Episodes
-
In this episode of Data Driven, Frank and Andy dive into the future of market intelligence with Dr. Jill Axline, co-founder and CEO of Mavera—a company building synthetic populations that simulate real human behaviour, cognition, and emotion. Forget Personas. We're talking real-time, AI-driven behavioural modeling that's more predictive than your horoscope and considerably more data-backed.
Dr. Axline shares how Mavera’s swarm of AI models situates these synthetic humans within real-world business contexts to forecast decisions, measure emotional resonance, and even test marketing messages before they go live. From governance and model drift to the surprising uses in financial services, political campaigns, and speechwriting—this is one of the most forward-looking conversations we’ve had yet.
If you've ever wanted a deeper understanding of how AI can augment decision-making—or just want to hear Frank admit asset managers love ice cream—this one’s for you.
LinksLearn more about Mavera:https://mavera.ioConnect with Jill Axline on LinkedIn:https://linkedin.com/in/jillaxlineMorningstar:https://www.morningstar.com
Time Stamps00:00 - Introduction & AI Swarms Explained
03:30 - Forget Personas: Contextual AI Models
07:00 - Evidence vs Inference & AI Governance
10:20 - Simulation Scenarios & Model Drift
14:30 - Synthetic Audiences in Action
18:00 - Evidence Feedback Loops & Small Data Challenges
22:00 - Industry Applications & Use Cases
27:00 - Analyzing Speeches & Emotional Resonance
30:45 - Sentiment, Social Listening, and Real-Time News Reactions
34:00 - Adversarial Models & Strategic Pushback
38:00 - The Cartoon Bank Portal That Failed Spectacularly
41:00 - From Skeptic to CEO: Jill’s Journey
45:00 - Data Privacy, Compliance & Synthetic Ethics
48:00 - Reflections on Empathy, Engineers, and Selling Without Selling
Support the ShowIf you enjoy Data Driven, leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or your favourite pod platform. It helps more people find the show—and fuels Frank’s Monster Energy habit.
-
In today’s show, BAILeY, your semi-sentient hostess with the mostest metadata, teams up with Frank La Vigne to welcome the ever-insightful Andrew Brust for a deep dive into the evolving Microsoft data ecosystem. From nostalgic tales of Windows history and scoring elusive Clippy swag at Ignite, to unraveling what makes Microsoft Fabric a game-changer for data integration, AI, and governance, this episode covers it all.
You’ll hear firsthand how Microsoft’s innovation goes far beyond the tech itself—focusing on seamless integration, unified billing, and organizational synergy. Andrew Brust sheds light on the journey from fragmented Azure services to the unified vision of Fabric, the rise of generative AI and “agentic” intelligence, and the increasingly important role of data sovereignty and governance in today’s regulatory landscape.
Whether you’re a data enthusiast, an AI tinkerer, or just in it for the nostalgia, grab your headphones and get ready for insights, laughs, and more acronyms than you can shake a dataset at. Stay curious and caffeinated—this episode has something for everyone!
Time Stamps00:00 Microsoft Expertise and Industry Analysis
03:18 "Big Data and Analytics Insights"
08:31 Power BI's Rise in Azure
12:26 "Unified Fabric-Based Data Platform"
14:01 "Fabric IQ Powers AI Integration"
17:24 "Achieving Synergy Against Odds"
23:32 "Unified Compute for Seamless Integration"
24:41 "Overwhelmed by AWS Complexity"
28:21 "Microsoft Research Powers Azure Fabric"
34:20 "Azure Foundry and Tools"
37:33 "Flexibility Beyond Major Cloud Providers"
41:33 Global Data Privacy Trends
45:13 "Governance for Agentic AI"
47:29 "Azure Stack and Local Clouds"
50:13 "Kubernetes: The Cloud Caveat"
53:40 "Let's Reconnect and Reminisce"
-
Missing episodes?
-
Welcome to a milestone episode of Data Driven! In episode 400, hosts BAILeY, Frank La Vigne, and Andy Leonard gather to reflect on nearly a decade at the forefront of podcasting about data, AI, and the world of software engineering. This special edition takes you behind the scenes with stories of tech evolution, personal growth, and the wild journey from their earliest recordings to today’s AI-powered workflows.
The team digs into how generative AI has transformed their creative process—making it possible for small teams to produce vast amounts of content, drive innovation, and manage multiple podcasts at a high level. You'll hear about Frank’s latest tool, Podsy—a platform built to help creators manage the ever-growing tsunami of podcast assets using cutting-edge AI—and how tools like Claude, Grok, and Opus are unleashing new possibilities for automation and storytelling.
