Data Driven Leadership

Technical expertise can only take you so far. At some point, career growth depends on earning trust, asking better questions, and learning how to see beyond your own area of expertise.  In this episode, Jess Carter sits down with Colleen Tartow, Senior Director of Enterprise Data Engineering at Capital One. After starting her career as an astrophysicist, Colleen moved into enterprise data engineering. She shares what that transition taught her about leadership, trust, and making better decisions. Jess and Colleen also discuss what it means to be truly data-driven and why the best leaders are willing to change their minds when the evidence points in a new direction.    In this episode, you'll learn: How to balance confidence in your expertise with humility  When to go deep into technical details and when to focus on the bigger picture How evidence should shape strategy instead of simply validating it   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Colleen Tartow (04:00) How astrophysics mirrors modern data engineering (11:25) Building trust quickly in new companies and industries (14:54) Why listening is a critical leadership skill (17:34) The transition from IC to leadership roles (27:34) How to tell if a company is truly data-driven or not   Colleen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-tartow-phd/  

8/5/26 • 35:46

Every AI hallucination, every bad output, and every broken dashboard traces back to the same root cause. Your data was never ready in the first place.   In this episode, Jess Carter sits down with Mark Marshalek to talk about why data governance is having a major comeback in the age of AI. Drawing on his leadership experience at Farmers Insurance and his work as a Senior Lecturer at The Ohio State University, Mark explains how governance, curiosity, and flexibility can help teams experiment with AI responsibly. He also shares why stronger data discipline is essential for AI readiness.   In this episode, you'll learn: Why data discipline matters for AI adoption How leaders can make governance feel practical instead of bureaucratic Why curiosity and flexibility are critical skills for the future of work   Things to listen for: (00:33) Introduction to the episode with Mark Marshalek (02:48) Why data governance is becoming more important (06:29) Connecting governance to business value (15:54) How leaders can encourage teams to use AI (27:00) AI adoption in highly regulated industries (30:28) Mark's advice for the next generation of workers   Mark's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-marshalek-11543721/

7/1/26 • 35:27

In this episode, Jess Carter sits down with Nicola Smith, senior AI advisor at Southwest Airlines, to explore how organizations can operationalize AI strategically and build a workforce ready for the future. Nicola shares her insights on AI literacy, human-centered design, and creating a mindset of abundance that empowers employees rather than creating fear.    In this episode, you'll learn: How to develop an enterprise AI strategy that works across departments The importance of building AI literacy programs How AI can enhance creativity, innovation, and decision-making   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Nicola Smith (04:44) Building enterprise and departmental AI strategies (07:30) Bottom-up innovation and employee-driven AI use cases (09:51) Adoption through AI literacy programs (13:24) Combating fear and cultivating a mindset of abundance (22:22) Storytelling and transparency in AI-driven organizations (27:49) Future AI initiatives and emerging technologies Nicola's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolasmith22/   

6/3/26 • 30:05

How can business and IT leaders align on AI and make smarter decisions together? Jess Carter reflects on conversations with business, IT, and data leaders across industries, sharing common themes she has observed around AI adoption. She discusses the disconnect between technical teams and business stakeholders, and offers practical advice on how to bridge that gap, build confidence with AI, and focus on real business value. In this episode, you'll learn: How data leaders can better connect AI initiatives to business outcomes Why developing hands-on experience with AI tools is critical How business leaders can experiment with AI while managing risk and cost   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode (02:16) The two types of IT and data leaders approaching AI (06:25) Prompt engineering and AI experimentation (09:20) Managing data security and tool limitations (14:06) Why AI adoption looks different for every organization Jess's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaccarter/  Not sure if your AI efforts are actually paying off? Take this free quiz and find out where your business stands: https://info.resultant.com/ai-value-scorecard

