432: Hello from Jon and Welcome to 2021

Episode Summary

Executive Summary: The episode introduces Dr. John Crohn as the new host of Super Data Science, outlining his data science background, enthusiasm for continuing the show’s legacy, and plans for 2021. He previews upcoming content, including a guest episode with Ben Taylor on accelerating data science trends and a five-minute Friday on attention span, while emphasizing a return to in-person work, travel, and conferences.

Main Topics: Introduction of the new host: John Crohn introduces himself as the new host and shares his role as chief data scientist at Untapped, along with his broader data science credentials. Personal and professional background: He details his work in deep learning, NLP, authorship, teaching, and online course creation to establish credibility and passion for the field. Transition from Carril to new hosting duties: Crohn explains how he met Carril in 2020, was invited to host the podcast, and intends to maintain the show’s high standard. Optimism for 2021: He frames the new year as a time for renewal, vaccination, and a return to normal life with travel, office work, and in-person conferences. Upcoming podcast content: He previews the next episodes: a guest conversation with Ben Taylor about 2021 data science trends and a five-minute Friday on increasing attention span.

Key Arguments: John Crohn is qualified to host because he is deeply embedded in data science as a practitioner, educator, author, and content creator. He is committed to preserving the quality and format of the podcast established by Carril. 2021 is presented as a year of transition and opportunity, especially with vaccination and a return to in-person professional life. The podcast will continue offering both guest interviews and concise career guidance in alternating formats. Listeners can expect content focused on practical data science trends and personal development skills such as attention span.

Data Points: Podcast episode number mentioned: Episodes 427 and 429 - Referenced as prior late-December episodes introducing the new host Podcast start year referenced: 2016 - Carril had been recording two episodes per week since 2016 Number of episodes per week: 2 - Carril recorded two episodes per week before handing off hosting duties Book translations: 6 languages - John Crohn’s book Deep Learning Illustrated was translated into six languages Upcoming guest appearance count: 4th time - Ben Taylor will return to the podcast for the fourth time Course status: Linear algebra content live now - Machine Learning Foundations course already includes the linear algebra section

Pivotal Quotes: "Happy New Year! Like many around the globe, I'm excited to turn a new leaf in 2021, get vaccinated, and get back to a normal life." — John Crohn: Opening remarks setting the tone for the episode and the year ahead "Carrill left supersized shoes to fill, but I'm committed to working tirelessly to maintaining the high standard that he set." — John Crohn: His pledge to uphold the podcast’s legacy as the new host "2021, let's do this year." — John Crohn: Closing statement expressing enthusiasm and optimism for the year and the show

Implications: Listeners can expect continuity with a fresh voice, practical data science insights, and career advice. The episode signals a smooth host transition and a renewed focus on timely AI/data science trends and professional growth.