<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><?xml-stylesheet href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/style.xsl" type="text/xsl"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:podcast="https://podcastindex.org/namespace/1.0"><channel><atom:link href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/data-driven-leadership/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><title><![CDATA[AI & Data Driven Leadership]]></title><podcast:guid>2b3e3b0f-bcc3-5a82-821e-cecf18973073</podcast:guid><lastBuildDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:00:04 +0000</lastBuildDate><generator>Captivate.fm</generator><language><![CDATA[en]]></language><copyright><![CDATA[Copyright 2026 Dean Guida]]></copyright><managingEditor>Dean Guida</managingEditor><itunes:summary><![CDATA[The AI & Data Driven Leadership Podcast offers a platform for leaders like you to share your experiences and strategies with a dedicated audience of business professionals and fellow executives from around the world.

If you lead a company with at least 30 professional employees, we invite you to join us and share how data-driven decision-making has helped you solve complex problems, align strategic goals, and foster growth within your organization.

Each episode of AI & Data Driven Leadership is a celebration of leadership, innovation, and the data-driven tactics that are driving the future of business. We bring forward stories of success and lessons learned from industry leaders who have navigated today’s most pressing challenges and turned them into opportunities for growth.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application. ]]></itunes:summary><image><url>https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg</url><title>AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership</title><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link></image><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><itunes:owner><itunes:name>Dean Guida</itunes:name></itunes:owner><itunes:author>Dean Guida</itunes:author><description>The AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership Podcast offers a platform for leaders like you to share your experiences and strategies with a dedicated audience of business professionals and fellow executives from around the world.

If you lead a company with at least 30 professional employees, we invite you to join us and share how data-driven decision-making has helped you solve complex problems, align strategic goals, and foster growth within your organization.

Each episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership is a celebration of leadership, innovation, and the data-driven tactics that are driving the future of business. We bring forward stories of success and lessons learned from industry leaders who have navigated today’s most pressing challenges and turned them into opportunities for growth.

Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application. </description><link>https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm</link><atom:link href="https://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com" rel="hub"/><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><itunes:category text="Business"><itunes:category text="Entrepreneurship"/></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Business"><itunes:category text="Management"/></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Business"><itunes:category text="Careers"/></itunes:category><podcast:locked>no</podcast:locked><podcast:medium>podcast</podcast:medium><item><title>65 - Trusting the Machine: Building Confidence in AI-Driven Marketing Decisions with Seva Ustinov</title><itunes:title>65 - Trusting the Machine: Building Confidence in AI-Driven Marketing Decisions with Seva Ustinov</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, your host Dean Guida interviews Seva Ustinov, CEO of Plurio AI. </p><p>Seva shares his journey from running a marketing agency to building Plurio AI, an AI-driven platform that automates performance marketing for large advertisers. They discuss the challenges of campaign optimization, data integration, and building trust in AI agents. Seva explains how Plurio AI streamlines repetitive marketing tasks, enabling leaner teams and faster creative testing. The conversation also covers data privacy, the evolving role of marketers, and the importance of workflow automation in staying competitive in digital marketing.</p><p>Check out Seva's work <a href="https://www.learnworlds.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Seva on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siozos/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, your host Dean Guida interviews Seva Ustinov, CEO of Plurio AI. </p><p>Seva shares his journey from running a marketing agency to building Plurio AI, an AI-driven platform that automates performance marketing for large advertisers. They discuss the challenges of campaign optimization, data integration, and building trust in AI agents. Seva explains how Plurio AI streamlines repetitive marketing tasks, enabling leaner teams and faster creative testing. The conversation also covers data privacy, the evolving role of marketers, and the importance of workflow automation in staying competitive in digital marketing.</p><p>Check out Seva's work <a href="https://www.learnworlds.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Seva on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siozos/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">78f2fb2f-cb22-416c-b828-0d87fd2ae648</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/78f2fb2f-cb22-416c-b828-0d87fd2ae648.mp3" length="44858862" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>53:24</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>64 - Panos Siozos: Innovation in Learning: Bridging Science and Practicality Through EdTech</title><itunes:title>64 - Panos Siozos: Innovation in Learning: Bridging Science and Practicality Through EdTech</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida hosts Panos Siozos, Co-founder and CEO of LearnWorlds, as they discuss Panos’s journey from academia to leading an edtech startup.</p><p>Panos shares insights on building a remote-first company, the integration of AI in online learning, and balancing scientific rigor with practical usability. He emphasizes AI as a tool to support, not replace, human educators and highlights the importance of privacy, ethical AI use, and continuous learning. The conversation covers managing distributed teams, adapting to rapid change, and the future of customer education in the AI era.</p><p>Check out Panos's work <a href="https://www.learnworlds.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Panos on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siozos/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida hosts Panos Siozos, Co-founder and CEO of LearnWorlds, as they discuss Panos’s journey from academia to leading an edtech startup.</p><p>Panos shares insights on building a remote-first company, the integration of AI in online learning, and balancing scientific rigor with practical usability. He emphasizes AI as a tool to support, not replace, human educators and highlights the importance of privacy, ethical AI use, and continuous learning. The conversation covers managing distributed teams, adapting to rapid change, and the future of customer education in the AI era.</p><p>Check out Panos's work <a href="https://www.learnworlds.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Panos on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/siozos/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">35a8c6ad-13e4-46d1-b8a0-58b092f90872</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/35a8c6ad-13e4-46d1-b8a0-58b092f90872.mp3" length="46147422" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>54:56</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>63 - Rajeev Butani: Leading in the Age of AI: Innovation with Accountability</title><itunes:title>63 - Rajeev Butani: Leading in the Age of AI: Innovation with Accountability</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, your host Dean Guida interviews Rajeev Butani, Chairman and CEO of MediaMint, about the integration of AI in enterprise operations.</p><p>Rajeev shares insights from his extensive tech leadership background, emphasizing AI as an operational tool that augments, not replaces, human roles. He discusses MediaMint’s persona-based AI assistants, the importance of human accountability, and the evolving “service as software” model. The conversation covers AI’s impact on workforce skills, organizational adoption challenges, risk management, and practical advice for young professionals navigating the future of work in an AI-driven economy.</p><p>Check out Rajeev's work <a href="https://mediamint.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Rajeev on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajeev-butani/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, your host Dean Guida interviews Rajeev Butani, Chairman and CEO of MediaMint, about the integration of AI in enterprise operations.</p><p>Rajeev shares insights from his extensive tech leadership background, emphasizing AI as an operational tool that augments, not replaces, human roles. He discusses MediaMint’s persona-based AI assistants, the importance of human accountability, and the evolving “service as software” model. The conversation covers AI’s impact on workforce skills, organizational adoption challenges, risk management, and practical advice for young professionals navigating the future of work in an AI-driven economy.</p><p>Check out Rajeev's work <a href="https://mediamint.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Rajeev on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajeev-butani/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">d84b4d7a-5cc9-4d68-8eef-792f8313134b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/d84b4d7a-5cc9-4d68-8eef-792f8313134b.mp3" length="29650110" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>41:11</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>62 - Ritam Gandhi: Embracing Probabilities: How AI is Redefining Quality Assurance in Software</title><itunes:title>62 - Ritam Gandhi: Embracing Probabilities: How AI is Redefining Quality Assurance in Software</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, your host Dean Guida interviews Ritam Gandhi, founder of Studio Graphene, about the transformative impact of AI on software development, product design, and organizational culture.</p><p>Ritam shares his journey from investment banking tech to building an AI-native studio, emphasizing the shift from deterministic to probabilistic software. They discuss challenges in quality assurance, distributed AI adoption, data security, and the evolving nature of user interfaces. The conversation also explores the societal implications of AI, including privacy, risk management, and the uneven distribution of AI’s benefits, while highlighting optimism for AI’s future potential.</p><p>Check out Ritam's work <a href="https://www.studiographene.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ritam on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritam-gandhi/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, your host Dean Guida interviews Ritam Gandhi, founder of Studio Graphene, about the transformative impact of AI on software development, product design, and organizational culture.</p><p>Ritam shares his journey from investment banking tech to building an AI-native studio, emphasizing the shift from deterministic to probabilistic software. They discuss challenges in quality assurance, distributed AI adoption, data security, and the evolving nature of user interfaces. The conversation also explores the societal implications of AI, including privacy, risk management, and the uneven distribution of AI’s benefits, while highlighting optimism for AI’s future potential.</p><p>Check out Ritam's work <a href="https://www.studiographene.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ritam on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritam-gandhi/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">f23c8b5a-a76d-4238-ba79-99aae353d355</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/f23c8b5a-a76d-4238-ba79-99aae353d355.mp3" length="25363005" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>30:12</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>61 - Craig Harris: Crafting Authentic Media Pitches: The AI Advantage for Everyone</title><itunes:title>61 - Craig Harris: Crafting Authentic Media Pitches: The AI Advantage for Everyone</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, your host Dean Guida interviews Craig Harris, founder of Lookatmedia, an AI-powered PR and media company.</p><p>Craig shares insights from his 35-year communications career and explains how his platform uses a specialized AI language model to create authentic, journalist-tailored press releases and visual content. The discussion covers AI’s role in democratizing PR, the importance of authenticity over AI-generated images, and the future of vertical language models in media. Craig emphasizes maintaining credibility, combating fake news, and how AI can empower organizations of all sizes to tell compelling, trustworthy stories.</p><p>Check out Craig's work <a href="Lookatmedia.co" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Craig on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigharris2/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, your host Dean Guida interviews Craig Harris, founder of Lookatmedia, an AI-powered PR and media company.</p><p>Craig shares insights from his 35-year communications career and explains how his platform uses a specialized AI language model to create authentic, journalist-tailored press releases and visual content. The discussion covers AI’s role in democratizing PR, the importance of authenticity over AI-generated images, and the future of vertical language models in media. Craig emphasizes maintaining credibility, combating fake news, and how AI can empower organizations of all sizes to tell compelling, trustworthy stories.</p><p>Check out Craig's work <a href="Lookatmedia.co" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Craig on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigharris2/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">4f130bf3-f629-4713-9e2b-bda4aaf49c9d</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/4f130bf3-f629-4713-9e2b-bda4aaf49c9d.mp3" length="35934272" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>42:47</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>60 - Vlad Kovacevic: Automating Automotive Lending: How AI Enhances Efficiency and Decision-Making</title><itunes:title>60 - Vlad Kovacevic: Automating Automotive Lending: How AI Enhances Efficiency and Decision-Making</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, your host Dean Guida interviews Vlad Kovacevic, Founder and CEO of Inovatec, about transforming automotive and powersports lending through data-driven automation and AI.</p><p>Vlad shares how Inovatec uses AI to process both structured and unstructured data, improving efficiency, accuracy, and compliance for lenders. The discussion covers company culture, core values, data governance, and ISO certifications. Vlad offers practical advice for AI adoption, highlights measurable ROI for clients, and explores the future impact of AI on lending and the car-buying experience. The episode emphasizes trust, transparency, and the importance of augmenting, not replacing, human expertise with AI.</p><p>Check out Vlad's work <a href="https://www.inovatec.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Vlad on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/inovatec-systems/?originalSubdomain=ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, your host Dean Guida interviews Vlad Kovacevic, Founder and CEO of Inovatec, about transforming automotive and powersports lending through data-driven automation and AI.</p><p>Vlad shares how Inovatec uses AI to process both structured and unstructured data, improving efficiency, accuracy, and compliance for lenders. The discussion covers company culture, core values, data governance, and ISO certifications. Vlad offers practical advice for AI adoption, highlights measurable ROI for clients, and explores the future impact of AI on lending and the car-buying experience. The episode emphasizes trust, transparency, and the importance of augmenting, not replacing, human expertise with AI.</p><p>Check out Vlad's work <a href="https://www.inovatec.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Vlad on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/inovatec-systems/?originalSubdomain=ca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">f4a920fc-136b-4382-8ee3-c308e045f934</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/f4a920fc-136b-4382-8ee3-c308e045f934.mp3" length="24860242" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>25:54</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>59 - Rupali Kumbhani: Empowering Teams to Innovate: The Key to Successful AI Adoption</title><itunes:title>59 - Rupali Kumbhani: Empowering Teams to Innovate: The Key to Successful AI Adoption</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Rupali Kumbhani, a Global Consultant and Strategic Advisor, about her interdisciplinary journey from physics to technology and business.</p><p>Rupali shares insights on leading AI and data initiatives, emphasizing the importance of aligning people, priorities, and purpose. She discusses overcoming fear and resistance, fostering innovation through risk-taking, and balancing ambition with realistic execution. Rupali highlights practical strategies for governance, training, and scaling AI, and stresses the need for empathy and adaptability in transformation. The conversation also explores industry pivots, such as the postal service’s reinvention, and the enduring value of human connection in a digital world.</p><p>Connect with Rupali on LinkedIn <a href="linkedin.com/in/rupalikumbhani/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Rupali Kumbhani, a Global Consultant and Strategic Advisor, about her interdisciplinary journey from physics to technology and business.