Welcome to the Women in Data Podcast, where every other week your host, Karen Jean-Francois interviews some of the most inspiring women working in data. Through each episode, they share their invaluable experience and knowledge. Leaving no stone unturned, the WiD Podcast series will provide you with information on the use of data in various industries, plus helpful tips for career development. More importantly, it will enable you to become the data professional you want to be.
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Halfway through the year feels like the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and ask: What have we learned? Before taking their summer break, Karen and Cecilia look back at the conversations that have stayed with them most and the ideas that challenged their thinking throughout the first half of the year. Together, they discuss: Conversations that surprised them Topics that guests kept bringing up…
What if changing direction didn't mean starting over? So many of us believe our careers should follow a logical path. But what happens when the version of success you've worked so hard to build no longer feels aligned with who you are? In this episode, Karen is joined by Christina Finlay, Global Head of Data and AI for Industrial Operations at Volvo Cars, whose career has taken her across…
This episode features an incredibly candid and tech-forward conversation with Rachel Kirkham, CTO of Mindbridge. Rachel shares her raw experience of returning to work after a six-month career break following a difficult birth, navigating the intense reality of "baby brain fog" and sleep deprivation while stepping right into an executive leadership role. Rather than viewing her time away as a…
In this episode of the Women in Data Podcast, Karen is joined by Marion Shaw to unpack one of the most uncomfortable — and least talked about — parts of career growth: office politics. From aggressive stakeholders in meetings to hidden agendas and shifting power dynamics, Marion shares the lessons she learned navigating leadership at senior levels — including the mistakes she still makes today.…
What does it really take to grow into leadership in data — especially if you didn’t come from a traditional technical background? In this episode, Cecilia speaks with Lauren Dixon, Chief Data Officer at the Financial Conduct Authority, about building confidence, stepping into opportunities before feeling fully ready, and redefining what success in data leadership actually looks like. From studying…
Stepping into management should feel like the natural next step… right? But for many data professionals, becoming a manager feels less like “levelling up” and more like learning an entirely new job from scratch. In this episode of the Women in Data Podcast, Karen is joined by Gemma Trailor, Analytics Manager at B&Q, to unpack the biggest shifts that happen when moving from analyst to manager—and…
What if you could ask your customers anything, and get an answer instantly? In this episode of the Women in Data Podcast, we explore synthetic audiences: AI-powered simulations of real customer segments that are changing the way businesses understand people, test ideas, and make decisions. Leanne breaks down how these audiences are built using real data and large language models, and why this…
Rejection is something we all experience in our careers, but rarely talk about openly. In this episode, Karen and Cecilia have an honest conversation about what setbacks actually feel like in data careers. From job rejections to ideas not landing and difficult feedback, they explore how these moments can impact confidence, identity, and growth. Together, they share personal experiences, unpack the…
Have you ever stepped into a new role… and suddenly felt smaller than you expected? You worked hard to get there. You have the experience. But a few weeks in, you walk into meetings and start second-guessing yourself. Everyone else seems more established, more confident. And before you realise it, you start shrinking. In this episode of the Women in Data Podcast, Karen is joined by Michelle…
Are we becoming worse at our jobs because we use AI? It’s a question so many of us are quietly asking. If AI can write the code, summarise the findings, build the deck… are we still building our skills, or slowly outsourcing them? In this episode, I sit down with AI researcher Nora Petrova to unpack the guilt, the anxiety, and the real risk behind AI tools. But instead of fear-mongering, we focus…
In this cohosted episode Karen and Cecilia reflect on questioning their careers in data from imposter syndrome and leadership doubts to navigating fast-moving industry change. They challenge the idea that seniority brings certainty, instead considering how ambiguity is constant and self-questioning can be an advantage. The conversation explores resilience, shifting environments, and detaching…
