Data Driven: the podcast where we explore the emerging field of Data Science. We bring the best minds in Data, Software Engineering, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence right to you every Tuesday.
The field of data science mashes up the worlds of statistics, database architecture and software engineering. Data Scientist has been labelled by the Harvard Business Review, as "the sexiest job of the 21st century." A quick search of job search sites reveal that this field is in high demand.
In a world where Data is the new Oil, Data Science the new Refineries, consider this Car Talk for the Data Age. Every week we bring the best minds in this emerging field straight to you. Our goal is to educate and inspire our listeners so that they can be prepared to thrive in a Data Driven world.
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Your Security Model Is Stuck in the ’80s. AI Isn’t.
2026/10/05
In this episode of Data Driven, Frank La Vigne talks with Richard Luna, CEO of Protected Harbor, about why security built around keeping attackers outside a network leaves organizations exposed once someone gets in. Richard explains his concern that AI-driven attacks will probe multiple weaknesses at once, and makes the case for layered defenses, network segmentation, and infrastructure designed around the applications it supports.
The conversation moves from security architecture to the people and processes that make systems dependable. Richard shares how his team plans for failures, works across technical silos, and tests vendor claims before putting equipment into production. Frank and Richard also explore the promise of AI-assisted coding, the experience junior developers need to build, and the expensive gap between a successful demo and software that holds up under real demand.
From a storage cluster that failed on its second day of testing to a deployment that collapsed under load, the episode offers practical lessons in building durable systems and teams that take responsibility for them.
Key Takeaways• Design beyond the perimeter. Richard argues for barriers and tripwires inside the environment, with attention to how data moves between systems.
• Build around application needs. Storage performance, traffic separation, redundancy, and failure recovery should reflect the actual workload.
• Break down technical silos. Developers and infrastructure teams need each other’s knowledge to diagnose problems and implement security effectively.
• Keep human judgment in AI-assisted development. Generated code and automated tests still need experienced review and realistic load testing.
• Make accountability specific. Divide responsibilities clearly, give engineers a path to ask for help, and involve clients when they own a blocker.
• Test before trusting. Vendor assurances and a working demo do not establish how a system will behave in production.
About the GuestRichard Luna is the CEO of Protected Harbor. His career has spanned software development, managed services, hosting, DevOps, and SaaS infrastructure engineering. In this conversation, he brings that experience to the design, operation, and security of systems that businesses depend on.
Links and ResourcesRichard on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardluna/Protected Harbor:https://www.protectedharbor.com/Watch on YouTube -https://youtu.be/y6ZHVmJtf9o
Time Stamps00:00 Why the 1980s security model falls short
01:21 Introducing Richard Luna
02:32 What SaaS infrastructure engineering means
03:53 AI threats, perimeter defenses, and information silos
05:44 Building barriers and tripwires
07:17 Application-aware infrastructure
10:27 Phased change and lessons from Toyota
11:22 Rebuilding infrastructure around the workload
13:37 Collaboration, zero trust, and asking for help
15:35 Data flow, security, and finding the root cause
18:19 Listening to clients and earning long-term trust
20:08 AI-assisted coding and the next generation of developers
21:17 Why generated tests are not enough
25:17 DevOps experience and “works on my machine”
26:58 Learning from the loss of a customer
29:02 Dividing responsibilities without losing accountability
31:56 Oversight meetings that remove obstacles
33:34 Empowering clients and engineers
35:42 Respect, culture, and learning across teams
38:06 Building a business by solving clients’ problems
42:01 Planning for failure instead of fighting fires
43:01 Stress-testing enterprise storage
47:01 A deployment failure and the cost of skipping tests
48:32 Cloud scaling and runaway costs
49:48 Closing thoughts and connecting with Richard
Subscribe to Data Driven for more conversations about data science, AI, data engineering, and the people building the systems behind them.
Beyond Dashboards – How Decision Intelligence Optimizes Industrial Asset Risk
2026/09/29
In this episode of Data Driven, host Frank La Vigne sits down with Andy Pruett, co-founder and CEO of Lumiscent, to explore a topic often overlooked in the industrial sector: it’s not a data problem—it’s a decision problem.