</p><p>Rupali shares insights on leading AI and data initiatives, emphasizing the importance of aligning people, priorities, and purpose. She discusses overcoming fear and resistance, fostering innovation through risk-taking, and balancing ambition with realistic execution. Rupali highlights practical strategies for governance, training, and scaling AI, and stresses the need for empathy and adaptability in transformation. The conversation also explores industry pivots, such as the postal service’s reinvention, and the enduring value of human connection in a digital world.</p><p>Connect with Rupali on LinkedIn <a href="linkedin.com/in/rupalikumbhani/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">f0cdc34e-0e25-4ae3-9376-570923b44ba0</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/f0cdc34e-0e25-4ae3-9376-570923b44ba0.mp3" length="35785053" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>42:36</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>58 - Kaitlyn Albertoli: Predicting Failures Before They Happen: The Power of AI in Utility Management</title><itunes:title>58 - Kaitlyn Albertoli: Predicting Failures Before They Happen: The Power of AI in Utility Management</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean interviews Kaitlyn Albertoli, co-founder and CEO of Buzz Solutions, about using AI and computer vision to help utilities analyze inspection data and improve grid reliability.</p><p>Kaitlyn shares her journey into energy and sustainability, the challenges of introducing AI to a risk-averse industry, and her experience as a female leader. They discuss grid modernization, wildfire prevention, and the need for proactive maintenance amid rising demand. Kaitlyn highlights the importance of collaboration, transparency, and cybersecurity, and encourages innovation to build a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable energy future.</p><p>Check out Kaitlyn's work <a href="https://www.buzzsolutions.co/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Kaitlyn on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlyn-claire-albertoli/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean interviews Kaitlyn Albertoli, co-founder and CEO of Buzz Solutions, about using AI and computer vision to help utilities analyze inspection data and improve grid reliability.</p><p>Kaitlyn shares her journey into energy and sustainability, the challenges of introducing AI to a risk-averse industry, and her experience as a female leader. They discuss grid modernization, wildfire prevention, and the need for proactive maintenance amid rising demand. Kaitlyn highlights the importance of collaboration, transparency, and cybersecurity, and encourages innovation to build a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable energy future.</p><p>Check out Kaitlyn's work <a href="https://www.buzzsolutions.co/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Kaitlyn on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlyn-claire-albertoli/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">24006732-6c73-4b74-96e0-b40ff3b62f30</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/24006732-6c73-4b74-96e0-b40ff3b62f30.mp3" length="34688341" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>36:08</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>57 - Elvin Aghammadzada: The AI Co-Pilot: Enhancing Human Creativity and Productivity</title><itunes:title>57 - Elvin Aghammadzada: The AI Co-Pilot: Enhancing Human Creativity and Productivity</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, your host Dean Guida interviews Elvin Aghammadzada, an AI Architect at NVIDIA, about his journey in artificial intelligence and the field’s rapid evolution.</p><p>Elvin shares insights on foundational AI breakthroughs, the importance of data quality, and the challenges of building advanced models. He discusses the future of AI and robotics, the need for human collaboration, and how AI democratizes access to knowledge and innovation. Elvin encourages listeners to view AI as a creative co-pilot and highlights the ongoing role of human ingenuity in shaping technology’s future.</p><p>Check out Nvidia <a href="https://www.nvidia.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Elvin on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/elvin-agammed/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, your host Dean Guida interviews Elvin Aghammadzada, an AI Architect at NVIDIA, about his journey in artificial intelligence and the field’s rapid evolution.</p><p>Elvin shares insights on foundational AI breakthroughs, the importance of data quality, and the challenges of building advanced models. He discusses the future of AI and robotics, the need for human collaboration, and how AI democratizes access to knowledge and innovation. Elvin encourages listeners to view AI as a creative co-pilot and highlights the ongoing role of human ingenuity in shaping technology’s future.</p><p>Check out Nvidia <a href="https://www.nvidia.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Elvin on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/elvin-agammed/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">3c019e5a-4f97-489d-8d47-b7c06e9b698b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/3c019e5a-4f97-489d-8d47-b7c06e9b698b.mp3" length="30839894" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:07</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>56 - Anders Lillevik: Mastering Procurement by Solving the Data Fragmentation Challenge</title><itunes:title>56 - Anders Lillevik: Mastering Procurement by Solving the Data Fragmentation Challenge</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Anders Lillevik, Founder and CEO of Focal Point, about the evolution of procurement from a cost-focused, transactional role to a strategic, data-driven discipline.</p><p>Anders discusses how AI and data analytics are transforming procurement, enabling automation of routine tasks and deeper risk management. He highlights the importance of leadership, trust in AI, and balancing innovation with regulatory compliance. Practical examples illustrate how procurement analytics can optimize costs and working capital. The conversation also explores the future of procurement roles and the challenges of AI adoption in different regulatory environments.</p><p>Check out Anders's work <a href="https://www.getfocalpoint.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Anders on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lillevik/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Anders Lillevik, Founder and CEO of Focal Point, about the evolution of procurement from a cost-focused, transactional role to a strategic, data-driven discipline.</p><p>Anders discusses how AI and data analytics are transforming procurement, enabling automation of routine tasks and deeper risk management. He highlights the importance of leadership, trust in AI, and balancing innovation with regulatory compliance. Practical examples illustrate how procurement analytics can optimize costs and working capital. The conversation also explores the future of procurement roles and the challenges of AI adoption in different regulatory environments.</p><p>Check out Anders's work <a href="https://www.getfocalpoint.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Anders on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lillevik/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">4026c26c-14d5-45c6-af81-c11529001188</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/4026c26c-14d5-45c6-af81-c11529001188.mp3" length="30198634" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>31:27</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>55 - Jim Carlough: Leading with Integrity in the Age of AI: A New Paradigm</title><itunes:title>55 - Jim Carlough: Leading with Integrity in the Age of AI: A New Paradigm</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews leadership coach and author Jim Carlough about his 30+ year career in healthcare leadership.</p><p>Jim shares insights on leading with integrity, building trust, and the importance of emotional intelligence. The conversation explores the evolving role of AI and data analytics in leadership, emphasizing that while AI can enhance decision-making, human judgment remains essential. Jim offers practical advice for leaders adopting AI, highlights the need for governance, and discusses preparing teams for future technological changes. He also talks about his book, "The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership," and his commitment to helping others succeed.</p><p>Check out Jim's work <a href="https://www.jimcarlough.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Jim on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcarlough" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Check out Jim's book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DQWC4JWS?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_3W5S1DT5JJ2CB9V8R908&amp;ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_3W5S1DT5JJ2CB9V8R908&amp;social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_3W5S1DT5JJ2CB9V8R908&amp;bestFormat=true" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews leadership coach and author Jim Carlough about his 30+ year career in healthcare leadership.</p><p>Jim shares insights on leading with integrity, building trust, and the importance of emotional intelligence. The conversation explores the evolving role of AI and data analytics in leadership, emphasizing that while AI can enhance decision-making, human judgment remains essential. Jim offers practical advice for leaders adopting AI, highlights the need for governance, and discusses preparing teams for future technological changes. He also talks about his book, "The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership," and his commitment to helping others succeed.</p><p>Check out Jim's work <a href="https://www.jimcarlough.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Jim on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcarlough" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Check out Jim's book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DQWC4JWS?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_3W5S1DT5JJ2CB9V8R908&amp;ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_3W5S1DT5JJ2CB9V8R908&amp;social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_3W5S1DT5JJ2CB9V8R908&amp;bestFormat=true" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">51048b95-6c60-4bc9-bf81-b3392f78bd4e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/51048b95-6c60-4bc9-bf81-b3392f78bd4e.mp3" length="31122128" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:25</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>54 - Bryan Lee: Overcoming Legal Inefficiencies: The Role of AI in Modern In-House Counsel</title><itunes:title>54 - Bryan Lee: Overcoming Legal Inefficiencies: The Role of AI in Modern In-House Counsel</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, your host Dean Guida interviews Bryan Lee, Co-founder and CEO of Ruli AI, about his unique background as both a lawyer and engineer, and his journey through Google and Meta to founding Ruli AI.</p><p>Bryan discusses how Ruli AI uses AI to help in-house legal teams manage a wide range of legal tasks efficiently, not just contracts. They explore the challenges of legal tech adoption, privacy, reducing AI errors, and integrating with familiar tools like Word and Outlook. Bryan also shares insights on the future of legal work, team culture, and Ruli AI’s vision for transforming legal operations.</p><p>Check out Bryan's work <a href="www.ruli.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Bryan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brybry/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, your host Dean Guida interviews Bryan Lee, Co-founder and CEO of Ruli AI, about his unique background as both a lawyer and engineer, and his journey through Google and Meta to founding Ruli AI.</p><p>Bryan discusses how Ruli AI uses AI to help in-house legal teams manage a wide range of legal tasks efficiently, not just contracts. They explore the challenges of legal tech adoption, privacy, reducing AI errors, and integrating with familiar tools like Word and Outlook. Bryan also shares insights on the future of legal work, team culture, and Ruli AI’s vision for transforming legal operations.</p><p>Check out Bryan's work <a href="www.ruli.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Bryan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brybry/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">8c8823b5-d8ab-4c1a-a4d0-6adeb9ade2a4</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/8c8823b5-d8ab-4c1a-a4d0-6adeb9ade2a4.mp3" length="31845485" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>37:55</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>53 - Bhavini Kamdar: How Smart Remote Teams Can End the Leaking Bucket Problem in Your Business</title><itunes:title>53 - Bhavini Kamdar: How Smart Remote Teams Can End the Leaking Bucket Problem in Your Business</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, your host Dean Guida speaks to Bhavini Kamdar, Founder and CEO of Infinity Business Solutions. Bhavini shares her entrepreneurial journey from finance to building a company that manages remote teams for small businesses. She discusses leadership lessons, the integration of AI and data, and the importance of adaptability. Bhavini highlights how AI enhances productivity, dispels common misconceptions, and stresses the value of rest and personal growth. She also shares her passion for dog rescue and offers advice on embracing change. The episode provides practical insights for entrepreneurs navigating remote work, technology, and personal well-being.</p><p>Check out Bhavini's work <a href="https://ibsforyou.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Bhavini on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavinikamdar/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, your host Dean Guida speaks to Bhavini Kamdar, Founder and CEO of Infinity Business Solutions. Bhavini shares her entrepreneurial journey from finance to building a company that manages remote teams for small businesses. She discusses leadership lessons, the integration of AI and data, and the importance of adaptability. Bhavini highlights how AI enhances productivity, dispels common misconceptions, and stresses the value of rest and personal growth. She also shares her passion for dog rescue and offers advice on embracing change. The episode provides practical insights for entrepreneurs navigating remote work, technology, and personal well-being.</p><p>Check out Bhavini's work <a href="https://ibsforyou.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Bhavini on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavinikamdar/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c7e2b96e-201d-4349-b80f-aaae921f41f8</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/c7e2b96e-201d-4349-b80f-aaae921f41f8.mp3" length="27558610" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:42</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>52 - Kevin Carlson: From Code to Compliance: Navigating the Tech Landscape with Fractional Leadership</title><itunes:title>52 - Kevin Carlson: From Code to Compliance: Navigating the Tech Landscape with Fractional Leadership</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Kevin Carlson, Partner and CEO of TechCXO, about his work as a fractional CTO and CSO helping mid-market companies scale technology and security.</p><p>Kevin shares insights on building trust as an external leader, the importance of understanding organizational history, and integrating AI into software development. He emphasizes measured AI adoption, the evolving role of developers, and the need for ongoing learning. The conversation covers practical leadership advice, the value of asking the right questions, and how fractional executives can drive alignment and innovation without disrupting team culture.</p><p>Check out Kevin's work <a href="https://www.techcxo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevincarlson/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Kevin Carlson, Partner and CEO of TechCXO, about his work as a fractional CTO and CSO helping mid-market companies scale technology and security.</p><p>Kevin shares insights on building trust as an external leader, the importance of understanding organizational history, and integrating AI into software development. He emphasizes measured AI adoption, the evolving role of developers, and the need for ongoing learning. The conversation covers practical leadership advice, the value of asking the right questions, and how fractional executives can drive alignment and innovation without disrupting team culture.</p><p>Check out Kevin's work <a href="https://www.techcxo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevincarlson/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0b5b54db-9c15-4028-b7bc-f61e8130573a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/0b5b54db-9c15-4028-b7bc-f61e8130573a.mp3" length="35422161" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>36:54</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>51 - Rajan Sethuraman: The Role of Leadership in Fostering a Data-Driven Decision-Making Culture</title><itunes:title>51 - Rajan Sethuraman: The Role of Leadership in Fostering a Data-Driven Decision-Making Culture</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida interviews Rajan Sethuraman, CEO of LatentView Analytics.</p><p>Rajan shares his career journey and insights on building data-driven organizations, emphasizing the need to align analytics with business goals and KPIs. The conversation covers the cultural and leadership factors behind successful analytics adoption, the impact of AI on HR and jobs, and the importance of robust data infrastructure. Rajan discusses the rise of generative AI and agent technologies, offering practical advice for organizations at any stage of their analytics journey and highlighting the value of hands-on leadership in AI adoption.</p><p>Check out Rajan's work <a href="https://www.latentview.