Data Career Transformations

Description:

In this conversation, Brad Cronkrite shares his journey from a developer to a lead data analytics engineer at Mercury Insurance. He discusses the critical role of data in the insurance industry, the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, and the importance of mentorship and self-awareness in career growth.

Brad also emphasizes the significance of maintaining a work-life balance and understanding the dynamics of introversion in the workplace. He shares insights on empowering analytics teams through dbt mesh and reflects on past data disasters that shaped his approach to data engineering.

Takeaways:

• Brad's journey in data began as a developer on a mainframe.
• Data is foundational in the insurance industry, influencing pricing and risk assessment.
• Empowering analytics teams with dbt mesh allows for greater flexibility and ownership.
• Finding your niche in data can lead to greater job satisfaction.
• Day-to-day work in data engineering involves project management and troubleshooting.
• AI can enhance workflows but must be used responsibly in decision-making.
• Data disasters can lead to valuable learning experiences and improved processes.
• Interviewing for data roles often reveals knowledge gaps that need addressing.
• Understanding introversion can improve team dynamics and productivity. Measuring success in data work involves visibility and trust from leadership.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Brad's Journey into Data
• 02:44 Navigating Imposter Syndrome
• 05:38 Data's Role in the Insurance Industry
• 08:22 Empowering Analytics Teams with dbt Mesh
• 10:58 Finding Your Niche in Data Engineering
• 13:27 The Structure of Brad's Data Team
• 16:10 Building a Robust CI/CD Pipeline
• 19:07 The Role of AI in Data Engineering
• 21:44 Navigating Data Disasters
• 24:15 Interview Insights and Challenges
• 26:53 Understanding Introversion in the Workplace
• 32:22 Proud Projects and Their Impact
• 36:03 Mentorship and Career Growth
• 37:14 Advice for Aspiring Data Professionals

Speakers:

• Guest: Brad Cronkrite, Lead Data Analytics Engineer, Mercury Insurance
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

We're Building the Future of Data. Together.

We've always believed the best way to get better at data is by sharing what you're learning. That's why we built the dbt Community—a place where data pros at every level can ask questions, debate ideas, and push each other forward.

It's not just about solving today's problems—it's about building what's next, together.

• Crowdsource solutions—70,000+ people who've been there, done that.
• Find your crew—meet others who use the same tools you do.
• Stay at the cutting edge—discussions, meetups, and game shows keep things fresh.

👉 Jump in and say hi—join the dbt Community now.

In this episode of Data Career Transformations, Bolaji interviews Millie Symns, a senior Business Intelligence analyst at JustWorks.

Millie shares her journey into the data field, emphasizing the importance of mission-driven work and the intersection of data and education. She discusses her current role, the challenges of communicating data insights to non-technical stakeholders, and the significance of mentorship in the data community.

Millie's insights on data literacy, measuring business impact, and the value of collaboration highlight the evolving landscape of data careers.

Chapters:

• 02:48 Millie's Journey into Data
• 05:36 The Intersection of Data and Mission-Driven Work
• 08:19 Millie's Data Origin Story
• 11:06 Current Role at JustWorks
• 13:47 Career Path and Previous Roles
• 16:32 Stakeholder Communication Challenges
• 19:09 Data Literacy and Its Impact
• 24:29 Understanding Data Through Personal Experience
• 28:18 The Pressure of Quick Answers in Data
• 29:10 Navigating Business Context as a Data Analyst
• 32:29 Celebrating Small Wins in Data Projects
• 35:51 Measuring Business Impact of Data Work
• 39:45 The Importance of Mentorship in Data Careers

Takeaways:

• Millie's journey into data began with a passion for education and access to resources.
• She emphasizes the importance of mission-driven work in the data field. Millie's first job involved education evaluation, which shaped her data career.
• She transitioned from nonprofit to corporate, bringing her mission focus with her.
• Millie values the role of data in solving collective issues rather than individual problems.
• Her current role at JustWorks involves helping stakeholders make data-driven decisions.
• Millie highlights the challenges of communicating data insights to non-technical stakeholders.
• Data literacy varies across industries and impacts the quality of stakeholder requests.
• Measuring the impact of data work is challenging but essential for data professionals.
• Mentorship is crucial for growth in the data field, both as a mentor and mentee.