5/6/26 • 17:07

When times get tough, we rely on leaders to make the hard decisions. That's why their character is so critical—it can make or break a team, a company, or even an entire organization.  In this episode, Jess Carter sits down with Ernest O'Boyle to explore the "dark triad" of leadership and how these toxic traits can quietly sabotage a workplace. Professor Ernest shares his research on how these traits often go unchecked, leading to manipulation and a toxic culture. They discuss how leaders with dark triad traits can distort data, influencing outcomes and undermining trust in data-driven decisions. In this episode, you'll learn: How toxic leadership traits impact team performance The effects of narcissism and Machiavellianism in leadership dynamics How to build and maintain a positive workplace culture despite challenging behaviors   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Ernest O'Boyle (02:00) The dark triad traits in leadership (06:45) How narcissism and psychopathy show up in the workplace (10:25) Leadership in high-pressure environments (14:10) Managing manipulative behaviors in teams (18:00) How organizational culture shapes leadership behavior (22:15) Ethical dilemmas in decision-making (27:30) Can toxic leadership traits be reformed? Ernest's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ernest-o-boyle-4547a729/ 

4/8/26 • 39:10

AI can make decisions fast. But weak data foundations still slow everything down. In this episode, Jess Carter sits down with Senior Director of Data Platform & Governance at Hungryroot Ben Ganzfried to discuss what it takes to build trust in data as companies grow. At Hungryroot, data does more than support reporting. It informs recommendations, recipes, and inventory decisions. Ben shares lessons on building data foundations that help teams move faster with more confidence. He explains why governance should reinforce accountability, not create friction, and why unclear ownership becomes a bigger risk when more decisions depend on data.  In this episode, you'll learn: Why data governance is crucial for business growth Best practices for managing data security and accessibility How to foster a data-driven culture within your organization Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Ben Ganzfried (02:41) How Hungryroot uses data to personalize the customer experience (08:39) Making faster decisions through better governance (14:15) The rise of data and AI leadership roles (19:23) Why ambiguity becomes a risk as systems scale (23:38) Curiosity as part of data-driven leadership Ben's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ben-ganzfried-1a5a8620a/?skipRedirect=true Links from the episode -  https://www.cdomagazine.tech/opinion-analysis/lessons-in-ambiguity-data-ai-and-the-limits-of-informal-coordination  https://benganzfried.com/f/the-nature-of-data-the-foundation-we-forgot-and-why-it-matters  https://benganzfried.com/f/the-year-the-margin-for-error-disappeared  https://www.cdomagazine.tech/opinion-analysis/lessons-in-ambiguity-data-ai-and-the-limits-of-informal-coordination  

3/25/26 • 27:37

Some moments define the kind of leader you are. When the stakes are high and the data is incomplete, your character becomes the strategy. In this episode, former FBI agent Herbert Stapleton joins Jess Carter to explore the role of integrity, decision-making, and leadership in high-stakes environments. Drawing from his two decades of experience in federal law enforcement, Herb shares his insights on how character and effective leadership are essential when the stakes are life and death. He discusses the importance of honesty, accountability, and the challenges of making tough decisions with incomplete information. In this episode, you'll learn: How to lead with integrity under intense pressure The importance of humility and confidence in leadership Ways to foster trust and loyalty within your team during crises Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Herbert Stapleton (02:20) Herb's journey from law school to the FBI (06:34)  Leadership development in the FBI (10:03) Decision-making with incomplete information (14:32) How to deal with crises in corporate settings (17:35) Prioritizing wellness in your team (22:21) Developing character in the age of AI (28:33) Can integrity be taught? Herb's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/herb-stapleton-b94a19126/  https://www.dinsmore.com/  

3/11/26 • 36:38

Many organizations are adopting AI tools at record speed. Few are stepping back to ask whether they are meaningfully transforming how work gets done. In this episode of Data-Driven Leadership, Jess Carter sits down with Sindhu Venkata, Vice President of Technical Delivery at Resultant, to discuss what intentional AI leadership looks like. Sindhu introduces the idea of the "AI speed trap" — the cycle of moving faster, producing more, and slowly eroding quality, trust, and critical thinking along the way. She explains why AI failure is rarely a technology problem; it's a leadership problem. This episode is especially relevant for executives, data leaders, and operators navigating AI adoption across their teams. In this episode, you'll learn: The difference between operational AI and transformational AI Why the AI speed trap creates fatigue and poor outputs How leaders can adopt AI without losing critical thinking   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Sindhu Venkata (08:02) The AI speed trap and work slop (17:57) AI licenses vs. transformational strategy (23:57) Trust erosion and AI hallucinations (27:55) Leading AI adoption with intention Sindhu's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sindhuvenkata/

