In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we sit down with Nitin Kumar, Director of Data Science at Marriott International, to discuss how AI agents are transforming customer support. Nitin shares his experience designing enterprise-scale AI and Generative AI solutions across 30 global brands, creating intelligent, proactive, and human-centered customer care systems. He dives into AI-powered pipelines that monitor incoming emails, analyze sentiment and issues, and draft contextual responses for human agents to review. Beyond individual cases, these systems continuously feed real-time trend data, helping teams identify emerging issues before they become widespread. Key Highlights: -AI Agents in Customer Support: Learn how AI agents automate routine processes while empowering human agents to focus on complex interactions. -Human-in-the-Loop Design: Explore strategies for balancing AI efficiency with human oversight and empathy. -Scaling AI Solutions: Insights into LLM integration, prompt engineering, and global deployment of enterprise AI systems. 🎧 Tune in to Episode 56 to hear how Nitin Kumar is revolutionizing customer support with AI agents and Generative AI to create more efficient, empathetic, and scalable systems. Be sure to mark your calendars for the 3rd annual DSS SF on Nov 6 [FREE!] thanks to our amazing sponsors, where we will focus on GENAI AND INTELLIGENT AGENTS IN THE ENTERPRISE. Join us to hear from experts on how AI is shaping the future of the enterprise. https://www.datascience.salon/san-francisco/

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we sit down with Swati Tyagi, an AI/ML expert and responsible AI advocate. With deep expertise in large language models (LLMs), generative AI, and AI automation, Swati has led AI-driven innovation in FinTech, healthcare, and finance, helping organizations build scalable, ethical AI systems. Currently at JPMorgan Chase, Swati’s work focuses on automating financial applications and leveraging LLMs for real-time inferencing. Her passion for responsible AI is central to her approach, ensuring that AI systems are not only powerful but also ethical and scalable. Key Highlights: -AI and FinTech: Swati discusses her work in credit risk and predictive modeling to optimize financial decision-making and risk assessment. -Responsible AI: Insight into how to design AI systems that are both scalable and ethical, addressing challenges around bias and NLP. -AI Automation in Finance: Learn how LLMs are transforming FinTech, and how MLOps and cloud solutions play a role in scaling these applications. 🎧 Tune in to Episode 55 to hear Swati’s insights on the future of AI/ML, responsible AI, and how AI is reshaping industries like finance and healthcare. Be sure to mark your calendars for DSS SF on Nov 6, where we will focus on GENAI AND INTELLIGENT AGENTS IN THE ENTERPRISE. Join us to hear from experts on how AI is shaping the future of the enterprise. FREE COMMUNITY EVENT (space is limited) https://luma.com/dsssf

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we sit down with Melissa Swift, Founder & CEO of Anthrome Insight, and expert in organizational transformation. With over a decade of experience, Melissa partners with organizations to tackle complex challenges using data analytics, pragmatism, and a humanist approach to leadership and workplace development. Melissa is also the author of "Work Here Now: Think Like a Human and Build a Powerhouse Workplace", where she shares 90 actionable strategies for creating a workplace that fosters change, adapts to new demands, and builds resilient teams. Key Highlights: -Workplace Transformation: Learn how data analytics and humanist leadership principles are used to unlock extraordinary outcomes in the workplace. -Practical Strategies for Success: Melissa discusses 90 strategies from her book, focusing on the skills and behaviors organizations need to thrive in a changing work environment. -Solving Wicked Problems: Melissa shares how she’s helped organizations tackle complex challenges and create lasting change. -Leadership in the Future of Work: What makes a great leader in today’s rapidly evolving workplace, and how can leaders prepare for the challenges ahead? 🎧 Tune in to Episode 54 to hear how Melissa Swift is helping organizations and leaders build the workplaces of the future. Be sure to mark your calendars for DSS MIA on Sept 17, where we will focus on THE FUTURE OF APPLIED AI IN THE ENTERPRISE. Join us to hear from experts on how AI is shaping the future of the enterprise. https://www.datascience.salon/miami/

