LEAD WITH DATA Podcast

In this week’s episode, Khang Nguyen joins to share his unique journey from the gaming industry to his current role in retail analytics at 7-Eleven, offering a fresh perspective on how data operates across different sectors. The conversation explores the challenges of building AI and machine learning capabilities, the importance of real-time data, and how a strong

understanding of business needs is key to driving value. Khang emphasises the need to foster a growth mindset within data teams, build trust in data-driven decision-making, and effectively communicate the value of analytics to leadership. He also highlights the power of storytelling in helping data resonate with stakeholders. This episode offers actionable insights for data professionals looking to build impactful analytics functions and elevate their influence within the business.

In this week’s episode, Pamela Moodley joins us to share her journey from a Big 4 firm to modern consulting firm Slalom, along with her perspective on how data and AI are becoming increasingly embedded in business strategy. She also reflects on the role an external partner can play in supporting this shift. We explore the challenges organisations face in translating technical capability into measurable outcomes, the importance of pragmatic governance, and how engaging a consulting partner at any stage of the journey can help build internal capability over time. Pamela emphasises the need to align technology investment with business goals, the strategic value of pilot projects, and we touch on how AI is reshaping decision-making across industries. This episode is full of practical insights for data professionals and business leaders looking to drive real impact, improve alignment, and navigate the rapidly evolving world of enterprise technology.

In this week’s episode, Rina Gami and Peter Jones join to unpack the pervasive hype surrounding AI and reflect on its far-reaching implications for businesses and society. The conversation explores the challenges organisations face in adopting AI, the importance of building trust in emerging technologies, and the critical need for responsible AI governance.

Peter shares lessons from his entrepreneurial journey, offering a grounded perspective on both the exciting innovations and the potential risks tied to AI. Rina and Peter also touch on the growing conversation around sovereign AI and why it’s essential to stay focused and pragmatic amidst rapid technological change. This episode offers actionable insights for leaders and professionals looking to adopt AI thoughtfully and drive responsible innovation in the age of automation.

In this week’s episode, Rina Gami and Peter Jones join to unpack the pervasive hype surrounding AI and reflect on its far-reaching implications for businesses and society. The conversation explores the challenges organisations face in adopting AI, the importance of building trust in emerging technologies, and the critical need for responsible AI governance.

Peter shares lessons from his entrepreneurial journey, offering a grounded perspective on both the exciting innovations and the potential risks tied to AI. Rina and Peter also touch on the growing conversation around sovereign AI and why it’s essential to stay focused and pragmatic amidst rapid technological change. This episode offers actionable insights for leaders and professionals looking to adopt AI thoughtfully and drive responsible innovation in the age of automation.

In this week’s episode, Simon Spencer and Lisa Schutz join to unpack the concept of Sovereign AI and what it means for Australia’s future. The conversation explores the cultural, ethical, and economic implications of AI, highlighting the importance of building and localising AI capabilities within Australia. Simon and Lisa stress the risks of outsourcing AI development and the critical role of human oversight in shaping responsible AI systems. They also reflect on how government and industry can collaborate to drive innovation while safeguarding national interests. This episode offers timely insights for leaders and technologists navigating the complex landscape of AI sovereignty and its impact on Australia's digital future.

In this episode, Rina Gami interviews Ain Beruldsen, who transitioned from corosion engineering to data analytics. They discuss the importance of storytelling in data, the shift from reactive to proactive problem-solving, and the need for collaboration in building a data-driven culture. Ain shares insights on establishing a Data Centre of Excellence and navigating business challenges with data. The conversation highlights the future trends in the utilities sector and the importance of continuous improvement and learning in data roles.

In this week’s episode, Dave Jukes a Digital Analytics Manager joins to share his journey from marketing to data analytics and reflect on the evolving role of data teams in modern organisations. The conversation delves into the power of storytelling with data, the importance of strong stakeholder engagement, and how data can elevate the customer experience. Dave emphasises the need for data teams to shift from being seen as executional support to becoming strategic business partners. This episode offers actionable insights for data professionals looking to overcome common roadblocks and navigate the future of digital analytics in the age of AI.

In this week’s episode, Kaushik Lakshman, a seasoned data science leader with a wealth of experience driving innovation through data shares his career journey and offers a look into the evolving role of data science in today’s business landscape. The conversation explores the importance of domain expertise, the challenge of bridging the gap between technical and commercial teams, and what it takes to lead high-performing data teams. This episode offers practical insights for everyone including data science leaders aiming to build impactful, future-ready data science teams.

In this week’s episode, Simone Occulate, a seasoned data management leader, joins to discuss the complexities of data governance and cross-department collaboration. Simone shares her extensive experience in the field, emphasising the importance of identifying data pain points and fostering strong relationships across teams.

She reflects on common misconceptions about data governance, the evolving role of data professionals in the age of AI, and the necessity of building a data-driven culture. She highlights the critical need for effective communication and compliance awareness, offering valuable insights for organisations striving to strengthen their data governance strategies.

00:00 Introduction to Data Governance and Collaboration

02:45 The Importance of Data Governance

03.32 Misconceptions About Data Governance

08.35 Driving Collaboration in Data Governance

11.20 Building Relationships for Effective Data Governance

17.56 Practical Examples of Collaboration

25.27 Will AI change the role of Data Governance

Joining me in this week’s episode is Luke Russell, a data analytics leader who transitioned from electrical engineering to the world of data. In this episode, Luke shares his journey and highlights the critical role of data teams in driving business value beyond just generating reports.

Our conversation explores the challenges data teams face in proving their impact, the shift from order-taking to proactive problem-solving, and the importance of deeply understanding business needs. Luke also discusses the significance of productionising analytics and fostering a culture of innovation within data teams. This episode provides valuable insights for leaders looking to build data teams that are both strategic and impactful.

00:00 Introduction to Data Team Value

08:21 Understanding Data Team Challenges

14:48 Shifting from Order-Taking to Problem-Solving

19:55 Evaluating Dashboard Efficiency

20:54 Becoming Indispensable in Data Teams

22:02 Shifting Mindsets: From Development to Outcomes

23:49 Cultivating Inquisitive Problem Solvers

25:58 Creating a Culture of Innovation

26:59 The Importance of Language in Data Communication

29:49 Productionising Analytics and Enabling Autonomy

35:37 Key Takeaways for Data Leaders