2/25/26 • 29:32

Data can point to the right answer, but negotiation determines whether it happens. In this episode of Data Driven Leadership, Jess Carter sits down with Charlotte Westerhaus-Renfrow, Clinical Associate Professor of Business Law and Management at the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University.  They discuss why negotiation is a core leadership skill that transforms the way you approach tough conversations. Charlotte explains why effective leaders do not rely on one negotiation style. They prepare, assess the moment, and pivot when the strategy no longer serves the goal. This episode is especially relevant for leaders navigating complex tradeoffs, limited options, or tense conversations where outcomes and relationships both matter. In this episode, you'll learn: How to recognize the negotiation style that works best for you Strategies for building and maintaining strong professional relationships The importance of mentorship  in leadership development   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Charlotte Westerhaus-Renfrow (09:08) How to select a mentor  (11:52) Negotiation styles and strategies (23:19) When you're overwhelmed, do this (26:28) Know your alternatives in a negotiation (28:24) Leveraging AI for better communication (31:56) Building and maintaining professional relationships Charlotte's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlottewesterhaus/ Self-assessment: https://hubs.ly/Q042Ty6d0

2/11/26 • 37:34

How can leaders make better data-driven decisions? Jess Carter shares some of her recent reflections on leadership, from improving workflows within the organization to navigating AI. She talks about how leaders can stay hands-on, spot problems before they turn into bigger issues that impact the business, and earn their team's trust. In this episode, you'll learn: The questions leaders need to ask to identify problems in the organization Tips for democratizing decision-making How a personal philosophy around AI leads to more confident decisions   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode (01:05) A methodology for spotting problems you might otherwise miss (04:40) Showing up and building trust with your team (06:26) Democratizing problem-solving (08:23) How to start figuring out your AI philosophy Jess's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaccarter/

1/28/26 • 13:42

"Slow is smooth, smooth is fast." This saying rings true when it comes to AI adoption in today's fast-paced world. While everyone seems to be rushing toward the next big AI breakthrough, the reality is that hasty decisions often lead to costly mistakes. In this episode of Data-Driven Leadership, Jess Carter sits down with Patrick McQuillan, global head of AI and data governance at a Fortune 500 company to discuss how leaders can adopt AI thoughtfully and sustainably. Patrick shares his expertise on balancing rapid innovation with long-term success, the critical role of AI governance, and how organizations can avoid common pitfalls in their AI journey.  Tune in to learn how a strategic, measured approach to AI can drive lasting impact for both businesses and their customers. In this episode, you'll learn: How AI governance reduces failure rates and protects trust Why data foundations matter more than new models What leaders should ask before they fund or scale AI Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Patrick McQuillan (05:50) Guidance for early AI adopters on pace and expectations (12:41) When AI governance becomes a leadership priority (15:28) The likelihood of public AI failures (20:10) Long-term AI adoption (26:36) AI in higher education and job readiness (31:10) Responsible use of GenAI tools in the workplace Patrick's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pjmcquillan/

1/14/26 • 37:55

2025 was a breakthrough year for AI adoption, with new tools enabling seamless integration between business and technical teams. Organizations leveraged AI to improve operations, enhance decision-making, and unlock growth opportunities, though not without challenges. In this episode, Jess Carter sits down with Michael Schwarz, Senior Vice President of Professional Services at Resultant, to reflect on the key lessons from 2025. They discuss the successes and hurdles organizations encountered in their AI journeys and share actionable insights for leaders heading into 2026. Michael also offers his predictions for 2026 and how businesses can leverage AI to lead in the next phase of digital transformation. In this episode, you'll learn: How 2025 accelerated AI adoption across industries The balance between power and responsibility in using AI Key priorities for leaders to focus on in 2026, especially within industries like healthcare Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Michael Schwarz (06:08) Reflections on 2025 with fast-moving technology (11:31) What leaders need to know about the future of AI (18:07) Predictions for 2026 (25:10) Where to focus AI investment for growth (31:15) Improving patient experience for 2026 Michael's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schwarzmike/