DSS Podcast Episode 53: Empowering Change: Neha Mehta’s Vision for FinTech, Sustainability & Financial Inclusion In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we sit down with Neha Mehta, a globally recognized FinTech leader, AI expert, and sustainability advocate. As the Founder and CEO of FemTech Partners, Neha has spent over 19 years transforming the financial landscape, focusing on financial inclusion, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development. She is also the author of One Stop, a bestselling book that explores the potential of Super Apps in reshaping financial services for underserved populations. In this conversation, Neha shares her journey from pioneering FinTech solutions to advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), her work in ClimateTech, and how AI can drive financial inclusivity. She also discusses her vision for the future of sustainable finance, her work with blue economy initiatives, and the impact of technology on climate action. Key Highlights: -AI for Financial Inclusion: Neha discusses how Super Apps are bridging the financial divide, enabling better access to financial services in underserved markets, and empowering women entrepreneurs. -Building Sustainable Financial Ecosystems: Learn about Neha’s approach to integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into financial ecosystems, especially focusing on climate finance and the blue economy. -Leadership in FinTech & Sustainability: Neha shares her leadership journey and how she’s shaping a more inclusive, equitable future in FinTech and sustainable finance. -Global Impact & Mentorship: Insight into Neha’s mentorship and advocacy for fostering diversity in the tech and finance industries, and how she’s helping the next generation of leaders rise in these fields. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, FinTech innovator, or passionate about sustainability, this episode offers valuable insights into how technology is driving inclusive growth, transforming financial services, and powering climate solutions. 🎧 Tune in to Episode 53 to hear how Neha is creating impactful change at the intersection of FinTech, sustainability, and empowerment! Be sure to mark your calendars for DSS MIA on September 17, where we will focus on THE FUTURE OF APPLIED AI IN THE ENTERPRISE. Join us to hear from experts on how AI is shaping the future of applied AI. https://www.datascience.salon/miami/

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we sit down with Kalpan Dharamshi, VP at JP Morgan Chase, and a leader in Machine Learning and Cloud Architecture. Kalpan shares his journey from cloud architecture to AI-driven compliance solutions and how his work is transforming decision-making processes in the FinTech industry. Kalpan’s focus on Agentic AI—autonomous systems that can handle compliance, risk management, and real-time decision-making—has reshaped the way financial institutions manage compliance. He discusses how large language models (LLMs) and AI agents can automate and scale compliance procedures, making them proactive, accurate, and cost-effective. Key Highlights: -Agentic AI in FinTech: How Agentic AI is automating continuous monitoring and compliance in the financial services industry. -Machine Learning for Compliance: How AI can interpret unstructured data and ensure real-time policy adherence in highly dynamic industries. -The Future of AI in Decision-Making: Kalpan’s vision for the future of AI-driven decision-making and automated risk management. -Make sure to catch Kalpan at the https://appliedaisummit.org/ for free 🎧 Tune in to Episode 52 to hear how Kalpan Dharamshi is shaping the future of AI and compliance in the FinTech industry! Be sure to mark your calendars for DSS NYC on December 11, where we will focus on finance and banking—exploring the latest trends in AI and financial regulation. Join us to hear from experts on how AI is shaping the future of finance. https://www.datascience.salon/newyork/

