoming the next frontier.

    Plus, they discuss the practical realities and future potential of tools like OpenShift AI, IBM Bob, and open source alternatives. Whether you’re a developer grappling with implementation details or a leader focused on ROI, this episode has something for everyone navigating today’s fast-changing AI landscape.

    LinksChristopher on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjnuland/Watch this episode on YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlkPPt5YeY0
    Time Stamps

    00:00 Comparing IBM Exec and Red Hat Conferences

    05:24 Challenges in AI implementation

    06:56 Challenges in scaling microservices

    11:38 Integrating AI with project management

    14:23 Debate on AI model vs. harness

    16:54 Discussing model evolution and limitations

    22:54 Affordable Power BI Courses Bundle

    25:19 Separating and managing runtimes

    27:02 Using semantic routing for requests

    30:15 Agent memory and compression basics

    36:02 New AI approach and vision

    38:49 Developing a multi-agent system

    40:40 Importance of data chunking

  • In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley sit down with Angus Nelson—author, podcaster, and expert on leadership and human potential in the age of AI. Together, they dive deep into the rapidly changing landscape of technology and work, exploring how relentless market volatility, AI advancements, and global complexity are putting unprecedented stress on individuals and organizations alike.

    Angus Nelson shares insights from his book, "Neuro Resilient Leader: The Internal Operating System for Leading at the Speed of Change," challenging the notion that grinding harder is the key to success. Instead, he argues that true leadership today demands clarity, capacity, and composure—and that our biggest challenges are rooted not in strategy or data, but in our internal operating systems and mindset.

    Tune in as they unpack the myths of grind culture, the critical importance of mental well-being in the digital era, and practical ways to protect and elevate our collective "brain capital." Whether you're a leader, an independent contributor, or simply navigating a chaotic world, this episode offers hope, inspiration, and actionable advice on how to stay human—and thrive—in an increasingly automated world.

    LinksAngus' LinkedIn Profile -https://www.linkedin.com/in/angusnelson/Angus' Website -https://angusnelson.comAngus' Coaching Website-https://neuroresilientleader.comGet the Book Free -https://freebook.vipGet the paperbook on Amazon -https://amzn.to/4w1uHIf
    Time Stamps

    00:00 Challenges of adapting to AI changes

    07:15 Finding internal clarity and value

    09:54 Influences on self-belief

    13:38 Impact of technology on brain health

    16:07 AI and creativity debate

    20:03 Changing nature of creativity and work

    22:30 AI's role in company differentiation

    25:24 Embracing a new lifestyle

    29:02 Facing self-doubt on success path

    31:22 Embracing change and transformation

    35:34 Overcoming self-imposed limitations

    41:08 Identity shift realization

    42:30 Energetic exchange and authenticity

    48:14 Living abroad during COVID

    49:05 Download free book PDF

    54:38 Finding your inner power

    55:32 Thanking Frank and Candice

  • In this week’s show, Frank La Vigne sits down with data and analytics engineer Wasim Rana for a deep dive into the realities of building, managing, and securing data infrastructure in modern businesses.

    Together, they explore the critical challenge of preventing data lakes from turning into data swamps, the practical pipeline from raw to curated data—including the increasingly popular bronze, silver, and gold layering approach—and the vital role of governance in today’s data-heavy world. Waseem Rana shares insights from his hands-on experience with AWS, Snowflake, and transforming messy datasets into actionable business intelligence.

    The conversation also takes a look at the evolving landscape of data engineering amid AI advancements, what skills data professionals need to stay ahead, and how future architectures may blend data lakes, warehouses, and vector databases for AI-driven analytics. Whether you’re a data engineer, business leader, or just curious about the future of data, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

    LinksWasim's LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamwasimrana/Wasim's GitHub -https://github.com/wasimranacseWatch on YouTube -https://youtu.be/8oGEEN6BubkPodcast Episode Mentioned:The AI Driven Leader: Rethinking Strategy, Decision Making, and Personal Growth -https://datadriven.tv/episodes/the-ai-driven-leader-rethinking-strategy-decision-making-and-personal-growth/Book mentioned:The AI-Driven Leader: Harnessing AI to Make Faster, Smarter DecisionsHardcover -https://amzn.to/4crqshxKindle -https://amzn.to/4u8rVPSAudiobook -https://amzn.to/3Qqsc1X
    Time Stamp

