Podcast

Episode 1: Deepfakes, Digital ID, and Data: How Technology is Shaping the Future of Financial Inclusion

Join us for our season 4 opening episode featuring Brad Carr, Principal of Preparing Futures and Founding Director of the Australian Digital Trust Community. Drawing from his extensive professional experience including his time as NAB's former Chief Innovation Officer, and his personal interests which included studying Futurism at the University of Houston, Brad provides insights into:

• Building a secure, inclusive and diverse digital identity ecosystem
• AI's role in detecting and combating fraud
• Tackling deepfakes and safeguarding online trust

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Episode 2: Useless Jobs and Why Your Judgement Matters: a data informed approach to understanding Risk, Responsibility, and Restorative Justice

Join us for episode 2 of season 4 featuring Professor Sidney Dekker, a bestselling author academic at Griffith University and a pilot known for his groundbreaking work in safety science. Drawing from his extensive research and experience, Sidney challenges conventional wisdom on data, human error, and organisational safety, offering insights into:

• The benefits of restorative justice over blame in building safer systems
• Understanding the escalation of commitment in various industries, from aviation to healthcare
• Empowering better choices by making risks and trade-offs visible

This thought-provoking episode explores how data-driven cultures can balance accountability with empathy to foster real progress in uncertain times. Tune in for insights that could transform your approach to leadership, safety, and decision-making across various sectors.

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Episode 3: Measuring What Matters: How Data Help Can Amplify Social Good

What does social impact really mean, and how can organisations measure it effectively? In this episode, we’re joined by Stephen Riley, CEO of The BUSY Group North America, and Dr Julia Carins, Associate Professor of Social Marketing at Griffith University.

Together, they cut through the jargon to explore:

• What makes impact reporting credible (spoiler: it's not just about pretty graphs)
• Common mistakes organisations make when measuring impact—and how to avoid them.
• How data can validate—or challenge—the stories we tell about our work.

Whether you're a data professional, decision-maker, or simply passionate about purpose-driven work and long-term social change, this episode offers valuable insights on leveraging data for real-world impact.

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Episode 4: From Automation to Empathy: Redefining Customer Conversations with Data & AI

Join us on the Show Me the Data podcast as we explore AI adoption in finance with Jordan Walsh, a Growth Strategist at Suncorp Bank. Discover how AI transforms customer interactions and learn about aligning AI projects with business objectives, balancing data-driven approaches, and addressing ethical considerations like bias and privacy. This episode is perfect for financial professionals, and anyone interested in AI 's future in finance. Tune in for actionable insights and thought-provoking discussions on the evolving landscape of AI in financial services.

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Episode 5: Show Me the Culture: Why Data Alone Won’t Transform Your Organisation

In this special finale of Season 4, we turn the mic on Tom Verhelst, Director of the Relational Insights Data Lab and Griffith Data Trust. Usually co-hosting, Tom steps into the spotlight to share why culture, not just technology, is the key to unlocking true data-driven transformation.

Tom shares insights on several key areas, including:

• Embedding data scientists in business units – Why moving beyond dashboards sparks real change
• Leadership humility – Shifting from “I know best” to “let’s see what the data says”
• The overlooked KPI for measuring cultural progress
• Celebrating measured failure – Why learning beats perfection
• Tom's "Big Brother" dream dataset (spoiler: it’s for good!)

Whether you're a data enthusiast, leader, or culture advocate, this episode will inspire you to rethink how your organisation approaches transformation.

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Episode 1: The Data Catalyst Network: Building Capability in the Non-for-profit Sector

Adoption of AI has doubled since 2022, with almost one in four not-for-profit organisations making use of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT .

Findings from Infoxchange’s latest 2023 Digital Technology in the Not-for-Profit Sector Report reveal the usage of generative AI tools has doubledsince their last report in 2022, with almost one in four organisations making use of tools such as ChatGPT .  The report also sheds light on the pressing need for enhanced data capabilities within the sector to disrupt the persistent cycles of disadvantage. With over 1,000 organisations participating in the survey this year, we explore challenges and transformative potential in the sector including the increased use of generative AI tools. Tune in for a thought provoking discussion of how data-driven strategies can reshape the sector and how initiatives such as the Data Catalyst Network, a collaboration between Infoxchange and the Paul Ramsay Foundation, unite stakeholders and leverage data for positive change in the non-profit landscape.

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Episode 2: AI Fluency & Ethics: Setting the foundation for a data-enabled government

What are the current levels of data and AI fluency across the public sector and what does good AI alignment look like? In this episode, we are honoured to host the head of Queensland Government’s Data and Artificial Intelligence Unit, Nathan Bines. Our guest oversees the state’s budget allocation for data and AI initiatives, leading policy and legislative reviews focused on the safe and ethical application of AI technologies. Nathan’s team plays a key role in shaping the Queensland’s digital economy strategy and have been instrumental in developing generative AI tools for government employees. Join us as we discuss the integration of data and AI in government operations as well as the importance of data literacy for all employees. This insightful conversation also covers overcoming AI skepticism through experience and exposure, the ethical challenges of AI alignment, and the impact of developers’ biases on AI tools. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how data and AI are reshaping government operations and the importance of informed, ethical leadership in navigating this digital evolution.

