Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva,” speaks with Damilola Adenuga-Taiwo, a cybersecurity and compliance professional with extensive expertise in payment systems, PCI DSS, ISO standards, and governance frameworks. We discuss his unconventional path into the field, beginning with teaching postgraduate technology courses and evolving into global consulting roles focused on cybersecurity risk, assessments, and compliance. Damilola explains the critical role of standards like PCI DSS in securing cardholder data, how global payment brands shaped their adoption, and why such frameworks succeed even without legal mandates.

We explore the nuanced differences between privacy and cybersecurity, the challenges of implementing compliance in high-friction environments such as digital payments, and how financial institutions have effectively balanced innovation with data protection. Damilola also explores the convergence of security and privacy, illustrating how standards require organizations to consider not only what data is collected, but also why, for how long, and under what conditions it must be deleted.

A major theme of the episode is the growing concern over AI misuse, ranging from deepfakes and fraud to the psychological implications of relying on generative AI daily. Damilola reflects on how tools like ChatGPT are rapidly transforming work habits, raising ethical questions about digital dependency, and blurring the line between convenience and risk. We also discuss the widening regulatory gap, the need for proactive standards, and how cybersecurity professionals can bridge the chasm between policy, practice, and public trust.

This episode offers practical and philosophical insights for anyone grappling with the accelerating pace of AI, the rigor of compliance, and the evolving definitions of data responsibility. We hope for a future where robust compliance frameworks, informed users, and ethical innovation collaborate to ensure digital safety and personal autonomy.

Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva,” talks to Michael Robbins, Social Entrepreneur and Civic Builder, and a visionary in building human-plus-digital learning ecosystems. We discuss his decades-long journey at the intersection of education, technology, and community, from grassroots innovation to White House policy. Michael shares a compelling vision for the future of AI in education, centered on empowering individuals to create and control their own AI narratives. He introduces his data model, called DOTES (Do, Observe, Tell, Explore, Show), which captures real-world learning experiences and enables the training of personalized AI agents grounded in data integrity and digital personhood.

Our conversation explores the concept of implication models, AI systems that learn from and work for people, rather than exploiting their data. Michael draws parallels between decentralized data governance and the design of AI trusts, where individuals have full control over their digital identities and contributions. We also explore the limitations of current large language models and discuss new frameworks that could rebuild AI from the ground up, centering privacy, consent, and community.

Together, we envision a future where youth and adults alike use AI not as a replacement for human intelligence but as a tool for self-expression, empowerment, and democratic participation. This episode is a masterclass in AI ethics, digital sovereignty, and the urgent need to shift from extractive technologies to human-first ecosystems. We hope for a future where data privacy is not just a legal checkbox, but a fundamental principle of technological design and societal infrastructure.

In episode 246 of “The Data Diva” Talks Privacy Podcast, Debbie Reynolds talks to Aparna Bhushan, In episode 246 of “The Data Diva” Talks Privacy Podcast, Debbie Reynolds talks to Aparna Bhushan, a co-host of the Rethinking Tech podcast and a seasoned data protection and governance attorney licensed in both the U.S. and Canada. Together, they explore the critical intersection of geopolitics, tech policy, and data ethics. Aparna shares her professional journey from startups to global corporations and international organizations, such as UNICEF, where her passion for ethical and practical data governance took root. The conversation examines the fast-paced and often contradictory dynamics facing governments, companies, and users in the digital age, highlighting how the collapse of traditional rules has left many institutions struggling to find direction.

Debbie and Aparna discuss how companies are navigating conflicting global regulations, the growing risks of consumer backlash, and the real-world consequences of poor data decisions, such as the fallout from GM’s data broker scandal and the potential sale of sensitive genetic data in the 23andMe bankruptcy. They also address the dangers of regulation lag, scope creep, and public distrust in platforms that mishandle personal data. Aparna shares her perspective on the emerging global impact of the EU AI Act and the regulatory vacuum in the U.S., arguing that proactive privacy strategies and consumer trust are more valuable than merely checking compliance boxes.

We dive deep into the complexities of age verification laws, questioning the practicality and privacy implications of requiring IDs or weakening encryption to protect children online. They emphasize the need for innovation that respects user rights and propose creative approaches to solving systemic data challenges, including Aparna’s vision for AI systems that can audit other AI models for fairness and bias.