Andy explains how industrial companies are drowning in sensor data, but struggle to transform that information into actionable decisions that minimize physical asset risk. The conversation dives into how AI-powered decision intelligence can illuminate hidden vulnerabilities, contextualize risk in real-time, and empower industries like mining, manufacturing, and energy to make smarter, faster calls on the shop floor.
From the challenges of aging infrastructure to the growing retirement wave of experienced engineers, this episode reveals how the right blend of technology and expertise is shaping a new era of operational resilience and risk management.
LinksAndy on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/andypruett/Watch on YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzpVpgoO5KALumicent -https://www.lumicent.com/Blog Post -https://www.franksworld.com/2026/09/28/navigating-the-data-tsunami-from-iot-sensors-to-smarter-decisions-in-industrial-operations/
Time Stamps00:00 Focusing on asset risk management
03:56 Managing food plant risks
07:48 Managing information in heavy industries
11:45 Workforce challenges and knowledge loss
16:00 Transforming data into decisions
18:46 Predictive maintenance challenges in plants
22:14 Adoption urgency and house analogy
27:32 Collaborating with Risk Engineers
29:16 Understanding insurance risk strategies
32:31 Insurance industry changes and parametrics
36:46 Managing risk in operations
40:03 Challenges with predictive analytics in cars
43:02 Getting into engineering from Alaska
45:37 Handling a power outage crisis
49:01 Wrapping up and contact info
How Compliance Became Cool: Richa Kaul on Security, Privacy, and AI
2026/09/21
Welcome back to "Data Driven," the podcast where we explore the cutting edge of data science, AI, and the rapidly evolving world of data governance.
In this episode, we sit down with Richa Kaul, founder and CEO of Complyance, an AI-driven platform transforming governance, risk, and compliance for enterprises. Drawing on her experience as a data privacy enthusiast and leader in the compliance space, Richa Kaul dives into the pressing challenges of securing sensitive data, the complexities of global compliance frameworks, and how AI both complicates and protects our interconnected world.
We discuss the pivotal role of the Chief Information Security Officer, the importance of proactive, layered security measures, and why compliance is rapidly gaining attention—not just as a regulatory checkbox, but as a central business strategy. With practical advice for both enterprises and individuals on maintaining digital privacy and security, this episode is essential listening for anyone navigating today’s high-stakes data landscape.
LinksRicha on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/richa-kaul/Complyance Web site -https://www.complyance.com/Complyance on LinkedIn -https://linkedin.com/company/complyancehq/Watch on YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFsUcm5u4MY
Timestamped overview
00:00 Privacy and security frameworks overview
03:54 Impact of Equifax data breach
06:21 Focusing on data security
09:58 Managing complex enterprise security controls
15:53 Focus on AI and information security
18:37 Learning from Fire Safety Education
20:47 Phone security in modern cyber warfare
24:48 Concerns about IoT device security
29:10 Protecting Privacy from Algorithms
30:44 Security and privacy concerns
35:23 GTA's social commentary on privacy
39:11 AI's Role in Cybersecurity Awareness
41:03 Global connectivity and surveillance issues
44:47 Ending on a positive note
Why Business Knowledge Beats Tool Complexity in the AI Era
2026/09/16
Welcome back to Data Driven, the podcast where we dive deep into the evolving worlds of data science, business intelligence, and artificial intelligence. In this episode, host Frank La Vigne sits down with Rob Collie, CEO of P3 Adaptive and a former Microsoft engineer, to explore the remarkable journey from Excel’s foundational role in data-driven workplaces to the transformative power of Power BI—and now, to the unfolding impact of AI in business.
Rob shares captivating stories from his time on the Excel and Power BI teams at Microsoft, offering insider perspectives on how these tools revolutionized the way organizations work with data. Together, Frank and Rob discuss the critical role of expert stewardship in products like Excel, the complexity hidden beneath familiar interfaces, and the challenges traditional BI faced before the rise of more accessible, user-centric solutions.
The conversation then turns to the cutting edge, unpacking what generative AI and large language models mean for the future of data, and why business intelligence might just be the best starting point for companies aiming to embrace AI. Whether you’re a data engineer, AI enthusiast, or business leader, this episode is packed with insights on how mastering data remains the foundation for all technological progress. Join us as we look backward and forward at what it really means to be data driven.
