In this episode, I dive into the world of AI leadership with Andreas Welsh, a renowned AI expert and author of 'The AI Leadership Handbook'. We explore Andreas's impressive career at SAP, his new venture as an AI advisor and expert, his impactful journey on LinkedIn, and his insights into successful AI implementation.

Topics we cover:

• Discover Andreas’s background and his remarkable 23-year career at SAP. He shares pivotal moments and lessons learned from working at one of the world’s largest tech companies.
• Learn what motivated Andreas to start sharing his expertise on LinkedIn in 2021, and the significant impact it has had on his professional life.
• Uncover the inspiration behind Andreas's book, The AI Leadership Handbook, and his mission to guide organisations in harnessing AI effectively.
• Andreas discusses the critical elements that must be in place for AI projects to thrive and avoid the common pitfalls that lead to failure.
• Understand the need for the emerging Chief AI Officer role, how it differs from a Chief Data & Analytics Officer, and the importance of giving it a strong mandate within organisations.
• Explore the concept of multiplier communities and their role in amplifying AI capabilities across organisations.
• Andreas shares his vision for AI over the next 5-10 years, including opportunities, potential risks, and disruptions.
• Andreas leaves listeners with a powerful lesson from 'The AI Leadership Handbook' that every leader should consider when integrating AI into their strategy.

This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in AI leadership and innovation. Whether you're an executive, a tech enthusiast, or someone curious about the future of AI, Andreas Welsh offers guidance and inspiration to navigate this transformative field.

Connect with Andreas Welsh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreasmwelsch/

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My guest in this episode is Evan Shellshear, an expert in artificial intelligence and co-author of the eye-opening book "Why Data Science Projects Fail: The Harsh Realities of Implementing AI and Analytics, without the Hype."

With nearly two decades of experience in developing AI tools, Evan shares his insights into the real challenges and pitfalls of data science projects, and how organizations can overcome these hurdles.

About Evan Shellshear:

Evan is a renowned AI expert with a Ph.D. in Game Theory from the University of Bielefeld. He has worked globally with leading companies across various industries, using advanced analytics to drive innovation and efficiency.

As an author, his work seeks to demystify the complexities of AI and guide organizations toward successful implementation.

Episode summary:

In this episode, we explore the critical themes of Evan's book, which aims to shed light on why so many data science projects fall short of their potential. We unpack the exaggerated promises and oversimplifications that often lead to these failures, and discuss practical strategies to avoid them.

Discussion highlights:

Why Do Data Science Projects Fail?

• Evan discusses the common pitfalls, including unrealistic expectations and lack of understanding of project complexities.

Balancing costs and benefits:

• How organizations can weigh the costs of failure against the potential benefits of successful data science projects.

Avoiding failures:

• Practical advice on increasing success rates by setting realistic goals and aligning projects with business priorities.

Impact of organizational culture:

• How cultural factors within a company can make or break data science initiatives.

Measuring success:

• Effective metrics and indicators for evaluating project outcomes.

You can find out more about Evan's book here, and connect with him via LinkedIn.

Brian Ferris is a seasoned expert with over two decades of experience in technology and advanced analytics.

Brian has an impressive track record, having worked in IT consulting for 9 years and client-side roles for 13 years with major organisations like the European Central Bank, BAT, Heineken, Nike and Loyalty New Zealand.

In this episode, we dive into Brian's journey from supply chain operations to becoming Chief Data, Analytics and Technology Officer at Loyalty New Zealand. We explore the pivotal moments that shaped his approach to analytics and the leadership qualities essential for fostering a culture that embraces advanced analytics.

We also discuss his new book, "Transition to Advanced Analytics: Get a Return on Your Analytics Investment," co-authored with Jason Tan. Brian shares what inspired him to write the book, provides a synopsis, and highlights key takeaways for organisations looking to transition to advanced analytics.

Topics covered:

• Brian's analytics leadership journey: Discover the key factors that contributed to Brian's successful career progression and the pivotal moments that shaped his approach to analytics.
• Leadership in analytics: Learn about the essential leadership qualities needed to drive analytics initiatives and foster a culture that embraces advanced analytics.
• Evolution of analytics roles: Understand how the role of data scientists and analysts has evolved and which skills are now more critical than ever.
• Underrated tips and tricks: Brian shares practical tips and tricks that all data and analytics teams should use to increase their impact.
• About the book: Hear what inspired Brian to write "Transition to Advanced Analytics" and get a detailed synopsis of the book, including who it’s for and why it's essential reading.
• Common pitfalls and key takeaways: Find out the most common pitfalls organisations face when transitioning to advanced analytics and the key lesson Brian hopes readers will take away from the book.

Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-ferris-a053532/

Brian's book, "Transition to Advanced Analytics: Get a Return on Your Analytics Investment".