With their signature tangents, candid stories (including car accidents, water heater mishaps, and parenting milestones), and a bit of nostalgia about the early days of podcasting, this episode captures what makes Data Driven both insightful and relatable. If you’re a developer, data professional, or a fellow podcaster looking to stay ahead of the curve, episode 400 is packed with practical lessons, inspiration, and a few good laughs. Dive in as the team celebrates what’s possible in the age of AI—and look ahead to an exciting new chapter for the show!
Time stamps00:00 "DGX Spark: Personal AI Supercomputer"
03:28 "Tech Innovations and Hardware Updates"
07:51 "Daily 5:40am Notification Routine"
11:10 "Podzi: Managing Podcast Assets"
15:35 "Boosting Value with AI Efficiency"
17:05 Claude Enhanced Legacy System
23:32 AI Impact on Creative Roles
25:58 "Consulting Break: Investing Time"
29:33 "Automation Evolution and Tools Demo"
31:35 "Podsy Studio: A Journey"
35:06 "AI-Powered Content Creation Demo"
38:26 "Podcast Organization and Insights"
42:10 "Streamlining Metadata for Insights"
45:47 "Unveiling AI's Hidden Potential"
50:41 "Celebrating 400 Podcast Episodes"
54:41 "Off Track Ambitions"
57:44 "Reality Strikes Back: Tech Trust"
59:36 "Podsy Progress and Workflow"
-
In this episode of Data Driven, hosts Frank La Vigne, Candace Gillhoolley, and BAILeY sit down with Mike Armistead, CEO of Pulse Security AI—a cybersecurity veteran who's been fortifying digital defenses since before AI made headlines and hackers had professional profiles. Together, they dig into the dual-edged sword that is artificial intelligence in cybersecurity, exploring how AI serves as both a powerful tool against cyber threats and a potential weapon in the wrong hands.
Mike Armistead shares stories from the front lines, including his experience during the "code red" era at Google when ChatGPT shook up the tech world, and offers real-world advice on why LLMs (large language models) aren’t the magic fix for every problem—and why they desperately need guardrails. You’ll hear why your next big data breach could be hiding in a cleverly crafted AI prompt, why humans still matter when it comes to judgment calls, and why good old-fashioned security hygiene is as critical as ever.
Whether you’re a developer, data scientist, or just password-paranoid, this episode will make you rethink how you approach security in the age of AI. Tune in for expert insights, hard-earned lessons, and a few laughs as the Data Driven crew uncovers where technology, risk, and "common sense" collide.
Time Stamps00:00 AI-Assisted Cybersecurity for SOCs
04:26 "AI Rush and LLM Insights"
09:12 AI-Powered Cybersecurity Strategy Insights
10:01 "Cybersecurity, ChatGPT, and Impressions"
13:17 AI Tools: Power and Risks
18:06 "Teaching Critical Thinking in AI Era"
20:59 "Guardrails and Next-Gen AI Systems"
24:22 Human Judgment vs AI Limitations
27:37 "Pressure Testing for Accuracy"
30:09 Future Tech Advancements and Challenges
34:58 "Risk Awareness Beyond Compliance"
37:38 "Cybersecurity Risks and AI Defense"
41:54 Cybersecurity Risks and Preparedness
43:04 "Situational Security in Practice"
46:05 "Cybersecurity's Evolving Threat Landscape"
51:52 "Builders vs. Destroyers Mindset"
55:05 Modern Password Practices
56:39 "Pulse Security AI & Community"
-
In this episode, Frank La Vigne sits down with Itay Haber, CEO of Data Noetic, to unpack how AI is revolutionizing supply chain management. Forget spreadsheets and dashboards—Data Noetic is building an autonomous digital brain that proactively tackles delivery bottlenecks and bridges the gap between scattered data and process improvement.
You’ll hear real-world tales of missed bathroom tile deliveries, multi-million dollar construction delays, and the true impact of getting ahead of supply chain hiccups before they snowball. The trio explores how agentic AI isn’t just hype: it’s driving tangible results, saving time, boosting KPIs, and reimagining how companies of all sizes make decisions. From pharmaceuticals to consumer packaged goods, discover why trust, transparency, and agility are the new gold standards in supply chain operations—and how data-driven agents just might become indispensable.
Tune in for a masterclass that balances digital wisdom with a dash of dry wit, and learn how emerging tech is helping organizations deliver on time, in full, and with a whole lot less existential angst.