The hiring system carries bias, and it shows. While efforts are made to solve this, it’s important that we take ownership of our own career. In this episode, Karen is joined by Nuria Muñoz, Global Talent Leader at Munich Re, to unpack what really happens behind the scenes in hiring, promotions and pay decisions. They talk about why job descriptions are wish lists, why being a perfect match is…
Starting a new job is meant to feel exciting but often, it’s also tiring, awkward, and quietly overwhelming. Even when it’s the right move. In this episode of the Women in Data Podcast, Cecilia is joined by Rianna Kelly to talk honestly about what it really feels like to start somewhere new. From confidence wobbling and long hours without visible output, to rebuilding trust, navigating new…
In this episode of the Women in Data Podcast, hosts Cecilia Oliveira and Karen Jean-Francois pull back the curtain on the "dirty little secret" of the data world: exactly how they are using AI to change the way they work. Moving past the headlines and the hype, Cecilia and Karen share a vulnerable look at their initial skepticism and how they shifted toward an "Augmentation Mindset." They dive…
In this episode, Karen is joined by Kinnari Ladha, Chief Data Officer, to explore why great data work often fails to land — and how communication turns data leaders into trusted influencers, making it their superpower. Drawing on over two decades in data—from hands-on analyst to executive leader—Kinnari shares candid stories of building “perfect” dashboards that didn’t get used, and how those…
What if the secret to a successful year was a shift in mindset? In the first episode of the year on the Women in Data Podcast, Karen is joined by Seana Tomlinson, coach, counsellor, and trainer and coach on the Women in Data LEAP programme, to explore four mindsets that can set you up for a more confident, authentic, and sustainable year. After 18 years in the corporate world, Seana built a…
Karen and Cecilia tackle a pain point every data professional knows: trying to stay aligned without packing your calendar with even more meetings. From hybrid work and endless notifications to navigating Slack vs. Teams, they explore why the answer isn’t more communication — it’s better communication. They share real stories, practical strategies, and the tools that actually help: async updates,…
Are we getting AI transformation all wrong? Organisations are racing to adopt AI, but the gap between ambition and execution is wider than ever. In this Women in Data episode, host Cecilia Oliveira speaks with technology leader Saloni Thanki about turning strategy into tangible business outcomes. Saloni, who advises both nimble startups and global corporates, cuts through the hype to explore the…
In this episode, Karen is joined by Barr Moses, CEO and Co-founder of Monte Carlo, to explore how AI agents are transforming how data teams work — and why trust must sit at the heart of every data and AI initiative. Barr shares how troubleshooting agents save days of work mimic human reasoning to identify and fix data incidents, how teams can “operationalize trust” in their data and/or AI systems,…
In this episode of the Women in Data Podcast, Cecilia chats with Beth Bauer, a healthcare data leader with nearly four decades of experience bringing data, people, and purpose together. Beth introduces the idea of positive friction — those intentional pauses that invite reflection, discussion, and sometimes disagreement — as a way to make better decisions in healthcare. She explains how this…
Progress in data careers doesn’t have to mean management! In this episode, Karen speaks with Niruta Talwekar, Staff Data Engineer, about carving out a fulfilling career on the technical track — and why progress doesn’t always look like a new job title. Niruta shares her perspective on: Why a technical career path could be a better option for many data professionals Why slow title changes don’t…
Getting promoted isn’t just about doing great work—it’s about knowing how to show it, when to ask, and what “next level” really means. In this candid conversation, co-hosts Karen Jean-Francois and Cecilia Oliveira break down five essential strategies to help you move your career forward. Karen shares a personal story about giving a colleague advice that landed him a promotion while she stayed…
In this episode, Cecilia welcomes Katherine Church to discuss the systemic gender data gap in healthcare and its impact on women’s health. Katherine explains how women have long been underrepresented in research and clinical trials, leading to misdiagnosis, overlooked conditions, and unsafe treatments. She shares innovative partnerships, such as Boots and Tesco using loyalty card data to detect…
In this episode, Karen speaks with Cali Wood, Head of Data & AI Strategy & Culture at AXA UK, about what it really means to future-proof your career in a world where GenAI is reshaping the skills landscape. From the rise of AI agents and natural language as a “coding language” to the growing importance of human skills like communication, ethics, and business understanding, Cali shares her…
