The power of Data is undeniable. And unharnessed - it’s nothing but chaos. Making data your ally. Using it to lead with confidence and clarity. Host Jess Carter is solving problems in real-time to reveal what’s possible. Helping communities and people thrive. This is Data Driven Leadership a show brought to you by Resultant.
A student’s success depends on more than just academic learning; it’s also shaped by their health, access to enrichment opportunities, and the support of their family. In this episode, host Jess Carter is joined by Shaina Cavazos, director of the Office of Education Innovation at the Indianapolis Mayor's Office. They discuss ConnectIndy, a program adapted from Boston College’s City Connects. The program addresses outside factors affecting students' learning potential without putting that burden on teachers. Shaina discusses how every ConnectIndy school has a dedicated coordinator creating tailored plans to connect students and their families with the necessary resources, allowing teachers to focus on classroom instruction. She also highlights how ConnectIndy’s public data dashboard—the first of its kind for City Connects—empowers educators and enables policymakers to make decisions that benefit students holistically. In this episode, you will learn: How ConnectIndy ensures that resources reach students who need them most Why a public dashboard fosters transparency and drives action How Indianapolis is using data to improve the education system Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with guest Shaina Cavazos (03:14) How the City Connects program helps students and teachers (06:09) Early implementation of ConnectIndy (08:51) Empowering donors through ConnectIndy’s dashboard (14:52) Using concrete data to drive change (17:33) Data collection for individual student support plans (18:53) Longitudinal data and continuation of the City Connects program (20:59) Comparing data across different states and programs Resources: ConnectIndy The Office of Education Innovation
1/15/25 • 28:29
In this replay episode, Jess Carter and Resultant’s Data Modeler, Brittany Goodwin, discuss the importance of laying the right foundation for scalable data success. To start, one must ask the right questions and focus on strategy over tools in order to lay the groundwork for scalable, long-term success. Their conversation sets the stage for insights from Resultant’s Client Success Leader, Brian Vinson, and Machelle Noel of the Texas Rangers Baseball Organization, whose experience mirrors these concepts. Michelle shares how the Rangers leveraged a Strategic Data Roadmap to prepare for their new, state-of-the-art ballpark. She reveals how starting with strategy enabled her team to integrate real-time data for concessions, ticketing, and operations, enhancing both fan experience and business outcomes. In this episode, you will learn: The framework for building a scalable data model with analytics How to use data to address operational bottlenecks in real-time How a partner can transform your data strategy and outcomes Things to listen for: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with Brittany Goodwin (04:00) Start with strategy before selecting tools (06:50) The importance of modular data models for scalability and efficiency (10:49) Finding quick wins with the right data (13:14) Scaling data analytics with the Texas Rangers Baseball Organization (16:27) Strategic data assessment with Resultant (20:14) Real-time reporting for game day operations (23:31) How data helped the Texas Ranges pivot during COVID-19 (27:09) Sharing key insights with stakeholders Resources: A Lot Going on at the Moment: Data and Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour
1/1/25 • 31:27
Data should be treated as a product, not an afterthought, to unlock its true potential in driving business success. This is the approach at Stanley Black & Decker. Director of Data Product Development Jason Winterbottom takes us behind the scenes of the company’s data transformation. Jason shares how his team tackled the complexities of creating a unified, reliable data platform in a global organization. He highlights the importance of establishing good data governance and listening to user feedback. Data alone doesn’t drive success—it’s how you manage, trust, and use it to create a meaningful impact that makes the difference. In this episode, you will learn: Why treating data as a product can drive better business value The role of user feedback in shaping effective data systems What a “golden record” is and why you need it for data accuracy Things to listen for: (00:00) Introduction to the episode with guest Jason Winterbottom (03:27) How Stanley Black & Decker’s data governance journey began (08:52) The challenges in building a centralized data platform (13:15) Listening to user feedback to improve data systems (19:54) The “golden record” and its role in data management (26:55) Treating data as a product (30:10) Analogies to better understand data governance (36:14) How to get started with generative AI
12/18/24 • 39:58