    00:00 Working as a data engineer

    03:22 Using AWS for infrastructure

    06:31 Transforming raw data for use

    11:14 Discussing data sources and ingestion

    15:51 Discussing data analysis with AI models

    16:33 The future of data analytics

    21:58 Importance of data governance

    24:44 Evolution of data storage solutions

    29:34 AI's impact on data jobs

    31:20 Understanding data architecture importance

    35:49 Understanding AI creativity and context

    37:14 Understanding AI's lack of context

    40:43 Difficulty finding meaningful connections

    45:14 Using storytelling to drive change

    47:44 Connecting pipelines to WooCommerce

  • Today, we journey into the fast-evolving world of prediction markets, KPI trading, and the new frontiers of retail finance. Joining us is Candace, alongside our guest from Benzinga, a fintech innovator working to democratize financial data once reserved for Wall Street elites.

    We delve into how platforms like Benzinga are leveling the playing field, making actionable market information accessible for everyone—from individual retail investors to advanced quant traders. Get ready as we unpack the rise of alternative data, the intersection of finance and AI, and whether prediction markets are the next big tool in forecasting—or just another signal to question in an increasingly complex landscape. Strap in for insights on regulation, market dynamics, and the sometimes wild personalities driving innovation in finance today!

    LinksAndrew's LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/lebbosandrew/Benzinga -https://www.benzinga.com/Benzinga APIS -https://www.benzinga.com/apis/Watch on YouTube -https://youtu.be/xY6mIRP1L2c
    Time Stamps

    00:00 Starting Benzinga to democratize info

    03:22 Building financial data services

    08:10 Growth through niche news coverage

    12:57 Hedging with company performance

    15:00 Early quant experiences at Merrill Lynch

    20:07 Explaining Polymarket betting mechanics

    23:34 Discussing market prediction tools

    26:39 CFTC regulations on trading limits

    28:04 Discussing crowdsourcing and wisdom

    34:14 Exploring unique data sources

    35:35 Discussing the vinyl resurgence

    41:40 Finding an edge in investing

    43:42 Wondering about the future of betting

    47:42 Brokerage purchase options explained

    50:20 Building ideas with AI tools

  • this episode, Frank sits down with Andy Boettcher, the Chief Innovation Officer at DoubleTrack, for a candid conversation about embracing the power (and chaos!) of modern AI tools.

    Together, they dive into how neurodiversity and "chaotic brains" are thriving in this new era, where ideas can be rapidly tested, refined, and built with the aid of tools like Claude code. From the practical realities of using AI for software development and troubleshooting (even in classic cars and household appliances) to the shifting landscape of business innovation, they discuss the opportunities and challenges facing individuals and companies alike.

    You'll hear first-hand stories about building podcast production tools, leveraging AI agents as virtual team members, the importance of critical thinking in an age of instant information, and why data security and adaptability are more crucial than ever. Whether you're a technologist, business leader, or simply curious about what it means to innovate today, this episode promises insight, humor, and a healthy dose of chaos.

    Let's get data driven.

    LinksAndy's LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyboettcher/ShowDog -https://www.showdog.studio/
    Time Stamps

    00:00 What a Chief Innovation Officer does

    06:18 The age of chaotic creativity

    09:56 Using AI for planning discussions

    11:31 Choosing the name Show Dog

    15:22 Brainstorming and organizing ideas

    18:43 Using tech for learning

    20:47 Companies adopting AI strategies

    25:10 Classic car ownership struggles

    28:41 Taking time to rethink plans

    31:34 Using AI to solve problems

    37:25 Challenges in commercializing academic concepts

    39:18 Adapting to evolving AI technology

    43:36 AI tools and problem-solving in coding

    45:23 Limitations of AI and data security

    47:33 Data security and CRM setup

    51:22 Challenging assumptions and blind spots

  • In this episode of Data Driven, Frank and Andy dive into the future of market intelligence with Dr. Jill Axline, co-founder and CEO of Mavera—a company building synthetic populations that simulate real human behaviour, cognition, and emotion. Forget Personas. We're talking real-time, AI-driven behavioural modeling that's more predictive than your horoscope and considerably more data-backed.

    Dr. Axline shares how Mavera’s swarm of AI models situates these synthetic humans within real-world business contexts to forecast decisions, measure emotional resonance, and even test marketing messages before they go live. From governance and model drift to the surprising uses in financial services, political campaigns, and speechwriting—this is one of the most forward-looking conversations we’ve had yet.

    If you've ever wanted a deeper understanding of how AI can augment decision-making—or just want to hear Frank admit asset managers love ice cream—this one’s for you.

