Learn all about how an author uses data to solve the world's problems, one ANCHOR at a time.
Meet Aakriti, a self-described "data superhero" whose journey started in Actuarial Science (believing insurance would save the world) and pivoted dramatically after stumbling into the world of data analytics! She proved that anybody can learn to code and leveraged her passion for problem-solving to become a full-stack developer and the founder of a non-profit organization helping young girls learn how to code.
Aakriti is now working as a Data Governance professional and has unlocked a new achievement: "Author". She recently published her book, 'Data Governance Change Management', which is based on a change management model she created, called ANCHOR, that can be applied to any program. It's a very practical and actionable book, intended to be used as a workshop book with the goal for professionals to take it and run with it.
🔦 Highlights
- Career transition secrets for data professionals
- Being open to opportunities and leveraging transferable skills
- Prioritizing problem-solving and risk-taking skills to build lasting success
- Introduction to the ANCHOR change management model, focusing on employees wanting to be involved
Whether you're a seasoned data leader or looking to make a massive career transition, this episode has something for you.
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Learn all about how a data scientists use data to solve the world's problems, one ML interview at a time.
Do you really need to master the complex math behind machine learning models to ace your interview?In the latest episode of Data Podcast for Nerds! we have two amazing Senior Data Scientists, Nirmal and Karun, helping to break down the complexities of Machine Learning careers and the essential steps for interview mastery. We dive into the evolving landscape of ML roles and their new book, Decoding Machine Learning Interviews.Highlights 🔦• Revising your foundational ML concepts and ensuring your knowledge is future-proof.• Developing the key skill of translating complex ML concepts for both technical teams and business stakeholders.• Using targeted study guides to prepare for interviews related to ML concepts.Get the inside scoop on how to ace your next ML interview by focusing on your foundations. Where to find Nirmal and KarunNirmal's LinkedInKarun's LinkedInGet the book here
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Learn all about how a problem solving enthusiast uses data to solve the world's problems, one business improvement at a time.
Ever wondered what makes a data team truly exceptional? The latest episode of the Data Podcast for Nerds is a bit different this week as we dive deep with Ollie Hughes, co-founder of Count, to uncover the secrets to building a highly effective data team that stands out above the rest!
After sharing his journey from mechanical engineering into data, Ollie pivots to a comprehensive and structured framework he's been working on to revolutionize the way data teams work together with the organization.
This framework is called The Tenets of Highly Effective Data Teams and includes 4 pillars:
1. Seeking operational clarity
2. Solving business problems
3. Minimizing time to decision
4. Measuring yourself
If you're ready to level up your data career and become the problem-solving hero your business needs, tune in to this insightful episode and start your journey to data effectiveness!
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This podcast episode is AI generated, using the tool NotebookLM and summarizes Joy Buloamwini's book "Unmasking AI".
Listen in to learn about the groundbreaking insights from Joy Buolamwini's powerful book, Unmasking AI, exploring her personal journey and pivotal research.
Key Takeaways from this episode:
• AI systems inherently carry algorithmic bias from biased creators and unrepresentative "pale male datasets," leading to disproportionate failures for marginalized groups, especially darker-skinned women.
• AI harms extend beyond technical errors, causing profound societal consequences like wrongful arrests and denial of essential services, highlighting the need for a "sociotechnical" understanding of AI.
• Algorithmic justice requires shifting power, mandating accountability, ensuring explicit consent for data, and recognizing that not building or deploying certain AI systems is a vital choice.
• Driving change in AI requires interdisciplinary collaboration and courageous advocacy, humanizing harms through diverse communication like technical research, art, and personal storytelling, and empowering marginalized voices to influence policy.
You can find Joy's book here
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Learn all about how an IT Auditor uses data to solve the world's problems, one SOX control at a time.
In the latest episode of the Data Podcast for Nerds, we spoke with Arpna Aggarwal, a Senior IT Auditor specializing in data governance and compliance in the healthcare industry. Arpna shares her fascinating journey to becoming an IT audit expert, highlighting the critical intersection of data analytics and IT auditing.