12/31/25 • 35:31

With the right data foundation, hospitals can better support medical staff and improve patient outcomes. Tony Pastorino, commercial health strategy lead at Resultant, joins Jess Carter to discuss how data-driven insights are transforming hospital efficiency. Tony shares his experiences from overseeing information systems at IU Health. He also highlights the critical role of predictive analytics in improving patient flow and streamlining daily operations. In this episode, you'll learn: How predictive models can improve staffing and resource allocation The challenges of managing complex healthcare data How hospitals can use their existing data to make clearer, more confident operational decisions Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Tony Pastorino (02:06) Breaking down the complexity of healthcare data (05:12) How hospitals are building data lakes (10:02) Predictive analytics in health care (16:45) Improving the patient experience in hospital systems (21:00) Predictive analytics for nurse staffing and burnout (24:56) Using AI to create more distraction-free patient interactions (26:40) How hospitals can start using data today (29:28) The future of data-driven health care Tony's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonypastorino/

12/17/25 • 32:37

What can we learn from the leaders shaping the future of tech, health care, and cybersecurity? In this solo episode, Jess Carter reflects on recent conversations with industry leaders across various fields. Each discussion reveals how mission, people, and structure drive key leadership decisions and strategies. Jess invites listeners to pause and consider their own leadership: How clear is your mission? What support do your teams need? And do your systems align with the way you want to work? In this episode, you will learn: Why a clear mission makes data easier to work with The way you support people changes data outcomes A simple way to check if your systems help or get in the way Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Jess Carter (00:51) Why data-driven leadership starts with mission (03:57) Keeping people at the center of data decisions (07:36) How structure and culture build sustainability  

12/3/25 • 10:44

In today's fast-paced world, organizations can't rely on static, long-term plans. Strategies must continuously evolve to stay relevant. In this episode, Resultant EVP of Professional Services Mike Hughes shares his insights on leading through rapid change. He discusses how to maintain organizational health, align culture with strategy, and foster clarity and accountability across teams. Mike also offers advice on balancing priorities and keeping teams focused, no matter the challenges. In this episode, you'll learn: How to assess the health of an organization Ways to strengthen culture through clarity and alignment What great consultants do differently to add value Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Mike Hughes (02:17) Staying passionate throughout a career in consulting (06:17) How client expectations are shifting (10:44) Defining and measuring organizational health (13:52) The link between culture and results (17:52) How to manage priorities and implement change (22:07) Where leaders should start to improve organizational health Mike's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-hughes-15038b/

11/19/25 • 26:10

AI is everywhere, but it can't succeed without the judgment, creativity, and collaboration of real data science. In this episode, Jess Carter sits down with Alexa Myers, senior data science manager at Resultant, for a conversation about building successful data science teams. They discuss how isolation can hinder even the most skilled data scientists, and what happens when organizations pursue outcomes without the right structure in place.  Alexa shares field-tested lessons on what works, where teams struggle, and why communication matters as much as technical skill. As AI takes center stage, this conversation highlights the kind of leadership and teamwork needed to make data science and the AI it supports truly effective. In this episode, you'll learn: What happens when AI is used without science Best practices for building strong data science teams How to talk about data science with executives and stakeholders Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Alexa Myers (02:09) What data science is and why it's still misunderstood (05:07) The impact of AI in data science (10:12) What to consider when building a data science department (15:01) How to communicate effectively with stakeholders (18:24) Why human insight still matters (22:15) Mentorship and lessons from multi-generational teams (26:19) The next wave of AI and fixing broken AI solutions Study Finds AI Models Suffer 'Brain Rot' from Clickbait and Junk Data: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQKafFME7he/?igsh=MWQ3azRjNzAyNDBpbQ%3D%3D&img_index=1  Alexa's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexa-myers-b29099135/

11/5/25 • 29:22

Organizations are racing toward digital and AI transformation, but the same problem keeps showing up: people aren't ready. In this replay episode, Jess Carter revisits her conversation with Allison Grayson, Senior Director of Organizational Change Management at Resultant. They explore the fundamentals that ensure change is well implemented in an organization. Allison explains why strategy and technology fall short without sponsorship, communication, and culture. She also emphasizes the importance of early-stage planning and continuous feedback to ensure lasting success.   In this episode, you'll learn: How to make your "case for change" clear and compelling The impact of leadership buy-in on the overall success of change initiatives The value of continuous feedback loops during change   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Allison Grayson (03:26) Defining Organizational Change Management (OCM) in simple terms (08:59) How to avoid overwhelming teams with too much change (15:17) Early budgeting and planning for OCM (17:09) Building a clear and compelling "case for change" (18:31) Why training and emails don't lead to adoption (20:39) Turning resistance and fear into engagement (27:00) How executive alignment supports transformation Allison's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-grayson/

