Data Tech Talks

19 Episodes
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By: Raed Mahboub

Join Raed Mahboub as he discusses trending data tools with expert data professionals within the industry, unlocking real insights and strategies through a thought-provoking conversation on creating real value.

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Season 3- Episode 2 -The Evolution of Finance Through Data & Analytics
Season 3- Episode 2 -The Evolution of Finance Through Data & Analytics episode artwork
#2
Today at 10:30 AM

In this episode of Data Tech Talks, I’m joined by Roy Chan to explore how the relationship between finance and data teams has evolved, and what finance functions really need from analytics today.

Drawing on Roy’s own background in finance, we discuss how commercial understanding can shape the way data solutions are built and why the strongest analytics teams need more than just technical capability. We explore the importance of understanding the business, building strong relationships with finance stakeholders and ensuring analytics is connected to the decisions the business is trying to make.

We a...


Season 3 - Episode 1 - From AI Pilot to Business Value with Ambrish Kinariwala
Season 3 - Episode 1 - From AI Pilot to Business Value with Ambrish Kinariwala episode artwork
#1
08/25/2026

In this episode of Data Tech Talks, Raed Mahboub is joined by Ambrish Kinariwala, a senior Data & AI leader with over 15 years of experience across telecommunications, financial services, health, government and consulting.

With organisations investing heavily in AI, the conversation focuses on one of the biggest challenges facing leaders today: how do you move beyond the hype and turn AI investment into measurable business value?

Raed and Ambrish discuss how organisations should prioritise AI use cases, why initiatives need to be anchored to genuine business problems, and the importance of proving value early through focused...


Season 2 – Episode 8 – How AI at scale is reshaping operating models and redefining the mandate for data leaders with Himanshi Juneja
Season 2 – Episode 8 – How AI at scale is reshaping operating models and redefining the mandate for data leaders with Himanshi Juneja episode artwork
#8
12/09/2025

Joining me on this episode of Data Tech Talks is Himanshi Juneja. We explore the importance of starting AI projects with a clear focus on creating measurable business value, ensuring initiatives are tied to metrics like revenue, cost, or customer outcomes. Himanshi shares insights on avoiding costly experiments and aligning AI with tangible results.

We also discuss the critical role of decision-making clarity and collaboration with business leaders to identify high-value use cases. Himanshi highlights the need for sufficient data quality and realistic benefit assessment, offering practical guidance for organisations looking to implement AI successfully.


Season 2 – Episode 7 – The Rise of Modern Data Infrastructure in Healthcare Domain with Ben Nguyen
Season 2 – Episode 7 – The Rise of Modern Data Infrastructure in Healthcare Domain with Ben Nguyen episode artwork
#7
11/25/2025

Joining me on this episode of Data Tech Talks is Ben Nguyen, a data leader with experience in finance and healthcare. We discuss the challenges of leveraging data analytics in healthcare, including building modern data infrastructure, ensuring governance and security, and using AI to improve processes and outcomes. Ben shares insights from his journey transitioning into healthcare data and the strategies needed to drive effective analytics.

We also explore the importance of creating user-friendly data products that empower stakeholders and support data-driven decision-making. Ben offers practical advice for building impactful analytics programs and fostering a culture where...


Season 2 – Episode 6 – The Role of Data Quality in Modern Data Platforms with Melvin Widodo
Season 2 – Episode 6 – The Role of Data Quality in Modern Data Platforms with Melvin Widodo episode artwork
#6
11/11/2025

In our latest episode of the Data Tech Talks podcast, we dive deep into the critical role of data quality in modern data platforms with Melvin Widodo, a seasoned data leader with over 20 years of experience. Discover how data quality underpins successful analytics and platform development and learn about the evolving landscape of data governance and AI integration. Melvin shares insights on building robust data quality frameworks and the importance of collaboration between business and technology teams.


Season 2 – Episode 5 – The use of Artificial Intelligence in Data Processes and Solutions with Thomas Winsnes
Season 2 – Episode 5 – The use of Artificial Intelligence in Data Processes and Solutions with Thomas Winsnes episode artwork
#5
10/27/2025

Joining Raed on this episode of Data Tech Talks is Thomas Winsnes, a technology leader. In this episode, they explore the evolving relationship between AI, data privacy and compliance and how it’s impacting modern business processes. Thomas offers a deep dive into designing AI systems with compliance in mind, ensuring accountability in AI development and navigating the role of government regulations.

They also discuss the positive potential of AI, its integration into DevOps and the importance of fostering strong collaboration between AI and tech teams. Thomas shares practical insights and success stories around automation and compliance, hi...