Highlights 🔦
- Understanding and addressing AI ethics, data biases, and robust data governance frameworks are becoming increasingly crucial for auditors
- Leveraging data analytics tools like Alteryx and PowerBI can greatly enhance audit efficiency
- Experimenting with and comparing results from various GenAI tools can aid in research and creative tasks
Arpna reminds us that "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world," as quoted by Nelson Mandela.
Where to find Arpna
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Learn all about how an open source advocate uses data to solve the world's problems, open source tool at a time.
In the latest episode of Data Podcast for Nerds! we talked with the amazing Atanas Bosakov to explore his fascinating journey into the world of data analytics.
Learn about his unconventional path that didn't start with computers or traditional quantitative fields, and how college economics classes ignited his passion for using data to answer questions.
Atanas is a big advocate for open source tools and shared his philosophy about using open source tools along with the best approaches to implementing them at an organization.
Highlights 🔦
- Leveraging open source tools for their practical benefits
- Promoting your data analytics work to showcase the full value you provide
- Committing to learning new tools and staying current in the dynamic data landscape to remain adaptable
Atanas also shared how playing video games taught him how to perform better when faced with a higher level of difficulty instead of giving up.
Tune in if you're ready to sharpen your skills and understand the real-world impact of data!
You can find Atanas on LinkedIn and Nostr, at Greeky npub1yhv3ql7svt2swhp75tgs9d8tl46tevw5yy44gnpq3c8gch872ysqjstq44
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Learn all about how a Community Leader uses data to solve the world's problems, one data conference at a time.
In the latest episode of Data Podcast for Nerds!, we talk with Phoenix, who shares an inspiring journey from studying statistics to becoming an analytics engineer. Phoenix offers fantastic insights perfect for anyone exploring a career in data, showing how to be a leader as an individual contributor.
We explore how unique past experiences are a superpower in data, how community helps you thrive, and some cool ways AI can actually be your learning buddy!
Highlights 🔦
- How to actively seek and provide feedback to build trust
- Engaging with data communities for support, technical skill development, and leadership growth
- Using AI tools strategically as a learning partner or interview preparation coach
- Uncovering the "why" behind data requests to build meaningful solutions
Leadership isn't just a title. You can be a leader as an individual contributor by taking initiative, setting expectations, documenting processes, and building relationships across teams.
Tune in to learn how you can also become a leader in the data space!
Where to find Phoenix
Disruptive Data Leadership Summit
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Learn all about how a Content Manager uses data to solve the world's problems, one blog post at a time.
This week on the Data Podcast for Nerds!, I talked to Megan Bowers, who pivoted into data analytics after realizing she loved working with data in Excel. She took a bootcamp, landed a role using Power BI and Alteryx, and started blogging about her journey - sharing tips, project insights, and lessons learned.
Some of her most popular blog posts:
✅ "The Life of a Data Analyst" - series
✅ "How Do You Know Your Analysis is 'Right'?"
✅ "Data Science Concepts Explained to a Five-year-old"
That blog led to her current job at Alteryx where she gets to write all about analytics to help others navigate the field... AND... hosts the Alteryx podcast, Alter Everything.
We also talked about the various ways people have used Alteryx for fun personal projects. She mentioned a couple of her own projects, one involving Taylor Swift!
If you're into data, storytelling, and exploring fun analytics use cases, you won’t want to miss this episode.
Where to find Megan
LinkedIn, Medium, Alteryx Community, Alteryx Podcast
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In the latest episode of Data Podcast for Nerds! we talked with Aaron Wilkerson about his path to leadership.
Key takeaways from our conversation:
- Self-awareness matters and clarity can earn respect
- Tech is just part of the puzzle and choosing the right tools matter
- Spreadsheets can be simple but extremely powerful!
Listen in for insights and real-world advice from a professional data nerd who figured out his path by focusing on what he really wanted (and what he didn’t).
If you're navigating your own career path or considering a pivot, this episode is for you.
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Learn all about how a professional storyteller uses data to solve the world's problems, one game show at a time.