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Rajan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajan-sethuraman-a1a5a72/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida interviews Rajan Sethuraman, CEO of LatentView Analytics.</p><p>Rajan shares his career journey and insights on building data-driven organizations, emphasizing the need to align analytics with business goals and KPIs. The conversation covers the cultural and leadership factors behind successful analytics adoption, the impact of AI on HR and jobs, and the importance of robust data infrastructure. Rajan discusses the rise of generative AI and agent technologies, offering practical advice for organizations at any stage of their analytics journey and highlighting the value of hands-on leadership in AI adoption.</p><p>Check out Rajan's work <a href="https://www.latentview.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Rajan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajan-sethuraman-a1a5a72/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p><p class="ql-align-center"><br></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0e6f03cb-2726-413f-a44a-5b542bbe58b2</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 07 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/0e6f03cb-2726-413f-a44a-5b542bbe58b2.mp3" length="30884820" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:10</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>50 - Michael Abramov: Cracking the Code of Data Labeling: Key Strategies for High-Quality AI</title><itunes:title>50 - Michael Abramov: Cracking the Code of Data Labeling: Key Strategies for High-Quality AI</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to Michael Abramov, CEO of Keylabs, discusses the evolving landscape of data creation, labeling, and annotation for AI.</p><p>He explains the importance of diverse, high-quality data, the challenges of keeping up with changing environments, and the balance between automation and human input. Michael shares how Keylabs supports clients with advanced labeling tools, quality assurance, and scalable training using AI agents. The conversation also touches on future trends in AI, synthetic data, and the potential for AI-driven gaming experiences.</p><p>Check out Michael's work <a href="keylabs.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Michael on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mafonya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to Michael Abramov, CEO of Keylabs, discusses the evolving landscape of data creation, labeling, and annotation for AI.</p><p>He explains the importance of diverse, high-quality data, the challenges of keeping up with changing environments, and the balance between automation and human input. Michael shares how Keylabs supports clients with advanced labeling tools, quality assurance, and scalable training using AI agents. The conversation also touches on future trends in AI, synthetic data, and the potential for AI-driven gaming experiences.</p><p>Check out Michael's work <a href="keylabs.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Michael on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mafonya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">e5f1b993-1bb0-42d0-81a7-17e1bdca5333</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 31 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/e5f1b993-1bb0-42d0-81a7-17e1bdca5333.mp3" length="39391187" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>41:02</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>49 - Danny Nathan: AI as Your New Best Friend: How to Leverage Technology Without Losing Your Mind</title><itunes:title>49 - Danny Nathan: AI as Your New Best Friend: How to Leverage Technology Without Losing Your Mind</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Danny Nathan, Founder and CEO of Apollo 21, about innovation, product development, and the evolving impact of AI. </p><p>Danny shares insights from his 20+ years in tech, discussing the challenges of balancing efficiency with experimentation, the importance of company culture, and the need for ongoing customer engagement. They explore strategies for achieving product-market fit, the realities versus hype of AI, and the future of user interfaces. Danny also explains the story behind Apollo 21’s name and emphasizes embracing failure as a key part of the innovation process.</p><p>Check out Danny's work <a href="https://apollo21.io" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Dan on LinkedIn <a href="https://linkedin.com/in/amongmany" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Danny Nathan, Founder and CEO of Apollo 21, about innovation, product development, and the evolving impact of AI. </p><p>Danny shares insights from his 20+ years in tech, discussing the challenges of balancing efficiency with experimentation, the importance of company culture, and the need for ongoing customer engagement. They explore strategies for achieving product-market fit, the realities versus hype of AI, and the future of user interfaces. Danny also explains the story behind Apollo 21’s name and emphasizes embracing failure as a key part of the innovation process.</p><p>Check out Danny's work <a href="https://apollo21.io" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Dan on LinkedIn <a href="https://linkedin.com/in/amongmany" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">d5df077e-e433-41fa-9261-d65ca1e6cf1e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/d5df077e-e433-41fa-9261-d65ca1e6cf1e.mp3" length="32655057" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>34:01</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>48 - Dan Goodstein: Mastering Multi-Channel Outreach: The Future of Sales in an AI-Driven World</title><itunes:title>48 - Dan Goodstein: Mastering Multi-Channel Outreach: The Future of Sales in an AI-Driven World</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Dan Goodstein, President of IRPA AI, about helping startups and SMEs scale by bridging technology and sales. </p><p>Dan shares strategies for simplifying complex tech into customer-focused messaging, leveraging AI for automated, multi-channel outreach, and the importance of authenticity in marketing. They discuss challenges in data quality, the evolving role of AI in sales, and building trust with clients. Dan emphasizes tailoring approaches to different industries and customer segments, and highlights the need for continuous learning and authentic engagement to drive business growth in today’s competitive landscape.</p><p>Check out Dan's work <a href="www.irpaai.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Dan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielgoodstein/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Dan Goodstein, President of IRPA AI, about helping startups and SMEs scale by bridging technology and sales. </p><p>Dan shares strategies for simplifying complex tech into customer-focused messaging, leveraging AI for automated, multi-channel outreach, and the importance of authenticity in marketing. They discuss challenges in data quality, the evolving role of AI in sales, and building trust with clients. Dan emphasizes tailoring approaches to different industries and customer segments, and highlights the need for continuous learning and authentic engagement to drive business growth in today’s competitive landscape.</p><p>Check out Dan's work <a href="www.irpaai.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Dan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielgoodstein/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">22695297-fecc-4c7c-bdc4-bbec9c53d8f4</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/22695297-fecc-4c7c-bdc4-bbec9c53d8f4.mp3" length="36127966" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>37:38</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>47 - Andrea Iorio: Beyond Automation: Building Skills to Thrive in the AI Era</title><itunes:title>47 - Andrea Iorio: Beyond Automation: Building Skills to Thrive in the AI Era</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Andrea Lorio, an Italian-born economist and technology expert with a decade of experience in Brazil and leadership roles at Tinder and L’Oréal. Their discussion explores how AI, neuroscience, and human behavior intersect, emphasizing the importance of human-AI collaboration over replacement. </p><p>They also highlight the critical role of user experience (UX) and data in AI adoption, share insights from scaling Tinder, and examine why focusing on customer retention and experience is vital for sustainable growth. Andrea also discusses lessons from Groupon’s decline and encourages embracing AI as a tool for innovation and positive transformation.</p><p>Check out Andrea's work <a href="https://andreaiorio.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Andrea on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaiorio/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Dean Guida interviews Andrea Lorio, an Italian-born economist and technology expert with a decade of experience in Brazil and leadership roles at Tinder and L’Oréal. Their discussion explores how AI, neuroscience, and human behavior intersect, emphasizing the importance of human-AI collaboration over replacement. </p><p>They also highlight the critical role of user experience (UX) and data in AI adoption, share insights from scaling Tinder, and examine why focusing on customer retention and experience is vital for sustainable growth. Andrea also discusses lessons from Groupon’s decline and encourages embracing AI as a tool for innovation and positive transformation.</p><p>Check out Andrea's work <a href="https://andreaiorio.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Andrea on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaiorio/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">e1abed9b-0335-49e4-8273-6186c621e570</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/e1abed9b-0335-49e4-8273-6186c621e570.mp3" length="35035472" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>36:30</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>46 - Amir Elion: Innovate or Die: Embracing AI and Creativity in the Business World</title><itunes:title>46 - Amir Elion: Innovate or Die: Embracing AI and Creativity in the Business World</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO, AI and Innovation Advisor at Think Big Leaders, Amir Elion. Amir explains that innovation is a learnable skill, not just for geniuses, and shares Amazon’s “working backwards” approach that starts with customer needs. </p><p>He discusses practical strategies for effective innovation, the importance of simplicity, and how to use AI intentionally to create real value. Amir also highlights the need for human oversight in AI, the evolving role of user experience, and the importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives.</p><p>Check out Amir's work <a href="https://www.thinkbigleaders.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Amir on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirelion/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO, AI and Innovation Advisor at Think Big Leaders, Amir Elion. Amir explains that innovation is a learnable skill, not just for geniuses, and shares Amazon’s “working backwards” approach that starts with customer needs. </p><p>He discusses practical strategies for effective innovation, the importance of simplicity, and how to use AI intentionally to create real value. Amir also highlights the need for human oversight in AI, the evolving role of user experience, and the importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives.</p><p>Check out Amir's work <a href="https://www.thinkbigleaders.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Amir on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirelion/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">70edda1e-dc35-4ab1-9264-2f14acf23a42</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/70edda1e-dc35-4ab1-9264-2f14acf23a42.mp3" length="31496910" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:49</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>45 - Michael Dodsworth: Tackling the Ticketing Crisis: Innovations to Stop Bots and Serve Real Fans</title><itunes:title>45 - Michael Dodsworth: Tackling the Ticketing Crisis: Innovations to Stop Bots and Serve Real Fans</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder and CEO at Fanfare, Michael Dodsworth. Michael explains how bots and bad actors disrupt ticket sales and product drops, frustrating real fans. </p><p>Michael shares how Fanfare uses layered security, AI, and scalable technology to identify genuine customers, manage queues, and enhance both online and in-person experiences. He explores technical innovations, AI’s role in development, and Fanfare’s vision for fairer, more transparent, and enjoyable consumer interactions in high-demand events and retail.</p><p>Check out Michael's work <a href="https://fanfare.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Michael on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-dodsworth/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder and CEO at Fanfare, Michael Dodsworth. Michael explains how bots and bad actors disrupt ticket sales and product drops, frustrating real fans. </p><p>Michael shares how Fanfare uses layered security, AI, and scalable technology to identify genuine customers, manage queues, and enhance both online and in-person experiences. He explores technical innovations, AI’s role in development, and Fanfare’s vision for fairer, more transparent, and enjoyable consumer interactions in high-demand events and retail.</p><p>Check out Michael's work <a href="https://fanfare.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Michael on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-dodsworth/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0bd29874-866d-43ac-acfd-b9623a607120</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/0bd29874-866d-43ac-acfd-b9623a607120.mp3" length="41245164" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>42:58</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>44 - Raj Singh: From Coders to Conductors: The AI-Driven Evolution of Software Engineers</title><itunes:title>44 - Raj Singh: From Coders to Conductors: The AI-Driven Evolution of Software Engineers</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the VP of Product at Mozilla, Raj Singh. Raj discusses how generative AI is reshaping product management, software development, and marketing. He shares practical advice for product managers and engineers on leveraging AI to boost creativity and productivity. </p><p>Raj also explores new trends in growth strategies, including AI-driven marketing and content creation, and highlights Soloist AI’s commitment to ethical AI and tools for small businesses. He covers the evolving roles within teams, the future of enterprise SaaS, and how AI is democratizing expertise and accelerating innovation across industries.</p><p>Check out Raj's work <a href="https://soloist.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Raj on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajansingh/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the VP of Product at Mozilla, Raj Singh. Raj discusses how generative AI is reshaping product management, software development, and marketing. He shares practical advice for product managers and engineers on leveraging AI to boost creativity and productivity. </p><p>Raj also explores new trends in growth strategies, including AI-driven marketing and content creation, and highlights Soloist AI’s commitment to ethical AI and tools for small businesses. He covers the evolving roles within teams, the future of enterprise SaaS, and how AI is democratizing expertise and accelerating innovation across industries.</p><p>Check out Raj's work <a href="https://soloist.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Raj on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajansingh/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">50f05d15-6784-41bf-8323-f80a9ba9c800</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/50f05d15-6784-41bf-8323-f80a9ba9c800.mp3" length="36768461" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>38:18</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>43 - Bill Kasko: The Human Element in Recruiting: Why AI Can&apos;t Replace Empathy</title><itunes:title>43 - Bill Kasko: The Human Element in Recruiting: Why AI Can&apos;t Replace Empathy</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President and CEO at Frontline Source Group, Bill Kasko. Bill shares his journey, the company’s unique five-year placement warranty, and their focus on aligning candidates with company culture. </p><p>He discusses the evolution of hiring, the impact of COVID-19, and the growing role of AI in recruitment. Bill emphasizes the importance of human connection in hiring, offers practical advice for job seekers, and highlights how Frontline Source Group adapts to industry changes while maintaining a people-first approach.</p><p>Check out Bill's work <a href="https://www.frontlinesourcegroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Bill on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/billkasko/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President and CEO at Frontline Source Group, Bill Kasko. Bill shares his journey, the company’s unique five-year placement warranty, and their focus on aligning candidates with company culture. </p><p>He discusses the evolution of hiring, the impact of COVID-19, and the growing role of AI in recruitment. Bill emphasizes the importance of human connection in hiring, offers practical advice for job seekers, and highlights how Frontline Source Group adapts to industry changes while maintaining a people-first approach.