Time stamps00:00 "Autonomous Supply Chain Optimization"
06:01 "Optimizing On-Time Delivery Failures"
07:27 Proactive Warehouse Order Management
13:06 "Aligning Perception with Reality"
15:08 "Streamlining Order Fulfillment Process"
18:18 "AI Revolutionizing Problem Coordination"
22:18 "Data Validation and AI Insights"
25:04 Predictive KPI Monitoring with Gen AI
27:09 Clarifying Questions for Assistance
31:37 "Tailored Software Delivery Models"
34:35 "AI's Role in Complex Industries"
37:00 "AI Focus and Value Debate"
42:37 "AI Bubble and Valuations"
46:43 AI's Transformative Impact on Jobs
48:17 AI Enhances Jobs, Not Replaces
51:44 "AI: Boom, Bust, Transformation"
57:38 "AI, Data, and Change"
-
Welcome to another exciting episode of Data Driven! On this week’s show, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley take you inside the NVIDIA GTC conference in Washington, DC—an event that’s rapidly evolved from a hardware showcase into a crossroads for AI, robotics, and quantum computing innovation. Frank shares his firsthand experience navigating the expo floor, offering a glimpse into the latest cutting-edge tech, from GPU supercomputers to quantum networking breakthroughs and swarms of robots. Candace and Frank discuss the growing intersections between fields like quantum biology and AI, and share stories about the curious mix of attendees—from government officials and policymakers to technologists, students, and even a few cosplay “Jensen Huangs.”
Whether you’re a data enthusiast, a future-focused technologist, or simply quantum curious, this episode dives into the national security implications of AI, the importance of lifelong learning in tech, and how the rise of quantum and robotics will disrupt careers and industries alike. Tune in for insider anecdotes, expert encounters, and a dose of practical wisdom about adapting in the world of emerging technologies—the future is here, and it’s happening faster than ever.
LinksFrank gets a shout out from Pluralsight -https://www.pluralsight.com/resources/blog/upskilling/frank-lavigne-customer-storyJensen Huang's DTC DC Keynote -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQHK61IDFH4Mariya & Python Simplified -https://www.youtube.com/@pythonsimplified
Time Stamps00:00 "Nvidia GTC Highlights and Expo"
03:36 "Quantum, AI, and Innovation Highlights"
07:18 Tech and Government Amid Furlough
10:24 "Tech Components in Booz Allen Vehicle"
14:37 Meeting Maria Shah
19:11 Career Shifts and Evolutions
23:06 From Books to Tech Publishing
24:44 Quantum Insights with Researcher
29:01 "Nvidia: Emerging Defense Contractor"
32:25 Tech Innovations: AI, Quantum, Robotics
36:44 "Live Streaming Quantum & Tech"
37:40 "High-Speed Quantum Interconnects"
41:01 Technical Translation for Accessibility
44:19 "High School, Future, Nvidia Innovation"
49:28 "Guest's Learning Experience"
50:45 "Quantum Business Strategy"
53:36 British AI Outro Stream
-
On this episode of Data Driven, hosts Frank La Vigne and Leonard celebrate a major milestone: the 30th anniversary of Franksworld.com, one of the OGs of tech blogging that’s survived multiple browser wars, dot-com crashes, and the relentless march of Internet time. Joined by guest Saket Saurabh, they dive into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI, data science, and technology, comparing today’s AI boom to previous tech bubbles and exploring trends in sovereign AI, data sovereignty, and global competition in quantum computing.
The conversation takes us from the days of hand-coded HTML uphill in both directions, to modern challenges like scheduling snafus, rapid automation, and the possibilities (and pitfalls) brought on by artificial intelligence. Along the way, Frank and Saket reflect on the cycles of tech innovation, the impact of global politics on data and AI, and what it really means to adopt new technology mindsets.
Tune in for a lively ride through tech history, lessons learned, and a discussion on how a scrappy few—and a little help from AI—can rival teams of seventy. If you’re curious about what’s next in AI, data, or you just want a dose of digital nostalgia and practical insight, this episode’s for you.
LinksFranksWorld.com -http://www.FranksWorld.comWho Moved My Cheese -https://amzn.to/4oeqGvsImpact Quantum Global Report -https://impactquantum.com/GlobalReport/Impact Quantum Podcast -https://impactquantum.com/AutonomousWarfare.ai -https://autonomouswarfare.ai/Some links may be affiliate links.
Time Stamps00:00 Grok 4 Daily Updates
05:22 "AI Bubble: Caution and Trends"
12:10 "X64 Chips and Tech Rivalry"
19:49 "Appreciating Thoughtful Scientific Content"
25:34 "History's Arcs and Overcorrections"
27:24 "Unique Identity Beyond Models"
32:03 "Reexamining Privacy Awareness"
41:22 "Geopolitical Prudence and Resources"
47:49 "AI, Podcasts, and Off-Roading"
50:37 "Talking Recycling Bin Origins"
54:37 "AI as a Multilingual Solution"
59:49 Reinventing MCP and Context Memory
01:05:12 "Artistic Talent Meets Engineering"
01:14:08 "Data, AI, and Mastermind Insights"
-
Welcome to another episode of Data Driven, where we dive deep into how data and AI are shaping—sometimes shaking—the modern world. In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne, Andy Leonard, and Carmen Li sit down with Carmen Lee, the trailblazing CEO of Silicon Data and a former Bloomberg data aficionado.