We had an interesting conversation with David Cohen, who built a career in consulting and found a passion for using data storytelling to drive real strategic change. But it’s not just about building dashboards. At The end of the day it’s about creating conversations, shifting mindsets, and making data useful and engaging for the people who need it most!
🔦 Highlights
- How human-centered design makes dashboards actually useful
- The balance between strategy (structured) and storytelling (creative)
- Why collaboration (not assumptions) leads to better insights
- How failure teaches resilience and iteration
Oh, and did I mention David is also designing a game show to make data storytelling fun!?
If you're passionate about making data more engaging and actionable, you won’t want to miss this conversation.
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Learn all about how a Cybersecurity Leader uses data to solve the world's problems, one hack at a time.
What happens when a curious kid starts pulling computers out of the trash, takes them apart, and falls headfirst into the hacking scene?
Turns out, you can turn that curiosity into a 20+ year career in tech!
In the latest episode of Data Podcast for Nerds, we got to talk with Rob Whetstine. He gave us a view into how security overlaps with the data space and shared some incredibly helpful career tips.
Highlights 🔦
- Hiring insights for neurospicy minds, why deep technical Qs might not be the best approach
- How to calm your nerves during an interview
- What to do immediately after you make a mistake
Plus, we geek out over 3D printing (because it's the closest thing to a Star Trek replicator), favorite movies, games, and weirdest security problems.
If you love problem-solving, security, or just nerdy conversations, this one’s for you!
Where to find Rob
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Learn all about how a data leadership coach uses data to solve the world's problems, one pizza at a time.
The latest episode of Data Podcast for Nerds, we talk with Tris Burns, who started in oil & gas as a business analyst, discovered the power of data, and morphed into a data analyst.
Along the way, he worked in banking, scaled data teams at Pizza Hut, and now helps data leaders maximize the potential of their careers.
Highlights 🔦
- The evolving roles of Business Analyst vs. Data Analyst
- Why starting outside of data can make you a stronger data professional
- The trap of promoting ICs to leadership without preparation—and how to fix it
- Why data governance & data quality are the smart career moves in today’s AI-driven world
If you’re looking to break into data (or grow as a leader in the space), this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss! 🎧
Where to find Tris
Bad Ass Bookshelf -Bookclub
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Learn all about how a data junkie uses data to solve the world's problems, Power Query at a time.
The latest episode of Data Podcast for Nerds, we talk with Robin Hunt who shares with us an inspiring story of how she went from teaching Microsoft Outlook and Windows 95 to running her very own company, ThinkData, building groundbreaking training software and shaping national standards for data analytics!
Highlights 🔦
- ThinkData's Apprenticeship Program
- CompTIA Data+ Certification
- Best Excel Functions
The main takeaway for us here is to be bold! If you've ever thought about maybe wanting to get into data, you should explore it!!
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Learn all about how a data nerd uses data to solve the world's problems, one pizza topping at a time.
This week, I had the pleasure of chatting with Chris, a map nerd turned analytics pro whose journey through GIS, consulting, and public sector tech is nothing short of inspiring.
Highlights:
- How to work with spatial data
- Finding needles in haystacks
- Focusing on Scott Taylor's moto, 'Truth, before meaning'
This is the first official episode of Season 3 and we are putting a new spin on the nerdy Fun Bits 🤓
We went with a speed round this time to highlight how much of a nerd Chris is outside of work. Topics included pizza, running, traveling, music, being a dad, and taking personality tests!
Where to find Chris: LinkedIn
Fix it Friday
Step it up Saturday
Celebrate it Sunday
Blog: Running Thoughts on Data
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Happy New Year!!
Data Podcast for Nerds! brings you a very special episode, which is now a yearly tradition...
In this episode, my dear friend Ramona C. Truta, M.Sc. joins the show to recap Season 2 and the random awesomeness that occurred for nerdnourishment in 2024.
PLUS!
We talk about a very important topic of why adaptability is one of the best skills for a data professional
DOUBLE PLUS!!
We get into some nerdy AI and privacy discussions 🤓 my favorite!!
Below are some links to some things we discussed during the show, for your immediate enjoyment.