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Episode 3: The Data Behind Heartbreak: Unveiling Romance Scams

In 2021, Australians lost a staggering $210 million to romance scams, contributing to a total of $3.1 billion lost to various scams as reported by the ACCC . In this episode, we delve into the complex world of romance scams, magnified by the alarming rise of deepfake technology. Featuring expert insights from Dr. Jacqueline Drew, we explore the sophisticated tactics scammers use, from love bombing to deepfake videos, and the significant financial and emotional toll on victims. Learn about the challenges in data coordination, victimology, and the steps being taken globally to combat these scams.

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Episode 4: The Data Architect: Empowering the Public Sector with AWS Solution

Being a data-driven organisation means more than just delivering the right data to the right people at the right time; it involves ensuring that decision-makers have access to applications powered by machine learning models, trained with precise datasets, acting as digital assistants to guide their choices. In this episode, we delve into how Amazon Web Services (AWS) help customers design and build fit-for-purpose data platforms to assist customers on their data journeys, featuring our guest, Saeed Barghi, a Senior Solutions Architect at AWS with a focus on the public sector within the Asia-Pacific and Japan regions. We discuss the importance of managing sensitive data through data masking, encryption methods and security, the cost benefits of transitioning to the cloud, and how AWS ’s innovative tools are revolutionising public sector operations. This includes using imagery analysis in managing US wildfires and enhancing customer service with artificial intelligence and machine learning powered chatbots. With over 15 years of experience in the design and construction of data platforms, Saaed’s dedication to making a difference is evident as he shares how AWS is facilitating significant digital transformations.

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Episode 5: Data Skills That Stay: Building NICD's Approach to Capability Building

Managing vast amounts of data can be quite overwhelming, regardless of whether your organisation operates within the public sector, functions as a small enterprise, or is a large corporation. Unlike typical consulting firms, The National Innovation Centre for Data ( NICD ) equips teams with the necessary skills to independently manage future data projects, enabling them to maintain the expertise internally and ensuring they have the insights required to keep the capability in-house. In this episode, we’re joined by a former Senior Data Scientist, Dr Hollie Johnson from NICD in Newcastle, UK , who shares their experience working within NICD . Hollie shares their experience leading a unique data project with a startup who specialises in technology systems for grid decarbonisation using second life vehicle batteries. Our guest also discusses the transformative journey from manual spreadsheets to automated data collection and analysis, demonstrating how NICD is democratising data. They delve into what it means to be data-driven, the value of collaborating with experts in understanding moral and ethical grey areas, and the vision for a similar initiative in Australia focused on upskilling and bridging the gap between data beginners and experts. The conversation also covers clean, sustainable data science practices, advice for aspiring data professionals, staying current with trends, potential data gaps, and the dream of having access to transport data. This episode is packed with insights for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of data science and its impact.

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Episode 1: Data and Crime Lords: A Data-Driven approach in addressing Financial Crime

According to the World Economic Forum (WEF) financial crimes cost the world around two trillion dollars annually and only one percent of that is ever seized. Due to the size, spread, complexity and lack of visibility into the bulk of this activity, helping to realise as little as an additional percentage of this problem could reap serious benefits for victims and communities. By providing a sandbox style testing environment to analyse anonymised historical financial transaction data, AFCIC will enable Griffith researchers to use novel and trusted econometric and data science pattern detection techniques to identify key signals within the huge time-series datasets linking transactions and accounts between multiple organisations. AFCIC will then use these insights to develop more proactive, wholistic and sustainable detection and prevention strategies and continually update the training materials for the academy and providing a pipeline of qualified people. While data provides exciting opportunities to inform decisions which then better help the victims of financial crime, Chai and AFCIC understand that combatting financial crime is a job never done, and one that will require continuous innovation as criminals adjust their behaviour and respond to market restrictions and incentives. If you want to help address this complex issue affecting millions around the world and gain experience working with real-world financial data, we encourage you to check out the Academy of Financial Crime Investigation and Compliance ( AFCIC ) and enrol in one of their industry leading certifications, diplomas, or micro-credentials. AFCIC is an excellent example of how data can be harnessed, and immense value can be unlocked and used to develop evidenced-based solutions to local and global problems.

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Episode 2:  Data with Impact: How Data can help improve labour force outcomes

Nudge theory and behavioural insights can be powerful tools in the context of improving labour market attachment and training outcomes by using data for social good, as they can help encourage individuals to make better decisions without resorting to coercion or restrictions on personal freedom. By using data and behavioural insights to design effective nudges, organisations and governments can promote positive social outcomes and improve people’s lives. Learn how the BUSYGroup, one of Australia’s largest for-purpose employment, education and training organisations is harnessing the power of data insights to provide accessible and relevant opportunities to the people and communities they work with. Join us as we discuss the influence behavioural insights can have when implemented ethically and transparently and the potential it unlocks when especially when working with cohorts facing multiple barriers.