LinksRob on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/robcollie/Fair Game: Customizing AI to Your Business Is Easier Than You Think -https://link.amazon/B0bgySLKyGet a free Audiobook on Us -https://www.audible.com/ep/creator?afsrc=1&source_code=PDTGBPD060314004R
Time Stamps00:00 Interview with Rob Collie
06:38 Managing Excel's core development team
08:28 Learning Excel's Complexity
12:15 Discovering Power BI at Microsoft
15:12 Understanding and using SSAS MDX formula
20:23 Making Power BI user-friendly
23:29 AI exceeding expectations for crafters
26:21 Founding and evolving P3 company
28:05 AI model advancements and business impact
32:34 LLM memory limitations
35:11 Integrating AI into consulting business
40:21 Challenges with training AI chatbots
41:24 Understanding AI without going deep
46:56 AI improves business intelligence
48:34 AI enhancing business intelligence
51:53 Why LLMs succeed where CPUs fail
54:29 Core skills in tech evolution
Bridging AI and Human Intelligence – Multicolor Lasers and the Future of Photonic Computing
2026/09/15
Welcome to another episode of Impact Quantum, where we explore the cutting edge of quantum computing and emerging technologies reshaping our world.
Today, co-hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley sit down with Vivek Raghunathan, co-founder of Xscape Photonics, to delve into the revolutionary intersection of photonics, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. From comparing the astounding power efficiency of the human brain to today's AI clusters, to discussing how multicolor lasers could unlock massive advancements in data center performance and sustainability, Vivek shares how his company is tackling the growing power demands of AI by reimagining the future of hardware.
We’ll hear why the traditional focus on faster processors is giving way to a new era where the speed and efficiency of inter-chip communication—powered by light, not electricity—becomes the key to smarter, greener computing.
Tune in as we decode the transformation of data center architecture, explore the practical and philosophical implications of merging photonics and electronics, and peek into how today’s innovations lay the foundation for tomorrow’s quantum breakthroughs.
Whether you’re a seasoned technologist or just quantum-curious, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!
LinksVivek on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivek-raghunathan-8228913a/XScape Photonics -https://www.xscapephotonics.com/Watch on YouTube -https://youtu.be/NcXWZyPuyqE
Time Stamps00:00 Discussing Montreal weather transition
05:04 AI efficiency and power use
10:14 Advancing data transfer on copper wires
11:31 Copper vs. fiber optics limits
17:13 Optical cables replacing copper wires
20:36 Quantum computing and comb lasers
24:32 Integrating electronics and photonics
27:40 AI efficiency and energy consumption
31:54 Photonics on 12-inch wafers
33:39 Analog computation basics
37:50 Transition to photonic computing
42:24 Data center strategy discussions
45:32 NVIDIA's holistic system design approach
47:05 High-bandwidth cluster discussion
51:31 Reducing data center power consumption
53:42 Candace and Frank on podcasts
Digital Trust in Practice: Compliance, AI, and Human Factors with Sandeep Pauddar
2026/09/08
In this episode, Frank La Vigne sits down with Sandeep Pauddar, Head of Digital Trust at DQS, to explore the fast-evolving world of digital trust, compliance, and data security. From the growing complexities of global regulations, to the increasing intersection of AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise risk, Sandeep Pauddar shares real-world stories—including personal experiences with AI-driven phishing—and breaks down how organizations can foster a security-aware culture. Whether you're leading a startup or a global enterprise, tune in for actionable insights on building digital trust, navigating the compliance landscape, and why organizational leadership plays a crucial role in keeping data secure.
