AI Loves Data Podcast

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AI-Driven Financial Modeling and Leading Diversity in Quantitative Analytics Jun 03, 2025

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

AI-Driven Retail: Transforming Operations with Innovation and Diversity with Angie Westbrock Apr 29, 2025

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

Driving Business Impact with AI: A Conversation with Maddie Daianu of Credit Karma Apr 22, 2025

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

Beyond the Numbers: Leadership, Diversity, and Data Apr 08, 2025

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

Bridging AI and Business: Conversational AI & Communicating Data Value Mar 25, 2025

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

AI for Good: Generative AI’s Impact & Elevating Women in STEM Mar 18, 2025

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

Building Data Excellence at Nordstrom: Scaling Standards & Measurement for Impact Feb 17, 2025

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

Exploring the Past, Present, and Future of AI/ML Jan 28, 2025

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

2025 Predictions: The Future of AI, LLMs, and Data Science Jan 14, 2025

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

Data-Driven Excellence: AI and Analytics in Action with Matthew Denesuk & Jaime Russ Sep 10, 2024

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

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