Speakers:

• Guest: Millie Symns, Senior BI Analyst at JustWorks
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

We're Building the Future of Data. Together.

We've always believed the best way to get better at data is by sharing what you're learning. That's why we built the dbt Community—a place where data pros at every level can ask questions, debate ideas, and push each other forward.

It's not just about solving today's problems—it's about building what's next, together.

• Crowdsource solutions—70,000+ people who've been there, done that.
• Find your crew—meet others who use the same tools you do.
• Stay at the cutting edge—discussions, meetups, and game shows keep things fresh.

👉 Jump in and say hi—join the dbt Community now.

Description:

In this conversation, Bolaji and Johnathan "JB" Brooks discuss JB's journey from semi-pro baseball player to a data engineering leader at BetterHelp. They explore the balance between mental health and high-pressure environments, the importance of dbt and Kimball modeling in data engineering, and the evolving landscape of AI and machine learning.

JB shares insights on communication skills, measuring the value of data work, and the significance of understanding stakeholders. The discussion emphasizes the need for empathy and personal connection in professional success, along with practical advice for aspiring data professionals.

Takeaways:

• JB played semi-pro baseball and has a passion for mental health.
• The pressure of perfection can lead to mental health challenges.
• Mental health awareness is crucial in high-pressure environments.
• JB's career began in the insurance industry before transitioning to data engineering.
• He adopted dbt early on, recognizing its potential in data transformation.
• Machine learning and AI are rapidly evolving fields in data engineering.
• BetterHelp's mission aligns with JB's values and career goals.
• Communication skills are essential for data professionals to convey value.
• Understanding stakeholders is key to being a valuable data professional.
• Professional success should be defined by personal values, not external expectations.

Chapters:

• 00:00: Introduction to JB's Journey
• 06:09: Mental Health Awareness in High-Pressure Environments
• 09:09: JB's Career Beginnings in Insurance
• 10:33: Early Exposure to DBT and Data Engineering
• 11:24: Transitioning to Solutions Architect
• 13:18: Navigating the Data Engineering Landscape
• 19:49: Interview Insights and Lessons Learned
• 21:49: Joining BetterHelp and Work-Life Balance
• 24:21: The Impact of AI on Human Productivity
• 26:51: The Importance of Human Connection in Tech
• 27:41: Understanding Kimball Dimensional Modeling
• 29:46: Modern Applications of Kimball Modeling
• 31:21: Challenges and Pitfalls of Kimball Modeling
• 36:58: Team Structure and Collaboration in Data
• 37:55: Data Disasters and Lessons Learned
• 39:38: Proud Projects and Their Impact
• 40:58: Measuring the Value of Data Work
• 42:56: Honing Communication and Persuasion Skills
• 46:09: Defining Professional Success
• 50:55: Encouragement for Emerging Data Professionals

Speakers:

• Guest: Johnathan JB Brooks, former Director of Data Engineering at BetterHelp. (Now Principal Data & AI Architect at Astrodata)
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

We're Building the Future of Data. Together.

We've always believed the best way to get better at data is by sharing what you're learning. That's why we built the dbt Community—a place where data pros at every level can ask questions, debate ideas, and push each other forward.

It's not just about solving today's problems—it's about building what's next, together.

• Crowdsource solutions—70,000+ people who've been there, done that.
• Find your crew—meet others who use the same tools you do.
• Stay at the cutting edge—discussions, meetups, and game shows keep things fresh.

👉 Jump in and say hi—join the dbt Community now.

Description:

In this episode of Data Career Transformations, Bolaji interviews Eddy Zulkifly, a senior staff data engineer at Kanaxis.

They discuss Eddy's journey from chemical engineering to data engineering, his passion for soccer coaching, and the importance of community and mentorship in professional growth. Eddy shares insights on the role of Excel in business, the challenges of FinOps, and the significance of a growth mindset in both sports and data careers.

He emphasizes the value of learning in public and encourages data professionals to share their experiences and learn from one another.