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we sit down with Anusha Nerella, a seasoned technology leader and Senior Principal Software Engineer at State Street Corporation. With over a decade of experience across top-tier institutions like Barclaycard, Citibank, and USPTO, Anusha brings deep technical expertise in AI/ML automation, enterprise engineering, and scalable financial systems. In this conversation, Anusha shares her journey from software development to leading enterprise-scale AI initiatives, her work in high-frequency trading and automation frameworks, and her passion for mentoring and advancing the next generation of tech talent. Key Highlights: Engineering with Purpose: Anusha walks us through how she’s building intelligent, AI-powered automation frameworks to optimize performance and reliability in financial systems at scale. Bridging Code & Vision: A look at how her work integrates AI, DevOps, and big data architecture to deliver long-lasting, strategic impact within complex enterprise environments. Leading with Intention: Anusha discusses the role of mentorship, community involvement, and advocacy in shaping a more inclusive and innovative future in tech. The Future of AI Automation: Insight into where the industry is heading—from operationalizing machine learning to driving cross-industry transformation with intelligent systems. Whether you’re a technical founder, enterprise leader, or aspiring AI engineer, this episode offers a deep dive into how real-world AI systems are built, scaled, and delivered with precision and purpose. 🎧 Tune in to Episode 51 and get inspired by how Anusha is redefining enterprise innovation through applied AI and automation! Be sure to mark your calendars for DSS NYC on December 11, where we will focus on finance and banking—exploring the latest trends in AI and financial regulation. Join us to hear from experts on how AI is shaping the future of finance. https://www.datascience.salon/newyork/

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we sit down with Sasibhushan Rao Chanthati, AVP and Senior Software Engineer at T. Rowe Price, where he’s building the future of finance through intelligent, scalable technologies. Sasi specializes in creating secure digital ecosystems and real-time analytics platforms that power AI-driven decision making at scale. With a background that spans research, software engineering, and cloud architecture, he’s pushing the boundaries of what’s possible at the intersection of fintech, automation, and enterprise AI. In this episode, Sasi shares insights from over a decade of experience building next-gen systems across the financial sector, his passion for ethical innovation, and what it really takes to build future-ready, inclusive AI infrastructure. Key Highlights: Sasibhushan walks us through the technical backbone of modern financial infrastructure and how AI is redefining intelligent automation. Real-world examples of building decision support systems using ServiceNow, AWS, and LLMs. Thoughts on balancing academic research with enterprise-scale engineering—and why that blend drives better innovation. Insights on the ethics and governance challenges facing enterprise AI adoption. Advice for up-and-coming engineers and researchers entering today’s fast-evolving AI landscape. This episode is a must-listen for data scientists, engineers, technical leaders, and anyone interested in how automation, AI, and cloud technologies are transforming the global financial ecosystem. 🎧 Tune in to Episode 50 to hear how Sasibhushan is shaping the future of financial systems with applied AI and inclusive innovation.

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we sit down with Vishnupriya Devarajulu, a Software Engineer specializing in AI- and ML-driven performance optimization for large-scale enterprise systems. With deep expertise in backend engineering, system diagnostics, and intelligent test automation, Priya is redefining how organizations build systems that don’t just respond—they anticipate. Priya walks us through her work designing adaptive frameworks that use machine learning to forecast system bottlenecks, improve latency, and optimize performance in high-stakes environments like finance. Key Highlights: Priya explains how she transforms traditional automation into self-learning, AI-powered frameworks using models like Random Forest to proactively identify and solve system issues. A deep dive into building ML-integrated performance pipelines that can adapt over time, dynamically suggest test scenarios, and drive smarter, faster, and more resilient systems. Insights into how predictive performance engineering is being applied in domains where speed and reliability are non-negotiable—and how to architect systems for it. Priya shares her perspective as a speaker and published researcher, and where she sees the future of intelligent infrastructure and AI-powered diagnostics heading next. Whether you're a systems engineer, ML practitioner, or enterprise leader exploring how AI can boost operational efficiency, this episode offers a powerful look at what happens when machine learning meets performance engineering. 🎧 Tune in to Episode 49 and discover how Priya is building the future of intelligent systems—one prediction at a time.

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we are joined by Praveena Dhanalakota, the Founder & CEO of Soopra.ai, a San Francisco-based startup that is revolutionizing industries with AI-driven solutions. Praveena is an AI expert, tech evangelist, and a passionate advocate for using technology to address real-world challenges. In this episode, she shares her inspiring journey as an entrepreneur, her mission to solve people's problems with AI, and her vision for the future of technology. Key Highlights: - Praveena talks about the human impact of AI, sharing examples of how her company is using AI to create scalable solutions that improve people's lives. - The Startup Journey: challenges and triumphs of building Soopra.ai, offering valuable insights into the startup world and the importance of solving real, practical problems with technology. - The Future of AI: thoughts on the most exciting trends in AI, where the industry is headed, and how AI can address societal challenges like healthcare, education, and sustainability. - As a female founder, Praveena offers advice and inspiration for women aspiring to make their mark in the tech world. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in the future of AI, the startup ecosystem, or how technology can be harnessed to solve pressing human challenges. 🎧 Tune in to Episode 48 and discover how AI is transforming industries and improving lives through innovative, people-centric solutions!