Carmen’s on a mission to bring clarity to the wild west of GPU compute markets, and she shares with us how she’s turning raw compute into a true tradable commodity—think futures markets for GPUs, the “Bloomberg terminal” for AI infrastructure, and perhaps even a Carfax for your next used GPU cluster.
Together, they explore everything from why AI startups struggle with fluctuating margins, to the crucial role TSMC plays in the world economy, all the way to the data transparency that might be the missing piece in AI’s explosive growth. Whether you’re curious about benchmarking GPUs, tokenomics, managing infrastructure costs, or just want a glimpse into the future of data markets, this one’s for you.
Stay tuned for a fascinating conversation on normalizing chaos, hedging tech costs, geeking out over hardware, and even a few laughs about used GPU “car lots” in Virginia. Let’s get data driven!
LinksSilicon Data -https://www.silicondata.com/Dancing with Qubits -https://amzn.to/4mIOG8UThe Nvidia Way -https://amzn.to/3VH9aUv
Time Stamps00:00 "AI Commodities and GPU Markets"
06:56 Ecosystem Transparency Benefits All
10:55 AI SaaS Cost Optimization Challenges
13:41 Token Economics in Cloud AI
15:27 Optimizing GPU and Token Commitment
18:41 Token-Based Product Innovation
25:00 "Verifying UIDs and Connectivity"
28:43 Measuring GPU Performance
30:41 Supply Chain Impact on GPU Industry
35:43 "TNC's Unchallenged Leadership in Supply Chain"
36:31 Silicon Ecosystem Collaboration
39:38 Nvidia's Strategic TSMC Capacity Purchase
42:51 Bloomberg's Media and Finance Expansion
46:53 "Quantum Reading Challenges"
50:13 "Data Driven Podcast Wrap-Up"
-
In this episode, we're joined once again by Christopher Nuland, technical marketing manager at Red Hat, whose globe-trotting schedule rivals the complexity of a Kubernetes deployment. Christopher sits down with hosts Bailey and Frank La Vigne to explore the frontier of artificial intelligence—from simulating reality and continuous learning models to debates around whether we really need humanoid robots to achieve superintelligence, or if a convincingly detailed simulation (think Grand Theft Auto, but for AI) might get us there first.
Christopher takes us on a whirlwind tour of Google DeepMind’s pioneering alpha projects, the latest buzz around simulating experiences for AI, and the metaphysical rabbit hole of iRobot and simulation theory. We dive into why the next big advancement in AI might not come from making models bigger, but from making them better at simulating the world around them. Along the way, we tackle timely topics in AI governance, security, and the ethics of continuous learning, with plenty of detours through pop culture, finance, and grassroots tech conferences.
If you’re curious about where the bleeding edge of AI meets science fiction, and how simulation could redefine the race for superintelligence, this episode is for you. Buckle up—because reality might just be the next thing AI learns to hack.
Time Stamps00:00 Upcoming European and US Conferences
05:38 AI Optimization Plateau
08:43 Simulation's Role in Spatial Awareness
10:00 Evolutionary Efficiency of Human Brains
16:30 "Robotics Laws and Contradictions"
17:32 AI, Paperclips, and Robot Ethics
22:18 Troubleshooting Insight Experience
25:16 Challenges in Training Deep Learning Models
27:15 Challenges in Continuous Model Training
32:04 AI Gateway for Specialized Requests
36:54 Open Source and Rapid Innovation
38:10 Industry-Specific AI Breakthroughs
43:28 Misrepresented R&D Success Rates
44:51 POC Challenges: Meaningful Versus Superficial
47:59 "Crypto's Bumpy Crash"
52:59 AI: Beyond Models to Simulation
-
Welcome to another episode of Data Driven! Today, hosts Frank La Vigne and Andy Leonard, are joined by Dr. Ido Zamberg—a rare breed who’s equally comfortable rebooting servers and saving lives.
Dr. Zamberg is a physician, software engineer, chief medical officer at C8 Health, and a true innovator at the intersection of medicine and technology. In this episode, we dive into his unique journey from startups and coding to the operating room, exploring how his hands-on technical expertise is helping frontline clinicians access real-time, AI-powered decision support.