Takeaways

• Eddy transitioned from chemical engineering to industrial engineering due to his interest in psychology and data analysis.
• Excel remains a crucial tool in business, often seen as the universal data language. Eddy's experience in supply chain management has greatly influenced his approach to data engineering.
• Coaching kids in soccer has taught Eddy the importance of tailoring strategies to individual needs.
• The concept of learning in public can accelerate personal and professional growth. Eddy believes in the importance of mentorship and community support in the data field.
• Understanding business requirements is key to effective data engineering. Eddy's team at Kanaxis is structured to promote collaboration across data lifecycle stages.
• Technical challenges in FinOps often involve cost allocation and resource tagging. Eddy aspires to lead a data team and build impactful data products in the future.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Data Career Transformations
• 02:47 Culinary Adventures in Malaysia and Singapore
• 05:41 The Joy of Coaching Soccer
• 08:29 From Chemical to Industrial Engineering
• 11:08 The Role of Excel in Business
• 13:51 Transitioning to Data Engineering
• 16:44 Understanding Kanaxis and Its Operations
• 19:23 The Structure of the Data Team at Kanaxis
• 22:12 Challenges in FinOps and Data Optimization
• 22:22 Navigating FinOps Challenges
• 25:12 Lessons from the Pandemic: Data Engineering at Home Depot
• 28:25 Proud Projects: Implementing Modern Data Stacks
• 30:52 Mentorship and Community in Data Engineering
• 34:12 Growth Mindset: Coaching and Learning
• 39:42 Future Aspirations in Data Engineering
• 41:46 Advice for Data Professionals

Speakers:

• Guest: Eddy Zulkifly, Senior Staff Data Engineer, Kinaxis
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

We're Building the Future of Data. Together.

We've always believed the best way to get better at data is by sharing what you're learning. That's why we built the dbt Community—a place where data pros at every level can ask questions, debate ideas, and push each other forward.

It's not just about solving today's problems—it's about building what's next, together.

• Crowdsource solutions—70,000+ people who've been there, done that.
• Find your crew—meet others who use the same tools you do.
• Stay at the cutting edge—discussions, meetups, and game shows keep things fresh.

👉 Jump in and say hi—join the dbt Community now.

Description:

In this episode, Bolaji interviews Louis Guitton, an engineering leader with extensive experience in data engineering and analytics.

They discuss Louis's journey from sports to data, his experiences at One Football Labs, and the challenges of communicating technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Louis shares insights on handling stress and burnout, measuring the impact of data projects, and the importance of sustainable personal growth in a rapidly evolving field.

He emphasizes the need for data professionals to understand the business context and offers valuable advice for those looking to build a fulfilling career in data.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Amazon Music

Takeaways

• Louis has a diverse background in sports and data.
• He emphasizes the importance of mental and physical preparation for marathons.
• Data analytics is becoming increasingly important in sports.
• Louis's career journey includes freelancing and working at One Football Labs.
• He faced challenges in building a tagging system for football content.
• Communication with non-technical stakeholders is crucial for data professionals.
• Burnout is a common issue in the tech industry, and it's important to address it.
• Measuring the impact of data projects can be challenging but necessary.
• Sustainable personal growth is key to a long-term career in data.
• Understanding the business context is essential for data professionals.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Data Career Transformations
• 01:51 The Intersection of Sports and Data
• 05:22 The Role of Data in Personal Health 0
• 7:56 Career Journey: From Engineering to Freelancing
• 11:05 Building a Data-Driven Business Unit
• 17:26 Tackling Technical Challenges in Data Engineering
• 20:49 Shipping the First Version: Lessons Learned
• 21:33 Communicating with Non-Technical Stakeholders
• 24:11 The Importance of Domain Knowledge
• 26:35 Handling Stress and Burnout in Data Careers
• 30:12 Measuring Impact in Data Projects
• 33:14 Sustainable Personal Growth in Data Careers
• 37:51 Mentorship and Influences in Career Development
• 38:45 Advice for Building a Fulfilling Career

Speakers:

• Guest: Louis Guitton, AI Solutions Architect and ML Engineer
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

We're Building the Future of Data. Together.

We've always believed the best way to get better at data is by sharing what you're learning. That's why we built the dbt Community—a place where data pros at every level can ask questions, debate ideas, and push each other forward.

It's not just about solving today's problems—it's about building what's next, together.

• Crowdsource solutions—70,000+ people who've been there, done that.
• Find your crew—meet others who use the same tools you do.
• Stay at the cutting edge—discussions, meetups, and game shows keep things fresh.

👉 Jump in and say hi—join the dbt Community now.

In this episode, Bolaji Oyejide interviews Larissa Mendes, a Level 3 Data Engineer at Gupy, who shares her unique journey from mechanical engineering to data engineering.