The healthcare system isn’t perfect, but through the use of tech and data, we can ease the patient experience and ensure critical information is available when needed most. In this episode, Colorado Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera and Director of the Office of eHealth Innovation Stephanie Pugliese discuss the implementation of Colorado’s Social Health Information Exchange (CoSHIE) network. They share the importance of seamless health data integration and cite use cases that enhance patient care, reduce administrative burdens, and improve health outcomes. Their collaborative approach respects local needs while building a statewide network to support communities across Colorado. Tune in to learn how data-driven health initiatives are transforming healthcare accessibility and helping Colorado set a national standard for whole-person health. In this episode, you will learn: The social determinants of health and ways to address them Colorado’s approach to making statewide health data useful for community providers How to build trust and ensure security in data-sharing initiatives Things to listen for: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with guests Stephanie Pugliese and Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera (04:16) Health IT for whole-person health (09:32) Colorado Social Health Information Exchange (CoSHIE) (16:05) The social determinants of health (19:44) Improving healthcare for vulnerable populations (23:18) The importance of trust in data-sharing agreements (27:17) Understanding the CoSHIE platform’s capabilities (30:22) How to stay motivated through complex data projects
12/4/24 • 35:18
Do you really know how your customers feel, or are you just guessing? In this episode, Jack Walker, president of Walker Information, reveals why listening to customer feedback is the key to great customer experience. Jack shares the story of his family-run company, which has used data for over 85 years to drive business success by speaking directly to customers. He explains why testimonials, especially negative ones, provide valuable insights for businesses willing to take action. Real feedback is the most valuable data a company can have, surpassing any assumptions made on a customer's behalf. Simply collecting feedback isn’t enough—customers expect you to listen, respond, and improve. In this episode, you will learn: How to transform customer feedback into actionable insights Why negative feedback is an opportunity for growth, not failure The value of customer surveys despite digital advancements Things to listen for: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with the guest, Jack Walker (04:17) The evolution of Walker’s data collection over 85 years (08:00) The advantages of being early tech adopters (11:00) Why feedback is more important than any other data point (13:49) How to turn customer feedback into action (19:09) The future of CX: Gen AI and predictive modeling (22:24) Build leadership skills through hands-on experience
11/20/24 • 27:55
"Ultimately, the goal of a data team should be to have a direct stake in the company’s P&L." According to Lina Mikolajczyk, director of reporting and analytics at Bumble, data should play a role in driving real business impact. In this episode, Lina shares her journey of transforming Bumble’s data team from a reactive service into a proactive force, empowering teams across the company with self-service tools and actionable insights. A key part of the transformation was building a data-driven culture, where leadership buy-in was critical to implementing changes across the organization. With leadership support, the advanced data analytics team evolved into strategic partners for the business. When you leverage data to its full potential, you can make smarter decisions, improve user experience, and measure impact in any industry. In this episode, you will learn: The importance of leadership buy-in for innovation and change Strategies for prioritizing and tracking data projects How to turn analysts into key problem solvers for business growth Things to listen for: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with the guest, Lina Mikolajczyk (06:18) Advice for early-career data professionals (09:15) Bumble’s advanced data analytics team (11:11) Building a self-service data model for stakeholders (13:56) Assessing the impact of Bumble’s data team (19:49) The data maturity curve (22:37) Which projects should data teams prioritize? (26:01) Using data to drive true business value (28:16) How data and analytics help improve Bumble’s user experience Resources: The Chief Data Officer’s Playbook, Carruthers and Jackson Scale at Speed, Velarde
11/6/24 • 34:50
Access to the right data can reshape the public sector, driving efficiency and paving the way for more effective justice. In this episode, Darren Dang, Chief Financial and Administrative Officer at Orange County Superior Court, discusses how one of the largest court systems in the U.S. modernized its operations. Through the Snowflake platform, Orange County centralized its data, leading to more streamlined processes, reduced case backlogs, and enhanced collaboration with other counties. Their innovative data approach has improved efficiency and secured millions in funding, making Orange County the blueprint for other court systems to follow. In this episode, you will learn: How data can streamline public sector operations Scalable data solutions for organizations of all sizes How to present data to secure funding and resources Things to listen for: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with the guest, Darren Dang (03:51) The modernization of Orange County courts (08:31) Operational efficiency and the CASE Framework (09:27) How real-time data helped Orange County courts reopen swiftly during COVID (13:20) Statewide data sharing and collaboration (16:24) Advocating for resources with data-driven evidence (19:32) Embracing AI and data for improved public service (25:19) Shifting from private to public sector work
10/23/24 • 31:44