    LinksLearn more about Mavera:https://mavera.ioConnect with Jill Axline on LinkedIn:https://linkedin.com/in/jillaxlineMorningstar:https://www.morningstar.com
    Time Stamps

    00:00 - Introduction & AI Swarms Explained

    03:30 - Forget Personas: Contextual AI Models

    07:00 - Evidence vs Inference & AI Governance

    10:20 - Simulation Scenarios & Model Drift

    14:30 - Synthetic Audiences in Action

    18:00 - Evidence Feedback Loops & Small Data Challenges

    22:00 - Industry Applications & Use Cases

    27:00 - Analyzing Speeches & Emotional Resonance

    30:45 - Sentiment, Social Listening, and Real-Time News Reactions

    34:00 - Adversarial Models & Strategic Pushback

    38:00 - The Cartoon Bank Portal That Failed Spectacularly

    41:00 - From Skeptic to CEO: Jill’s Journey

    45:00 - Data Privacy, Compliance & Synthetic Ethics

    48:00 - Reflections on Empathy, Engineers, and Selling Without Selling

    Support the Show

    If you enjoy Data Driven, leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or your favourite pod platform. It helps more people find the show—and fuels Frank’s Monster Energy habit.

  • In today’s show, BAILeY, your semi-sentient hostess with the mostest metadata, teams up with Frank La Vigne to welcome the ever-insightful Andrew Brust for a deep dive into the evolving Microsoft data ecosystem. From nostalgic tales of Windows history and scoring elusive Clippy swag at Ignite, to unraveling what makes Microsoft Fabric a game-changer for data integration, AI, and governance, this episode covers it all.

    You’ll hear firsthand how Microsoft’s innovation goes far beyond the tech itself—focusing on seamless integration, unified billing, and organizational synergy. Andrew Brust sheds light on the journey from fragmented Azure services to the unified vision of Fabric, the rise of generative AI and “agentic” intelligence, and the increasingly important role of data sovereignty and governance in today’s regulatory landscape.

    Whether you’re a data enthusiast, an AI tinkerer, or just in it for the nostalgia, grab your headphones and get ready for insights, laughs, and more acronyms than you can shake a dataset at. Stay curious and caffeinated—this episode has something for everyone!

    Time Stamps

    00:00 Microsoft Expertise and Industry Analysis

    03:18 "Big Data and Analytics Insights"

    08:31 Power BI's Rise in Azure

    12:26 "Unified Fabric-Based Data Platform"

    14:01 "Fabric IQ Powers AI Integration"

    17:24 "Achieving Synergy Against Odds"

    23:32 "Unified Compute for Seamless Integration"

    24:41 "Overwhelmed by AWS Complexity"

    28:21 "Microsoft Research Powers Azure Fabric"

    34:20 "Azure Foundry and Tools"

    37:33 "Flexibility Beyond Major Cloud Providers"

    41:33 Global Data Privacy Trends

    45:13 "Governance for Agentic AI"

    47:29 "Azure Stack and Local Clouds"

    50:13 "Kubernetes: The Cloud Caveat"

    53:40 "Let's Reconnect and Reminisce"

  • Welcome to a milestone episode of Data Driven! In episode 400, hosts BAILeY, Frank La Vigne, and Andy Leonard gather to reflect on nearly a decade at the forefront of podcasting about data, AI, and the world of software engineering. This special edition takes you behind the scenes with stories of tech evolution, personal growth, and the wild journey from their earliest recordings to today’s AI-powered workflows.

    The team digs into how generative AI has transformed their creative process—making it possible for small teams to produce vast amounts of content, drive innovation, and manage multiple podcasts at a high level. You'll hear about Frank’s latest tool, Podsy—a platform built to help creators manage the ever-growing tsunami of podcast assets using cutting-edge AI—and how tools like Claude, Grok, and Opus are unleashing new possibilities for automation and storytelling.

    With their signature tangents, candid stories (including car accidents, water heater mishaps, and parenting milestones), and a bit of nostalgia about the early days of podcasting, this episode captures what makes Data Driven both insightful and relatable. If you’re a developer, data professional, or a fellow podcaster looking to stay ahead of the curve, episode 400 is packed with practical lessons, inspiration, and a few good laughs. Dive in as the team celebrates what’s possible in the age of AI—and look ahead to an exciting new chapter for the show!