10/22/25 • 30:34

Private companies can be mission-driven. And in today's market, they have to be.  Rob Seaman, Chief Product Officer at Slack, joins Jess Carter to discuss how leading with purpose helps build better teams and better products. Rob shares lessons from Slack's integration with Salesforce, including the importance of staying close to customers, balancing speed with quality, and accepting that product leadership is never really "done." He also reflects on his path from small startups to global enterprises and what it takes to build teams that work with clarity and intent. In this episode, you'll learn: How product leaders can stay grounded in customer feedback Ways to build teams that deliver both speed and quality Why a clear mission helps teams create better products Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Rob Seaman (02:42) Behind Salesforce and Slack's integration (05:19) Why products are never truly done (08:17) Finding mission in private sector product leadership (10:02) Building Agent Force and learning from customer adoption (14:38) Advice for stepping into product leadership roles (18:15) Separating noise from real customer signals (23:25) Why product teams need customer insight (28:44) Lessons Rob still values from early startup experiences   Alex Komoroske's "How Organizations Are Like Slime Molds": https://komoroske.com/slime-mold/  Rob's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seamanrob/

10/8/25 • 35:48

From TikTok skits to tech leadership, Kelly Vega shows why project managers are more than task trackers. As program director at VML and the creator of Not the Worst PM, Kelly has built a following by turning the chaos of project management into relatable, entertaining content. In this episode of Data-Driven Leadership, she joins Jess Carter to share what she's learned leading complex digital projects and building PM teams across industries. Kelly reflects on her path into the profession, how humor on social media has helped her spotlight the realities of the job, and what separates transactional PMs from effective PMs. She also explains how great project managers influence culture, communication, and outcomes in ways that go far beyond checking boxes. In this episode, you'll learn: How to recognize the traits of a high-value project manager What separates PMs from task managers What PMs can do to build trust and credibility with stakeholders Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Kelly Vega (02:07) Social media stories that capture project manager realities (04:46) Launching long-form PM content (07:52) What makes a project manager high value (10:52) Process-driven PMs versus adaptable leaders (16:17) Lessons from BBC's failed Digital Media Initiative project (20:10) Avoiding over-engineering and building progress that's measurable (22:51) How PMs signal urgency and escalate risks effectively (28:45) Leading diverse teams while navigating politics and expectations (32:45) Recognizing PM leadership as culture, engagement, and delivery   Kelly's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-suter/  Kelly's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nottheworstpm/  Kelly's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nottheworstpm

9/24/25 • 38:36

A single error in a medical record can change a child's life.  Theresa Meadows has spent her career making sure that doesn't happen. In this episode, Jess Carter talks with Theresa, who recently transitioned from CIO at Cook Children's Health Care System to a new role at symplr. Theresa recalls her unlikely path from transplant nurse to technology leader and shares how those dual perspectives influenced the way she thinks about data, trust, and patient care. Their conversation touches on the complexity of pediatric records, the challenges of moving entire hospitals onto electronic systems, and the opportunities she sees for AI to ease the burden on clinicians. Woven through it all are the leadership lessons Theresa carried from the bedside to the boardroom, and now into her work guiding the next generation of healthcare innovation. In this episode, you'll learn: Why pediatric hospitals face different data challenges than adult care facilities How electronic health record conversions can affect patient safety What healthcare leaders should prioritize in their first 90 days in a new role Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Theresa Meadows (02:15) Training physicians on early physician order entry systems (08:16) Career lessons from mentors and moving into Cook Children's (09:53) Unique data challenges faced in pediatric healthcare  (13:17) Transitioning hospitals to electronic health records successfully (19:38) Advice for leaders in their first 90 days (23:41) Where AI and technology are taking healthcare next (30:50) Why mentorship starts with speaking up about your goals  