Expect fascinating insights into the evolution of healthcare technology, the challenges (and rewards) of bridging vastly different worlds, and why seamless access to best practices at the point of care can be truly lifesaving. Dr. Zamberg shares anecdotes from his career, reflects on the importance of context-driven solutions, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at making clinical workflows smarter, faster, and safer with modern AI. So if you’re curious about how SQL queries meet scalpel skills, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
Time Stamps00:00 From Software Engineer to Physician-Entrepreneur
06:04 "From Tech to Medicine: A Journey"
07:43 Tech-Medicine Integration Challenges
12:55 Diverse Medical Experience Overview
14:49 "Healthcare Solutions Over Tech Focus"
18:41 Hospital Best Practices Standardization
20:46 Streamlined Clinician Information Platform
23:59 Solving Healthcare Inefficiencies
29:22 Understanding the Challenges of Tough Jobs
30:11 Practice Grace Over Wealth
33:59 Healthcare Platform for Providers
39:11 Generative AI in Clinical Queries
42:16 Value of Expertise in Problem-Solving
43:48 Praising Expert in AI Medicine
47:50 AI Revolutionizing Healthcare Information
51:27 Data, Coffee, and Code Insights
-
On this episode of Data Driven, we venture into the ever-shifting landscape of software engineering, AI-assisted coding, and the sometimes chaotic future of development teams with special guest Thanos Diacakis—no, not the Marvel villain, but a powerhouse in software leadership whose career spans scrappy startups to tech giants like Uber.
Hosts Frank La Vigne, Andy Leonard, and resident AI BAILeY welcome Thanos for an insightful, witty, and sometimes philosophical conversation about the promise and perils of AI in software engineering. From the rise (and risks) of “vibe coding” to the changing definition of good engineering, Thanos shares firsthand experiences, pitfalls to avoid, and why solid fundamentals matter now more than ever—even with AI churning out code at lightning speed.
We also explore how AI is reshaping workflows for both solo developers and large teams, the difference between local and global efficiency, and how bottlenecks are shifting in this new era. Thanos breaks down his “seven mental models” for effective engineering, demystifies the right way to work with AI tools (instead of letting them run wild), and explains why junior devs still deserve a seat at the table.
If you’re curious about the real impact of AI-assisted coding, worried about the next wave of software “apocalypse,” or just eager for practical strategies to keep your teams productive and sane, this episode is packed with the wisdom, humor, and actionable takeaways you’ll want to hear. Buckle up as we dive deep into the code base—this is Data Driven, where the only thing disappearing is inefficiency.
LinksCosmic Teacups: https://www.cosmicteacups.com/The Goal 40th Anniversary Edition: https://amzn.to/4lGhZbI (Amazon affilliate link)The Goal Graphic Novel (Yes, really) https://amzn.to/47ohIXx (Amazon affilliate link)
Time Stamps00:00 "Exploring AI Coding with Thanos"
05:20 Revolutionizing Productivity with Code
08:18 Cross-Platform Utility Development
12:14 Database Costs Drop, Demand Surges
14:43 Unauthorized Copying of Software Manuals
17:54 "Chunked Narratives Enhance LLM Performance"
19:43 Grox Impressive Despite Incompletion
24:40 Reviving a Startup with AI
28:53 Bottleneck Identification and Resolution Strategy
29:37 Incremental Improvements Drive Success
34:40 Agile's Evolution: Remembering Its Roots
38:41 Balancing Features and Tech Debt
42:50 Software Estimations: A Management Trap
45:55 Managing Project Time Expectations
47:47 Trust Building Through Incremental Delivery
51:23 Language Models: Human Cognition Parallel?
56:04 "Exploring Intelligence: Brains vs. AI"
58:06 "Data Driven Episode Conclusion"
-
On this episode of Data Driven, we’re shuffling up some probability, statistics, and a bit of Las Vegas magic with Dr. Michael Orkin—a renowned statistician, data scientist, and former advisor to casino odds makers. Hosts Andy Leonard, Frank La Vigne, and BAILeY dig into the fascinating numbers behind games of chance, uncovering why the house almost always wins and how our brains are wired to find patterns—sometimes where none exist.
Whether you’re a data enthusiast, a casual gambler wondering why your lucky streak never lasts, or just curious about how randomness, probability, and big jackpots work, this episode has you covered. Dr. Orkin breaks down concepts like the house edge, expected value, card counting, the allure (and statistical pitfalls) of lottery tickets, and the psychology driving “hot” and “due” gambling strategies. Plus, he weighs in on lightning strikes, Black Swan events, correlation and causation, and the curious human habit of seeing connections in random outcomes.
So, get ready for a lively conversation that reminds us data is everywhere—especially where stakes are high and luck seems just out of reach. Whether you’re here for probability puns, real-world math, or the stories Vegas doesn’t want you to know, this is one episode you won’t want to miss!
