Discover the unique pathways that can lead to a thriving career in data science as Lindsay Pettingill, PhD, and Director of Data Science at Replit, joins us for a riveting conversation. Lindsay's journey—from a Fulbright scholar teaching in Germany to shaping Airbnb's hyper-growth period—is a testament to the value of curiosity and an analytical mindset. Her insights promise to guide and inspire, whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in the data world.

We get to the heart of what truly powers data science: curiosity and intuition. Lindsay advocates for a holistic approach to data, stressing the need for professionals to develop insights and propose business hypotheses. This fascinating discussion also covers how personal traits, such as proactivity shown through cold outreach, are becoming indispensable as technical tasks undergo automation. Lindsay's experiences underscore the evolution of the data scientist's role, from crunching numbers to being a strategic business influencer.

Finishing on a high note, our episode focuses on the delicate dance of data-driven decision-making within organizations. Lindsay reflects on her leadership experiences, particularly during the fast growth times at Airbnb, and shares her evolved perspective on leadership in product strategy. She emphasizes the need for data teams to contribute meaningfully to their organizations, beyond technical expertise, and offers insights on how to empower data professionals to make a significant business impact. Tune in to gain valuable lessons from a leader who has successfully navigated the waves of change in the data science industry.

Follow Lindsay on:
Twitter: @iam_lpettingill
Website: https://lindsaypettingill.com/ 

What's New In Data is a data thought leadership series hosted by John Kutay who leads data and products at Striim. What's New In Data hosts industry practitioners to discuss latest trends, common patterns for real world data patterns, and analytics success stories.