</p><p>Check out Bill's work <a href="https://www.frontlinesourcegroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Bill on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/billkasko/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">5407fbd7-ca34-464d-b8d2-d9b7396d85ec</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/5407fbd7-ca34-464d-b8d2-d9b7396d85ec.mp3" length="35539134" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>42:19</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>42 - Kuber Jain: Building Trust in Data: The Key to Effective User Engagement Strategies</title><itunes:title>42 - Kuber Jain: Building Trust in Data: The Key to Effective User Engagement Strategies</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Senior Data Scientist of Product Analytics at Headspace, Kuber Jain. Kuber discusses how AI and analytics drive product engagement, user retention, and experimentation in consumer apps. </p><p>Kuber shares insights on leveraging telemetry data, building trust in data-driven organizations, and the importance of combining quantitative and qualitative insights. He highlights the evolving role of AI, the necessity of soft skills, and the value of empathy and clear communication in creating impactful, user-centered products.</p><p>Check out Kuber's work <a href="https://www.headspace.com/headspace-subscription?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=search&amp;utm_campaign=HS_Headspace_Brand-Exact_Search_US-NorAm_Google_NA&amp;utm_content=&amp;utm_term=headspace&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=1919439341&amp;gbraid=0AAAAADLlnJ3s3tMj9vY7ZfQDgd_Z2SyQx&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA5abIBhCaARIsAM3-zFXlG5211UDeq1ZIPiLu5eFRTL-GnHH50PHp9YjfEe402rkpFSv2GyAaAjv3EALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Kuber on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kuberjain/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Senior Data Scientist of Product Analytics at Headspace, Kuber Jain. Kuber discusses how AI and analytics drive product engagement, user retention, and experimentation in consumer apps. </p><p>Kuber shares insights on leveraging telemetry data, building trust in data-driven organizations, and the importance of combining quantitative and qualitative insights. He highlights the evolving role of AI, the necessity of soft skills, and the value of empathy and clear communication in creating impactful, user-centered products.</p><p>Check out Kuber's work <a href="https://www.headspace.com/headspace-subscription?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=search&amp;utm_campaign=HS_Headspace_Brand-Exact_Search_US-NorAm_Google_NA&amp;utm_content=&amp;utm_term=headspace&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=1919439341&amp;gbraid=0AAAAADLlnJ3s3tMj9vY7ZfQDgd_Z2SyQx&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA5abIBhCaARIsAM3-zFXlG5211UDeq1ZIPiLu5eFRTL-GnHH50PHp9YjfEe402rkpFSv2GyAaAjv3EALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Kuber on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kuberjain/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">692ec459-b0bf-40c5-89f2-1fb91e314412</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/692ec459-b0bf-40c5-89f2-1fb91e314412.mp3" length="27800142" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:58</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>41 - Deep Nayar: Predictive Maintenance and Anomaly Detection: The Future of OEM Operations</title><itunes:title>41 - Deep Nayar: Predictive Maintenance and Anomaly Detection: The Future of OEM Operations</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder at IoT83, Deep Nayar. Deep explains how IoT83 helps hardware manufacturers manage and contextualize massive data from connected devices, enabling predictive maintenance, new service models, and recurring revenue streams. </p><p>He discusses the challenges of scaling, the importance of contextual data, the role of AI in product development and usability, and the slow but growing adoption of IoT-driven business models in industries with traditionally thin margins.</p><p>Check out Deep's work <a href="https://www.iot83.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Deep on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/deep-nayar-b10694/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder at IoT83, Deep Nayar. Deep explains how IoT83 helps hardware manufacturers manage and contextualize massive data from connected devices, enabling predictive maintenance, new service models, and recurring revenue streams. </p><p>He discusses the challenges of scaling, the importance of contextual data, the role of AI in product development and usability, and the slow but growing adoption of IoT-driven business models in industries with traditionally thin margins.</p><p>Check out Deep's work <a href="https://www.iot83.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Deep on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/deep-nayar-b10694/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">f4a70bf9-81ac-4d8f-908e-e3f870855804</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 29 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/f4a70bf9-81ac-4d8f-908e-e3f870855804.mp3" length="22709310" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:02</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>40 - Joe Croney: The Evolving Role of Engineers and Journalists in an AI-Driven World</title><itunes:title>40 - Joe Croney: The Evolving Role of Engineers and Journalists in an AI-Driven World</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CTO at The Washington Post, Joe Croney. Joe shares insights on ethical AI deployment, building trustworthy AI-powered tools like “Ask The Post,” and the challenges of SEO and audience ownership. </p><p>He discusses the evolving roles of engineers and journalists, the importance of computer science education, and the future of SaaS. Both emphasize human-AI collaboration, the need for critical thinking, and the ongoing societal and career impacts of AI innovation.</p><p>Check out Joe's work <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Joe on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joecroney/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CTO at The Washington Post, Joe Croney. Joe shares insights on ethical AI deployment, building trustworthy AI-powered tools like “Ask The Post,” and the challenges of SEO and audience ownership. </p><p>He discusses the evolving roles of engineers and journalists, the importance of computer science education, and the future of SaaS. Both emphasize human-AI collaboration, the need for critical thinking, and the ongoing societal and career impacts of AI innovation.</p><p>Check out Joe's work <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Joe on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joecroney/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0272ea94-c8d7-40fe-a197-8e5b996084ec</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 22 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/0272ea94-c8d7-40fe-a197-8e5b996084ec.mp3" length="26121294" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:13</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>39 - Michael Johnson: The Future of Work: How the White-Collar Job Transformation Shapes Innovation</title><itunes:title>39 - Michael Johnson: The Future of Work: How the White-Collar Job Transformation Shapes Innovation</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President at New Jersey Innovation Institute, Michael Johnson. Michael explains NJII’s venture studio model, which partners with corporations to build startups, and highlights their use of AI to drive internal efficiency and support small businesses. </p><p>He shares success stories, addresses challenges in team building, and emphasizes AI as an enabler rather than a job replacer. </p><p>Check out Michael's work <a href="https://www.njii.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Michael on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-johnson-njii/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President at New Jersey Innovation Institute, Michael Johnson. Michael explains NJII’s venture studio model, which partners with corporations to build startups, and highlights their use of AI to drive internal efficiency and support small businesses. </p><p>He shares success stories, addresses challenges in team building, and emphasizes AI as an enabler rather than a job replacer. </p><p>Check out Michael's work <a href="https://www.njii.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Michael on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-johnson-njii/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">fc4b3168-c086-4fbc-bc9b-8d0066144359</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/fc4b3168-c086-4fbc-bc9b-8d0066144359.mp3" length="23991251" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>24:59</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>38 - Balki Kodarapu: Harnessing AI in Software Development: Practical Insights for Startups and Growth Companies</title><itunes:title>38 - Balki Kodarapu: Harnessing AI in Software Development: Practical Insights for Startups and Growth Companies</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Co-Founder and CTO at YourCTO, Balki Kodarapu. Balki shares real-world examples of AI integration, emphasizes the continued importance of engineering fundamentals, and offers advice on balancing leadership with personal well-being. </p><p>Check out Balki's work <a href="https://www.yourctoin.us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Balki on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balki/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Co-Founder and CTO at YourCTO, Balki Kodarapu. Balki shares real-world examples of AI integration, emphasizes the continued importance of engineering fundamentals, and offers advice on balancing leadership with personal well-being. </p><p>Check out Balki's work <a href="https://www.yourctoin.us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Balki on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balki/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">99c7927b-464c-49be-99ce-b62094c2ff60</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/99c7927b-464c-49be-99ce-b62094c2ff60.mp3" length="25963858" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:03</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>37 - Sonja Price: The Emotional Intelligence of AI: Can Machines Really Understand Us?</title><itunes:title>37 - Sonja Price: The Emotional Intelligence of AI: Can Machines Really Understand Us?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Leadership Expert, Author, Podcaster, and Executive Advisor at Infinite Leaders, Sonja Price. Sonja discusses the integration of AI in workplaces, the importance of emotional intelligence, and maintaining strong company culture as organizations scale. </p><p>She highlights the need for conscious leadership, ethical AI use. Sonja emphasizes that despite technological advances, human connection, trust, and ethical stewardship remain at the heart of effective leadership and the future of work.</p><p>Check out Sonja's work <a href="https://infiniteleaders.co/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Sonja on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonjaprice/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Leadership Expert, Author, Podcaster, and Executive Advisor at Infinite Leaders, Sonja Price. Sonja discusses the integration of AI in workplaces, the importance of emotional intelligence, and maintaining strong company culture as organizations scale. </p><p>She highlights the need for conscious leadership, ethical AI use. Sonja emphasizes that despite technological advances, human connection, trust, and ethical stewardship remain at the heart of effective leadership and the future of work.</p><p>Check out Sonja's work <a href="https://infiniteleaders.co/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Sonja on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonjaprice/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">92c5cc95-9b8d-461e-8d37-8f2861ef0a4e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 01 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/92c5cc95-9b8d-461e-8d37-8f2861ef0a4e.mp3" length="27368959" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:35</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>36 - Terry Ziemniak: Don’t Let Your AI Be the Office Snitch: Keeping Data Safe in the Age of Generative AI</title><itunes:title>36 - Terry Ziemniak: Don’t Let Your AI Be the Office Snitch: Keeping Data Safe in the Age of Generative AI</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Fractional CISO and Partner at TechCXO, Terry Ziemniak. Terry discusses how small and mid-sized companies can meet stringent security requirements when selling to large organizations, the risks of data leakage with generative AI tools, and the importance of governance, frameworks, and user education. </p><p>He emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between innovation and risk management, utilizing frameworks such as NIST, and integrating people, processes, and technology to safeguard organizations.</p><p>Check out Terry's work <a href="https://www.techcxo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Terry on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/terryziemniak/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Fractional CISO and Partner at TechCXO, Terry Ziemniak. Terry discusses how small and mid-sized companies can meet stringent security requirements when selling to large organizations, the risks of data leakage with generative AI tools, and the importance of governance, frameworks, and user education. </p><p>He emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between innovation and risk management, utilizing frameworks such as NIST, and integrating people, processes, and technology to safeguard organizations.</p><p>Check out Terry's work <a href="https://www.techcxo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Terry on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/terryziemniak/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">4512d35f-fdaf-4065-8b66-d3a63a7dd31b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 24 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/4512d35f-fdaf-4065-8b66-d3a63a7dd31b.mp3" length="23459410" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>24:26</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>35 - Benjamin Filip:  Unleashing the Power of AI: A Data-Driven Revolution in Marketing</title><itunes:title>35 - Benjamin Filip:  Unleashing the Power of AI: A Data-Driven Revolution in Marketing</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Director of Analytics at Merkle, Benjamin Filip. Benjamin shares real-world examples, including a telecom project that doubled marketing ROI, and highlights AI’s strengths in automating tasks but stresses the need for human expertise. The conversation covers AI’s limitations, adoption challenges, data reliability, and the future of jobs. Both emphasize thoughtful, responsible AI integration, cautioning against overreliance and underscoring the importance of expert oversight in data-driven decision-making.</p><p>Check out Benjamin's work <a href="https://www.merkle.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Benjamin on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminfilip/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Director of Analytics at Merkle, Benjamin Filip. Benjamin shares real-world examples, including a telecom project that doubled marketing ROI, and highlights AI’s strengths in automating tasks but stresses the need for human expertise. The conversation covers AI’s limitations, adoption challenges, data reliability, and the future of jobs. Both emphasize thoughtful, responsible AI integration, cautioning against overreliance and underscoring the importance of expert oversight in data-driven decision-making.</p><p>Check out Benjamin's work <a href="https://www.merkle.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Benjamin on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminfilip/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">b245806b-9315-4ebe-b700-4b3839d788ba</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/b245806b-9315-4ebe-b700-4b3839d788ba.mp3" length="40837714" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>42:32</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>34 - Yemi Oluseun: Sustainable Growth in Fintech: Unlocking the Power of Retention</title><itunes:title>34 - Yemi Oluseun: Sustainable Growth in Fintech: Unlocking the Power of Retention</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Growth and Transformation Programme Director and Speaker at The Change Hive, Yemi Oluseun. Yemi shares her five-pillar retention framework, discusses the role of AI and data analytics in optimizing customer journeys, and explains how she supports VC and PE-backed firms with systemization, cash flow management, and market expansion. </p><p>Yemi covers practical retention strategies, the importance of process clarity before adopting new tech, and how roundtables and focused marketing channels can drive sustainable business growth.</p><p>Check out Yemi's work <a href="https://thechangehive.co/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Yemi on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yemioluseun/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Growth and Transformation Programme Director and Speaker at The Change Hive, Yemi Oluseun. Yemi shares her five-pillar retention framework, discusses the role of AI and data analytics in optimizing customer journeys, and explains how she supports VC and PE-backed firms with systemization, cash flow management, and market expansion. </p><p>Yemi covers practical retention strategies, the importance of process clarity before adopting new tech, and how roundtables and focused marketing channels can drive sustainable business growth.