Creating Transformation Through a Culture of Inquiry with Sebastian Wernicke

How can leaders use data to make better decisions and drive real change? In this episode, Kevin talks with Sebastian Wernicke about why so many organizations invest heavily in data and AI yet still struggle to achieve breakthrough results. Sebastian explains the difference between being data-driven, data-frustrated, and data-inspired. He believes that data should not only confirm and optimize what organizations already do but also challenge assumptions, reveal unexpected possibilities, and inspire new directions. They explore common myths about data, including the belief that it is always objective, that deeper analysis will automatically reveal the right answer, and that complex decisions can be reduced to a simple yes or no. Sebastian also shares why leaders must balance depth with decisiveness and become more comfortable with uncertainty and probability. They also discuss the opportunities and risks of AI, particularly its tendency to fill in gaps and generate appealing answers based on hidden assumptions.

About Sebastian Wernicke

Sebastian Wernicke, Ph.D., is the author of Data Inspired: Building an Organizational Culture of Inquiry for Lasting Transformation. He is a partner at Oxera Consulting, one of Europe's oldest economics and finance consultancies, where he leads the data science and AI practice. Sebastian is a leading expert in data and AI strategy and a former Chief Data Scientist. For two decades, he has guided organizations around the world to achieve breakthrough transformation through the power of data. His ability to make complex topics around data accessible, engaging, and actionable has made Sebastian a sought-after speaker and workshop facilitator. His three acclaimed TED Talks have reached over 5 million viewers. For more information, follow Sebastian Wernicke on LinkedIn or visit www.datainspired.org.

Resources Mentioned

Data Inspired: Building an Organizational Culture of Inquiry for Lasting Transformation by Sebastian Wernicke Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence by Kevin Eikenberry  The Infinity Machine: Demis Hassabis, DeepMind, and the Quest for Superintelligence by Sebastian Mallaby Timestamps

0:00 Introduction — why "data driven" isn't the whole story

1:55 Meet Sebastian Wernicke & his book, Data Inspired

3:13 Why Sebastian wrote the book

6:02 Data driven vs. data frustrated vs. data inspired

10:33 The 3 myths about data — setting the stage

11:48 Myth #1: Data isn't objective truth

13:1