In this episode of the Women in Data podcast, Cecilia is joined by Jo Portlock, VP of People, Culture and Belonging at LexisNexis, for a powerful conversation about what fairness truly means in today’s workplace — and why it’s so much more than a buzzword. They explore how fairness is about visibility and access, not advantage, and why organisations must intentionally build cultures that support…
In this candid and empowering episode, Karen sits down with Maaike Van Der Branden, Chief Data Officer, to explore the real, unfiltered experience of returning to work after maternity leave. From battling imposter syndrome and skill gaps to rebuilding confidence and reshaping leadership, Maaike shares insights that every working mum, colleague, and employer should hear. Together, they discuss what…
Karen is joined by Cindi Howson—Chief Data & AI Strategy Officer at ThoughtSpot and host of The Data Chief Podcast. If you saw her speak at the Women in Data flagship conference, you’ll know how inspiring and bold her perspective is. In this episode, Cindi shares her take on where data and AI are heading—and it’s not business as usual. They explore: How generative AI and AI agents are already…
Screenshots of dashboards. Dashboards no one uses. Naming conventions we regret. In this cohosted episode, Cecilia and Karen unpack the everyday habits in data that might just make us cringe in 20 years. Inspired by the Future Data Cringe, https://www.futuredatacringe.com/ , where 50 data leaders shared what they think will age badly, this conversation is full of laughs, reflection, and a reminder…
In this episode, Cecilia welcomes Riya Joshi, a Data and Applied Scientist on the Microsoft Edge Browser team, to demystify the wide world of data roles. Riya breaks down the field into four core paths—analyst, engineering, science, and product—explaining the purpose, required skills, and career fit for each. Drawing from her journey from India to the USA, Riya offers guidance on how to assess…
In this episode of the podcast, Cecilia speaks with Celine Liu, who transitioned from nonprofit coaching to leading global analytics at Uber. Celine’s story is a testament to how data is one of the most transferable and empowering skills across any industry. Together, they explore the top three non-technical skills for success in data: everyday communication, strategic thinking, and business…
In this episode, Karen is joined by Dora Boussias, an Award-winning Data & AI Exec & Founder with 30 years of experience across industries. Dora shares her journey from Greece to the USA., and from corporate leadership to full-time coaching and mentoring. Together, they explore the importance of soft skills in a data-driven world—especially communication, self-awareness, and personal branding.…
In this episode, Caroline Florence, founder of Insight Narrator, discusses the essential non-technical skills required to become a leader in data, and what they look like and evolve at every stage of one’s career. She emphasises that being a data leader is about leadership first, with transferable skills like communication, influence, and managing teams becoming even more critical in the AI era.…
In this episode of Women in Data, Bindu Bakrania, Head of Data Analytics for Capital Investments at Legal & General shares her journey from a risk analyst to heading an entire Data Analytics team. She discusses the importance of strategic career moves, embracing sideways transitions, and stepping into business roles to gain a broader perspective. Bindu highlights networking, leadership…
This episode explores the tough decision of staying in or leaving a role. Karen Is joined by Marli van der Merwe and Rianna Kelly share personal experiences, discussing career growth, work environment, and well-being. Marli, a Data Engineer, had only been in the UK for a few months when she decided to leave her role. Rianna, a Senior Manager for Data Analytics Engineering, on the other hand…
Collaboration between data teams and stakeholders isn’t always smooth. Misaligned expectations, shifting requirements, and a lack of mutual understanding can lead to frustration on both sides. In this cohosted episode, Karen and Cecilia dive into the key challenges data teams face when working with stakeholders —and, more importantly, how to overcome them. They share practical strategies to: Get…
Data privacy isn’t just for legal teams—it’s a responsibility shared by everyone working with data. In this episode, Karen sits down with Sachiko Scheuing, European Privacy and AI Governance Officer at Acxiom, to explore the crucial role privacy plays in the data industry and why it matters more than ever. They discuss: How data privacy differs from other roles in data and why strong communication…
In this episode of the Women in Data podcast hosted by Cecilia, Manca Vitorino shares her journey from journalism to a data leadership role at ICIS, part of LexisNexis. Initially a markets reporter, Manca's exposure to data-driven journalism led her to identify automation and data visualization opportunities, sparking her transition into data. She discusses how skills from…