Larissa discusses her experiences with data quality challenges, the importance of community support, and her current tech stack at Gupy. She also provides valuable insights on overcoming interview challenges and the significance of effective communication with stakeholders.

Larissa emphasizes the need for continuous learning and the power of networking in advancing one's career in data.

Takeaways:

• Larissa transitioned from mechanical engineering to data engineering by exploring her interest in programming.
• She faced challenges during her first technical interview but learned to move on from questions she couldn't answer.
• Building reliable data pipelines is a key aspect of her role as a data engineer.
• Data quality issues can significantly impact client trust and require careful management.
• Effective communication with stakeholders is crucial for delivering value through data.
• Larissa emphasizes the importance of community support for career growth in data.
• She encourages aspiring data professionals to find their passion and connect with like-minded individuals.
• Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are essential in the data field.
• Larissa's proudest project involved migrating critical queries to dbt, improving developer experience.
• Networking and learning from others can enhance one's skills and career opportunities.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Larissa Mendes and Her Journey
• 05:48 From Mechanical Engineering to Data Engineering
• 12:32 The Transition to Data Engineering
• 17:33 Navigating Technical Interviews
• 19:57 Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Data Engineers
• 20:35 Building Confidence in Professional Environments
• 21:34 Exploring the Tech Stack at Guppy
• 23:20 The Power of dbt in Data Engineering
• 24:51 Team Dynamics and Roles in Data Engineering
• 26:45 Learning from Data Disasters
• 29:23 Communicating Data Value to Stakeholders
• 31:34 Managing Stakeholder Expectations
• 34:12 Empathy in Data Requests
• 36:48 Proud Projects in Data Engineering
• 40:18 Advice for Advancing in Data Careers

Speakers:

• Guest: Larissa Mendes, Data Engineer II at Gupy
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

We're Building the Future of Data. Together.

We've always believed the best way to get better at data is by sharing what you're learning. That's why we built the dbt Community—a place where data pros at every level can ask questions, debate ideas, and push each other forward.

It's not just about solving today's problems—it's about building what's next, together.

• Crowdsource solutions—70,000+ people who've been there, done that.
• Find your crew—meet others who use the same tools you do.
• Stay at the cutting edge—discussions, meetups, and game shows keep things fresh.

👉 Jump in and say hi—join the dbt Community now.

In this episode, Bolaji interviews Yannick Misteli, head of engineering at Roche, who shares his unique journey from a PhD in quantum physics to a leadership role in data science.

Yannick discusses his early experiences in finance, the importance of building a solid data organization, and the balance between people, process, and technology. He emphasizes the significance of trust in data relationships and offers insights into managing stress and communicating business value.

The conversation also touches on his passion for dance and how it has shaped his personal and professional life.

Subscribe on:

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Amazon Music

Takeaways:

• Yannick's journey from quantum physics to data science showcases the importance of diverse experiences.
• Building a data organization requires a focus on people, process, and technology.
• Trust is essential in data relationships and impacts business outcomes.
• Early career experiences in finance provided valuable insights into data use cases.
• Transitioning from academia to industry involves learning to speak the business language.
• Yannick emphasizes the importance of a solid foundation in any career.
• Data testing is crucial for building trust with stakeholders.
• Effective communication of business value is a key skill for data leaders.
• Maintaining a work-life balance is important for long-term success.
• Mentorship and continuous learning are vital for career growth.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Yannick's Journey
• 02:00 The Unexpected Path to Dance
• 04:53 From Quantum Physics to Data Science
• 10:25 Transitioning from Academia to Industry
• 13:47 Consulting Experience and Its Impact
• 15:32 Personality and Career Fit in Data Roles
• 18:16 The Triad of People, Process, and Technology
• 18:57 People, Process, and Technology: The Triad of Success
• 20:39 Climbing the Corporate Ladder: Yannick's Journey
• 22:44 The Role of dbt in Data Transformation
• 24:27 Learning from Data Disasters: The Importance of Testing
• 26:17 Communicating Business Value: The Data Leader's Challenge
• 28:29 Managing Stress: Balancing Work and Life
• 30:30 Mentorship and Inspiration: Learning from Others
• 32:21 Advice for Aspiring Data Professionals: Building a Foundation

Speakers:

• Guest: Yannick Misteli, Head of Engineering, Global Pharma Strategy, Roche
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

Building in Public: The Best Way to Learn Data.

