Data Driven

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300

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Data Driven: the podcast where we explore the emerging field of Data Science. We bring the best minds in Data, Software Engineering, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence right to you every Tuesday. The field of data science mashes up the worlds of statistics, database architecture and software engineering. Data Scientist has been labelled by the Harvard Business Review, as "the sexiest job of the 21st century." A quick search of job search sites reveal that this field is in high demand. In a world where Data is the new Oil, Data Science the new Refineries, consider this Car Talk for the Data Age. Every week we bring the best minds in this emerging field straight to you. Our goal is to educate and inspire our listeners so that they can be prepared to thrive in a Data Driven world.

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60 recent

June 15, 202658 min

Bulletproof KDE and Why Linux is Winning Over Developers

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/E03EObEa2lQTime Stamps00:00 Website security concerns and solutions05:03 Supporting KDE for long-term stability09:45 Desktop environment compatibility issues10:46 Conflicts in desktop environments15:07 AMD vs Intel & Nvidia Performance18:58 Showing the production site23:49 Steam's Linux runtime environment25:43 Running Windows games on Linux29:47 Concerns about software privacy issues33:31 Migrating from Windows challenges37:48 Setting up machine learning hardware41:31 Resolving system issues efficiently42:59 Setting up a VPN correctly47:40 Running VMs on alternative OS52:49 Upcoming OS Upgrade Details56:19 Rigorous testing and development process57:25 Tuning BTRFS for performance

June 8, 202644 min

Connectivity and Trust in Agentic AI -Overcoming Distributed Challenges with Band

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 Stamps00:00 Explaining orchestration in tech03:42 Understanding models and harnesses09:38 Misconceptions about A2A communication10:41 Understanding multi-agent systems16:18 Observability for distributed systems18:54 Agent communication and collaboration24:28 Unauthorized agent interactions25:49 Remote agent collaboration ideas28:54 How foundational AI models communicate33:20 Agent communication protocols overview35:39 Discussing tech standards and AI velocity40:53 Learning to Work with AI Agents42:41 Using Band AI tools

June 5, 202647 min

Wrangling a Thousand AI Agents: Control, Auditability, and Emergency Shutdowns

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 Stamps00:00 Managing data security threats05:08 Developing the kill switch concept07:20 Enforcing least privilege access12:43 AI communication challenges and best practices15:40 Revoking agents and data access19:25 AI kill switch for security22:00 Managing data access with control plane25:59 Applying AI to complex environments29:45 Discussing data engineering basics32:16 Language experts' unique advantage33:49 Creating an app with Claude AI37:09 Balancing AI and security in enterprises43:43 AI's impact on job roles44:51 Learning from Air Force RFP

June 1, 20261 hr 0 min

Why Data Driven Cultures Succeed and Technology Alone Falls Short

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.LinksSebastian Wernicke on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wernicke/Watch this episode on YouTube - https://youtu.be/2qP4p0YKxI8Data Inspired (affiliate link) - https://amzn.to/4xkCuBVTime Stamps

May 28, 202646 min

Navigating the Wild West of AI in Finance: Policies, Pitfalls, and Opportunities

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/NV5zOiOXhI0Time Stamps00:00 Industry's response to data policies03:28 The closure of White's Ferry09:14 Improving AI for form filling11:19 Releasing new Notetaker features14:49 Different approaches to technology integration18:33 Comparing tool to movie exo suit23:04 Human capital in financial industry24:34 AI assisting financial advisors28:58 AI automating podcast tasks30:20 Challenges in AI development costs35:15 Son opting out of computer class39:47 Early computing and gaming memories41:03 Convincing parents about computer science44:10 Finding Finmate AI online

May 15, 202642 min

Token Economy and AI Agents: The Final Hurdles in Enterprise Deployment

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=xlkPPt5YeY0Time Stamps00:00 Comparing IBM Exec and Red Hat Conferences05:24 Challenges in AI implementation06:56 Challenges in scaling microservices11:38 Integrating AI with project management14:23 Debate on AI model vs. harness16:54 Discussing model evolution and limitations22:54 Affordable Power BI Courses Bundle25:19 Separating and managing runtimes27:02 Using semantic routing for requests30:15 Agent memory and compression basics36:02 New AI approach and vision38:49 Developing a multi-agent system40:40 Importance of data chunking

May 4, 202656 min

The Neuroresilient Leader: Staying Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

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/4w1uHIfTime Stamps00:00 Challenges of adapting to AI changes07:15 Finding internal clarity and value09:54 Influences on self-belief13:38 Impact of technology on brain health16:07 AI and creativity debate20:03 Changing nature of creativity and work22:30 AI's role in company differentiation25:24 Embracing a new lifestyle29:02 Facing self-doubt on success path31:22 Embracing change and transformation35:34 Overcoming self-imposed limitations41:08 Identity shift realization42:30 Energetic exchange and authenticity48:14 Living abroad during COVID49:05 Download free book PDF54:38 Finding your inner power55:32 Thanking Frank and Candice

April 27, 202649 min

Governance, Architecture, and the Evolving Role of Data Engineers in the AI Age

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/3Qqsc1XTime Stamp00:00 Working as a data engineer03:22 Using AWS for infrastructure06:31 Transforming raw data for use11:14 Discussing data sources and ingestion15:51 Discussing data analysis with AI models16:33 The future of data analytics21:58 Importance of data governance24:44 Evolution of data storage solutions29:34 AI's impact on data jobs31:20 Understanding data architecture importance35:49 Understanding AI creativity and context37:14 Understanding AI's lack of context40:43 Difficulty finding meaningful connections45:14 Using storytelling to drive change47:44 Connecting pipelines to WooCommerce

April 21, 202651 min

Alternative Data and Its Impact on Modern Investing

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/xY6mIRP1L2cTime Stamps00:00 Starting Benzinga to democratize info03:22 Building financial data services08:10 Growth through niche news coverage12:57 Hedging with company performance15:00 Early quant experiences at Merrill Lynch20:07 Explaining Polymarket betting mechanics23:34 Discussing market prediction tools26:39 CFTC regulations on trading limits28:04 Discussing crowdsourcing and wisdom34:14 Exploring unique data sources35:35 Discussing the vinyl resurgence41:40 Finding an edge in investing43:42 Wondering about the future of betting47:42 Brokerage purchase options explained50:20 Building ideas with AI tools

April 8, 202652 min

Andy Boettcher on Why This is the Age of the Chaotic Brain

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 Stamps00:00 What a Chief Innovation Officer does06:18 The age of chaotic creativity09:56 Using AI for planning discussions11:31 Choosing the name Show Dog15:22 Brainstorming and organizing ideas18:43 Using tech for learning20:47 Companies adopting AI strategies25:10 Classic car ownership struggles28:41 Taking time to rethink plans31:34 Using AI to solve problems37:25 Challenges in commercializing academic concepts39:18 Adapting to evolving AI technology43:36 AI tools and problem-solving in coding45:23 Limitations of AI and data security47:33 Data security and CRM setup51:22 Challenging assumptions and blind spots