To close the episode, Aparna shares her global privacy wish list: a more conscious and intentional user culture, and a renewed investment in responsible technology development. This thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the ethical evolution of data governance in a rapidly shifting global landscape.

In episode 245, Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva” talks to Onur Korucu, a Non-Executive Director, Managing Partner, Advisory Board Member, IAPP, who brings a rare combination of legal and engineering expertise to the fields of privacy, governance, and artificial intelligence. We discuss how Onur’s early fascination with cybersecurity shaped her dual career as both a technology expert and a data protection strategist. She shares insights from her work advising companies across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond on the safe and ethical deployment of AI systems. Onur emphasizes that privacy must be embedded into the foundation of AI models, not just layered on later, and that risk management must include human-centered perspectives from design through deployment.

We explore the practical challenges of global compliance, how organizations struggle to keep up with the rapid pace of AI development, and the ethical dilemmas posed by technologies such as deepfakes and surveillance systems. Onur shares her vision for holistic governance frameworks that empower privacy professionals, policymakers, and engineers to work collaboratively. She also discusses the role of education, mentorship, and community support in building resilience within the data protection profession. This episode offers a global perspective on the convergence of AI and privacy, expressing hope for an ethical digital future where transparency, accountability, and human oversight are not optional but essential, and this is also reflected in Data Privacy in the future.

In episode 244, Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva” talks to Aleksandr Tiulkanov, a digital ethics researcher, legal expert, and technology policy advisor working at the intersection of computer science, human rights, and international law. Aleksandr brings a rare blend of technical depth and policy insight to global conversations about the governance of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. We discuss his career path from data protection and human rights advocacy to working with global institutions such as the United Nations and the Council of Europe, where he has contributed to international standards on data governance and AI ethics.

Aleksandr offers a compelling critique of current AI systems, particularly large language models, which he views as limited in their ability to capture true human intelligence and emotion. He explains why ethical design cannot be an afterthought in AI development, and how the lack of transparency in algorithmic decision-making threatens not only individual privacy but democratic structures worldwide. We talk about the deep structural issues that exist in both legal and technical approaches to AI and data protection, including the challenges of harmonizing cross-border laws, the power imbalance between tech companies and users, and the geopolitical dimensions of digital sovereignty.

We also explore Aleksandr’s thoughts on the role of civil society and how community-driven oversight and decentralized governance might offer more sustainable alternatives to corporate-led AI development. He advocates for a deeper integration of ethical reasoning into computer science education, highlighting the need for stronger global frameworks that prioritize fairness, accountability, and the right to opt out of data-hungry systems.

This episode is a thoughtful and wide-ranging exploration of digital ethics, global privacy regulation, and the future of responsible technology. It issues an urgent call for collaboration among lawyers, technologists, regulators, and citizens to develop systems that truly serve humanity. We share hope for a future where the rule of law, not just code, guides the evolution of AI, and where human dignity remains at the center of innovation.

In episode 243 of The Data Diva Talks Privacy Podcast, host Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva,” welcomes Yogita Parulekar, CEO and Founder of Invigrid. Yogita brings over two decades of cybersecurity leadership to the conversation, beginning her journey in the industry long before it was a mainstream priority. With deep expertise in governance, infrastructure, and crisis response, Yogita discusses how the landscape of cyber threats has evolved dramatically, moving from relatively isolated risks to complex, interconnected threats fueled by AI, deepfakes, disinformation, and geopolitical uncertainty. She and Debbie explore the urgent need for companies to embed cybersecurity into the DNA of their business strategy, rather than treat it as an isolated IT function. Yogita emphasizes that today's cyber risk is not just technical—it is existential, affecting national security, business continuity, and societal trust. She shares insights on the growing importance of board-level engagement, cyber education, and scenario planning. Yogita also highlights how cyber and privacy are often misunderstood, offering a helpful analogy to distinguish their roles: privacy is about people, while security is about infrastructure. The discussion reinforces that to succeed in today’s environment, organizations must integrate privacy, cybersecurity, and governance from the start.