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Episode 3: A Data Informed Approach to Climate Justice: The Intersection between Climate Change and Human rights

Climate change is a shared challenge that requires a combination of global and local solution. Data plays a critical role in understanding and addressing the challenges of climate change. This is because data and insights allow us to track things like greenhouse gas emissions, monitor the impacts of climate change on our communities and environments, and develop effective policies and strategies to mitigate and adapt to its effects. Additionally, the importance of data extends beyond the realm of science and policy, as climate change intersects with human rights in a multitude of ways. We can already see examples of how climate change is exacerbating existing inequities and vulnerabilities, particularly among marginalized communities who often have limited access to resources and information – think places like Vanuatu, Manila, Haiti, and Yemen. Furthermore, efforts to address climate change can have serious impacts on human rights, such as the right to food and water.  In Australia, we know too well the multi-generational effects natural disasters and extreme weather can have on communities, but what should we make of the international conversations being had deciding who is responsible for the loss and damages caused by climate change? Is it practical to establish systems wherein data are used in ways that uphold human rights and what’s being done to fill the data gap on heat related deaths in Australia?

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Episode 4:  Things that Move! Where can Mobility Data have the Most Impact?

Exploring the utility of mobility data to drive positive and sustainable change, mobility data are extremely valuable when working to solve complex social problems. By collecting and analysing data on how, when and where people move around a neighbourhood, city or region, governments and organisations can gain valuable insights into human behaviour, transportation use, incident rates and can be used to inform interventions promoting greater equity, sustainability, and safety in our communities. Mobility data can also play a vital role in disaster response efforts, helping to ensure that resources are deployed efficiently and effectively to those in need. DSpark are leaders in processing large geo-spatial temporal mobility data to deliver intelligence on people and places using the highest data privacy standards. Understanding how people move, where they go and what they do enables their partner organisations to map their strategy around where people live, work and play. Join us as we discuss the importance of fostering a data friendly and curious work culture, and why it’s hard for some organisations to take that calculated risk and trust how in what the data say, even though if they do so, they can reap the benefits of being an insight rich organisation.

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Episode 5: There's always a Solution - The importance of Data Storytelling and Contextualisation Part 1

When it comes to understanding patient and community needs and improving interventions, experiences, and outcomes, a conversation with and about data and contextualisation are both crucial elements in understanding and making sense of information. Data provide the raw material for analysis and decision-making, but it is only when contextualised that data or insights become truly actionable and valuable. Contextualisation refers to the process of understanding the circumstances and conditions in which the data were collected, and the broader social, economic, and cultural factors that may have influenced interpretation. Put simply, without contextualisation, data can be misleading and even harmful. Join our conversation with health economist and adjunct professor Dan O’Halloran as we discuss data storytelling and explore whether well-meaning policies are incentivising true value or value-for-money in Australian hospitals, day-cares, and aged-care homes and whether as decision makers we have the right to ask people to do things that they simply just don’t have the financial capacity or freedom to do.

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Episode 6: There's always a Solution - The importance of Data Storytelling and Contextualisation Part 2

When it comes to understanding patient and community needs and improving interventions, experiences, and outcomes, a conversation with and about data and contextualisation are both crucial elements in understanding and making sense of information. Data provide the raw material for analysis and decision-making, but it is only when contextualised that data or insights become truly actionable and valuable. Contextualisation refers to the process of understanding the circumstances and conditions in which the data were collected, and the broader social, economic, and cultural factors that may have influenced interpretation. Put simply, without contextualisation, data can be misleading and even harmful. Join our conversation with health economist and adjunct professor Dan O’Halloran as we discuss data storytelling and explore whether well-meaning policies are incentivising true value or value-for-money in Australian hospitals, day-cares, and aged-care homes and whether as decision makers we have the right to ask people to do things that they simply just don’t have the financial capacity or freedom to do.

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Episode 1: Data Privacy in 2021: Embracing the Paradox

"Data can be either useful or perfectly anonymous but never both" - Ohm, 2009

This sober conclusion encapsulates a realisation we contemplate regularly as data analysts, scientists, data practitioners and decision makers. Acknowledging and balancing the tradeoffs between useful and anonymous data and the related ethical implications of accessing, sharing and storing these data is a part of each and every data partnership we form. Ethical frameworks are living documents and outline ways of working. While there are some standard components, ethical frameworks are applied differently depending on the contexts in which, and by whom they are applied. How then do we protect peoples’ right to privacy while working transparently to address complex and highly-nuanced socio-economic problems? How do we balance this trade-off between useful and anonymous data? What does working with data ethically actually mean and where do you start?

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Episode 2: Public Policy and Data for the Common Good

Data informed policy and evidence-based decision making are not new concepts or ways of working in Australia. But noticeably, recent events have accelerated the pace at which all levels of society are embracing or at least accepting digital and often data driven transformations. But is this what the public want? Are we using data ethically and sustainably? What role does and should data and evidence play in our political processes and policy making?

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Episode 3: Data and Behaviour Change at Scale

Have you ever noticed when something new is introduced, or a change of behaviour is requested, people respond differently?Some embrace change, while others require more consultation and convincing. When asked, each group presents a reason within which their behaviour is acceptable. How then does one enact change at scale?

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