Revolutionizing Data: New Research on Natural Language Prompting with AtScale’s Semantic Layer and Generative AI

More from Data-Driven Podcast All episodes →

1. 

   S1 · E37 · 10 Dec 2025 · 38 min

   The AI Frontier: Semantic Layers for Autonomous Agents with Jens Kröhnert

   Dave Mariani and Jens Kröhnert explore the "AI Frontier:” how semantic layers enable AI agents to operate autonomously without hallucinations or governance drift. Both veterans of scaling Microsoft BI stacks on Hadoop, they discuss why machines need semantic context even more than humans do. Topics include the AI Frontier operational model from Microsoft Research, automating semantic model development with Oraylis's Datamate tool, and Model Context Protocol (MCP) as universal infrastructure f...

2. 

   S1 · E36 · 10 Nov 2025 · 32 min

   Composable Analytics & the Future of the Semantic Layer: Building for the Age of AI Agents

   In this episode of AtScale’s Data-Driven Podcast, host Dave Mariani, Co-Founder & CTO at AtScale, is joined by Petar Staykov, Product Director, and Daniel Gray, VP of Solutions Engineering, for a deep dive into composable analytics—the architectural shift that’s transforming how enterprises model, govern, and scale data in the era of AI agents. Key Takeaway Composable analytics isn’t just a design pattern—it’s the foundation for governed, scalable, and AI-ready data ecosystems. Learn how ...

3. 

   S1 · E35 · 12 Aug 2025 · 35 min

   How Agentic AI and Semantic Layers Are Transforming Enterprise Analytics

   In this episode of the Data-Driven Podcast, AtScale CTO and Co-founder Dave Mariani is joined by Rich Williams, SVP of Partnerships and Strategy at Hexaware, and Prashant Dahalkar, VP of the Cloud Data Practice. They dive into the future of analytics through the lens of agentic AI, semantic layers, and enterprise AI governance. Fresh from attending Snowflake and Databricks Summits, the trio unpacks the momentum behind AI agents, the rise of semantic standards, and how organizations can accele...

4. 

   S1 · E34 · 8 Nov 2024 · 31 min

   Open Source Semantics: Setting the Standard for Interoperability with Databricks and AtScale

   In this episode of the Data Driven Podcast, Dave Mariani, CTO and Co-Founder of AtScale, sits down with Dale Williamson, EMEA CTO at Databricks, to explore the transformative role of open source standards and semantic layers in modern analytics. They discuss the importance of interoperability in data infrastructure, the impact of generative AI on democratizing analytics, and how the right semantic layer can bridge complex data to natural language for everyone. Together, AtScale and Databricks...

5. 

   S1 · E33 · 1 Nov 2024 · 18 min

   Introducing SML: The Open Standard for Seamless Semantic Layer Integration

   In this episode, AtScale’s CTO and Co-founder, Dave Mariani and VP of Engineering John Langton, discuss the exciting open-source release of the Semantic Modeling Language (SML) and its transformative potential for the data analytics industry. They dive into how SML establishes the first open standard for the semantic layer, enabling businesses to seamlessly define, share, and scale their data models across platforms like Power BI, Tableau, and Looker. John also explores the broader industry i...

6. 

   S1 · E31 · 1 Nov 2024 · 30 min

   The Power BI Evolution: An MVP’s Unfiltered Journey

   In this episode, AtScale CTO and co-founder Dave Mariani chats with Greg Deckler, Vice President at a global IT services firm and a seven-time Microsoft MVP. They discuss Microsoft’s strategy with Power BI and its integration with Microsoft Fabric, with Deckler critiquing the rushed release and its early limitations. Both express skepticism about business users adopting more complex tools, citing ongoing challenges like measuring totals. They also discuss the impact of generative AI on busine...

7. 

   S1 · E30 · 1 Nov 2024 · 32 min

   Navigating the Intersection of Semantics, AI, and Enterprise Innovation with Juan Sequeda

   Dave Mariani interviews Juan Sequeda, the Principal Scientist at data.world. They discuss Juan’s Benchmark report on Knowledge Graphics and semantics. The conversation also covers generative AI and its role in the future of enterprise innovation.

8. 

   S1 · E29 · 30 Jan 2024 · 28 min

   Data Observability, Founders Journey and GenAI with Kunal Agarwal, CEO, Unravel Data

   David Mariani interviews Kunal Agarwal, CEO of Unravel Data, delving into his entrepreneurial journey and the innovative world of data observability. Kunal recounts the compelling origin story of Unravel Data, revealing how the company's vision adapted over time. He shares the challenges faced and key learnings, offering priceless advice to future entrepreneurs. The conversation then shifts to the essence of data observability, its distinction from traditional monitoring, and the unique value...

9. 

   S1 · E28 · 28 Jan 2024 · 32 min

   Data Contracts with Andrew Jones, Principal Engineer, GoCardless

   David Mariani interviews Andrew Jones, Principal Engineer, GoCardless and a thought leader in data and analytics. Andrew outlines the concept of 'data contracts' and their relevance for leaders in the field. He then provides practical advice for fostering a data-driven culture within organizations, highlighting successful strategies and common pitfalls. The discussion also touches on the use of data products as competitive tools and the importance of data quality. Concluding with a look at th...

10. 

    S1 · E27 · 16 Jan 2024 · 38 min

    Navigating Data Literacy: Insights from Jordan Morrow

    David Mariani sits with Jordan Morrow, a renowned expert in Data Literacy. They discuss effective strategies for embedding data literacy in organizations, emphasizing its significance beyond a buzzword. Jordan shares insights on fostering a data-driven culture, including key dos and don'ts. The conversation highlights the impact of data literacy through real-world success stories and explores the role of tools, processes, and cultural shifts in enhancing industry-wide data literacy. They also...