</p><p>Check out Yemi's work <a href="https://thechangehive.co/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Yemi on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yemioluseun/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">74ea4993-16e8-4b65-b3f4-5087acb7054c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 10 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/74ea4993-16e8-4b65-b3f4-5087acb7054c.mp3" length="25582448" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>30:27</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>33 - Jake Schaefer: Leading Through Tech Change: The Balance of Empathy and Pragmatism</title><itunes:title>33 - Jake Schaefer: Leading Through Tech Change: The Balance of Empathy and Pragmatism</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder and CEO at Renewed Minds Consulting, Jake Schaefer. Jake discusses the psychological challenges leaders face, including loneliness, resistance to change, and the need for authentic leadership. </p><p>He explores practical strategies for managing organizational change, fostering supportive peer networks, and addressing employee concerns about AI. Jake emphasizes empathy, clear communication, and aligning values with behavior to create resilient, adaptable organizations in the evolving workplace.</p><p>Check out Jake's work <a href="https://www.renewedmindsconsulting.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Jake on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-rmc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder and CEO at Renewed Minds Consulting, Jake Schaefer. Jake discusses the psychological challenges leaders face, including loneliness, resistance to change, and the need for authentic leadership. </p><p>He explores practical strategies for managing organizational change, fostering supportive peer networks, and addressing employee concerns about AI. Jake emphasizes empathy, clear communication, and aligning values with behavior to create resilient, adaptable organizations in the evolving workplace.</p><p>Check out Jake's work <a href="https://www.renewedmindsconsulting.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Jake on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-rmc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">5445b503-484c-4903-94aa-5baff32e350f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/5445b503-484c-4903-94aa-5baff32e350f.mp3" length="33131985" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>34:31</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>32 - Jason Penkethman: From Paperwork to Productivity: Transforming Trades with AI Innovation</title><itunes:title>32 - Jason Penkethman: From Paperwork to Productivity: Transforming Trades with AI Innovation</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Chief Product and Technology Officer at Simpro Group, Jason Penkethman. Jason discusses how AI-driven tools are streamlining administrative tasks for technicians, improving data quality, and enhancing operational efficiency. </p><p>He highlights the importance of user trust, human oversight, and balancing innovation with real-world needs. Jason also shares insights on team management, AI adoption challenges, and the future impact of AI on the trades industry, emphasizing that technology should augment—not replace—skilled professionals.</p><p>Check out Jason's work <a href="https://www.simprogroup.com/home-v2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Jason on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpenkethman/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Chief Product and Technology Officer at Simpro Group, Jason Penkethman. Jason discusses how AI-driven tools are streamlining administrative tasks for technicians, improving data quality, and enhancing operational efficiency. </p><p>He highlights the importance of user trust, human oversight, and balancing innovation with real-world needs. Jason also shares insights on team management, AI adoption challenges, and the future impact of AI on the trades industry, emphasizing that technology should augment—not replace—skilled professionals.</p><p>Check out Jason's work <a href="https://www.simprogroup.com/home-v2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Jason on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpenkethman/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">77ab7128-c6ce-4418-9c67-77f95a20239a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/77ab7128-c6ce-4418-9c67-77f95a20239a.mp3" length="35796947" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>37:17</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>31 - Alexander Blinov: Building Better Products: The Role of AI in Understanding Customer Needs</title><itunes:title>31 - Alexander Blinov: Building Better Products: The Role of AI in Understanding Customer Needs</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CPO at Zendrop, Alexander Blinov. Alexander discusses how AI powers features like store building, product description optimization, translation, ad copy generation, and customer support. </p><p>He shares insights on managing product teams, prioritizing customer needs, and leveraging AI to boost efficiency and product quality. Alexander also offers advice for aspiring product leaders, emphasizing customer obsession, team empowerment, and data-driven decision-making in building successful products and adapting to the evolving software landscape.</p><p>Check out Alexander's work <a href="https://www.zendrop.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Alexander on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/blinovalex/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CPO at Zendrop, Alexander Blinov. Alexander discusses how AI powers features like store building, product description optimization, translation, ad copy generation, and customer support. </p><p>He shares insights on managing product teams, prioritizing customer needs, and leveraging AI to boost efficiency and product quality. Alexander also offers advice for aspiring product leaders, emphasizing customer obsession, team empowerment, and data-driven decision-making in building successful products and adapting to the evolving software landscape.</p><p>Check out Alexander's work <a href="https://www.zendrop.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Alexander on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/blinovalex/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">80071852-25f2-45d8-b8f4-a9b7572a6840</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 20 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/80071852-25f2-45d8-b8f4-a9b7572a6840.mp3" length="26433876" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:32</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>30 - Patrick Thean: Breaking the Cycle of Inaction: Establishing Effective Rhythms for Business Success</title><itunes:title>30 - Patrick Thean: Breaking the Cycle of Inaction: Establishing Effective Rhythms for Business Success</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Co-Founder at Rhythm Systems, Patrick Thean. Patrick shares his journey from early success at Oracle and founding a top-ranked software company to helping CEOs overcome execution challenges. </p><p>He introduces his “Think, Plan, Do” Rhythm methodology, emphasizing disciplined strategic planning, accountability, and consistent operational rhythms. Patrick explores the evolving role of AI in business, the importance of upskilling teams, and how leaders can avoid common pitfalls by establishing clear goals and regular reflection habits for sustained organizational success.</p><p>Check out Patrick's work <a href="https://www.rhythmsystems.com/patrick-thean" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickthean/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Co-Founder at Rhythm Systems, Patrick Thean. Patrick shares his journey from early success at Oracle and founding a top-ranked software company to helping CEOs overcome execution challenges. </p><p>He introduces his “Think, Plan, Do” Rhythm methodology, emphasizing disciplined strategic planning, accountability, and consistent operational rhythms. Patrick explores the evolving role of AI in business, the importance of upskilling teams, and how leaders can avoid common pitfalls by establishing clear goals and regular reflection habits for sustained organizational success.</p><p>Check out Patrick's work <a href="https://www.rhythmsystems.com/patrick-thean" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickthean/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">3dbb5f32-87cd-4861-8cf4-7c25191415c5</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/3dbb5f32-87cd-4861-8cf4-7c25191415c5.mp3" length="22976433" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:21</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>29 - Tom Gegax: The Realities of Being a CEO: Challenges, Ethics, and the Human Element with the Gramercy Fund and Confessions</title><itunes:title>29 - Tom Gegax: The Realities of Being a CEO: Challenges, Ethics, and the Human Element with the Gramercy Fund and Confessions</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to Tom Gegax, the Chairman at the Gramercy Fund, and Executive Producer and Co-Director with Confessions of a CEO. Tom discusses his documentary Confessions of a CEO, highlighting the need for transparency, accountability, and balancing profit with social responsibility. </p><p>He explores the impact of AI on business, the importance of mentoring, and creating positive workplace cultures. Tom shares insights from his career, emphasizing leading with empathy, continuous learning, and putting people first for long-term business success.</p><p>Check out Tom's work <a href="https://www.gramercyfund.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> and <a href="https://www.confessionsofaceomovie.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Tom on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-gegax-6734971/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to Tom Gegax, the Chairman at the Gramercy Fund, and Executive Producer and Co-Director with Confessions of a CEO. Tom discusses his documentary Confessions of a CEO, highlighting the need for transparency, accountability, and balancing profit with social responsibility. </p><p>He explores the impact of AI on business, the importance of mentoring, and creating positive workplace cultures. Tom shares insights from his career, emphasizing leading with empathy, continuous learning, and putting people first for long-term business success.</p><p>Check out Tom's work <a href="https://www.gramercyfund.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> and <a href="https://www.confessionsofaceomovie.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Tom on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-gegax-6734971/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">99376f9c-6475-4753-bf58-2cc164211b04</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 06 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/99376f9c-6475-4753-bf58-2cc164211b04.mp3" length="25277572" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>35:06</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>28 - Nuri Cankaya: Unlocking the Future: The Intersection of Quantum Computing and AI Explained</title><itunes:title>28 - Nuri Cankaya: Unlocking the Future: The Intersection of Quantum Computing and AI Explained</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Vice President of Commercial Marketing at Intel, Nuri Cankaya. Nuri shares insights on quantum breakthroughs, the challenges of AI training data, and the transformative potential of combining quantum computing with AI. </p><p>He also explores open-source AI models, the importance of transparency, and the future impact of AI on businesses and jobs. Nuri emphasizes responsible AI development, the need for regulation, and the societal implications of advanced AI, concluding with advice for companies to embrace AI-driven innovation.</p><p>Check out Nuri's work <a href="https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/homepage.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> and <a href="https://nuricankaya.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Nuri on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nuricankaya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Vice President of Commercial Marketing at Intel, Nuri Cankaya. Nuri shares insights on quantum breakthroughs, the challenges of AI training data, and the transformative potential of combining quantum computing with AI. </p><p>He also explores open-source AI models, the importance of transparency, and the future impact of AI on businesses and jobs. Nuri emphasizes responsible AI development, the need for regulation, and the societal implications of advanced AI, concluding with advice for companies to embrace AI-driven innovation.</p><p>Check out Nuri's work <a href="https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/homepage.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> and <a href="https://nuricankaya.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Nuri on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nuricankaya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">13b81697-bff8-4f04-b345-6859e1e256d3</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 16 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/13b81697-bff8-4f04-b345-6859e1e256d3.mp3" length="48107984" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>50:07</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>27 - Ron Bonnstetter: From Gut Feelings to Brain Waves: The Science Behind Our Choices</title><itunes:title>27 - Ron Bonnstetter: From Gut Feelings to Brain Waves: The Science Behind Our Choices</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Senior VP of Research and Development, and Executive Director of The Mind Science Center at Target Training International Success Insights, Ron Bonnstetter. Ron discusses his research on brain imaging, decision-making, and the emotional factors influencing our choices. </p><p>He explores the intersection of neuroscience and AI, the complexities of free will and intuition, and recent advances in brain-machine interfaces. Ron also highlights the importance of self-awareness, the limitations of AI, and his upcoming book on critical life events.</p><p>Check out Ron's work <a href="https://ttiresearch.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ron on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-bonnstetter-4a29744/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Senior VP of Research and Development, and Executive Director of The Mind Science Center at Target Training International Success Insights, Ron Bonnstetter. Ron discusses his research on brain imaging, decision-making, and the emotional factors influencing our choices. </p><p>He explores the intersection of neuroscience and AI, the complexities of free will and intuition, and recent advances in brain-machine interfaces. Ron also highlights the importance of self-awareness, the limitations of AI, and his upcoming book on critical life events.</p><p>Check out Ron's work <a href="https://ttiresearch.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ron on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-bonnstetter-4a29744/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">067cdfc7-943c-4446-8dda-6638e9f18691</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 09 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/067cdfc7-943c-4446-8dda-6638e9f18691.mp3" length="37165162" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>38:43</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>26 - Anthony Franco AI and Entrepreneurship: Balancing Innovation with Practicality in a Competitive Landscape</title><itunes:title>26 - Anthony Franco AI and Entrepreneurship: Balancing Innovation with Practicality in a Competitive Landscape</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Managing Partner of AI First Principles, Anthony Franco. Anthony shares lessons from building and exiting multiple businesses, discusses the realities and hype of AI in entrepreneurship, and explores how to operationalize AI using frameworks like First Principles and the Wiser Method. </p><p>He discusses challenges such as trust in AI, intellectual property concerns, and evolving business models. Anthony also talks about his podcast "How to Founder," which aims to help entrepreneurs navigate business challenges. </p><p>Check out Anthony's work <a href="https://www.aifirstprinciples.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyfranco/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Managing Partner of AI First Principles, Anthony Franco. Anthony shares lessons from building and exiting multiple businesses, discusses the realities and hype of AI in entrepreneurship, and explores how to operationalize AI using frameworks like First Principles and the Wiser Method. </p><p>He discusses challenges such as trust in AI, intellectual property concerns, and evolving business models. Anthony also talks about his podcast "How to Founder," which aims to help entrepreneurs navigate business challenges. </p><p>Check out Anthony's work <a href="https://www.aifirstprinciples.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyfranco/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">e89eac36-5101-4dc3-909e-32a85a6fbebe</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/e89eac36-5101-4dc3-909e-32a85a6fbebe.mp3" length="26456169" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:34</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>25 - Ulrik Lehrskov-Schmidt: Pricing for Profit: Strategies to Maximize Customer Value and Drive Revenue</title><itunes:title>25 - Ulrik Lehrskov-Schmidt: Pricing for Profit: Strategies to Maximize Customer Value and Drive Revenue</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Senior Pricing Advisor and CEO of WillingnessToPay, Ulrik Lehrskov-Schmidt. Ulrik discusses the impact of pricing strategies on business growth. </p><p>Ulrik shares insights from his experience with companies like Microsoft, emphasizing value-based pricing, customer understanding, and the shift toward credit-based models. He explores the challenges of long-term versus annual contracts, the importance of ongoing pricing adjustments, and current trends influenced by AI. Ulrik also introduces his book, "The Pricing Roadmap," and invites listeners to connect for more resources on effective pricing strategies.</p><p>Check out Ulrik's work <a href="https://www.willingnesstopay.