EP177: AI Is Only As Good As Your Data

AI can analyze enormous amounts of information, but more data does not always lead to better decisions.  In this episode of *Leader Generation*, Tessa Burg talks with Dean Smith, CTO at Credit Benchmark, about why accurate, trusted data matters more than ever and how poor-quality information can quickly lead AI further from the truth. Dean shares a practical way for businesses to make progress without trying to overhaul everything at once: start with one problem, bring together the data needed to solve it and build from there.  Listen to learn how your organization can improve data quality, show value sooner and create a more adaptable data-first culture. Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op. About Dean Smith: Dean Smith is Chief Technology & Product Officer at Credit Benchmark, where he leads the company's technology strategy, engineering, data infrastructure and platform development. He is responsible for scaling Credit Benchmark's technology platform and advancing its data capabilities to meet the evolving needs of global financial institutions, with a focus on strengthening the integration between product innovation, data infrastructure and client delivery.  Dean can be reached on LinkedIn. About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at [Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com](mailto:Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com).