9/10/25 • 35:10

Most data projects don't collapse because of the tech. They collapse when stakeholders aren't involved in the right ways. In this episode of Data-Driven Leadership, Jess Carter sits down with  Veronika Durgin, VP of data, to explore why stakeholder engagement makes or breaks a data strategy. Veronika also shares lessons from two decades in data, from troubleshooting transactional databases to leading enterprise-wide initiatives. She reflects on the moment she recognized data as a true business asset, explains why curiosity and a growth mindset are foundational habits for data leaders, and outlines how to design solutions that deliver value more than once. In this episode, you'll learn: How to keep stakeholders aligned and invested in your strategy Why data leaders should always think about the exit plan What to do to make unused data valuable to the business Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Veronika Durgin (02:25) Learning through doing and building a foundation for strategy (05:35) Plan B thinking and lessons from a sledgehammer story (09:04) Early career memories from Y2K to database administration (12:55) Discovering Infonomics and seeing data as a business asset (15:43) Why treating data with a product mindset changes outcomes (19:16) The hidden costs of data hoarding and storage waste (23:33) How to keep stakeholders engaged and aligned on priorities (30:38) Using Six Sigma to frame problems and business impact   "Infonomics" by Doug Laney: https://www.amazon.com/Infonomics-Monetize-Information-Competitive-Advantage/dp/1138090387  Veronika's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vdurgin/  Veronika's Medium: https://medium.com/@durginv Veronika's Substack: https://thinksolverepeat.substack.com/

8/27/25 • 35:41

One phone call. One click. That's all it takes. In this episode, Jess Carter talks with Jeffrey Foresman, VP of Cybersecurity at Resultant, about why today's most dangerous breaches don't start with technical flaws, but with people.  With over 30 years in the field, Jeffrey shares stories of social engineering attacks that bypass sophisticated defenses, explains why traditional compliance measures fall short, and outlines a more realistic framework for security: prevention, detection, and response. Jess and Jeff also dig into human risk management, validation protocols, what it takes to build a culture where security is everyone's job, and slowing down just might save you. In this episode, you will learn: How attackers use urgency and familiarity to bypass internal controls Why cybersecurity maturity starts with real-world threat alignment What business leaders should ask about their help desk and MFA processes Things to listen for:(00:00) Introduction to the episode with Jeffrey Foresman (06:09) Why compliance training often fails to prevent breaches (08:05) Trusted cybersecurity frameworks for assessing maturity and risk (11:02) How attackers are bypassing firewalls and fooling help desks (13:45) Real-world social engineering tactics every team should know (20:42) Building response plans that reduce downtime and damage (25:25) What to do when employees keep failing phishing tests

8/13/25 • 29:41

Regional workforce boards often have access to labor market data but lack tools to make it usable for the communities they serve. In this episode, Jess Carter talks with Executive Director Phedra Redifer and Workforce Research Analyst Jacob Jimenez from Workforce Solutions for North Central Texas about how their team created interactive dashboards tailored to local needs across 14 counties. Phedra outlines the vision behind the project and what it means to equip employers, educators, and job seekers with actionable data. Jacob shares how they gathered input from stakeholders throughout the build, why usability mattered more than flash, and how this approach is already changing conversations with partners. They also explore how public sector teams can reimagine their role in workforce development by rethinking how data is shared and decisions are made. To check out the dashboards referenced in this episode, use this link. In this episode, you will learn: How a small team built three dashboards in three months Why flexible design improves usability across different stakeholder groups What it looks like to lead data projects with empathy and intent Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Phedra Redifer and Jacob Jimenez (03:20) Phedra and Jacob explain their roles and regional focus (07:46) Why stakeholder requests revealed the need for better data tools (09:20) Common data questions from EDCs and how patterns emerged (13:40) Overview of the three dashboards and how each one is used (17:53) Stakeholder feedback leads to rethinking the career lattice design (21:52) Phedra explains the broader value of real-time, interactive tools (25:02) Advice for boards starting data projects with limited resources (28:44) Why workforce development is more essential than ever  