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ulrik on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ulriklehrskovschmidt/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Senior Pricing Advisor and CEO of WillingnessToPay, Ulrik Lehrskov-Schmidt. Ulrik discusses the impact of pricing strategies on business growth. </p><p>Ulrik shares insights from his experience with companies like Microsoft, emphasizing value-based pricing, customer understanding, and the shift toward credit-based models. He explores the challenges of long-term versus annual contracts, the importance of ongoing pricing adjustments, and current trends influenced by AI. Ulrik also introduces his book, "The Pricing Roadmap," and invites listeners to connect for more resources on effective pricing strategies.</p><p>Check out Ulrik's work <a href="https://www.willingnesstopay.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ulrik on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ulriklehrskovschmidt/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">45d4b4b0-f264-4071-a820-cfb05b7c250f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/45d4b4b0-f264-4071-a820-cfb05b7c250f.mp3" length="37154299" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>44:14</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>24 - Robert Douglass: Harnessing the Power of Community: The Future of Open Source Marketing</title><itunes:title>24 - Robert Douglass: Harnessing the Power of Community: The Future of Open Source Marketing</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Entrepreneur in Residence at Open Strategy Partners, Robert Douglass. Robert explains how using open source tools, sharing resources, and engaging with open source communities can drive innovation and cost savings. </p><p>He introduces the Model Context Protocol (MCP), a new framework that enhances AI-driven marketing tasks. Robert covers the benefits of open source strategies, the evolving digital landscape, and the importance of community collaboration. Robert also shares practical insights and encourages businesses to embrace open source approaches for more effective, flexible marketing.</p><p>Check out Robert's work <a href="https://openstrategypartners.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Robert  on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/open-strategy-partners-gmbh/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Entrepreneur in Residence at Open Strategy Partners, Robert Douglass. Robert explains how using open source tools, sharing resources, and engaging with open source communities can drive innovation and cost savings. </p><p>He introduces the Model Context Protocol (MCP), a new framework that enhances AI-driven marketing tasks. Robert covers the benefits of open source strategies, the evolving digital landscape, and the importance of community collaboration. Robert also shares practical insights and encourages businesses to embrace open source approaches for more effective, flexible marketing.</p><p>Check out Robert's work <a href="https://openstrategypartners.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Robert  on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/open-strategy-partners-gmbh/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6bac2fd9-9fa5-4d90-8736-983d0ddd2fba</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/6bac2fd9-9fa5-4d90-8736-983d0ddd2fba.mp3" length="27785947" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:57</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>23 - Ivan Vislavskiy: Adapting to Change: How AI is Transforming Digital Marketing and SEO Strategies</title><itunes:title>23 - Ivan Vislavskiy: Adapting to Change: How AI is Transforming Digital Marketing and SEO Strategies</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO at Comrade Digital Marketing Agency, Ivan Vislavskiy. Ivan explores the shift from traditional SEO to AI-integrated strategies like geo generative engine optimization. </p><p>Ivan shares insights on tracking key performance indicators (KPIs), cost analysis, and the importance of adapting marketing strategies to AI tools. He also reflects on his company's growth, emphasizing the need for the right team and data-driven decision-making. The episode highlights the transformative impact of AI on digital marketing and the necessity for innovation and adaptability.</p><p>Check out Ivan's work <a href="https://comradeweb.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ivan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-vislavskiy-53bb559/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO at Comrade Digital Marketing Agency, Ivan Vislavskiy. Ivan explores the shift from traditional SEO to AI-integrated strategies like geo generative engine optimization. </p><p>Ivan shares insights on tracking key performance indicators (KPIs), cost analysis, and the importance of adapting marketing strategies to AI tools. He also reflects on his company's growth, emphasizing the need for the right team and data-driven decision-making. The episode highlights the transformative impact of AI on digital marketing and the necessity for innovation and adaptability.</p><p>Check out Ivan's work <a href="https://comradeweb.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ivan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-vislavskiy-53bb559/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">860e3603-6894-4bc5-ac39-f6a95fdaed27</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 04 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/860e3603-6894-4bc5-ac39-f6a95fdaed27.mp3" length="24256930" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:53</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>22 - Juhan Sonin: Designing Tomorrow: How AI is Shaping the Future of Creativity and Education</title><itunes:title>22 - Juhan Sonin: Designing Tomorrow: How AI is Shaping the Future of Creativity and Education</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Director of GoInvo, Juhan Sonin. Juhan discuss the intersection of design, technology, and AI's impact on software development and education. He explores AI's role in enhancing creativity and critical thinking, emphasizing the need for human insight alongside machine efficiency. </p><p>The conversation also explores the future of user interfaces, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges faced within the healthcare industry. Juhan advocates for a collaborative future where technology and human skills complement each other to drive innovation and improve education and healthcare outcomes.</p><p>Check out Juhan's work <a href="https://goinvo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Juhan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/juhansonin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Director of GoInvo, Juhan Sonin. Juhan discuss the intersection of design, technology, and AI's impact on software development and education. He explores AI's role in enhancing creativity and critical thinking, emphasizing the need for human insight alongside machine efficiency. </p><p>The conversation also explores the future of user interfaces, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges faced within the healthcare industry. Juhan advocates for a collaborative future where technology and human skills complement each other to drive innovation and improve education and healthcare outcomes.</p><p>Check out Juhan's work <a href="https://goinvo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Juhan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/juhansonin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">188d2e9d-e462-4c0f-a179-46e4f878962b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 28 May 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/188d2e9d-e462-4c0f-a179-46e4f878962b.mp3" length="37351375" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>38:54</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>21 - Dan Balcauski: Pricing Strategies and AI: What Every SaaS CEO Needs to Know!</title><itunes:title>21 - Dan Balcauski: Pricing Strategies and AI: What Every SaaS CEO Needs to Know!</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder and Chief Pricing Officer of Product Tranquility, Dan Balcauski. Dan shares his journey from software engineering to product management and how he uses AI to automate tasks like podcasting and guest recruitment. </p><p>He emphasizes the importance of documenting processes before automation and discusses the iterative approach to integrating AI tools. The conversation also covers the challenges of fully automating complex workflows and the nuances of SaaS pricing models, highlighting the balance between monthly and annual subscriptions.</p><p>Check out Dan's work <a href="https://www.producttranquility.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Dan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balcauski/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder and Chief Pricing Officer of Product Tranquility, Dan Balcauski. Dan shares his journey from software engineering to product management and how he uses AI to automate tasks like podcasting and guest recruitment. </p><p>He emphasizes the importance of documenting processes before automation and discusses the iterative approach to integrating AI tools. The conversation also covers the challenges of fully automating complex workflows and the nuances of SaaS pricing models, highlighting the balance between monthly and annual subscriptions.</p><p>Check out Dan's work <a href="https://www.producttranquility.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Dan on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/balcauski/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">5ef09343-0b8f-4493-a4a9-c7ff10543b89</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 21 May 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/5ef09343-0b8f-4493-a4a9-c7ff10543b89.mp3" length="28706769" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>29:54</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>20 - David G. Ewing: The Entrepreneur’s Playbook: Combining Strategy, Execution, and AI for Growth</title><itunes:title>20 - David G. Ewing: The Entrepreneur’s Playbook: Combining Strategy, Execution, and AI for Growth</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO of Content Lion, David G. Ewing. David discusses his entrepreneurial journey and the transformative role of AI in business. </p><p>David shares insights on enhancing customer experiences and effective content management. He emphasizes the concept of the "atomic unit" in business, the importance of adaptability, and leveraging AI for productivity. David also highlights the value of peer support through the Entrepreneur's Organization (EO) and addresses common fears about AI. The conversation underscores the potential of AI to elevate human capabilities and drive innovation in an evolving business landscape.</p><p>Check out David's work <a href="https://www.contentlion.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with David on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgewing/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO of Content Lion, David G. Ewing. David discusses his entrepreneurial journey and the transformative role of AI in business. </p><p>David shares insights on enhancing customer experiences and effective content management. He emphasizes the concept of the "atomic unit" in business, the importance of adaptability, and leveraging AI for productivity. David also highlights the value of peer support through the Entrepreneur's Organization (EO) and addresses common fears about AI. The conversation underscores the potential of AI to elevate human capabilities and drive innovation in an evolving business landscape.</p><p>Check out David's work <a href="https://www.contentlion.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with David on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgewing/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">70044d38-8ac4-423f-838c-4713dfd4555c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 14 May 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/70044d38-8ac4-423f-838c-4713dfd4555c.mp3" length="35697513" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>37:11</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>19 - Zack Urlocker: Scaling Smart: How to Avoid Common Pitfalls in the Tech Industry</title><itunes:title>19 - Zack Urlocker: Scaling Smart: How to Avoid Common Pitfalls in the Tech Industry</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Chief Operating Officer of Crescendo, Zack Urlocker. Zack shares insights from his career at companies like Borland, MySQL, Zendesk, Duo Security, and Crescendo. </p><p>Zack covers key lessons on scaling businesses, achieving product-market fit, and navigating innovation in established markets. Zack emphasizes the importance of focus, active listening, and iterating towards product-market fit. He also discusses the complexities of pricing AI solutions and the necessity of maintaining AI systems. The episode concludes with Zack's thoughts on the future of AI and the importance of open communication within organizations.</p><p>Check out Zack's work <a href="https://www.crescendo.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Zack on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/zurlocker/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Chief Operating Officer of Crescendo, Zack Urlocker. Zack shares insights from his career at companies like Borland, MySQL, Zendesk, Duo Security, and Crescendo. </p><p>Zack covers key lessons on scaling businesses, achieving product-market fit, and navigating innovation in established markets. Zack emphasizes the importance of focus, active listening, and iterating towards product-market fit. He also discusses the complexities of pricing AI solutions and the necessity of maintaining AI systems. The episode concludes with Zack's thoughts on the future of AI and the importance of open communication within organizations.</p><p>Check out Zack's work <a href="https://www.crescendo.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Zack on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/zurlocker/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">34934cca-23a9-4d41-b5ea-ad87aaa30176</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 07 May 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/34934cca-23a9-4d41-b5ea-ad87aaa30176.mp3" length="43409394" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>45:13</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>18 - Laura Patterson: AI and Customer Experience: The Dynamic Duo for Business Success</title><itunes:title>18 - Laura Patterson: AI and Customer Experience: The Dynamic Duo for Business Success</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President of VisionEdge Marketing, Laura Patterson. Laura, with over two decades of experience, emphasizes the need for a customer-first approach, leveraging data and AI to create value. </p><p>She explores practical strategies for maintaining customer focus, the role of AI in enhancing experiences, and the challenges businesses face in delivering consistent value. Laura shares insights from her signature program designed to help companies grow by understanding and meeting customer needs effectively.</p><p>Check out Laura's work <a href="https://visionedgemarketing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Laura on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurapattersonvem/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President of VisionEdge Marketing, Laura Patterson. Laura, with over two decades of experience, emphasizes the need for a customer-first approach, leveraging data and AI to create value. </p><p>She explores practical strategies for maintaining customer focus, the role of AI in enhancing experiences, and the challenges businesses face in delivering consistent value. Laura shares insights from her signature program designed to help companies grow by understanding and meeting customer needs effectively.</p><p>Check out Laura's work <a href="https://visionedgemarketing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Laura on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurapattersonvem/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0d64e77f-7246-4257-8c73-4d7189fab84e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 30 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/bc80d844-5984-416c-b3bc-f03247b7a43d/AIDDL-18-converted.mp3" length="34487123" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>35:55</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>17 - Chad Prinkey: How Constructive Feedback Transforms Leadership in the Construction Industry</title><itunes:title>17 - Chad Prinkey: How Constructive Feedback Transforms Leadership in the Construction Industry</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder and CEO of Well Built Construction Consulting, Chad Prinkey. Chad discusses the challenges in the construction industry, such as low profit margins and talent shortages, and how AI and data can transform operations. </p><p>Chad emphasizes the importance of financial transparency, effective leadership, and timely, empathetic communication. He shares insights on why contractors seek consulting services, focusing on growth, profitability, and strategic advantage. </p><p>Check out Chad's work <a href="https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Chad on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder and CEO of Well Built Construction Consulting, Chad Prinkey. Chad discusses the challenges in the construction industry, such as low profit margins and talent shortages, and how AI and data can transform operations. </p><p>Chad emphasizes the importance of financial transparency, effective leadership, and timely, empathetic communication. He shares insights on why contractors seek consulting services, focusing on growth, profitability, and strategic advantage. </p><p>Check out Chad's work <a href="https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Chad on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">7de1dc84-9746-4cd6-a5d3-f539a6a0af9f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5cbbfb9e-5755-456d-8b13-51fe4cfdeb22/AIDDL-17-converted.mp3" length="29516670" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>30:45</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>16 - Ravi Sawhney: Designing the Future: How Human-Centered Design Transforms User Experiences</title><itunes:title>16 - Ravi Sawhney: Designing the Future: How Human-Centered Design Transforms User Experiences</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO and Founder of RKS Design, Ravi Sawhney. Ravi shares his background, highlighting his work at Xerox PARC and the founding of Aakash Design. </p><p>Ravi introduces his methodology, psycho aesthetics, which integrates tools like personas and user journeys to enhance design processes. He covers the emotional impact of design, the importance of data in understanding user needs, and real-world applications, including sustainable guitars and innovative everyday products. Ravi emphasizes the role of collaboration and the emotional connection in creating successful, user-centered designs.