LinksSandeep on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-pauddar/DQS Global -https://www.dqsglobal.com/Extreme Ownership -https://amzn.to/4zZRiH8Get a Free Audible Book -https://www.audible.com/ep/creator?afsrc=1&source_code=PDTGBPD060314004RWatch on YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dF4D5hYM7Yw
Time Stamps00:00 Introduction and guest welcome
05:00 AI data security in various industries
06:44 Department collaboration on AI and compliance
10:58 Information security standards overview
14:23 Balancing Innovation and Standardization
18:14 Navigating global AI regulations
22:14 Regulatory advice for startup founders
25:33 Discussing common patterns in failures
28:24 Discussing link metadata in apps
33:09 Security threats and personal story
37:11 Challenges in adopting security systems
38:32 Insurance and breach response policies
43:21 Promoting Extreme Ownership on Audible
45:01 Finding more about Claude Academy
AI Adoption in Power Plants and Beyond – Trends, Challenges, and ROI Insights
2026/09/01
Welcome back to another episode of Data Driven!
This time, hosts Andy Leonard and Frank La Vigne sit down with Jim Spignardo, Director of Cloud Strategy and AI Enablement at ProArch, to explore the transformative role of AI and data engineering in critical industries. From the challenges of bringing modern AI solutions into traditional sectors like power generation and manufacturing, to the real-world impact of tools like Copilot, this episode dives deep into automation, return on investment, and the importance of outcome-driven technology adoption.
Along the way, Jim Spignardo shares hands-on stories and key lessons learned, such as how modernization happens gradually in high-stakes environments, and why ROI modeling and project management are crucial to successful innovation. Whether you’re curious about Azure AI Foundry or the future of workplace automation, this is an episode packed with practical insights and tales from the cutting edge of AI implementation.
LinksJim on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/spignardo/Watch on YouTube -https://youtu.be/XBDpsi4f0YY
Time Stamps00:00 ROI Journey with Copilot
04:57 Building with Azure AI Foundry
08:23 Implementing AI for Power Plants
12:22 Discussing 19.2K networks in power plants
14:00 Ensuring data security in devices
17:59 Cloud integration for IT operations
23:30 Discussing RPO, RTO, and ROI modeling
24:48 Switching from hobbyist to manufacturing
30:15 Introducing our AI platform Vector
34:34 AI Spend and ROI Dashboard
36:47 Improving meeting notes integration
40:48 AI in Manufacturing for Troubleshooting
45:41 Managing AI Tool Adoption
47:51 Tracking ROI and user intensity
52:03 Consulting firms spotting product chances
55:17 Increasing delivery speed with AI
56:55 Automating the house routine
Building Trust in AI – Lawrence Snap on Hallucination Detection and the Future of TrustScale
2026/08/27
In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Andy Leonard sit down with Lawrence Snapp, CEO and board member of TrustScale, an innovative AI trust and verification platform. Together, they explore the crucial topic of trust in artificial intelligence—how hallucinations from AI models can spiral out of control and why it’s essential to catch them early.
Lawrence Snapp pulls back the curtain on TrustScale’s journey from early AI and translation work in the 1980s and call center solutions, to its modern-day mission: empowering humans to verify and trust AI outputs with products like Argus.
You’ll hear about real-world impacts in fields like healthcare, legal, and research, learn how TrustScale’s deterministic engine outpaces humans in hallucination detection, and dive into debates around truth, trustworthiness, and the future of configuring AI values. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just curious about how we build trustworthy AI, this episode is packed with insights on technology, responsibility, and the power of rigorous engineering.
LinksWatch on YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjM7lxn3Qk8Lawrence on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-snapp-408339/
Time Stamps00:00 Funny AI-generated story
03:37 Company's Evolution from Translation to AI
07:32 Developing the TrustScale engine
11:35 Using AI for collaboration
13:39 Building a trust scoring system
18:12 Working at BASF and AI testing
19:32 New developments in voice assistants
23:41 Trust scale and company confidence
26:13 AI mishap in medical drama
32:48 Overcoming AI recency and cost challenges
36:54 AI's impact on career growth
38:50 Interviewing and developing talent
43:31 Starting with Polaroids and AI goals
46:54 Discussing TrustScale and AI interactions
50:42 Empowering AI customization for users
51:45 AI ethics discussion in Los Altos
Numeracy, Probability, and Business – Embracing Randomness for Better Decisions
2026/08/18
In this episode, host Andy Leonard sits down with Ilan Man, founder and CEO of Paradox Machines, a full-stack data and AI company based in Brooklyn. Ilan shares his fascinating journey from an actuarial career to the dynamic field of data science, exploring the rise of big data, the art of translating complex mathematics into code, and the importance of numeracy in society.