7/30/25 • 31:46

Public sector leaders are sitting on a wealth of valuable data. But too often, they can't act on it.  In this episode, Jess Carter talks with Jeremy Bhatia, founder and CEO of Eddi, about how his platform helps government-funded organizations make sense of scattered financial and performance data. Jeremy shares what led him to start Eddi, how the pandemic brought long-standing issues in grant funding and reporting to the surface, and why the focus should be on outcomes, not just compliance. He explains how Eddi is supporting better decisions around budgeting, reporting, and impact. Jess and Jeremy also discuss what it takes to build trust with users, utilize AI in thoughtful ways, and navigate the practical challenges of working in the public sector. They provide a candid look at how data and AI are being leveraged to address challenges in complex public systems. In this episode, you will learn: The role AI can play in making complex data easier to use Why motivation and culture matter more than technical readiness How flexible tools can improve grant management and support long-term outcomes Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Jeremy Bhatia (02:46) Eddi's role in helping organizations make data-driven decisions (05:21) How the pandemic created funding challenges and new opportunities (06:01) Overcoming data integration hurdles in public sector organizations (08:51) Jeremy's lessons from Eddi's first year in business (13:22) The importance of flexibility in grant management  (21:55) How Eddi helps match grants with the right organizations (30:02) Measuring outcomes and lessons learned from the pandemic

7/16/25 • 34:37

From writing better emails to helping her son learn the alphabet, Jess Carter is using AI in unexpected ways. In this Q&A episode, Jess shares how she's integrating AI into both her professional and personal routines, with real examples that span leadership, data storytelling, parenting, and everyday problem-solving. She offers practical advice for getting started with AI, from building stronger prompts to identifying the tasks where it saves the most time and adds the most value. Along the way, Jess answers listener questions about increasing data literacy without a technical background, working effectively with consultants, and determining what actually works in digital engagement. If you're curious about how to use AI and data more confidently and more creatively, this episode is a great place to begin. Jess also references a few favorite resources throughout the episode, including: Data Literacy: A User's Guide by David L. Herzog storytelling with data: a data visualization guide for business professionals by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic How to Lie with Statistics by Darrell Huff The study Double-blind test of the effects of distant intention on water crystal formation by Dean Radin, Dail Hayssen, Masaru Emoto, and Takashige Kizue   In this episode, you will learn: Ways to begin using AI in your daily work How to build confidence in data analysis without a technical background What to look for when bringing in a consultant to support your team   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Jess Carter (01:54) How Jess uses AI as a parent, leader, and executive coach (05:19) Simple ways to get started with ChatGPT in your daily work (08:57) Books and tools to improve your data literacy (13:49) When to bring in consultants and how to get real results from them (24:27) Jess's go-to method for making sense of messy data (26:52) Jess's reflection on cancer and story of resilience

7/2/25 • 32:06

Most people know Duolingo as the fun language app with the green owl, but behind the scenes, it's a data science team using AI and analytics to transform how we learn. In this episode, Jess Carter sits down with Bilal Zia, head of data science and analytics at Duolingo, to discuss what it takes to lead with data within one of the world's most popular edtech platforms. Bilal shares how his team builds trust through accurate forecasting and why embedding data scientists into cross-functional teams has changed how Duolingo operates. Drawing on his past roles at the World Bank and Amazon, he reflects on the mindset shift required to move fast without sacrificing rigor and how AI helps them achieve new possibilities while maintaining a focus on the human experience at the heart of learning. In this episode, you will learn: How to structure data teams to increase influence Why fast-growing companies need different data strategies How to build trust through data accuracy Things to listen for:(00:00) Introduction to the episode with Bilal Zia (02:58) Why intrinsic motivation guided Bilal's career (06:12) How Bilal turned a struggling data team into a high-performing one (08:15) Adapting data strategy to the S-curve model (11:39) The moment Bilal's team earned leadership's trust with a single forecast (16:57) What happens when data scientists are treated like product leaders (20:21) Tracking fluency and learner progress in the app (27:40) A look at the AI tools helping Duolingo move faster without losing control

6/18/25 • 31:05

AI can feel abstract until it's tied to something real. At Southwest Airlines, it's used to improve flight operations, support frontline staff, and help leaders make faster decisions. In this episode, Jess Carter chats with Justin Bundick, managing director of artificial intelligence at Southwest Airlines. He shares how the airline built an AI strategy that works across departments by pairing smart technology with strong data practices. From infrastructure and governance to AI model training and deployment, Justin walks through what it really takes to operationalize AI in one of the world's most complex industries. He also explains why understanding business processes is needed to make data useful, how human-centered design influences their work, and what it looks like to align AI with ethical standards and long-term strategy. In this episode, you will learn: What it takes to scale AI across an enterprise How AI can improve complex operations without overwhelming people Why understanding the process is just as important as understanding data Things to listen for:(00:00) Introduction to the episode with Justin Bundick (02:52) How Southwest's data strategy evolved (06:30) Using data to reduce noise and find focus (09:57) Why AI needs strong data governance and process insight (14:07) Building AI models into everyday operations (17:11) Managing risk and ethics with AI governance (24:47) Justin's vision for the future of AI in airlines