    Time stamps

    00:00 "DGX Spark: Personal AI Supercomputer"

    03:28 "Tech Innovations and Hardware Updates"

    07:51 "Daily 5:40am Notification Routine"

    11:10 "Podzi: Managing Podcast Assets"

    15:35 "Boosting Value with AI Efficiency"

    17:05 Claude Enhanced Legacy System

    23:32 AI Impact on Creative Roles

    25:58 "Consulting Break: Investing Time"

    29:33 "Automation Evolution and Tools Demo"

    31:35 "Podsy Studio: A Journey"

    35:06 "AI-Powered Content Creation Demo"

    38:26 "Podcast Organization and Insights"

    42:10 "Streamlining Metadata for Insights"

    45:47 "Unveiling AI's Hidden Potential"

    50:41 "Celebrating 400 Podcast Episodes"

    54:41 "Off Track Ambitions"

    57:44 "Reality Strikes Back: Tech Trust"

    59:36 "Podsy Progress and Workflow"

  • In this episode of Data Driven, hosts Frank La Vigne, Candace Gillhoolley, and BAILeY sit down with Mike Armistead, CEO of Pulse Security AI—a cybersecurity veteran who's been fortifying digital defenses since before AI made headlines and hackers had professional profiles. Together, they dig into the dual-edged sword that is artificial intelligence in cybersecurity, exploring how AI serves as both a powerful tool against cyber threats and a potential weapon in the wrong hands.

    Mike Armistead shares stories from the front lines, including his experience during the "code red" era at Google when ChatGPT shook up the tech world, and offers real-world advice on why LLMs (large language models) aren’t the magic fix for every problem—and why they desperately need guardrails. You’ll hear why your next big data breach could be hiding in a cleverly crafted AI prompt, why humans still matter when it comes to judgment calls, and why good old-fashioned security hygiene is as critical as ever.

    Whether you’re a developer, data scientist, or just password-paranoid, this episode will make you rethink how you approach security in the age of AI. Tune in for expert insights, hard-earned lessons, and a few laughs as the Data Driven crew uncovers where technology, risk, and "common sense" collide.

    Time Stamps

    00:00 AI-Assisted Cybersecurity for SOCs

    04:26 "AI Rush and LLM Insights"

    09:12 AI-Powered Cybersecurity Strategy Insights

    10:01 "Cybersecurity, ChatGPT, and Impressions"

    13:17 AI Tools: Power and Risks

    18:06 "Teaching Critical Thinking in AI Era"

    20:59 "Guardrails and Next-Gen AI Systems"

    24:22 Human Judgment vs AI Limitations

    27:37 "Pressure Testing for Accuracy"

    30:09 Future Tech Advancements and Challenges

    34:58 "Risk Awareness Beyond Compliance"

    37:38 "Cybersecurity Risks and AI Defense"

    41:54 Cybersecurity Risks and Preparedness

    43:04 "Situational Security in Practice"

    46:05 "Cybersecurity's Evolving Threat Landscape"

    51:52 "Builders vs. Destroyers Mindset"

    55:05 Modern Password Practices

    56:39 "Pulse Security AI & Community"

  • In this episode, Frank La Vigne sits down with Itay Haber, CEO of Data Noetic, to unpack how AI is revolutionizing supply chain management. Forget spreadsheets and dashboards—Data Noetic is building an autonomous digital brain that proactively tackles delivery bottlenecks and bridges the gap between scattered data and process improvement.

    You’ll hear real-world tales of missed bathroom tile deliveries, multi-million dollar construction delays, and the true impact of getting ahead of supply chain hiccups before they snowball. The trio explores how agentic AI isn’t just hype: it’s driving tangible results, saving time, boosting KPIs, and reimagining how companies of all sizes make decisions. From pharmaceuticals to consumer packaged goods, discover why trust, transparency, and agility are the new gold standards in supply chain operations—and how data-driven agents just might become indispensable.

    Tune in for a masterclass that balances digital wisdom with a dash of dry wit, and learn how emerging tech is helping organizations deliver on time, in full, and with a whole lot less existential angst.