Together, they discuss the paradoxes at the heart of data and AI, the challenges of decision-making under uncertainty, and why intuition, risk management, and storytelling remain critical in a world driven by data. Whether you're a data enthusiast, decision-maker, or just curious about how numbers shape our lives, this conversation delivers valuable insights and a healthy dose of skepticism about the limits, and possibilities, of analytics.
Linkshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ilanman/
Time Stamps00:00 Starting a career in data science
03:34 Discovering a career in actuarial science
08:17 Learning coding and joining Squarespace
11:40 Understanding Probability in Code
15:36 Questioning Confidence in Decision-Making
20:06 Discussing COVID vaccine effectiveness
21:09 Understanding vaccine effectiveness
24:41 Consumers interacting with unpredictable AI
29:35 Discussing disease perception and interpretation
33:01 Casino audiobook and extra details
35:41 Balancing data-driven decisions
40:07 Career journey to founding Paradox
40:49 Building a data platform with AI
46:41 Data's Role in Decision Making
47:30 Value and limits of data-driven decisions
Tackling Data Engineering Challenges with Autonomous AI Agents
2026/07/28
In this episode, Frank La Vigne sits down with Pradnesh Patil, co-founder and CEO of Altima AI, to explore how AI is revolutionizing the world of data engineering. Together, they dive into the challenges of modern data stacks, the explosion of tools and technologies, and how AI-powered agents are transforming the way data teams build and maintain complex systems. From automating data pipeline management to optimizing infrastructure and safeguarding governance, Pradnesh Patil shares insights on the next wave of data engineering and what the future holds for professionals in the field. Whether you’re a veteran data engineer or a student curious about the evolving landscape, this episode offers practical advice, industry trends, and an optimistic look at how embracing AI can supercharge your career and your organization’s capabilities.
LinksPradnesh's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pradneshpatil/Watch on YouTube -https://youtu.be/vxQrjE-U3gw
Time Stamps00:00 Evolution of data technology tools
04:11 Managing tool stack complexity
09:09 Discussion on AI guardrails and future
10:55 Managing MCB server outputs
14:32 Streamlining Data Pipeline Efficiency
18:48 Managing and Deleting Memories
21:12 AI security and virtual employees
27:16 AI transforming jobs and automation
30:43 Impact of AI on IT Industry
32:32 Upgrading legacy systems with AI
37:10 Importance of Data Engineering
39:10 Changing role of data managers
42:45 Home lab challenges and data management
Unlocking Enterprise Knowledge – AI, Document Comprehension, and the Future of RAG
2026/07/20
In this episode, hosts Candace Gillhoolley and Frank La Vigne are joined by Neil Katz, Chief Product Officer at Valantor AI—a four-time Emmy winner whose unconventional journey spans from technology startups to award-winning journalism, and now to the forefront of enterprise AI innovation.
Neil shares his unique perspective on the evolution of AI, from the early days of digital design and machine learning, to building large-scale AI and document intelligence platforms for major organizations. The conversation explores the critical challenges of knowledge extraction, document comprehension, and securing sensitive data in today's era of sovereign AI. Together, they uncover the hidden complexities behind Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), discuss the importance of hybrid search strategies, and reflect on where the field is heading as enterprise needs push the boundaries of what AI can do.
Whether you're a data professional, an AI enthusiast, or just curious about how language models are transforming how we understand information, you won’t want to miss this candid and thought-provoking deep dive into the future of AI and data integrity.
LinksNeil on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilkatz/Watch on YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qf8qifz_RL8
Time Stamps00:00 Early career in tech and journalism
04:01 Early consumer AI experiences
06:49 Early AI and machine learning developments
11:43 Anthropic's new findings on AI models
16:15 Data sovereignty in AI systems
19:27 Implementing open source AI models
22:49 Breaking down documents for models
25:45 Understanding the RAG system process
28:47 Challenges in AI data processing
31:22 Challenges in RAG with Insurance Data
36:35 Understanding and managing data security
39:35 Early days with OpenAI GPT
40:48 Explaining vector and similarity search
46:57 The evolution of computing models
47:29 Computing evolution to cloud and edge
Demystifying State in AI: Smarter Reasoning and Real-World Legal Applications
2026/07/13
In this episode, Frank sits down with Devansh Devansh, founder and head of AI at Iris, whose journey spans from building a thriving tech community of over 10,000 on Substack to developing advanced legal AI tools that revolutionize how lawyers work through complex reasoning.