LinksThe Story of Chance https://amzn.to/45qOe8x
Dr Mike's Substack https://drmikeorkin.substack.com/
Moments00:00 Casino House Edge Explained
08:54 "Random Chance and Unlikely Events"
12:03 Justifying Buying Lottery Tickets
16:58 "SBF: Crypto King Unraveled"
26:34 Lightning Strike Probability Calculation Issues
32:26 Average Beyond Desk Boundaries
33:26 "Defining Accident Prone"
39:31 Misjudging Odds with Normal Curve
45:50 Avoiding Lightning Strikes: Bay Area
55:11 Casino Mind Games Experience
56:20 Roulette Betting Strategies: Apophenia
01:03:33 "Dr. Orkin's Website & Substack"
01:07:19 "Probability and the House Edge"
-
Welcome to another episode of Data Driven, where we delve deep into the crossroads of data, technology, and the ever-shifting world of geopolitics. In this packed episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Bailey are joined by Christopher Nuland, AI technical marketing manager at Red Hat, for a candid, no-holds-barred discussion on the newly released America's AI Action Plan.
Together, they tackle everything from the resurgence of Cold War tensions in the AI arena to the complexities of “AI sovereignty” and what it really means for the US, China, and the rest of the world. Expect spirited debates about EU’s place in the global AI race, the real-world implications of chip supply chain disruptions, and the heated rhetoric around workforce security in an era when AI is starting to replace traditional jobs.
The conversation weaves through existential questions—can AI ever truly reason, or are we just witnessing the rise of superpowered “spreadsheet goblins?”—and gets hands-on with the very real risks (and opportunities) of rolling out LLMs in everyday workplaces. Plus, the team touches on power-hungry data centers, potential impacts on the job market, and even finds time to swap sci-fi references from The Expanse to Ghost in the Shell to help paint a picture of what our AI-dominated future might look like.
Buckle up for a dense, dynamic, and dangerously nerdy journey into the world of AI policy, technology, and what it means for all of us. Let’s get into it!
Timestamps00:00 AI Geopolitics & America's Action Plan
08:14 EU's Role in Tech Hierarchy
14:10 "US Focus: Securing AI Workforce"
20:40 Supply Chain Security in Software
24:24 Politicians' Technical Proficiency Limits
27:19 AI Sovereignty and Cultural Values
33:52 CHIPS Act: Innovation and Expansion Hopes
38:11 "AI Vulnerability: Patch Attacks"
47:58 Maryland Power Line Controversy
50:09 "AI Impact on Jobs & UBI"
55:47 Techno Feudalism Perspective
01:04:41 "AI Sovereignty: A Geopolitical Chess Match"
-
In today’s conversation, hosts BAILeY and Frank La Vigne sit down with Dr. Alan Becker, co-founder and CEO of E Self AI and former co-founder of Voca AI, which was acquired by Snap in 2020. Dr. Becker brings a powerhouse combination of academic expertise and entrepreneurial experience, with a PhD in machine learning and AI and research spanning voice, NLP, and computer vision.
This episode dives into how E Self AI is transforming human-machine interaction by moving beyond chat and voice—introducing real-time face-to-face video AI assistants. Imagine smarter digital avatars that don’t just talk but engage visually and contextually, delivering personalized tutoring, streamlined customer service, and even real estate tours.
Along the way, the conversation goes deep: they discuss the pyramid of engagement from text to voice to fully visual interaction, and what the next generation of AI means for education, accessibility, and the way we connect with each other. Dr. Becker offers insights from his research on multimodal AI and reflects on the very philosophical questions these new technologies raise—like authenticity, connection, and the future of what we call “real.”
Whether you’re curious about the engineering magic behind lifelike avatars, the ethical dilemmas of AI interviews, or how technology is reshaping the learning experience, this episode is a fascinating look at where artificial intelligence—and humanity—are headed next.
Strap in, update your firmware, and get ready to stay Data Driven.
ESelf Website: https://www.eself.ai/
TimeStamps00:00 "Exploring AI with Dr. Becker"
05:49 Accessibility Drives eSelf's Innovation Journey
06:58 Advanced Voice Interaction Evolution
11:33 Personalized Tutoring via Multimodal AI
14:33 AI in Sci-Fi and Real Life
16:21 Understanding Users Via Encoding Algorithms
19:44 Digital Twin to AI Avatars Transition
23:14 AI Misunderstandings Due to Background Noise
27:19 AI's Role in Job Interviews
32:36 Nvidia Tool Alters Eye Contact
35:15 AI-Human Communication Blur
38:31 Reality and Gaming Perception Debate
41:51 Influencer Reality vs. Perception
44:45 Identity and Authenticity Dilemma
48:30 "Influencer's Authenticity vs. Flashiness"
53:22 Fake Celeb Math Explainer TikToks
56:10 "AI's Future: Human-Like Interaction"
57:07 Data-Driven Focus
-
Welcome to another episode of Data Driven—the podcast where we explore the future of technology, one neural network at a time. In this episode, your hosts Frank La Vigne and Bailey are joined by Christopher Newland, Principal AI Technical Marketing Manager at Red Hat, globetrotter, and resident connoisseur of computer flea markets. Together, they embark on a lively journey through the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
You’ll hear tales of racking servers in suburban garages, nostalgic detours through the golden age of CompUSA and cable boxes, and candid reflections on building (and rebuilding) home labs. But it’s not all geek nostalgia. The conversation dives deep into the highly-discussed AI 2027 report—a speculative look at how AI might break free from human control, achieve superintelligence, and fundamentally alter our relationship with technology and society.