Some of the most valuable leadership lessons come from challenging life experiences. In this episode, host Jess Carter and producer Chelsea Gill get personal as they talk about battling cancer, from receiving their diagnosis to deciding on a treatment plan—and the way data played a part in their decisions. Now both in remission, Jess and Chelsea reflect on how their journeys have influenced their approach to leadership. They explore how paying attention to your body can help you make better choices. Through their experiences, they learned to be patient when making decisions, to consult with experts, and to trust their judgment—skills that carry over into work and life. This episode is a reminder that data is relevant everywhere, and listening to your body can significantly impact personal well-being and job performance. In this episode, you will learn: How physical and emotional awareness can improve leadership skills The role of self-advocacy in pursuing better outcomes, whether for health or work The importance of collecting multiple data points before finalizing a decision Things to listen for: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with Chelsea and Jess (02:11) Chelsea and Jess’ diagnoses (05:42) How body awareness can help you as a leader (11:45) Advocating for yourself in both health and professional decisions (12:20) Collecting data on treatment and care (18:01) Why you should prepare for low-chance outcomes (22:45) Pause before making a decision (24:34) You have the ability to decide what’s best for you (29:29) Leadership lessons from battling cancer
10/9/24 • 31:49
To address workforce issues plaguing the country, the public and private sectors must come together to find a solution. In the fourth episode of the workforce miniseries, Workmorphis founder and CEO Emily Fabiano joins guest host Michael Schmierer to discuss how cross-agency collaboration can drive change. With shared goals and a solid implementation plan, state agencies and nonprofits can transform workforce policies for good. This episode highlights the importance of trust, communication, and data-driven decision-making to address skill gaps and employment outcomes. In this episode, you will learn: What successful cross-agency collaborations look like in practice How data transparency can empower individuals and leaders alike Why employers need to be involved in creating sustainable workforce programs Things to listen for: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with the guest, Emily Fabiano (02:18) Navigating cross-agency collaborations (06:40) Building Ohio's TechCred program (13:26) Why partnerships fail (19:18) How Workmorphis unites the public and private sectors (21:01) Engaging employers in workforce initiatives (27:30) How to be creative and courageous in using data Resources: Ohio’s TechCred Program Indiana Department of Workforce Development
9/25/24 • 31:13
While many programs are designed to help job seekers, the lack of coordination between each initiative thwarts the impactful results everyone seeks. In this episode of the workforce miniseries, founder and CEO of One Workforce Solution, John Pallasch, talks with guest host Michael Schmierer about bringing together different state agencies for seamless service. Having worked for the U.S. Department of Labor and Kentucky’s Office of Employment and Training, John has unique, first-hand insights into how government offices can make it easier for people to access training and job opportunities. He shares examples of how coordinated data efforts can improve the user experience for citizens and remove obstacles to ensure effective delivery. In this episode, you will learn: How fragmented workforce systems impact job seekers Why data integration is key to unlocking better employment opportunities How to adopt skill-based hiring and utilize AI for better job matching Things to listen for: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with guest John Pallasch (01:50) The challenges of bringing together fragmented workforce systems (06:35) Successful state programs that serve job seekers (09:24) How to break down barriers and bureaucracy (15:54) Skills-based hiring and AI matching (21:40) An employer's role in workforce development (24:58) Serving candidates as one workforce Resources: Alabama Talent Triad Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
9/18/24 • 28:42
How can we ensure that veterans find meaningful work after service? In this episode of the workforce miniseries, Sarah Harrison, interim CEO of INvets, joins guest host Michael Schmierer to explore the unique challenges veterans face as they transition to civilian careers. Sarah discusses how INvets is using data and technology to help veterans find meaningful work opportunities in Indiana and why community involvement is crucial in supporting these efforts. She also shares compelling success stories and outlines the strategic use of data to make impactful matches between veterans and employers. In this episode, you will learn: How real-time data can improve job placement and workforce development programs What role data plays in tracking needs and outcomes for veterans How to use data to build and sustain partnerships between organizations Things to listen for: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with guest, Sarah Harrison (03:36) Challenges veterans face in transitioning to civilian careers (09:11) How the INvets platform connects veterans with jobs (13:45) Finding the right fit for veterans and their families (18:11) The future of INvets (20:23) Supporting veterans in the community
9/11/24 • 25:45