We've always believed the best way to get better at data is by sharing what you're learning. That's why we built the dbt Community—a place where data pros at every level can ask questions, debate ideas, and push each other forward. It's not just about solving today's problems—it's about building what's next, together.

• Crowdsource solutions—70,000+ people who've been there, done that.
• Find your crew—meet others who use the same tools you do.
• Stay at the cutting edge—discussions, meetups, and game shows keep things fresh.

👉 Jump in and say hi—join the dbt Community now.

In this episode of Data Career Transformations, Bolaji interviews Philip Boontje, a finance executive and data architect. Philip shares his unique journey from chemical engineering to finance and ultimately to data engineering.

He discusses the challenges and successes he has faced in his career, including the transition from spreadsheets to data engineering, the discovery of dbt, and the importance of building a strong data architecture.

The conversation also touches on the future of data with semantic layers and AI, as well as the importance of mental health and work-life balance in the fast-paced world of data engineering. Philip offers valuable advice for aspiring data professionals and emphasizes the need for creativity and interdisciplinary skills in the field.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Amazon Music

Takeaways:

• Philip's journey from chemical engineering to finance and data architecture showcases the importance of interdisciplinary skills.
• The transition from spreadsheets to data engineering is crucial for scaling businesses effectively.
• Discovering dbt transformed Philip's approach to data management and engineering.
• MaxQ Analytics focuses on providing data architecture solutions for companies that need support in data engineering.
• Building strong client relationships is essential for successful project management in data engineering.
• Data disasters often stem from unreliable source systems and the challenges of maintaining data integrity.
• Success in data engineering is often invisible; clients appreciate when things run smoothly without issues.
• The semantic layer is key to creating a single source of truth in data management.
• AI and analytics agents will play a significant role in the future of data engineering.
• Maintaining mental health and work-life balance is crucial in the fast-paced world of data engineering.

Chapters:

• 00:00: Introduction to Data Career Transformations
• 03:58: Philip's Unique Journey from Engineering to Finance
• 10:33: Transitioning from Spreadsheets to Data Engineering
• 13:07: Discovering the Power of dbt
• 18:18: MaxQ Analytics: Bridging the Data Gap
• 22:10: Overcoming Data Challenges and Technical Struggles
• 23:09: The Challenges of Data Engineering
• 24:52: Understanding the Semantic Layer
• 26:54: The Future of Data Interaction with AI
• 28:21: The Role of Data Engineers in an AI World
• 31:40: Managing Stress and Burnout in Data Careers
• 33:46: Success Stories in Data Engineering
• 35:55: Measuring the Impact of Data Work
• 38:17: Mentorship and Career Advice for Data Professionals
• 40:20: Vision for the Future of Data Engineering

Speakers:

• Guest: Philip Boontje, MaxQ Analytics Data Engineer & Guild Lead
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

We're Building the Future of Data. Together.

We've always believed the best way to get better at data is by sharing what you're learning. That's why we built the dbt Community—a place where data pros at every level can ask questions, debate ideas, and push each other forward.

It's not just about solving today's problems—it's about building what's next, together.

• Crowdsource solutions—70,000+ people who've been there, done that.
• Find your crew—meet others who use the same tools you do.
• Stay at the cutting edge—discussions, meetups, and game shows keep things fresh.

👉 Jump in and say hi—join the dbt Community now.

In this episode, Bolaji interviews Juan Manuel Perafan, a psychology major turned analytics engineer, who shares his journey from Colombia to the Netherlands and his transition into the data field.

They discuss the importance of networking, the challenges of imposter syndrome, and the evolving role of analytics engineering.

Juan emphasizes the value of being replaceable in a job and offers advice for aspiring data professionals, highlighting the significance of foundational skills and the need to stay adaptable in a rapidly changing industry.

Subscribe on:

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Amazon Music

Takeaways:

• Juan transitioned from psychology to data due to market competition.
• Networking is crucial for career opportunities in data.
• Imposter syndrome is common in tech; focus on your unique value.
• Being replaceable can free you to explore new opportunities.
• Foundational skills like SQL and stakeholder management are essential.
• Cultural differences can impact communication in professional settings.
• Early adoption of new technologies can shape your career.
• It's important to clarify job roles to avoid confusion.
• Passion for data can help sustain a long-term career.
• Meetups can foster valuable connections and collaborations.