Josh Starmer's StatQuest YouTube channel
Avery Smith's 100th Podcast Episode Anniversary
Ken Jee's Hackathon: So You Think You Can Analyze
Larry Lathrop's Podcast Episode
Larry's Zombie Mock Dataset
My First LinkedIn Learning Course
Data Podcast for Nerds! AI Special Episode
Data Podcast for Nerds! LIVE Episode at LinkedIn Learning Studios
#recap #HappyNewYear
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Have you ever heard of the Accountant Data Analyst?? If not, you'll definitely want to check out the latest episode of the Data Podcast for Nerds!
We talked with Fabrice to learn about how his career in management accounting, which he calls the "Accountant Data Analyst"
Fabrice enjoys the combination of data engineering, insights generation, and deep business performance analysis.
Highlights
🌟 The unexpected confidence you can gain from seemingly unrelated experiences.
🌟 How curiosity is the ultimate skill for career transitions—and why you already have it.
🌟 Why learning styles matter when picking up new technical skills.
If you're on a journey to break into data, or just need a reminder to stay curious, this episode will inspire you to think differently about your skills and your path.
Where to find Fabrice: LinkedIn
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Learn all about how an animal welfare insights expert uses data to solve the world's problems, one dog bark at a time.
In this episode, Michelle shares how she turned her love for research and statistics into a fulfilling career.
Michelle says that cause-driven work will always be at the heart of what she does.
Highlights 🔦
- The scientific method applies everywhere: Start with a question, be specific, and gather only the data you need.
- Communication is key: Knowing how to adjust for different audiences—from executives to volunteers—can make or break collaboration.
- Leadership Is More Than a Title: It’s about influence, understanding team dynamics, and being a catalyst for growth and innovation in your organization.
My favorite part about this episode was learning a new phrase for "Garbage In, Garbage Out".
You'll have to tune in to learn it yourself!!
Where to find Michelle: LinkedIn
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Learn all about how a board game connoisseur uses data to solve the world's problems, one game piece at a time.
Ever feel stuck in the daily grind, pulling data into Excel, running manual processes, and thinking, “There has to be a better way”?
We had an extremely fun discussion with Blake around how he created his own business by teaching himself how to automate everything.
What made this the most fun episode was talking about strategic thinking by diving into the world of board games.
Highlights 🔦
- Learning by doing
- Generative AI
- Strategy
Whether you're looking to automate your daily tasks, leverage your data for insights, or just need new board game recommendation, this conversation is packed with inspiration and tips.
P.S. Blake hosts a weekly board game meetup in South Austin. Visit his website for more info!
Where to find Blake
#automation #python #boardgames
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Learn all about how a healthcare analyst uses data to solve the world's problems, one workflow at a time.
Ever wonder how a dental lab, a love for SQL, and a white noise machine can transform a career?
In this episode, we got to talk with Thais Cooke about how leveraged her healthcare experience to turn herself into a data analyst on the spot!
One Google search for "how to analyze data" later, and she discovered a whole new career path. Immediately after she wrote her first "SELECT *", she fell in love with SQL.
She loves SQL and healthcare so much, she even has a LinkedIn Learning course!
'SQL for Healthcare Professionals'
Highlights 🔦
- How to leverage your strengths to become a data analyst
- The importance of refining your job search - titles are the key
- What to say and (more importantly) NOT to say during a job interview
Don't tune in unless you're ready to be inspired!
Where to find Thais LinkedIn
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This deep dive overview and description was created using NotebookLM, using the new Global Internal Audit Standards published January 9, 2024.
This in-depth look at Standard 10.3 will be valuable for internal audit professionals, chief audit executives, and anyone interested in the role of technology in modern internal auditing.
This overview provides a comprehensive overview of Standard 10.3, Technological Resources, from the new Global Internal Audit Standards. The overview explores the requirements for internal audit functions to utilize technology in their work, as well as the chief audit executive's responsibility to assess and pursue technological enhancements.
Learn about the key considerations for implementing Standard 10.3, such as assessing the feasibility of new technologies, collaborating with other departments on shared systems, and securing funding for technology upgrades. The overview also examines examples of evidence that demonstrate conformance with the standard.
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