The conversation explores Devansh Devanche's unconventional path into AI, his experiences navigating the evolving landscape of machine learning, and the unique challenges of creating transparent, trustworthy agentic systems in legal tech. Along the way, we uncover the story behind his distinctive "chocolate milk cult leader" branding, his philosophy on startup building, and why he believes that innovation in AI is more accessible than it may seem.
Whether you’re a technologist, a lawyer, or just curious about the future of AI, this is an episode packed with insight, optimism, and actionable advice.
LinksDevansh on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/devansh-devansh-516004168/Devansh on SubStack -https://substack.com/@chocolatemilkcultleader
Time Stamps00:00 Transitioning to Substack and AI Journey
05:32 Starting to publish research insights
07:37 Connecting with Senior Leaders
13:27 Issues with Legal AI Systems
16:55 Challenges with current AI systems
19:49 Demand for AI in legal and non-legal sectors
23:29 Challenges with AI system state management
24:51 Compounding AI returns over time
30:50 Meeting the CEO of Iris
34:20 Tailoring Startup Strategy to Strengths
36:26 Insights on Cluli's Market Presence
40:27 Opportunities in AI Innovation
42:57 Reflecting on market evolutions
How Data and AI Are Revolutionizing Philanthropy for Nonprofits and Donors
2026/06/30
In this episode, the conversation focused on the intersection of data intelligence, artificial intelligence, and philanthropy. A key theme that emerged was the growing importance of data-driven decision making in the nonprofit sector, which, despite representing 5% of the GDP and employing 10% of the American workforce, has lagged behind other industries in the adoption of technology and data practices.
The discussion explored how organizations like Impala are aiming to transform the philanthropic landscape by providing robust data platforms and AI-driven tools to empower both large foundations and small nonprofits. Several points were raised, including the unique challenges philanthropy faces in measuring impact versus the traditional business focus on ROI, the rise of a new generation of data-savvy philanthropists, and how collaborative giving and customized data solutions are shaping a more transparent, effective, and innovative sector.
Tune in as we examine how technology is not just changing the way give, but also who gives, why, and with what outcome—pushing philanthropy into a new age powered by actionable insights and human connection.
LinksImpala -https://impala.digital/
Time Stamps00:00 Importance of Data and Relationships
03:59 Joining Impala through philanthropy
09:00 Measuring organizational impact
12:15 Engaging younger donors with data
14:38 Impala's role in education analysis
20:24 Empowering small nonprofits with AI
22:50 Impala's AI platform strategy
25:07 Improving investment decisions with AI
28:25 Integrating AI with Data Platforms
32:01 Using AI in philanthropic decisions
34:58 Discussing collaborative giving trends
39:28 Supporting small businesses with tech
42:35 Appreciation and social impact goals
Why ‘Data-Driven Decisions’ Are a Myth
2026/06/23
This week, we dive deep into the world of data, decision-making, and uncertainty with Dale Nesbitt, a lecturer at Stanford and principal at Arrowhead Economics.
Drawing on his unique upbringing in a mining town, Dale Nesbitt shares how witnessing raw data collection firsthand shaped his perspective on what it really takes to make informed decisions—hint: it's not just about having more data.
Together, we explore the pitfalls of relying solely on data for critical choices, the importance of understanding probability and risk, and why data-gathering itself is often a noisy and imperfect process.
From commodity pricing and speculation in oil markets to the real-world impact of data-driven decisions in healthcare, Dale Nesbitt reveals why true analytic power comes from combining rigorous analysis, sound judgment, and the right kind of data—not just more of it.
Join us as we challenge myths around "data-driven" decisions, unpack lessons from COVID-era data science, and discover why wisdom of the crowd, probability, and a healthy respect for uncertainty are key to navigating our data-rich world.