Chapters:

• 00:00: Introduction to Juan Manuel Perafan
• 02:47: Cultural Insights and Relationship Dynamics
• 05:14: Career Transition from Psychology to Data
• 07:50: The Journey into Data Engineering
• 10:18: The Emergence of Analytics Engineering
• 12:53: Networking and Community Engagement
• 15:22: Cultural Differences in Professional Relationships
• 21:45: Navigating Cultural Differences in Communication
• 22:56: The Importance of Passion in Tech Careers
• 25:09: The Evolution of dbt in Tech Stacks
• 28:25: Understanding and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
• 31:53: The Balance of Being Replaceable vs. Irreplaceable
• 34:57: The Value of Early Adoption in Technology
• 39:55: Advice for Aspiring Data Professionals

Speakers:

• Guest: Juan Manuel Perafan, Co-Author, Fundamentals of Analytics Engineering
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

We're Building the Future of Data. Together.

We've always believed the best way to get better at data is by sharing what you're learning. That's why we built the dbt Community—a place where data pros at every level can ask questions, debate ideas, and push each other forward.

It's not just about solving today's problems—it's about building what's next, together.

• Crowdsource solutions—70,000+ people who've been there, done that.
• Find your crew—meet others who use the same tools you do.
• Stay at the cutting edge—discussions, meetups, and game shows keep things fresh.

👉 Jump in and say hi—join the dbt Community now.

In this episode of Data Career Transformations, Bolaji speaks with Nicholas Yager, the Analytics Engineering Manager of Enterprise Data Platform, at HubSpot.

They discuss Nicholas's journey from biochemistry to data engineering, his experiences at dbt Labs, and the importance of creative collaboration in data. Nicholas shares insights on navigating career paths, the challenges of scaling data engineering, and the role of dbt in solving data problems.

Nicholas emphasizes the myth of the objective in career development and the importance of negotiation in meeting deadlines. The conversation concludes with Nicholas's aspirations for the future in building tools that enhance the data engineering experience.

Takeaways:

• Nicholas Yager emphasizes the importance of creative collaboration in data engineering.
• He believes that most deadlines are lies and should be viewed as negotiations.
• Nicholas's journey from biochemistry to data engineering showcases the diverse paths into the field.
• He highlights the significance of dbt in managing data solutions effectively.
• The conversation touches on the challenges of scaling data engineering in large organizations.
• Nicholas advocates for a growth mindset and the value of professional curiosity.
• He shares insights on the importance of intrinsic motivation in team dynamics.
• Nicholas's experiences illustrate the need for adaptability in career paths within data.
• He expresses a desire to build tools that make data engineering delightful.
• The discussion emphasizes the iterative nature of data work and the need for continuous improvement.

Speakers:

• Guest: Nicholas Yager, Analytics Engineering Manager, Enterprise Data Platform, Hubspot
• Host: Bolaji Oyejide, Community Manager at dbt Labs

We're Building the Future of Data. Together.

We've always believed the best way to get better at data is by sharing what you're learning. That's why we built the dbt Community—a place where data pros at every level can ask questions, debate ideas, and push each other forward. It's not just about solving today's problems—it's about building what's next, together.

• Crowdsource solutions—70,000+ people who've been there, done that.
• Find your crew—meet others who use the same tools you do.
• Stay at the cutting edge—discussions, meetups, and game shows keep things fresh.

👉 Jump in and say hi—[join the dbt Community now.] Chapters:

• 00:00: Introduction to Data Career Transformations
• 02:00: Journey to dbt Labs and HubSpot
• 04:39: From Biochemistry to Data Engineering
• 09:26: The Myth of the Objective
• 11:46: Creative Collaboration in Data
• 14:14: Understanding Roles in Data
• 17:54: Team Structure at HubSpot
• 20:15: Challenges of Scaling Data Projects
• 22:50: The Gardener's Approach to Data Management
• 24:06: Building Data Habits Early
• 26:08: Tech Stack Insights
• 29:26: The Journey with DBT
• 30:05: Data Disaster Stories
• 34:53: Handling Stress in Data
• 37:28: Negotiating Deadlines
• 41:36: Empowering Team Ownership
• 44:22: Future Aspirations in Data