</p><p>Check out Ravi's work <a href="https://rksdesign.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ravi on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravisawhney/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO and Founder of RKS Design, Ravi Sawhney. Ravi shares his background, highlighting his work at Xerox PARC and the founding of Aakash Design. </p><p>Ravi introduces his methodology, psycho aesthetics, which integrates tools like personas and user journeys to enhance design processes. He covers the emotional impact of design, the importance of data in understanding user needs, and real-world applications, including sustainable guitars and innovative everyday products. Ravi emphasizes the role of collaboration and the emotional connection in creating successful, user-centered designs.</p><p>Check out Ravi's work <a href="https://rksdesign.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ravi on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravisawhney/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">b341776a-592e-4877-85cb-fa83da16d40f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 09 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/e4acc41e-eeaf-4353-a902-26a0027406a7/AIDDL-16-converted.mp3" length="25937022" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>30:53</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>15 - Robert Indries: Unlocking Business Potential: The Art of Balancing AI and Authenticity</title><itunes:title>15 - Robert Indries: Unlocking Business Potential: The Art of Balancing AI and Authenticity</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Chairman of the Board at Robert Indries Holdings, Robert Indries. Robert shares his approach to mergers and acquisitions (M&amp;A), strategies for identifying product-market fit, and the importance of partnerships in business growth. </p><p>He emphasizes the role of AI and automation in sales and marketing, advocating for their use in streamlining processes while maintaining essential human interaction in customer relations. The episode offers valuable lessons on leveraging technology and fostering strong partnerships to drive business success.</p><p>Check out Robert's work <a href="https://robertindries.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Robert on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertindries/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Chairman of the Board at Robert Indries Holdings, Robert Indries. Robert shares his approach to mergers and acquisitions (M&amp;A), strategies for identifying product-market fit, and the importance of partnerships in business growth. </p><p>He emphasizes the role of AI and automation in sales and marketing, advocating for their use in streamlining processes while maintaining essential human interaction in customer relations. The episode offers valuable lessons on leveraging technology and fostering strong partnerships to drive business success.</p><p>Check out Robert's work <a href="https://robertindries.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Robert on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertindries/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">591f7192-0852-4a10-b8a9-f916c6d1627f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5e8fb2b3-5bbc-468e-8168-697d43be0f38/AIDDL-15-converted.mp3" length="33764839" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>40:12</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>14 - Ralph Groce: The Role of AI in Transforming Angel Investing and Supporting Diverse Talent</title><itunes:title>14 - Ralph Groce: The Role of AI in Transforming Angel Investing and Supporting Diverse Talent</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President and COO of Scroobious, Ralph Groce. Scroobious aims to connect angel investors with underrepresented early-stage founders, particularly women and people of color. </p><p>Ralph highlights the challenges these founders face in accessing venture capital and the critical role of angel investors. The conversation covers how Scroobious uses AI to facilitate investor-founder connections, the importance of diversity in entrepreneurship, and the need for education in navigating angel investing. Ralph also shares insights on leveraging technology for business success and societal impact.</p><p>Check out Ralph's work <a href="https://www.scroobious.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ralph on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhg3d/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President and COO of Scroobious, Ralph Groce. Scroobious aims to connect angel investors with underrepresented early-stage founders, particularly women and people of color. </p><p>Ralph highlights the challenges these founders face in accessing venture capital and the critical role of angel investors. The conversation covers how Scroobious uses AI to facilitate investor-founder connections, the importance of diversity in entrepreneurship, and the need for education in navigating angel investing. Ralph also shares insights on leveraging technology for business success and societal impact.</p><p>Check out Ralph's work <a href="https://www.scroobious.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ralph on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhg3d/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">e381587f-76ce-4b79-8146-033c0d45d5d7</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/59a7c1ae-78fc-4939-817b-cd05d1e78634/AIDDL-14-converted.mp3" length="48138429" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>57:18</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>13 - Tyler Jewell:  Insights on AI, Licensing, and Customer Engagement Strategies</title><itunes:title>13 - Tyler Jewell:  Insights on AI, Licensing, and Customer Engagement Strategies</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO and President of Akka, Tyler Jewell. Tyler shares Akka's journey from a developer toolkit to a comprehensive platform for building concurrent and distributed systems. </p><p>He highlights the challenges faced, including financial struggles and licensing model changes, and the strategies implemented to overcome them. Tyler also explores Akka's role in AI, emphasizing its potential to handle high transaction volumes and optimize AI interactions. Tyler's insights provide valuable perspectives on tech innovation and developer experience.</p><p>Check out Tyler's work <a href="https://akka.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Tyler on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerjewell/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO and President of Akka, Tyler Jewell. Tyler shares Akka's journey from a developer toolkit to a comprehensive platform for building concurrent and distributed systems. </p><p>He highlights the challenges faced, including financial struggles and licensing model changes, and the strategies implemented to overcome them. Tyler also explores Akka's role in AI, emphasizing its potential to handle high transaction volumes and optimize AI interactions. Tyler's insights provide valuable perspectives on tech innovation and developer experience.</p><p>Check out Tyler's work <a href="https://akka.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Tyler on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerjewell/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">be4f1deb-1243-4e69-9d1c-50a961ab4660</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/53de5854-eb2b-4631-92ba-1b0e9186fdde/AIDDL-13-converted.mp3" length="34045245" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>40:32</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>12 - Gabriel Lopez: Why Human Expertise is Still Essential in the Age of AI</title><itunes:title>12 - Gabriel Lopez: Why Human Expertise is Still Essential in the Age of AI</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO and Co-Founder of OrangeLoops, Gabriel Lopez. Gabriel shares his journey from software engineering to entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of self-care in leadership. </p><p>He discusses OrangeLoops' shift to specialized studios for UX, QA, cloud, and R&amp;D, enhancing their focus and expertise. Gabriel delves into their AI and machine learning projects, expressing optimism despite challenges with devices like Apple's Vision Pro. The conversation underscores the need for human expertise alongside AI and the significance of strategic thinking in leadership. </p><p>Check out Gabriel's work <a href="https://orangeloops.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Gabriel on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabouy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO and Co-Founder of OrangeLoops, Gabriel Lopez. Gabriel shares his journey from software engineering to entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of self-care in leadership. </p><p>He discusses OrangeLoops' shift to specialized studios for UX, QA, cloud, and R&amp;D, enhancing their focus and expertise. Gabriel delves into their AI and machine learning projects, expressing optimism despite challenges with devices like Apple's Vision Pro. The conversation underscores the need for human expertise alongside AI and the significance of strategic thinking in leadership. </p><p>Check out Gabriel's work <a href="https://orangeloops.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Gabriel on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabouy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6593f7d3-b899-43f9-8338-54491414d67a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 12 Mar 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/463be9a0-61d8-46e8-b2c6-3ea0bdcff604/AIDDL-12-converted.mp3" length="23926941" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:29</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>11 - Simon Nynens: Mentorship, Trust, and AI: Building the Future of Leadership Together</title><itunes:title>11 - Simon Nynens: Mentorship, Trust, and AI: Building the Future of Leadership Together</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO of NYNENS, Simon Nynens. Simon shares his journey from leading a public company to teaching and coaching CEOs. Simon emphasizes the importance of intentionality in leadership, advising leaders to maintain clarity and purpose in their actions. </p><p>He discusses the impact of AI on businesses, noting that while AI is a powerful tool, it requires a pragmatic approach and coordinated human effort. Simon also highlights the varying interpretations of corporate social responsibility among CEOs and offers practical advice for aspiring leaders on building networks, self-awareness, and fostering trust and capability.</p><p>Check out Simon's work <a href="https://www.nynens.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Simon on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonnynens/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO of NYNENS, Simon Nynens. Simon shares his journey from leading a public company to teaching and coaching CEOs. Simon emphasizes the importance of intentionality in leadership, advising leaders to maintain clarity and purpose in their actions. </p><p>He discusses the impact of AI on businesses, noting that while AI is a powerful tool, it requires a pragmatic approach and coordinated human effort. Simon also highlights the varying interpretations of corporate social responsibility among CEOs and offers practical advice for aspiring leaders on building networks, self-awareness, and fostering trust and capability.</p><p>Check out Simon's work <a href="https://www.nynens.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Simon on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonnynens/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">eb42f5a2-47ba-4520-ab4c-37ee5785b1df</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 05 Mar 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/9b719550-5c7a-4a0d-9cd0-ac2fe1cf5b59/AIDDL-11-converted.mp3" length="34947741" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>41:36</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>10 - Ohad Greenshpan: Enhancing Customer Experience: The Power of Predictive Analytics in E-Commerce</title><itunes:title>10 - Ohad Greenshpan: Enhancing Customer Experience: The Power of Predictive Analytics in E-Commerce</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Co-Founder and CTO of Wandz.ai, Ohad Greenshpan. Ohad discusses the evolution of his company, highlighting its innovative CX platform that uses predictive models to understand and enhance customer behavior. </p><p>He shares a case study with Abercrombie &amp; Fitch, demonstrating significant improvements in conversion rates through targeted messaging. The conversation also covers the importance of timing, data requirements, and the psychological impact of generative AI. Ohad emphasizes creativity and problem-solving as key skills for success in technology.</p><p>Check out Ohad's work <a href="https://wandz.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ohad on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ohadgreenshpan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Co-Founder and CTO of Wandz.ai, Ohad Greenshpan. Ohad discusses the evolution of his company, highlighting its innovative CX platform that uses predictive models to understand and enhance customer behavior. </p><p>He shares a case study with Abercrombie &amp; Fitch, demonstrating significant improvements in conversion rates through targeted messaging. The conversation also covers the importance of timing, data requirements, and the psychological impact of generative AI. Ohad emphasizes creativity and problem-solving as key skills for success in technology.</p><p>Check out Ohad's work <a href="https://wandz.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Ohad on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ohadgreenshpan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">a09a0850-f93f-4c82-b800-8eced969709c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 26 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/05e170cb-d910-4c68-b648-4f706a5813f5/AIDDL-10-converted.mp3" length="39135645" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>46:35</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>9 - Richard Blank: Empathy Over Algorithms: The Future of Customer Service</title><itunes:title>9 - Richard Blank: Empathy Over Algorithms: The Future of Customer Service</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President and Bilingual Telemarketer Trainer of Costa Rica's Call Center, Richard Blank. Richard emphasizes the irreplaceable value of human empathy and effective communication in customer interactions. </p><p>He shares insights on hiring practices, training methods, and the importance of building client relationships. Richard also discusses balancing technology with the human touch, noting that while AI can streamline processes, genuine human connection remains essential. Richard highlights strategies for maintaining high-quality customer service and the significance of empathy in the digital age.</p><p>Check out Richard's work <a href="https://costaricascallcenter.com/en/costa-ricas-call-center-2/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Richard on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/costaricascallcenter/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President and Bilingual Telemarketer Trainer of Costa Rica's Call Center, Richard Blank. Richard emphasizes the irreplaceable value of human empathy and effective communication in customer interactions. </p><p>He shares insights on hiring practices, training methods, and the importance of building client relationships. Richard also discusses balancing technology with the human touch, noting that while AI can streamline processes, genuine human connection remains essential. Richard highlights strategies for maintaining high-quality customer service and the significance of empathy in the digital age.</p><p>Check out Richard's work <a href="https://costaricascallcenter.com/en/costa-ricas-call-center-2/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Richard on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/costaricascallcenter/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">549961ab-4123-4727-a45e-8c67423d20b0</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 19 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/bf2ebac6-ddc9-45cb-94c6-682d8270d4ba/AIDDL-9-converted.mp3" length="40930557" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>48:44</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>8 - Adam Povlitz: Leveraging Technology and Training: A Unique Approach to Franchise Success</title><itunes:title>8 - Adam Povlitz: Leveraging Technology and Training: A Unique Approach to Franchise Success</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems, Adam Povlitz. Adam explains how the structure, involving corporate offices, master franchisees, and unit franchisees, allows for specialization and efficiency. </p><p>The conversation highlights Anago's use of proprietary technology like Clean Com for communication and customer satisfaction, and future plans to integrate AI. Adam also addresses challenges in training, sales, and marketing strategies, emphasizing the company's mission to empower individuals to become successful entrepreneurs in the cleaning industry.