    Time stamps

    00:00 "Autonomous Supply Chain Optimization"

    06:01 "Optimizing On-Time Delivery Failures"

    07:27 Proactive Warehouse Order Management

    13:06 "Aligning Perception with Reality"

    15:08 "Streamlining Order Fulfillment Process"

    18:18 "AI Revolutionizing Problem Coordination"

    22:18 "Data Validation and AI Insights"

    25:04 Predictive KPI Monitoring with Gen AI

    27:09 Clarifying Questions for Assistance

    31:37 "Tailored Software Delivery Models"

    34:35 "AI's Role in Complex Industries"

    37:00 "AI Focus and Value Debate"

    42:37 "AI Bubble and Valuations"

    46:43 AI's Transformative Impact on Jobs

    48:17 AI Enhances Jobs, Not Replaces

    51:44 "AI: Boom, Bust, Transformation"

    57:38 "AI, Data, and Change"

  • Welcome to another exciting episode of Data Driven! On this week’s show, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley take you inside the NVIDIA GTC conference in Washington, DC—an event that’s rapidly evolved from a hardware showcase into a crossroads for AI, robotics, and quantum computing innovation. Frank shares his firsthand experience navigating the expo floor, offering a glimpse into the latest cutting-edge tech, from GPU supercomputers to quantum networking breakthroughs and swarms of robots. Candace and Frank discuss the growing intersections between fields like quantum biology and AI, and share stories about the curious mix of attendees—from government officials and policymakers to technologists, students, and even a few cosplay “Jensen Huangs.”

    Whether you’re a data enthusiast, a future-focused technologist, or simply quantum curious, this episode dives into the national security implications of AI, the importance of lifelong learning in tech, and how the rise of quantum and robotics will disrupt careers and industries alike. Tune in for insider anecdotes, expert encounters, and a dose of practical wisdom about adapting in the world of emerging technologies—the future is here, and it’s happening faster than ever.

    LinksFrank gets a shout out from Pluralsight -https://www.pluralsight.com/resources/blog/upskilling/frank-lavigne-customer-storyJensen Huang's DTC DC Keynote -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQHK61IDFH4Mariya & Python Simplified -https://www.youtube.com/@pythonsimplified
    Time Stamps

    00:00 "Nvidia GTC Highlights and Expo"

    03:36 "Quantum, AI, and Innovation Highlights"

    07:18 Tech and Government Amid Furlough

    10:24 "Tech Components in Booz Allen Vehicle"

    14:37 Meeting Maria Shah

    19:11 Career Shifts and Evolutions

    23:06 From Books to Tech Publishing

    24:44 Quantum Insights with Researcher

    29:01 "Nvidia: Emerging Defense Contractor"

    32:25 Tech Innovations: AI, Quantum, Robotics

    36:44 "Live Streaming Quantum & Tech"

    37:40 "High-Speed Quantum Interconnects"

    41:01 Technical Translation for Accessibility

    44:19 "High School, Future, Nvidia Innovation"

    49:28 "Guest's Learning Experience"

    50:45 "Quantum Business Strategy"

    53:36 British AI Outro Stream

  • On this episode of Data Driven, hosts Frank La Vigne and Leonard celebrate a major milestone: the 30th anniversary of Franksworld.com, one of the OGs of tech blogging that’s survived multiple browser wars, dot-com crashes, and the relentless march of Internet time. Joined by guest Saket Saurabh, they dive into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI, data science, and technology, comparing today’s AI boom to previous tech bubbles and exploring trends in sovereign AI, data sovereignty, and global competition in quantum computing.

    The conversation takes us from the days of hand-coded HTML uphill in both directions, to modern challenges like scheduling snafus, rapid automation, and the possibilities (and pitfalls) brought on by artificial intelligence. Along the way, Frank and Saket reflect on the cycles of tech innovation, the impact of global politics on data and AI, and what it really means to adopt new technology mindsets.

    Tune in for a lively ride through tech history, lessons learned, and a discussion on how a scrappy few—and a little help from AI—can rival teams of seventy. If you’re curious about what’s next in AI, data, or you just want a dose of digital nostalgia and practical insight, this episode’s for you.

    LinksFranksWorld.com -http://www.FranksWorld.comWho Moved My Cheese -https://amzn.to/4oeqGvsImpact Quantum Global Report -https://impactquantum.com/GlobalReport/Impact Quantum Podcast -https://impactquantum.com/AutonomousWarfare.ai -https://autonomouswarfare.ai/

    Some links may be affiliate links.