When workforce issues go beyond finding workers, you must dig deeper. In this first episode of the workforce miniseries, Commissioner Michael Harrington of the Vermont Department of Labor joins guest host Michael Schmierer to discuss the root causes behind the labor shortage. Harrington explains how Vermont is using cutting-edge technology to improve service delivery and why community-level changes are essential to expanding the state’s workforce. He also shares the importance of real-time data collection and meaningful visualization to drive impactful decisions. Data and AI can improve services, inform decision-making, and offer better outcomes for citizens and businesses. In this episode, you will learn: Why real-time data is crucial to achieving desired outcomes How AI and digital modernization can transform operational efficiency The impact of well-presented data in conveying insights Things to listen for: (00:00) An introduction to the episode with guest, Michael Harrington (01:33) The underlying issues affecting Vermont’s labor shortage (09:18) Modernization of government systems (15:48) Upskilling the workforce with AI (20:20) Using data to improve efficiency and transparency (23:16) Accessing NASWA’s data hub
9/4/24 • 29:36
Podcasting has been incredibly popular for over a decade, but you might be surprised to learn that quantitative data is still scarce in this industry. In this episode of #DataDrivenLeadership, Crime Junkie’s award-winning creator and podcast host Ashley Flowers shares the humble beginnings of her show and how she used data to build her media company, audiochuck. Ashley shares how to make the best use of limited metrics and what she’s doing to overcome this hurdle. She also discusses her nonprofit work through Season of Justice, highlighting the power of data in advocacy and social impact. You won’t want to miss it. In this episode, you will learn: Building a data-driven culture, even in creative environments The importance of fan engagement and how data helps serve fans better Overcoming information barriers in traditional industries with new technology Things to listen for: [00:00] An introduction to the episode [01:56] Defining success and passion in business [07:16] Data in crime investigations [13:18] Running a media business with data [18:40] Data is crucial for business success [21:07] Advocacy and giving back Resources Crime Junkie podcast audiochuck Season of Justice Ashley’s book, All Good People Here
8/28/24 • 27:37
Have you ever wondered how to transform dry data into compelling stories that captivate your audience? Or how top leaders master the art of communication in data-driven environments? Good news—in this episode of Data-Driven Leadership, host Jess Carter sits down with returning guest Christopher Chin, a renowned leadership communication coach for data and tech professionals, to discuss just that. Christopher, the founder of The Hidden Speaker, shares his secrets to effective data storytelling, an essential skill for any leader facing complex challenges. He emphasizes why communication skills are more vital than ever, even in technically focused roles, and shares strategies for balancing technical expertise with soft skills to make your data presentations truly resonate. Christopher also shares his personal journey from shyness to confident speaker, offering valuable tips on mindset and daily improvements. By tuning in, you'll discover how to frame your presentations as compelling stories that reflect your organization's mission and connect with your audience on a human level. In this episode, you will learn: Why it is crucial to weave data into compelling narratives that resonate with your team's human experiences Why you need to balance technical precision with soft skills How simplifying complex data for your audience clarifies your message and drives your desired outcomes Things to listen for: [00:00] An introduction to the episode [06:13] A use case for data storytelling around what transportation students use to go to school [07:12] Why data must be tied to a human-centric mission [12:42] How data literacy empowers leaders to engage confidently [18:50] Overcoming shyness by reframing self-perception [23:16] Measurement challenges in learning and development [26:05] Discovering the power of your voice Resources: Connect with Christopher on LinkedIn 6 Podcasts That’ll Upgrade Your Life
8/14/24 • 31:46
Iowa has developed a unique ecosystem to set its children up for success. And what’s at the crux of that ecosystem? Data. Dr. Heather Rouse, associate professor of human development and family studies at Iowa State University, and Amanda Winslow, Early Childhood Iowa system facilitator at the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, join guest host Curt Merlau to discuss how their partnership enabled informed decision-making for Iowa’s early childhood initiative. Heather and Amanda share the process of building an integrated data system. They explain why it was a crucial piece of their initiative, unlocking insights across various early childhood programs. They emphasize the importance of trust in any data-driven project and share how they have built trust with community partners throughout their initiative. Resources from this episode: Child Trends survey Early Childhood Iowa In this episode, you’ll learn: How integrated data systems enable better decision-making Why trusted partnerships are a vital part of data-driven leadership The importance of usability, trust, and data literacy Things to listen for: [06:30] The need for an integrated data system [14:30] What an integrated data system is [18:45] The importance of usability and trust [24:00] Promoting data literate communities [29:30] How Iowa’s integrated data system has enabled better decision-making
