Recorded amidst the buzz of the IT Press Tour in Palo Alto, this episode explores the evolving world of data intelligence through a candid conversation with Amanda R. Lee, Vice President, Marketing Analyst & Public Relations, DDN.

Sitting under the California sun, I had the opportunity to unpack how DDN is helping some of the most data-intensive organizations navigate massive volumes of information while transforming raw data into real-time insights that power breakthroughs in AI, autonomous driving, healthcare research, and financial services.

Throughout our chat, we tackled the convergence of AI, edge computing, and smart infrastructure, a theme that stood out prominently at Dell Technologies World and echoes DDN's longstanding vision. What fascinates me is hearing how the industry is finally aligning with a reality that companies like DDN have been addressing for years. Amanda Lee offered vivid examples of how infrastructure stories connect directly to human impact, whether it's accelerating life-saving medical research, enabling fraud detection at lightning speed, or supporting climate models that help us better understand our world.

We also explored the human side of innovation. Amanda's passion for lifting women in tech shines through as she shares actionable steps leaders can take to transform mentorship into meaningful sponsorship, ensuring representation translates into voice and value within organizations.

She also opens up about how AI has become her creative co-pilot across PR, social, customer advocacy, and investor relations. Her perspective on blending AI's speed with human nuance reminds us that while technology keeps evolving, genuine communication still hinges on empathy, context, and authenticity.

Finally, in a world where data sovereignty and trust are front-of-mind, especially in Europe. Amanda outlines how DDN balances performance with protection to earn customer confidence.