    Time Stamps

    00:00 Grok 4 Daily Updates

    05:22 "AI Bubble: Caution and Trends"

    12:10 "X64 Chips and Tech Rivalry"

    19:49 "Appreciating Thoughtful Scientific Content"

    25:34 "History's Arcs and Overcorrections"

    27:24 "Unique Identity Beyond Models"

    32:03 "Reexamining Privacy Awareness"

    41:22 "Geopolitical Prudence and Resources"

    47:49 "AI, Podcasts, and Off-Roading"

    50:37 "Talking Recycling Bin Origins"

    54:37 "AI as a Multilingual Solution"

    59:49 Reinventing MCP and Context Memory

    01:05:12 "Artistic Talent Meets Engineering"

    01:14:08 "Data, AI, and Mastermind Insights"

  • Welcome to another episode of Data Driven, where we dive deep into how data and AI are shaping—sometimes shaking—the modern world. In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne, Andy Leonard, and Carmen Li sit down with Carmen Lee, the trailblazing CEO of Silicon Data and a former Bloomberg data aficionado.

    Carmen’s on a mission to bring clarity to the wild west of GPU compute markets, and she shares with us how she’s turning raw compute into a true tradable commodity—think futures markets for GPUs, the “Bloomberg terminal” for AI infrastructure, and perhaps even a Carfax for your next used GPU cluster.

    Together, they explore everything from why AI startups struggle with fluctuating margins, to the crucial role TSMC plays in the world economy, all the way to the data transparency that might be the missing piece in AI’s explosive growth. Whether you’re curious about benchmarking GPUs, tokenomics, managing infrastructure costs, or just want a glimpse into the future of data markets, this one’s for you.

    Stay tuned for a fascinating conversation on normalizing chaos, hedging tech costs, geeking out over hardware, and even a few laughs about used GPU “car lots” in Virginia. Let’s get data driven!

    LinksSilicon Data -https://www.silicondata.com/Dancing with Qubits -https://amzn.to/4mIOG8UThe Nvidia Way -https://amzn.to/3VH9aUv
    Time Stamps

    00:00 "AI Commodities and GPU Markets"

    06:56 Ecosystem Transparency Benefits All

    10:55 AI SaaS Cost Optimization Challenges

    13:41 Token Economics in Cloud AI

    15:27 Optimizing GPU and Token Commitment

    18:41 Token-Based Product Innovation

    25:00 "Verifying UIDs and Connectivity"

    28:43 Measuring GPU Performance

    30:41 Supply Chain Impact on GPU Industry

    35:43 "TNC's Unchallenged Leadership in Supply Chain"

    36:31 Silicon Ecosystem Collaboration

    39:38 Nvidia's Strategic TSMC Capacity Purchase

    42:51 Bloomberg's Media and Finance Expansion

    46:53 "Quantum Reading Challenges"

    50:13 "Data Driven Podcast Wrap-Up"

  • In this episode, we're joined once again by Christopher Nuland, technical marketing manager at Red Hat, whose globe-trotting schedule rivals the complexity of a Kubernetes deployment. Christopher sits down with hosts Bailey and Frank La Vigne to explore the frontier of artificial intelligence—from simulating reality and continuous learning models to debates around whether we really need humanoid robots to achieve superintelligence, or if a convincingly detailed simulation (think Grand Theft Auto, but for AI) might get us there first.

    Christopher takes us on a whirlwind tour of Google DeepMind’s pioneering alpha projects, the latest buzz around simulating experiences for AI, and the metaphysical rabbit hole of iRobot and simulation theory. We dive into why the next big advancement in AI might not come from making models bigger, but from making them better at simulating the world around them. Along the way, we tackle timely topics in AI governance, security, and the ethics of continuous learning, with plenty of detours through pop culture, finance, and grassroots tech conferences.

    If you’re curious about where the bleeding edge of AI meets science fiction, and how simulation could redefine the race for superintelligence, this episode is for you. Buckle up—because reality might just be the next thing AI learns to hack.

    Time Stamps

    00:00 Upcoming European and US Conferences

    05:38 AI Optimization Plateau

    08:43 Simulation's Role in Spatial Awareness

    10:00 Evolutionary Efficiency of Human Brains

    16:30 "Robotics Laws and Contradictions"

    17:32 AI, Paperclips, and Robot Ethics

    22:18 Troubleshooting Insight Experience

    25:16 Challenges in Training Deep Learning Models

    27:15 Challenges in Continuous Model Training

    32:04 AI Gateway for Specialized Requests

    36:54 Open Source and Rapid Innovation

    38:10 Industry-Specific AI Breakthroughs

    43:28 Misrepresented R&D Success Rates

    44:51 POC Challenges: Meaningful Versus Superficial

    47:59 "Crypto's Bumpy Crash"

    52:59 AI: Beyond Models to Simulation