Season 2 - Episode 4 - The Challenges of Changing Perception and Delivering Value in Immature Data Environments
Season 2 - Episode 4 - The Challenges of Changing Perception and Delivering Value in Immature Data Environments episode artwork
#4
08/12/2025

Joining Raed on this episode of Data Tech Talks is Alexander Fetisov, a BI analytics leader with extensive experience across the construction and infrastructure sectors. In this conversation, they explore the complexities of managing data in industries with varying levels of maturity and the critical role communication plays in successful BI delivery.

Alex reflects on his career journey from banking to construction, offering insights into the unique challenges and opportunities each sector presents. He shares practical strategies for effective stakeholder engagement, bridging the gap between technical and non-technical users, and designing BI solutions with the end user...


Season 2 – Episode 3 – Modernising Data Infrastructure within the Hospitality Domain with Shubhankar Thatte
Season 2 – Episode 3 – Modernising Data Infrastructure within the Hospitality Domain with Shubhankar Thatte episode artwork
#3
06/17/2025

Joining Raed on this episode of Data Tech Talks is Shubhankar Thatte, a technology leader with deep experience in the hospitality industry. In this episode, they explore the transformative journey of modernising legacy systems and how a data-driven approach is reshaping hospitality operations from enhancing guest experiences to driving operational efficiency and business growth. Shubhankar offers a deep dive into the challenges of implementation, the strategic considerations behind selecting the right technology stack, and the tangible business value unlocked through modernisation.

They also discuss the growing role of AI in improving data management processes and how the...


Season 2 – Episode 2 – Delivering Insights within the Financial Services Domain with Avijit Chowdhury
Season 2 – Episode 2 – Delivering Insights within the Financial Services Domain with Avijit Chowdhury episode artwork
#2
06/02/2025

Joining Raed on this episode of Data Tech Talks is Avijit Chowdhury, a seasoned data analytics leader with deep expertise in the financial services sector. This conversation, dives into the complex landscape of data in finance, exploring the unique challenges of deriving actionable insights while ensuring strong data quality and governance.

Avijit shares his perspective on the evolving role of data engineers, particularly as emerging technologies like AI reshape traditional workflows. He discusses the critical importance of a well-defined data strategy. Avijit also addresses common misconceptions around data utilisation and underscores the importance of clear, impactful communication...


Season 2 – Episode 1 – Customer Analytics, Driving Value within the Insurance Domain with Janani Hari
Season 2 – Episode 1 – Customer Analytics, Driving Value within the Insurance Domain with Janani Hari episode artwork
#1
05/20/2025

Joining me on this episode of Data Tech Talks is Janani Hari, a seasoned expert in data and insights, with deep experience in the insurance sector. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of customer analytics and how it’s reshaping the insurance industry - from shifting perceptions to enhancing customer experiences. Janani offers a deep dive into the challenges of data quality, the nuances of stakeholder engagement, and the art of effectively communicating insights and recommendations.

We also discuss the rising influence of AI in customer analytics and how the industry is embracing data-driven decision-making. Ja...


Season 1 - Episode 9 - DataBricks with Sunil Dhurve, Senior Data Engineer
Season 1 - Episode 9 - DataBricks with Sunil Dhurve, Senior Data Engineer episode artwork
#9
04/01/2025

Joining me on this episode of Data Tech Talks is Sunil Dhurve, a seasoned expert in data platforms and engineering. In this episode we explore the evolution and impact of Databricks in the modern data landscape, diving into its architecture, key features, and why it has become a go-to platform for data engineering. Sunil shares insights from his extensive experience, discussing the organisational and cultural shifts needed to successfully adopt new technologies. The conversation also emphasises the importance of continuous learning and upskilling for data engineers to stay ahead in this fast-evolving field.

This episode offers valuable...


Season 1 - Episode 8 - AWS with Abhilash Kale, Senior Data Engineer
Season 1 - Episode 8 - AWS with Abhilash Kale, Senior Data Engineer episode artwork
#8
03/17/2025

Joining me on this episode of Data Tech Talks is Senior Data Engineering Professional Abhilash Kale. Abhilash has extensive experience in consulting, financial services and banking, working on various data-initiatives with well-known Australian companies. We explore AWS from a data engineering perspective, delving into Abhilash’s journey into the field, the tools and services offered by AWS, and how it compares to Azure. We’ll also discuss modern data platforms like Databricks and Snowflake and hear Abhilash’s expert insights on how aspiring data engineers can enhance their skills and learn AWS effectively.

This episode offers valuable knowle...