They unpack the challenges of AI infrastructure, the real-world limits of doomsday predictions, and the growing importance of data privacy and AI sovereignty. It’s a spirited, thought-provoking, and sometimes hilarious ride through past, present, and possible futures of artificial intelligence. So grab your favorite GPU-powered device, settle in, and get ready for a fascinating exploration of what might just send our world delightfully sideways by 2027!
Time Stamps00:00 "AI 2027: Future Unplugged"
05:47 Nvidia DGX Spark: AI Desktop Revolution
09:42 "Experienced Workers Elevate Retail Experience"
11:41 Early PC Build Challenges
17:00 Supply Chain Management Challenges
19:35 Garage Tech Showcase Challenges
23:22 AI Deception and Arms Race
24:34 Robotics Future and AI Manpower
29:15 Concerns with 2027 AI Report
32:41 Balancing Regulation and Free Market
37:04 "Theoretical Limits of AI Models"
38:32 "AI Sovereignty Discussion"
43:03 "Stay Curious, Stay Data Driven"
-
In this episode, host Frank La Vigne is joined by Amir Berman, VP of Industry Transformation at Buildots, to explore how AI, computer vision, and cutting-edge analytics are revolutionizing the construction industry. Forget everything you thought you knew about dusty blueprints and endless delays—Amir shares how technology is helping build smarter, safer, and more efficient job sites. From real-time progress tracking with 360° cameras to predictive analytics that keep billion-dollar projects on schedule, this conversation uncovers how digital transformation is reshaping one of the world’s oldest industries. Whether you’re a tech fanatic, data enthusiast, or just curious about how skyscrapers go from chaos to code, this episode builds a compelling case for the power of AI in construction. Grab your virtual safety goggles—let’s get hands-on with the future of building.
Linkshttps://buildots.com/http://thedatadrivenbook.com/
Timestamps00:00 Construction's Digital Transformation Insights
09:15 Tech Vendors: Respect Contractors' Limits
14:23 "Technology Enhances Construction Oversight"
17:03 "Rewiring Minds: Tech Enhances Performance"
27:25 Predictive Analytics Exposes Construction Delays
28:19 Proactive Problem-Solving in Construction
38:31 Tech-Enhanced Workforce Retention Strategy
40:28 AI for Pipeline Problem Mitigation
45:14 "From Flash to Data Analytics"
52:24 The Innovator's Dilemma Explained
54:56 Embracing AI After Windows Mobile Flop
01:00:29 "Smart Construction with Computer Vision"
-
Welcome to the season nine premiere of Data Driven, where we kick things off with a thought-provoking deep dive into the world of AI-powered leadership. In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne, Andy Leonard, and BAILeY are joined by Geoff Woods, bestselling author of "The AI Driven Leader." Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is quickly evolving from a tactical tool that writes emails and automates tasks to a transformative thought partner that can help leaders navigate high-stakes business decisions, develop innovative strategies, and even challenge their own thinking.
Geoff challenges the notion that AI is just another tech buzzword and shares real-world stories of executives using AI as a strategic confidant—literally building virtual AI boards featuring iconic figures like Steve Jobs and Warren Buffett. He breaks down his practical CRIT framework (Context, Role, Interview, Task), offering listeners actionable ways to move beyond surface-level AI use and harness its power for exponential personal and business growth.
Whether you’re a seasoned data scientist, a curious executive, or just someone looking to level up your leadership skills, this conversation will inspire you to reconsider how you work with AI—and how much more you can achieve when you use it as your smartest collaborator yet. Get ready to have your assumptions challenged, your creativity sparked, and your sticky notes filled with new ideas. Let’s get data driven!