Links
Dale's LinkedIn profile -https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-nesbitt-b574a83a/Watch on YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USOKgv1avHo
Time Stamps
00:00 Growing up in a mining town
05:44 Data as the New Crude Oil
07:31 Estimating and Understanding Stochastic Processes
12:49 Impact of Strait of Hormuz Closure
14:19 Challenges of AI in Economics
17:05 Betting on events and elections
21:43 Bayesian analysis and hydroxychloroquine data
23:28 Understanding data and judgment
26:38 Analyzing data for better decisions
Bulletproof KDE and Why Linux is Winning Over Developers
2026/06/15
On this episode of Data Driven, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by hardware and open source expert Michael Makowski to discuss the shifting landscape of developer workstations and AI hardware. As Windows usage declines among developers and AI engineers, Linux is experiencing a surge in desktop adoption. Michael takes us inside the latest efforts to make Linux not just accessible, but enterprise-grade—sharing how his team is driving advancements in stability, reliability, and user experience for validated Linux hardware.
We talk about the dramatic improvements in Linux desktop support, the importance of privacy and avoiding surveillance-driven proprietary systems, and the game-changing features coming to market—like automated system rollback and curated app installs. Plus, we explore the current state of gaming on Linux, the technical edge unified memory brings to AI development, and why companies are increasingly opting for supported, Linux-based workstations. Whether you’re Linux-curious, rethinking your hardware choices, or just passionate about the future of developer tools and data engineering, this conversation will equip you for what’s next.
LinksMike's Company Website -https://kfocus.org/Mike's LinkedIn Profile -https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-mikowski-7601393/Watch this show on YouTube -https://youtu.be/E03EObEa2lQ
Time Stamps00:00 Website security concerns and solutions
05:03 Supporting KDE for long-term stability
09:45 Desktop environment compatibility issues
10:46 Conflicts in desktop environments
15:07 AMD vs Intel & Nvidia Performance
18:58 Showing the production site
23:49 Steam's Linux runtime environment
25:43 Running Windows games on Linux
29:47 Concerns about software privacy issues
33:31 Migrating from Windows challenges
37:48 Setting up machine learning hardware
41:31 Resolving system issues efficiently
42:59 Setting up a VPN correctly
47:40 Running VMs on alternative OS
52:49 Upcoming OS Upgrade Details
56:19 Rigorous testing and development process
57:25 Tuning BTRFS for performance
Podcast reviews
Read Data Driven podcast reviews
4.8 out of 5
44 reviews
★★★★★
McNole 2025/06/24
Excellent Podcast!
The Data Driven podcast is a must-listen for anyone passionate about data science, AI, and the transformative power of analytics. Hosts Frank La Vigne...
★★★★★
Pablo [SOP] 2025/03/06
A Must-Listen for Data Enthusiasts!
Data Driven is an incredible podcast for anyone passionate about data science, AI, and machine learning! The hosts bring in top experts every week, ma...
★★★★★
Hhhhhrtttttdcgaggagh 2023/09/22
Fun and informative
This show is an example of my favorite way to learn. Which is to make it fun. Do yourself a favor and give it a listen if you have any interest in dat...
★★★★★
vb_hal 2023/07/20
Data Guys super entertaining
Frank and Andy are hugely entertaining and informative. The “layoff” show is one of my favorites!
★★★★★
LisaIsHereForIt 2022/03/14
Utopia for data nerds! 💥
Frank, Andy, and their highly knowledgeable guests are making data fun again! The wide variety of topics they cover and the engaging way in which they...
★★★★★
Shaolin Soprano 2019/11/08
im geeking out!
Excellent show right up my alley of data science. I been looking into super computers and the endless possibilities of what our future holds. Thx for ...
★★★★★
Wingnut4772 2019/11/08
Perfect for a Tech Geek like me.
I am obsessed with AI and science and this podcast delivers. Subscribed!
★★★★★
Gisele_Oliveira 2019/08/25
Love this show!
This is a fascinating show about data, ai, and data science. We are living in a really exciting time and data is a big thing that can help us understa...
★★★★★
MattBMaverick 2018/11/04
Data Science Gold!
If Data Science is your thing, and you want cutting edge content on machine learning and AI, this is the podcast for you!