In Episode 47 of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we’re joined by Akhil Khunger, the VP of Quantitative Analytics at Barclays. With over 10 years of experience in the financial industry, Akhil has a wealth of knowledge in statistical modeling, risk management, and AI-driven forecasting. He leads efforts in developing cutting-edge financial models and adapting the Basel IV framework for Risk Weighted Assets (RWA) models. Beyond his technical expertise, Akhil is also a strong advocate for diversity within his team, leading initiatives to foster inclusive and high-performance environments in Quantitative Analytics. In this episode, Akhil shares his journey from stress testing to AI-driven forecasting and discusses how he integrates diversity into his leadership practices. He also reflects on the biggest trends shaping the future of finance and AI. Key Highlights from the Episode: - AI and Financial Modeling: How Akhil integrates AI and statistical modeling in forecasting and risk management, and the role of Basel IV in shaping the future of financial analytics. - CCAR and Stress Testing: Akhil's experience in CCAR and PRA Stress Testing, and how these results are translated into actionable insights for the business. - Diversity in Tech: Akhil’s efforts to drive diversity in Quantitative Analytics, with initiatives focused on building inclusive and innovative teams. - The Future of Finance and AI: Akhil shares his thoughts on the biggest developments in quantitative finance, risk management, and AI that are set to shape the industry in the coming years. In this conversation, Akhil provides invaluable insights into the intersection of AI and financial modeling, and how diverse, high-performing teams can drive innovation and excellence in fast-evolving industries. Tune in now for expert perspectives on AI in finance, risk management, and diversity in tech. 🎧 Tune in to Episode 47 and stay ahead of the curve in finance and AI! Be sure to mark your calendars for DSS NYC on December 11, where we will focus on finance and banking—exploring the latest trends in AI and financial regulation. Join us to hear from experts on how AI is shaping the future of finance. https://www.datascience.salon/newyork/

In Episode 46 of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we explore how AI is revolutionizing the retail industry, driving operational efficiencies, and fostering innovation and diversity. This episode dives into the intersection of AI, leadership, and business strategy, featuring a discussion on how AI is transforming the way retailers optimize operations and enhance customer experiences. Our guest Angie Westbrock, CEO of Standard AI shares insights on: Harnessing AI for Retail Transformation: Learn how AI and computer vision are reshaping retail operations, providing real-time insights to optimize business performance and streamline customer experiences. - Building Diverse, High-Performance Teams: Discover strategies for cultivating diverse teams that drive innovation, solve challenges, and create meaningful solutions in fast-paced industries. - Leading with Innovation: Explore how leadership in tech requires a blend of strategic thinking, operational excellence, and a strong commitment to fostering inclusive and forward-thinking company cultures. Whether you’re interested in AI’s impact on retail or how to lead with diversity and innovation, this episode offers valuable perspectives for business leaders, AI practitioners, and anyone looking to understand the future of AI in business.

Join us for Driving Business Impact with AI: A Conversation with Maddie Daianu of Credit Karma. In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with Maddie Daianu, Head of Data & AI at Credit Karma and former executive at Meta, to explore how AI, machine learning, and data-driven strategy can fuel enterprise-wide transformation. With a proven track record of driving revenue growth and innovation through AI, Maddie shares her approach to aligning ML initiatives with business outcomes, scaling high-performing teams, and influencing executive stakeholders around data-led opportunities. This conversation covers everything from monetization and predictive analytics to building a collaborative culture between technical and non-technical teams. Maddie also offers practical advice for data leaders navigating complex industries like fintech, and her perspective on the trends shaping the future of AI in business. Whether you’re leading a data team or just beginning to build one, this episode offers actionable insights on harnessing the power of AI to drive meaningful impact at scale. Tune in to gain leadership insights from one of the data industry's most influential figures and learn how you can contribute to a more diverse and inclusive data science landscape. Learn more about ML/AI in Finance at DSS NYC on May 15: https://www.datascience.salon/newyork/