Season 1 - Episode 7 - GCP with Sebastian Guerra, Data Engineer
Season 1 - Episode 7 - GCP with Sebastian Guerra, Data Engineer episode artwork
#7
03/04/2025

Joining me on this episode is seasoned Data Engineering Professional Sebastian Guerra. During our conversation, we explore how Google Cloud Platform (GCP) has shaped the landscape of cloud computing and data engineering. We’ll discuss the evolution of data engineering, the tools and methodologies that drive GCP, and hear Sebastian’s expert insights on how organisations can optimise cost management, data ingestion, and orchestrate efficient data pipelines.

This episode offers valuable knowledge on data engineering best practices and the importance of understanding the full end-to-end process.


Season 1 - Episode 6 - Data Modeling with Jeff He, Lead Data Modeler
Season 1 - Episode 6 - Data Modeling with Jeff He, Lead Data Modeler episode artwork
#6
01/19/2025

In this episode, we take a closer look at the art and science of data modeling – a vital process for successful business intelligence! Lead Data Modeler Jeff He will walk you through different modeling strategies, highlighting the benefits of each in real-world scenarios to equip you with insights and refine your data strategy. Whether you’re just entering the field or looking to upgrade your skills, this episode is packed with valuable information you won’t want to miss!


Season 1 - Episode 5 - Tableau with Arpan Dey, Senior Analytics Consultant
Season 1 - Episode 5 - Tableau with Arpan Dey, Senior Analytics Consultant episode artwork
#5
12/01/2024

Tableau is a powerful tool that has revolutionised data visualisation.

With Senior Data Analytics Consultant Arpan Dey joining us in this episode, discover how Tableau enables users to turn complex datasets into clear, actionable insights. We’ll discuss key features, share innovative techniques for designing engaging dashboards, and hear Arpan’s expert opinions on how organisations can successfully implement Tableau into their operations.

Whether you're a data novice or an experienced analyst, this episode offers valuable knowledge and inspiration to enhance your analytical skills and make data-driven decisions.


Season 1 - Episode 4 - Snowflake with Anto Raic, Lead Data Engineer
Season 1 - Episode 4 - Snowflake with Anto Raic, Lead Data Engineer episode artwork
#4
11/17/2024

In this episode, we dive deep into the best practices for leveraging Snowflake’s robust capabilities.

Join me as I discuss all things Snowflake with Lead Data Engineer Anto Raic, including efficiency and cost, Snowpipes, tasks and Anto’s extensive personal experience with snowflake throughout his successful career.

Whether you’re looking to streamline your data pipeline or unlock advanced analytics, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you get the most out of Snowflake. Tune in and elevate your data game


Season 1 - Episode 3 - Azure with Joseph Yalla, BI & Analytics Manager
Season 1 - Episode 3 - Azure with Joseph Yalla, BI & Analytics Manager episode artwork
#3
11/03/2024

Are you an Azure user? Or are you interested in learning more about the technologies that make it such a well-rounded data engineering solution?

Then you don’t want to miss this episode of Raed’s Data Tech Talks as we go through a detailed chat on popular technologies such as ADF, Synapse and Azure Data Lake.

Joining me is Joseph Yalla, a highly experienced data engineering professional who comes from a strong background in business consulting working with some of Australia’s leading organisations.

Joseph does an amazing job of talking through the va...


Season 1 - Episode 2 - DBT with Mohamed Ali, Senior Data Engineer
Season 1 - Episode 2 - DBT with Mohamed Ali, Senior Data Engineer episode artwork
#2
10/13/2024

Data transformation has changed dramatically over the past few years with the introduction of modern data platforms.

There has been a shift from traditional ETL to ELT, and DBT has been a tool that has been at the forefront of not only modern technology stacks but also in transforming the way we do Data transformation. No pun intended.

In this episode Mohamed Ali delves into his extensive experience with DBT and how it can be leveraged to provide value within an organisation. Join us to find out how you can make the most out of...


Season 1 - Episode 1 - Power BI with Gaurav Ghai, Senior Power BI Specialist
Season 1 - Episode 1 - Power BI with Gaurav Ghai, Senior Power BI Specialist episode artwork
#1
09/24/2024

Power BI is at the centre of many conversations when it comes to reporting and dashboarding in medium-to-large enterprises.

Tune in to this insightful conversation with Gaurav Ghai, a seasoned BI professional, who has worked with some of Australia’s most well-known organisations. He has been pivotal in establishing Power BI best practices as well as assisting organisations to migrate into Power BI for their enterprise reporting.

In this discussion, we highlight what Power BI is and how it has been prevalent in driving data-driven decision making as well as establishing self-service reporting.

Ma...