8/7/24 • 38:12
For decades, the tennis industry lacked real-time data. Strategic decisions were made based on annual reports, creating lags in insights and inefficiencies. However, within a year United States Tennis Association Director of Digital Business Development Brooke Austin and her team initiated USTA Connect, a digital, data-driven platform gathering real-time data from players, retailers, and manufacturers. What seemed an insurmountable challenge evolved into an actionable game plan, benefiting not just the USTA but the entire tennis community. Resultant Engagement Manager Mary Catharine Grau also joins the episode. Here are some key takeaways from Mary Catharine and Brooke: 1. Align Data Strategy with Core Mission: Ensure your data strategy serves your overarching mission, whether enhancing customer experience, optimizing operations, or exploring new market opportunities. 2. Iterate and Adapt Quickly: Collect early feedback, adapt tools, and refine processes as you go. 3. Bridge Industries with Collaborative Data: Breaking down silos and fostering data-sharing relationships can lead to industry-wide advancements in any sector. Listen to the full conversation to hear the details about how USTA has developed a data-centric culture. In this episode, you will learn: How to harness the power of real-time data for decision-making How data can unite stakeholders toward a shared goal The importance of re-evaluating data strategies based on user needs Things to listen for: [00:00] An introduction to the episode [04:43] USTA Connect revolutionizing tennis data [08:40] Evolution of USTA’s data collection [12:44] Aligning all stakeholders with a common goal [18:00] How launching new platforms can bring doubts [20:02] Data is versatile and essential for growth [23:02] Stay true to data strategy and prioritize purpose
7/31/24 • 28:13
For education to be meaningful to students, we need to evolve education from a schooling system to a learning system. That requires modernization and uncommon alliances. In this episode, Erin Mote, the CEO of InnovateEDU who was also recently named District Administration Magazine's most influential and impactful leader and innovator in the K-12 Education Top 100, joins host Curt Merlau and co-host Mike Baur to discuss the transformative role of data and technology in education. Their conversation covers data interoperability, privacy, and inclusion, stressing the need for a holistic approach to leveraging technology in education. Erin explains how InnovateEDU catalyzes large-scale change by fostering collaborations between industry, nonprofits, and the public sector. She also shares how technology has drastically changed her son’s education. Creating modern infrastructure in education is more than a nice-to-have. It’s necessary to make students feel safe, known and loved. Data interoperability across state lines can make or break a student's school transition, especially for students who move frequently or require special accommodations. Erin’s insights highlight the need for modern data infrastructure in education and inspire leaders of all types to collaborate on data-driven strategies for meaningful change. Resources from this episode: Savage Inequalities by Jonathan Kozol Assessing the Educational Data Movement by Philip J. Piety EdSafe AI Alliance Project Unicorn In this episode, you will learn: How data interoperability enhances the effectiveness of the education system How uncommon alliances drive large-scale change How data can challenge bias and expand opportunities in education
7/17/24 • 36:45
How did the Children’s Hospital Association achieve a data transformation that saved them $2 million annually? They started with a strategic data assessment and got clear on strategy first. Preparation makes all the difference to the smooth execution of such a large initiative. In this episode replay, we’re taking it back with Resultant’s President, John Roach. He shares how to align your data strategy with your organizational mission, avoid the most common but least-mentioned pitfall in data, and find where data analytics can make the most impact on your organization. Lori Hotzel, CIO of the Children's Hospital Association, serves as a real-life example of the lessons John shares. You’ll hear an excerpt from a webinar where she explains the importance of sound strategy for data transformation and how it enabled her team to gain executive buy-in, quickly show ROI, and save millions of dollars on their data processing. In this episode, you will learn: How to think critically about data strategy and mechanisms How to quickly show ROI on data initiatives The importance of preparation for a successful data transformation
7/3/24 • 31:19
AI isn’t just for large corporations. Small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) can—and should—leverage the power of AI, too. Not sure how to start? Ben Schreiner, head of the Business Innovation team at AWS, is here to help. Ben joins guest host Justin Bolles to dive into AI’s effects on SMBs and lay out practical steps for getting started with it. He explains what SMB leaders need to know about security and data privacy, shares examples of real-world applications of AI, and demystifies concepts like AI models and hallucinations. Interested in learning more from AWS? You can find more information in this blog post. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to maximize AI’s impact on your business Why data infrastructure is crucial to successfully using AI How to leverage existing AI models for cost-effective solutions Things to listen for: [00:00] An introduction to the episode [02:45] How to start leveraging AI [07:00] How to train AI models on your data [12:45] How to choose a cost-effective model [19:10] How to mitigate the risks of AI [22:35] The future impact of AI [26:35] Setting a foundation with data