Join us on "Beyond the Numbers: Leadership, Diversity, and Data with Natalie Cramp, Partner at JMAN Group," where we dive deep into the intersections of data science, leadership, and advocacy for diversity. Each episode, hosted by Natalie Cramp, offers an exploration of how data-driven strategies can reshape industries and enhance decision-making processes. Natalie brings nearly two decades of experience across private, public, and third sectors, providing unique insights into mobilizing technology and people to address complex challenges. In this series, we'll uncover the transformative power of data in driving business success and societal change. Natalie will share her expertise in scaling organizations, entering new markets, and leading significant transformations. Additionally, we focus on her passionate work in promoting gender equality in healthcare through data, offering listeners actionable insights and inspiration to leverage data for impactful change. Whether you're a CEO looking to harness the potential of AI, a data professional aiming to advance in the tech field, or someone interested in the crucial role of data ethics and education, this podcast will equip you with the knowledge and perspectives needed to lead effectively in today's data-centric world. Tune in to gain leadership insights from one of the data industry's most influential figures and learn how you can contribute to a more diverse and inclusive data science landscape. Learn more about Leadership in AI/ML at DSS SEA on April 16 https://www.datascience.salon/seattle/

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with two incredible leaders driving innovation in AI and data science. First, Noelle Russell, CEO at AI Leadership Institute, shares her expertise on Conversational AI and intelligent contact centers. She discusses how companies can leverage AI-driven solutions to enhance customer experiences, streamline operations, and overcome key challenges in implementing intelligent engagement strategies. Noelle also highlights her experience leading AI initiatives at top tech companies, offering a unique perspective on the evolving role of AI in business. Next, Amarita Natt, Managing Director of Data Science at Econ One Research, dives into one of the biggest challenges in data science: communicating the value of AI and ML projects to business leaders and clients. She explores the common disconnect between technical teams and executives, sharing strategies for framing data insights in a way that drives decision-making and measurable impact. Both guests provide valuable takeaways for data professionals looking to bridge the gap between AI technology and real-world business success. Tune in for an engaging conversation on AI adoption, communication strategies, and the future of intelligent systems in business!

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with two powerhouse leaders shaping the future of AI and inclusivity in tech. First, Jennetta George, SVP of AI at AlixPartners & CEO of Artificially Intelligent, shares her expertise on leveraging Generative AI for real-world impact. From forecasting market trends in finance to optimizing operations in healthcare and insurance, Jennetta dives into how LLMs are moving beyond hype into practical enterprise adoption. She also discusses strategies for navigating AI challenges and how businesses can harness AI for competitive advantage. Next, Anna is joined by Eve Psalti, Principal Group Program Manager at Microsoft and a passionate advocate for women in STEM. Eve highlights the barriers women still face in tech and the steps needed to foster a more inclusive industry. She shares insights on mentorship, hiring practices, and the importance of diverse leadership in AI and data science. Both guests provide invaluable perspectives on the evolving AI landscape and the role of diversity in driving innovation. Tune in to explore the intersection of AI, business transformation, and inclusivity in tech!