What does it take to build a personal brand that truly stands out? In this episode, Karen dives into the world of personal branding with two inspiring guests, each offering unique perspectives and strategies: Robin Sutara, Chief Data and Strategy Officer at Databricks, who shares her journey from being behind the scenes to building her personal brand and being a visible thought leader. Robin…
More often than not, we start looking for a new job when it’s already too late. We’re unhappy in our current role, and the rush to apply for anything we find online can lead to dissatisfaction down the line. In this episode, Karen and Cecilia explore a more strategic job search process for data professionals. From defining your ideal role to navigating the complexities of applications, they share…
What does it take to find your space and thrive in the data industry? For the last episode of 2024, Lizzie Harris steps into the hosting seat to interview Karen Jean Francois in front of a live audience at Kingfisher. Over the past two years, Karen has made courageous career decisions—voluntarily taking redundancy, leaving a job that wasn’t right for her without having another lined up, and…
As a recruitment leader, Roisin McCarthy noticed that her team was placing less and less women in data related roles year on year. She kept hearing stories of women being passed over for promotion. So she set on a mission to bring gender parity in the data industry. 10 years later, Women in Data has become a powerful force, advocating for women and creating spaces where they can excel. In this…
In this episode, Cecilia is joined by Konstantina Kapetanidi and Anna O'Donohue to talk about how embracing neurodiversity can bring unique strengths and perspectives to the workforce, as well as to day-to-day life. They share personal experiences with neurodiversity, discuss the importance of diagnosis, and address workplace challenges such as misinformation and inclusion. Having recently ran a…
In this episode, Jade Emmanuel, a Customer Science Analyst, reveals how she took ownership of her career by starting with curiosity and pursuing what excites her. You'll get actionable advice on how to take control of your own career, whether it's through engaging in curious conversations, shadowing others, or approaching senior leaders with confidence. Learn how to leverage informal learning…
Did you know that 70% of adults will experience imposter syndrome at least once in their lives? In this two-part episode, Karen dives deep into the world of imposter syndrome, exploring how it impacts professionals and how to break free from its grip. In Part 1, Holly Wall, a Data Governance Analyst, candidly shares her personal battle with imposter syndrome. She opens up about the challenges she…
In this episode, Jackie Clayton, Analytics & Data Science Lead at Mars, discusses creating effective learning cultures in data teams. Drawing from her experience establishing data academies, Jackie shares insights on: Integrating learning into daily work Making the most of your learning budget Learning without having to spend money for it Involving all team members in the learning process…
Two data professionals get real about managing stress and finding work-life balance in a rapidly changing world. From failed meditation attempts to CrossFit obsessions, Cecilia and Karen share their personal journeys of discovering what actually works for them to stay sane in high-pressure tech careers. With candid humour, they discuss the pressures of "self-care" culture, the importance of…
In this episode, Karen and Dr. Nadia Zaheer tackle one of the most important topics in data: ensuring and demonstrating the value of data science work. Nadia shares practical strategies for prioritising projects using impact vs. effort matrices, the importance of quantifying results, and effective ways to communicate value to stakeholders. She emphasises the need for data professionals to…
For the last episode of this summer mini series, we have a truly inspiring guest, Padma Varatharajan, who recently transitioned back into the workforce after a career break of over 20 years. She shares her incredible journey from raising her son to becoming a data engineer at Cap Gemini. We delve into the challenges she faced re-entering the workforce, the steps she took to rediscover her passion…
Cecilia is chatting today with Karina Naminas, the CEO of Label Your Data. Karina's journey is a fascinating one, beginning with liberal arts and journalism and evolving into a leadership role in the tech industry. She started her career in customer support, took on various roles, and eventually co-founded a company specializing in data annotation for AI development. We'll explore her unique path,…
Cecilia chats with Savannah Brown, who shares her incredible journey from the medical field to becoming a data and insight analyst. This episode promises to be filled with valuable insights and inspiration, especially for those considering a major career transition. Savannah's story highlights the power of transferable skills and the endless possibilities within the data industry.