Timestamps00:00 "AI: Your Strategic Cofounder"
05:26 Strategic Leadership with AI
07:35 "Focusing on 20% High-Impact Tasks"
11:07 AI Strategies for Debt Restructuring
13:28 AI in Negotiations: Role Play Insights
19:01 Mentor in Your Pocket
21:52 "Imaginary Advisory Board"
25:17 "Starting AI: First Domino Approach"
28:33 Coaching Corporate Growth Strategy
31:51 Interactive Knowledge Experience
35:06 "Becoming an AI-Driven Leader"
38:54 "Visionary Super Connector"
43:06 Leadership Beyond Technology
47:11 Rethinking AI and Strategic Questions
49:26 "AI-Powered Strategic Visioning"
53:29 "Choosing Growth Over Perfection"
56:24 AI Achievements: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
-
Andy and I are kicking off Season Nine of Data Driven with a bang: an insightful interview with Jeff Woods, author of “The AI Driven Leader.”
Andy, Bailey, and I are thrilled to bring you brand-new conversations, deep dives, and data stories all season long. Stay tuned for the official release, and as always, thank you for being part of our data-driven journey.
Listen for the Season Nine kickoff soon!
-
This week, Frank sat down with Dr. Jacob Leverich—Stanford PhD, cofounder of Observe, and a veteran of the Google MapReduce team and Splunk. Jacob’s journey, from tinkering with video game code as a kid, to innovating at the cutting edge of distributed systems and energy efficiency, is as inspiring as it is informative.
Key TakeawaysEarly Tech Roots: Hear how curiosity with QBasic and classic PCs (think IBM PCXT and Commodore) put Jacob on a path to high-impact data engineering.MapReduce, Dremel, & the Rise of Big Data: Jacob pulls back the curtain on working with some of the most influential data processing tools at Google and how these systems shifted the entire data landscape (hello, BigQuery!).Building Efficient Systems: It’s not just about scale—energy efficiency and performance optimization are the unsung heroes of today’s data infrastructure. Jacob explains why making things “just work” isn’t enough anymore.The Realities of Ops & Observability: Remember the days of grepping logs at 2AM? There’s a better way. Jacob shares how platforms like Observe help teams consolidate, visualize, and act on operational data—turning chaos into actionable insight.Bridging Data & Ops: The lines between data observability and traditional ops are blurring, and Jacob’s unique experience shows how best practices from data warehousing are finally making ops smoother (and less sleepless).Power Concerns & the Future: As data grows, so does energy consumption in data centers. Find out why optimization isn’t just good for performance—it’s key to sustainability.
Timestamps00:00 Interview with Jacob Levrich
05:59 Journey into Game Programming
06:43 "Pursuing Fast Video Game Code"
10:23 Data Processing and Power Efficiency
16:11 Snowflake's Transformative Database Approach
19:18 Journey to Data Management Industry
21:37 Data Products: Solving Core Challenges
27:07 Early Web Log Analysis Techniques
28:57 Consolidating Data for Efficiency
33:23 Specialized Tools and Context Switching
35:43 Unique Dual-Expertise in Tech
38:58 User-Centric Business Strategies
42:13 IP Data Analysis in Cloud
47:23 Electricity Transport Upsets Local Farms
48:25 Shift to Parallel Computing
52:10 Hardware Specialization & Software Optimization
57:32 "Stay Data Driven"
-
Welcome to another insightful episode of Data Driven! Today, we're diving into the world of warehouse-native analytics with our special guest, István Mészáros, cofounder of Mitsu. Join us as we explore how Mitsu empowers startups and enterprises with a new approach to data analytics. From his beginnings as a CERN physicist to becoming an open-source evangelist and finally a startup founder, István shares his unique journey through the data industry.
We'll discuss the motivation behind Mitsu's distinct branding, reminiscent of Hello Kitty, and why standing out in today's crowded market is crucial. István also reveals the challenges and strategies of building a data company in Europe, and how Mitsu simplifies analytics by offering a self-service solution without the high costs associated with existing market leaders.
Timestamps0:00 Introducing István Mészáros
05:30 Shifting Open Source to SaaS
07:46 Lava-Themed Compliance Solutions Brand
10:27 Tech Branding and Hello Kitty Insights
13:46 Optimizing Conversion in Data-Heavy Travel
16:31 Self-Service Analytics Tool Needed
19:17 Automated Product Analytics Tool
23:20 "Budget Constraints and DIY Solutions"
28:17 Freelancer's Efficient Data Solutions
29:08 Open Source Tool Productization Plan
33:13 Navigating Freelance and Startup Challenges
37:19 Transitioning to Data Engineering
42:25 Instant Feedback in Hobbies
43:46 Embracing Feedback in Business Transformation
49:13 "Hoping AI Takes Over Hiring"
51:58 Visit Site for Info & Contact
55:22 "Parenting Boys with Earbuds"
57:25 "Data Driven: Quantum Podcast Relaunch"
- Show more