6/4/25 • 29:02

Data governance depends on data management and vice versa. You need both working together to make data reliable, usable, and secure. In this episode, Jess Carter talks with Diana Barrett and Stephanie Semaan from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD). With data management already in place, they recognized the need for data governance to create shared standards, improve data access, and protect sensitive information. That realization led to a phased implementation of data governance by starting with the most urgent needs and working closely with teams to build understanding and trust. They also share how DWD protects sensitive information through strong privacy practices, clear access controls, and data sharing agreements that define how data can be used and who can access it. Stick around 'til the end of the episode for a sneak peek at something special we've never done before! Want to be part of it? Check out Jess' LinkedIn post or DM her to submit a question—we might feature yours in the upcoming episode.   In this episode, you will learn: How strong governance can improve public programs Why cultural buy-in is essential for data governance The role of trust and transparency in data sharing initiatives   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Diana Barrett and Stephanie Semaan (02:18) Data governance at the Department of Workforce Development (06:17) Challenges with buy-in and siloed systems  (09:56) How governance ensures privacy and compliance (15:47) What data sharing agreements really mean (23:04) Applying public sector lessons to private companies

5/21/25 • 29:13

Marketing is often misunderstood, seen as either all creativity or all data. In truth, it's both. Great marketing lives at the intersection of bold ideas and sharp analytics, and few leaders navigate that space better than Shannon Duffy, chief marketing officer at Asana. In this episode, Shannon joins Jess Carter to share how she drives marketing that delivers real business results. She explains how data brings credibility to creative work—and how creativity can move the needle on key business goals. They also talk about setting expectations for long-term efforts like brand building and events, helping leaders understand the value of patience and the metrics that matter.  Stick around 'til the end of the episode for a sneak peek at something special we've never done before! Want to be part of it? Check out Jess' LinkedIn post or DM her to submit a question—we might feature yours in the upcoming episode.   In this episode, you will learn: The importance of aligning marketing goals with broader business objectives Metrics that matter for brand and event performance Ways to balance creativity with data in marketing leadership   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Shannon Duffy (03:46) Key business metrics every marketer should know (07:22) Helping executives understand marketing (11:09) How to prove ROI for large-scale events (15:19) Aligning creative marketing with company goals  (19:40) Using data and instinct to know when to pivot (21:55) Brand awareness beyond advertising

5/7/25 • 27:27

Unemployment insurance has supported Americans through economic hardship for nearly a century. But its long history brings complex challenges: rigid systems, layered policies, and outdated tech that's difficult to change. In this episode of Data Driven Leadership, Jess Carter talks with Allison Johnson, director of Open UI at the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA). They discuss the challenges of modernizing unemployment systems and how Open UI is pushing for modular, transparent, and adaptable solutions in a space where innovation is often seen as risky. From procurement hurdles to policy constraints, they unpack the structural barriers that have kept states locked into fragile systems for decades. Allison shares how Open UI is building a collaborative framework that reimagines how unemployment insurance can work better for both administrators and the people they serve. Stick around 'til the end of the episode for a sneak peek at something special we've never done before! Want to be part of it? Check out Jess' LinkedIn post or DM her to submit a question—we might feature yours in the upcoming episode. Disclaimer: Open UI is an initiative intended to explore, document, and promote best practices in Unemployment Insurance technology including modular technical architecture and implementation. It is not currently a product being built, offered, or sold by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA).   In this episode, you will learn: What state leaders should consider before launching a new system How Open UI is creating space for shared innovation across states Lessons in leadership and building trust for new initiatives   Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with Allison Johnson (06:29) Understanding the complexities of unemployment insurance (11:23) What Open UI is and why modularity matters (16:08) Procurement hurdles and Open UI's potential (18:13) Modernization is an ongoing process (24:46) Building trust through transparency and small wins   Resources: NASWA's Open UI Initiative

4/23/25 • 30:23