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with two data leaders from Nordstrom to explore how organizations can build a culture of technical excellence and measurement in data science. First, Gina Schmalzle, Principal Data Scientist at Nordstrom, shares her experience leading the Technical Excellence Initiative within the company’s data science and analytics organization. She discusses the challenges of scaling data teams, the importance of setting standards for efficiency and collaboration, and how MLOps and feature stores can streamline data science workflows. Gina provides practical insights into creating high-quality, scalable data solutions that drive business impact. Next, Kevin Haynes, former Program Manager at Nordstrom, takes us into the world of "Eating Your Own Dog Food"—Building a Culture of Measurement for Data Products. He explores why internal metrics are essential for validating and improving data-driven solutions and how data teams can adopt a product mindset when developing internal tools. Kevin also shares his approach to fostering an engaging, high-impact team culture while ensuring that measurement and accountability remain at the core of data initiatives. Both guests offer interesting insights into building sustainable, high-performing data organizations in today’s evolving AI and data landscape. Tune in to learn actionable strategies from two data leaders shaping the future of AI and analytics.

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with two influential leaders in AI and data science to discuss their experiences, challenges, and insights into the evolving landscape of the industry. First, Fatma Tarlaci, Chief Technology Officer at Rastegar Capital, shares her journey as an AI engineering leader, discussing the intersection of technical execution and strategic leadership. She explores the importance of responsible AI, open-source contributions, and aligning technical teams with business goals to drive impactful solutions. Fatma provides actionable insights on fostering innovation while maintaining ethical AI development. Next, Brent Schneeman, Director of AI and Software Engineering at PMG, brings his unique perspective on building high-performing interdisciplinary teams and navigating the evolving expectations in AI and machine learning. He shares lessons learned from his journey, insights into stakeholder collaboration, and the importance of cultivating a “test and learn” culture within organizations. Both guests provide invaluable perspectives on leading AI initiatives, overcoming industry challenges, and staying ahead in an era of rapid technological change. Tune in to gain practical knowledge and inspiration from their experiences.

In this episode, Anna Anisin, Founder of Data Science Salon, and Tyler Carmody, Head of Event Operations, catch up on everything we missed over the past few weeks. They dive into exciting developments in AI, including how it’s transforming scientific research, solving complex problems, and revolutionizing business tools. They also discuss predictions for 2025—what trends we expect to see in AI, LLMs, and generative AI, and how these technologies are shaping industries across the globe. Plus, don’t miss exciting news about the upcoming DSS ATX event on February 19-20, with a special discount code DSSPODCASTATX for 20% off your registration. We’re also looking for startups to join our showcase—check the application link in the description! Tune in for insights and trends you won’t want to miss as we head into the new year! Help Displaced LA Families: https://tinyurl.com/3ftz96wf Help Educators: https://tinyurl.com/6ce6nj26 Essential Aid for Palisades Community: https://gofund.me/c1ca2235 Village School Relief: https://tinyurl.com/3vvjwneu

In this DSS Podcast we chat with Matthew Denesuk, SVP of Data Analytics & AI at Royal Caribbean Group. Matthew shares his insights on leveraging a Center of Excellence model to drive data-driven strategies across the organization. Tune in to discover how this approach can transform enterprise business processes using AI, analytics, and data science! We’re also excited to welcome Jaime Russ, former Principal Data Scientist at Ryder System. Jaime brings a fresh perspective on data science, focusing on integrating advanced analytics and machine learning models into traditionally held concepts. Tune in as she explores the application of machine learning in corporate finance and its fascinating parallels to fleet management.

In this DSS Podcast, Anna Anisin welcomes Serg Masís, Climate and Agronomic Data Scientist at Syngenta. Serg, an expert in machine learning interpretability and responsible AI, shares his diverse background and journey into data science. He discusses the challenges of building fair and reliable ML models, emphasizing the importance of interpretability and trust in AI. Serg also talks into his latest book, "Interpretable Machine Learning with Python," and provides valuable insights for data scientists striving to create more transparent and effective AI solutions. In another compelling episode, Anna sits down with Nirmal Budhathoki, Senior Data Scientist at Microsoft. Nirmal, who has extensive experience at VMware Carbon Black and Wells Fargo, focuses on the intersection of AI and cybersecurity. He shares his journey into security data science, discussing the unique challenges and critical importance of applying AI to enhance cybersecurity measures. Nirmal highlights the pressing need for AI in this field, practical use cases, and the complexities involved in integrating AI with security practices, offering a valuable perspective for professionals navigating this dynamic landscape.