</p><p>Check out Adam's work <a href="https://anagocleaning.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Adam on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/anago-cleaning-systems/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems, Adam Povlitz. Adam explains how the structure, involving corporate offices, master franchisees, and unit franchisees, allows for specialization and efficiency. </p><p>The conversation highlights Anago's use of proprietary technology like Clean Com for communication and customer satisfaction, and future plans to integrate AI. Adam also addresses challenges in training, sales, and marketing strategies, emphasizing the company's mission to empower individuals to become successful entrepreneurs in the cleaning industry.</p><p>Check out Adam's work <a href="https://anagocleaning.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Adam on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/anago-cleaning-systems/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6423c6cf-04b1-4f14-81d3-5d7f6584684a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 12 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/26d45547-4e95-484a-94c9-9f3513cf09ef/AIDDL-8-converted.mp3" length="29532333" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>30:46</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>7 - Nat Burgess: The Future of Work: Embracing AI While Cultivating Human Creativity</title><itunes:title>7 - Nat Burgess: The Future of Work: Embracing AI While Cultivating Human Creativity</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Managing Partner of TechStrat, Nat Burgess. Dean and Nat, who have known each other for 30 years since meeting at a tech seminar in New York, discuss the evolution of technology companies and the impact of AI and data on business growth. </p><p>Nat, with a background in investment banking and tech mergers and acquisitions, shares his skepticism about the sustainability of AI as a revenue tool, emphasizing the importance of quality data. He explores the current hype around AI, the necessity of critical thinking and creativity in education, and the challenges of leveraging AI effectively in business.</p><p>Check out Nat's work <a href="https://TechStrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Nat on LinkedIn <a href="https://TechStrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Managing Partner of TechStrat, Nat Burgess. Dean and Nat, who have known each other for 30 years since meeting at a tech seminar in New York, discuss the evolution of technology companies and the impact of AI and data on business growth. </p><p>Nat, with a background in investment banking and tech mergers and acquisitions, shares his skepticism about the sustainability of AI as a revenue tool, emphasizing the importance of quality data. He explores the current hype around AI, the necessity of critical thinking and creativity in education, and the challenges of leveraging AI effectively in business.</p><p>Check out Nat's work <a href="https://TechStrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Nat on LinkedIn <a href="https://TechStrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0eea4bb1-75d0-474d-ba5d-264e55fdd1f1</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 05 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/6a5e880d-2a50-43a8-a316-4a20bd82e338/AIDDL-7-converted.mp3" length="40226349" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>41:54</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>6 - John Karsant: AI Tools and Techniques for the Modern Sales Development Agency</title><itunes:title>6 - John Karsant: AI Tools and Techniques for the Modern Sales Development Agency</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder and CEO of LevelUp Leads, John Karsant. John discusses various facets of lead generation, the impact of technology and AI on sales, and effective hiring practices. </p><p>John shares his journey from independent lead generation to managing a remote team and emphasizes the importance of adaptability and data-driven decision-making. They also explore strategies for securing meetings, the dynamics of working with different client sectors, and the significance of timely follow-up. The episode offers valuable insights for navigating the modern sales landscape.</p><p>Check out John's work <a href="https://levelupleads.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with John on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnkarsant/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the Founder and CEO of LevelUp Leads, John Karsant. John discusses various facets of lead generation, the impact of technology and AI on sales, and effective hiring practices. </p><p>John shares his journey from independent lead generation to managing a remote team and emphasizes the importance of adaptability and data-driven decision-making. They also explore strategies for securing meetings, the dynamics of working with different client sectors, and the significance of timely follow-up. The episode offers valuable insights for navigating the modern sales landscape.</p><p>Check out John's work <a href="https://levelupleads.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with John on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnkarsant/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">bdf6497d-baa3-411d-b505-8327ba6468f8</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 29 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/cd7ecf72-95cd-41b8-b56a-02cb7ebb0018/AIDDL-6-converted.mp3" length="24553581" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>29:14</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>5 - David Hersh: The Importance of Leadership and Human Connection in a Tech-Driven Era</title><itunes:title>5 - David Hersh: The Importance of Leadership and Human Connection in a Tech-Driven Era</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the General Partner of Metamorph Partners, David Hersh. David shares insights from his experiences with Jive Software and Andreessen Horowitz, discussing why companies often get "stuck" due to rapid growth pressures and unrealistic targets. </p><p>He emphasizes the importance of focusing on core strengths and sustainable growth. David also highlights the human element in business, advocating for emotional connections and strong company culture as competitive advantages. He discusses his upcoming book and newsletter, "1 in 10000," which explores human-led competitive strategies in the age of AI and technology.</p><p>Check out David's work <a href="https://www.metamorphpartners.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with David on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/davehersh/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the General Partner of Metamorph Partners, David Hersh. David shares insights from his experiences with Jive Software and Andreessen Horowitz, discussing why companies often get "stuck" due to rapid growth pressures and unrealistic targets. </p><p>He emphasizes the importance of focusing on core strengths and sustainable growth. David also highlights the human element in business, advocating for emotional connections and strong company culture as competitive advantages. He discusses his upcoming book and newsletter, "1 in 10000," which explores human-led competitive strategies in the age of AI and technology.</p><p>Check out David's work <a href="https://www.metamorphpartners.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with David on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/davehersh/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">19ac2bd6-7a33-4299-962a-a427c3209e14</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 22 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/17255b1f-83af-4c4f-ac87-26fcad57121f/AIDDL-5-converted.mp3" length="25011501" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>26:03</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>2 - Heinz Vieluf: How to Foster a Culture of Data Sharing in Your Organization</title><itunes:title>2 - Heinz Vieluf: How to Foster a Culture of Data Sharing in Your Organization</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President of Cibao Meat Products, Heinz Vieluf. Heinz shares his journey in transforming his family’s salami manufacturing business into a data-driven organization. </p><p>He discusses leveraging technology and real-time data to enhance decision-making and drive growth. Heinz also highlights the cultural shift required to embrace data-driven practices and the potential of AI in future decision-making. Additionally, he reflects on leadership lessons, the importance of empathy, and his community involvement through coaching youth football.</p><p>Check out Heinz's work <a href="https://cibaomeat.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Heinz on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/heinz-vieluf-jr-773b98305/?trk=contact-info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President of Cibao Meat Products, Heinz Vieluf. Heinz shares his journey in transforming his family’s salami manufacturing business into a data-driven organization. </p><p>He discusses leveraging technology and real-time data to enhance decision-making and drive growth. Heinz also highlights the cultural shift required to embrace data-driven practices and the potential of AI in future decision-making. Additionally, he reflects on leadership lessons, the importance of empathy, and his community involvement through coaching youth football.</p><p>Check out Heinz's work <a href="https://cibaomeat.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Heinz on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/heinz-vieluf-jr-773b98305/?trk=contact-info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">b18acfeb-cd2c-4e5e-ae22-ed411a69f872</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 15 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/62039568-275d-4f68-b8c5-137f903e66ff/AIDDL-2-converted.mp3" length="20477403" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>24:23</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>4 - Pete Sacco: Why Data Literacy is the Secret Sauce for Modern Business Leaders</title><itunes:title>4 - Pete Sacco: Why Data Literacy is the Secret Sauce for Modern Business Leaders</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President and Founder of Inspirica IT Solutions, Pete Sacco. Pete discusses the challenges CEOs face in becoming data-driven, such as data quality, accessibility, and literacy. Pete emphasizes the importance of integrating data into decision-making processes and having a clear AI strategy aligned with corporate goals. He also highlights the need for fostering data literacy within organizations and predicts significant technological advancements driven by younger generations. Pete underscores the transformative potential of AI and data in modern business.</p><p>Check out Pete's work <a href="https://inspiricait.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Pete on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/petertsacco/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the President and Founder of Inspirica IT Solutions, Pete Sacco. Pete discusses the challenges CEOs face in becoming data-driven, such as data quality, accessibility, and literacy. Pete emphasizes the importance of integrating data into decision-making processes and having a clear AI strategy aligned with corporate goals. He also highlights the need for fostering data literacy within organizations and predicts significant technological advancements driven by younger generations. Pete underscores the transformative potential of AI and data in modern business.</p><p>Check out Pete's work <a href="https://inspiricait.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Pete on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/petertsacco/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">db06b41a-f7ec-4908-847a-78018c3c9041</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 25 Dec 2024 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/7eaf7146-827e-4a73-9638-e3a2f851692e/AIDDL-4-converted.mp3" length="31927437" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>44:21</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>3 - Bethany Schuttinga, PhD &amp; Jon Neitzel: Building Trust in AI</title><itunes:title>3 - Bethany Schuttinga, PhD &amp; Jon Neitzel: Building Trust in AI</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the partner, Founder, and Managing Partner Bethany Schuttinga and Jon Neitzel. Bethany and Jon explore the integration of data and AI in organizational decision-making, emphasizing the importance of data literacy and change management. Jon discusses his journey in asset management and the role of analytics, while Bethany highlights the need for a data-driven culture. They also introduce their venture, Anduril Partners, which aims to bridge data and strategy. The episode underscores the challenges and opportunities in leveraging data for business growth and efficiency.</p><p>Check out Bethany and Jon's work <a href="https://www.andurilpartners.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Bethany and Jon on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-j-schuttinga-54205716/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-neitzell/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Dean Guida speaks to the partner, Founder, and Managing Partner Bethany Schuttinga and Jon Neitzel. Bethany and Jon explore the integration of data and AI in organizational decision-making, emphasizing the importance of data literacy and change management. Jon discusses his journey in asset management and the role of analytics, while Bethany highlights the need for a data-driven culture. They also introduce their venture, Anduril Partners, which aims to bridge data and strategy. The episode underscores the challenges and opportunities in leveraging data for business growth and efficiency.</p><p>Check out Bethany and Jon's work <a href="https://www.andurilpartners.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Bethany and Jon on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-j-schuttinga-54205716/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-neitzell/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">b73ca07e-addc-43d9-aa3f-54132372f853</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 18 Dec 2024 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/7905389e-4256-4241-9d57-e6385191c97f/AIDDL-3-converted.mp3" length="28006317" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>29:10</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>1 - Navigating the Future: How Data and AI Are Shaping Leadership Strategies with Dean Guida</title><itunes:title>1 - Navigating the Future: How Data and AI Are Shaping Leadership Strategies with Dean Guida</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In the inaugural episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks to the host and creator of the show, Dean Guida. Dean is the founder and CEO of <a href="https://www.slingshotapp.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Slingshot</a> and he's the CEO of <a href="https://www.infragistics.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Infragistics</a>. </p><p>Dean discusses his extensive background in the software industry and Slingshot's mission to leverage data and AI for business growth. The episode also delves into the concept of data-driven leadership, emphasizing the importance of using data and experimentation to make informed decisions. Dean highlights Slingshot's innovative AI-driven platform and expresses enthusiasm for interviewing various leaders to share insights on data-driven strategies. If you think you'd be a good fit for the show, please apply to be a guest.</p><p>Check out Dean's work <a href="https://www.slingshotapp.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> and <a href="https://www.infragistics.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Dean on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanguida/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the inaugural episode of AI &amp; Data Driven Leadership, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence speaks to the host and creator of the show, Dean Guida. Dean is the founder and CEO of <a href="https://www.slingshotapp.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Slingshot</a> and he's the CEO of <a href="https://www.infragistics.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Infragistics</a>. </p><p>Dean discusses his extensive background in the software industry and Slingshot's mission to leverage data and AI for business growth. The episode also delves into the concept of data-driven leadership, emphasizing the importance of using data and experimentation to make informed decisions. Dean highlights Slingshot's innovative AI-driven platform and expresses enthusiasm for interviewing various leaders to share insights on data-driven strategies. If you think you'd be a good fit for the show, please apply to be a guest.</p><p>Check out Dean's work <a href="https://www.slingshotapp.io/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> and <a href="https://www.infragistics.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p><p>Connect with Dean on LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanguida/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.slingshotapp.io/podcast-guest-application" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://data-driven-leadership.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">02be08c1-d220-4dcd-89c1-914aa59fb452</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bc083b90-d20d-4248-b615-9994d39434af/OGEmoC0o0xVGCoHJ-ADZLLHk.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 04 Dec 2024 12:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/28e68e29-9f5c-4cf2-84ce-48d8fcec1250/TDDLP-1-converted.mp3" length="12504726" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>13:02</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item></channel></rss>