6/19/24 • 30:15
What keeps formerly incarcerated individuals in their communities and out of prison? The Michigan Department of Corrections set out to answer that question. The key, they discovered, is education. Kyle Kaminski, offender success administrator at Michigan Department of Corrections, and Ben Wories, director of public sector services at Resultant, join this episode to share their story. They explain how introducing technology and education in Michigan’s prisons not only transformed attitudes but also reduced recidivism rates. Their story demonstrates the effectiveness of bold leadership, the importance of public-private partnerships, and the significance of data in measuring success. In this episode, you’ll learn: How data has driven MDOC’s reduction in recidivism How public-private partnerships enable innovation How bold leadership leads to positive change
6/5/24 • 47:23
If you're a parent, you know how critical it is to connect with teachers. And research backs this intuition up. From Harvard to the Journal of Education Research, numerous studies show that family engagement in education boosts student learning outcomes. So, how do we engage families in learning? It all starts with clean data and interoperability. Here to explain the relationship between tech and family engagement in learning is Strategy and Marketing Officer Dr. Chad Stevens. Chad shares what he’s learned from his career in the education industry, including his work at ParentSquare, and the innovative ways the right technology seamlessly brings families and educators together. Chad explains the importance of clean data, interoperability, and connecting applications like ParentSquare to other forms of data to give educators and parents the information they need at the right time. He also shares his insights on making data-driven decisions as an EdTech leader and emphasizes the need to stay focused on learners. In this episode, you’ll learn: How interoperability enables family engagement in learning Why empathy and active listening pave the way for tech that supports education How to leverage both intuition and data in decision-making Things to listen for: [00:00] An introduction to the episode [06:45] The importance of data interoperability [11:45] Bridging the gap between technology and instruction [16:30] How interoperability impacts family involvement in education [20:45] Balancing intuition with data [28:30] Staying focused on learners as technology evolves
5/22/24 • 32:41
How does trust in data shape educational policy? We’re diving into this question today with Dr. David Ramadan, a seasoned executive and international consultant with over 25 years of advocacy, business, and government relations experience. Dr. Ramadan discusses the need for educational policies to embrace a data-driven approach for enhanced student outcomes and more effective resource allocation. He explains the factors contributing to the politicization of data and shares the importance of trust in creating a data-driven culture. In this episode, you will learn: Why there’s a lack of data-driven leadership in education today How to build a data-driven culture How technology can advance education
5/8/24 • 36:41
Education change-makers know that when data empowers, it’s much more powerful than data that merely meets compliance requirements. Chief Information Officer for the Georgia Department of Education, Dr. Keith Osburn, and Chief Data Officer Nicholas Handville are doing just that by giving data back to educators across the state in formats that facilitate its use as a valuable decision-making tool. In this episode, they share how they’re providing accessible, timely, and actionable data products that teachers and education leaders can use to make the best decisions for their students. They explain the critical role of system interoperability, modernizing data infrastructure, and establishing trust with all stakeholders. Throughout the conversation, we explore tangible ways data reshapes educational landscapes by shifting from a compliance to a value-driven model, particularly post-COVID. Keith and Nicholas emphasize the need for an accessible approach tailored to support schools and districts regardless of their starting capacity. In this episode, you will learn: The importance of enabling system interoperability How to shift data’s purpose from compliance to empowerment What modernization means for educational data and infrastructure
4/24/24 • 36:07
Collecting good data is only half the battle. The next major hurdle? Getting that data into the hands of the people who need it. Data Quality Campaign (DQC) Executive Vice President Paige Kowalski is on a mission to do just that: Get education data to students, families, and educators. As a first-generation college student herself, Paige understands the high stakes of making informed decisions about post-secondary education. She joins us to share her insights on the need for accessible and reliable data to guide students and parents through the complex journey from high school to college and beyond. In this episode, you’ll learn: How longitudinal data empowers students and educators The importance of easy access to educational data Why data-driven leaders need to embrace risk
4/10/24 • 35:11
Data is not just a tool. It’s a transformative force, shaping our present and defining our future. As we reflect on season three, host Jess Carter reveals how the power of data extends far beyond the business realm. From unemployment mitigation to sports innovation, data serves as a guiding force for positive change in every facet of our lives. We’re also looking forward to what’s next for the podcast: an education mini-series with Dr. Curt Merlau. He’ll shed light on how policy is influenced, the players involved, and the role of data in policy formation. Whether or not you’re in the education space, this mini-series will provide new perspective on data-driven innovation. You don’t want to miss it! In this episode, you will learn: What to expect from the upcoming education mini-series with Dr. Curt Merlau Jess’s takeaways from each episode of season three How data acts as a transformative force in every facet of our lives
3/27/24 • 15:35
Data-driven decisions are the future of employment. In this conversation, Indiana Department of Workforce Development Chief of Staff Josh Richardson shares how data can shape employment strategies and personal career paths. Josh shares his journey of working on the development of Pivot, an innovative tool designed to empower individuals experiencing job loss. He explains the importance of data sharing, collaboration, and feedback in launching the tool. Throughout the conversation, we explore the intersection of data, leadership, and public policy in Indiana's approach to workforce readiness. In this episode, you will learn: How Indiana's DWD is leveraging data to connect people with jobs How to manage skeptical feedback (and why it’s actually a good thing) How to minimize the effort required by users to achieve meaningful outcomes
3/13/24 • 39:14
Ten years of determination led Nick Elam, assistant professor and program director at Ball State University and consultant for the Canadian Elite Basketball League, to change the future of a 130-year-old institution: the game of basketball. In 2007, he realized that over-reliance on the clock in the fourth quarter brought even the most exciting basketball game to a grinding halt. Nick introduced a (literal) game-changing concept based on data and focused on enhancing the excitement of the game's conclusion, which became known as the Elam Ending. In this conversation, Nick shares how he developed the Elam Ending and the dedicated years of perseverance required to see his vision from concept to the court. He explains the importance of speaking in terms of outcomes, incorporating feedback, and remaining patient in the face of resistance and disinterest—and how these concepts translate into leadership of any type. In this episode, you will learn: How to overcome resistance and disinterest in implementing change How to incorporate feedback while staying true to your vision How to translate data into tangible benefits
2/28/24 • 50:55
A sports-like approach to work can keep teams enthused and motivated. Gamifying your team’s day-to-day could be the boost needed to reach the next big milestone. In this conversation, Resultant Client Success Leader Preston Howell dives into a concept called the Great Game of Business (GGOB), which brings financial and business literacy and transparency to every employee in an organization through an exciting sports-like environment. Preston highlights the importance of data and business metrics comprehension for employees, which is essential for questioning and improving outcomes. He shares how telling the stories behind the numbers along with balancing the financials is part of keeping a business thriving. From managing PTO spikes to the nuanced impact of sick time on revenue, we cover the strategies for smarter forecasting. In this episode, you will learn: How to empower team members through open-book management How to drive change with minigames and creative incentives How to effectively communicate data and impact
2/14/24 • 33:41
The speed of your business intelligence can make or break success in any fast-paced environment. Businesses that tap into the power of real-time data easily stay ahead of the competition. In this episode, Tinybird co-founder Jorge Sancha shares his insights on the impact real-time data has on business leadership making informed decisions. He dives into the compounding effect of real-time analytics and automation on revenue. Jorge also provides guidance on conveying the value proposition of data warehouses to leadership. In this episode, you will learn: How real-time data revolutionizes decision-making How to use data warehouses to unlock the power of historical insights How to turn data into revenue with the right infrastructure
1/31/24 • 44:22
In this episode of Data Driven Leadership, Donatos Pizza CIO Steven Graves details how he calmly navigates the intersection of tech and business amidst the feverish pace of both. Steven shares with host Jess Carter stories and lessons learned throughout his impressive career—including building a major retailer’s first e-commerce site on a limited budget and turning it into a $400 million success story. Steven says the tech part is the easy part; it’s organizational change management that can make or break a transformation’s success. The conversation includes mastering empathy, winning hearts, and nurturing change champions within your organization. In this episode, you will learn: How to effectively embrace change and advancements in AI How to drive transformational initiatives with empathy How to leverage data to listen to and delight your customers
1/17/24 • 46:11