In episode 242 of The Data Diva Talks Privacy Podcast, host Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva,” welcomes Karina Klever, CEO and CISO at Klever Compliance. Karina shares her extensive career journey through IT operations, project management, and compliance leadership to demystify what effective governance really means. She challenges the outdated practice of blindly following frameworks and checklists that do not reflect a company’s actual business model or operational maturity. Karina introduces her pragmatic “Now, Next, Near, Never” methodology—a practical framework for prioritizing GRC (governance, risk, compliance) efforts based on relevance, applicability, and timing. She and Debbie unpack why so many organizations suffer from “compliance theater,” implementing policies they do not actually follow or understand. Karina explains the risks of orphaned controls, vague role descriptions, and overreliance on vendor templates that are misaligned with internal realities. She also stresses the importance of documentation, clarity in control language, and having a feedback loop for maturing compliance over time. This episode is a must-listen for organizations looking to move beyond checkbox audits and build scalable, operationally aligned governance structures that support real risk mitigation and long-term accountability.

In episode 241 of The Data Diva Talks Privacy Podcast, host Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva,” welcomes Phillip Mason, Global Privacy Program Manager at Corning, Inc. Phillip joins Debbie to discuss the complicated interplay between AI advancement, regulatory frameworks, and the ethical imperative of human judgment. Drawing from his diverse background in accounting, law, and privacy, Phillip offers an informed and multidimensional perspective on how businesses navigate emerging risks. He critiques overbroad AI legislation like the EU AI Act, which he believes may have unintended consequences for innovation, particularly among smaller firms lacking legal and compliance resources. Debbie and Phillip dive into examples of poorly executed AI rollouts that sparked public backlash, such as LinkedIn’s data harvesting practices and Microsoft’s Recall feature, emphasizing the importance of transparency and foresight. Phillip also unpacks the difference between having a “human in the loop” and placing real ethical judgment into practice. They discuss how organizations can build a culture of trust and accountability where data science and compliance work harmoniously. The conversation ultimately underscores that as algorithms get smarter, human oversight must also evolve, with thoughtful governance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and values-driven leadership.

In episode 240 of The Data Diva Talks Privacy Podcast, host Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva,” welcomes Ian Glazer, Vice President of Product Strategy at SGNL (SGNL.ai) and co-founder of IDPro. With decades of leadership in digital identity, Ian shares insights on how identity, privacy, and security have become essential foundations of digital interaction.

They explore how identity has shifted from managing usernames and passwords to helping individuals assert who they are in digital spaces. Ian and Debbie examine the rise of “proofing creep,” where services now require government IDs and biometric selfies, raising questions about over-collection and user dignity. Ian explains that identity is how privacy controls are enforced, and that organizations need to ask what data they are collecting, what it represents, and how it should be protected.

The conversation covers mobile driver's licenses, biometric authentication, and government-backed digital ID programs. Ian raises concerns about fragmented identity systems that could create barriers to global access and digital inclusion. They also discuss challenges with age verification laws that translate physical-world practices poorly into online environments, often leading to excessive data demands.

Ian outlines how emerging AI systems acting on behalf of users present new identity challenges around authority, authentication, and accountability. He ties this to similar concerns around digital estate management, emphasizing the need for consistent identity frameworks across different contexts.

Closing the episode, Ian calls for an empathetic approach to designing identity systems, one that recognizes real-world conditions such as aging, accessibility needs, and unequal access to technology. Debbie and Ian agree that identity systems should be easy to use, respectful of users, and built to support everyone, not just tech-savvy individuals.

In episode 239 of The Data Diva Talks Privacy Podcast, host Debbie Reynolds, “The Data Diva,” welcomes Saumya Gupta, Assistant Vice President for APAC and Japan at Platform 3 Solutions. Saumya brings a unique blend of deep technical expertise and strategic thinking to the conversation about data privacy in the modern enterprise. She and Debbie discuss how legacy systems represent one of the largest and most overlooked privacy risks, storing sensitive data long past its useful life and outside of governance controls. Saumya explains how data lake and lakehouse architectures can help businesses centralize, tag, and govern large volumes of structured and unstructured data more efficiently. She presents her open metadata model, a five-layer system that empowers organizations to classify data by technical properties, business relevance, operational quality, sensitivity, and compliance requirements. The conversation explores the collision between AI’s data hunger and privacy’s minimization mandate, and Saumya warns that enterprises cannot afford to ignore data lifecycle hygiene. They also discuss defensible deletion, audit readiness, and the importance of building data infrastructure with privacy as a foundational element. Saumya’s insights help organizations reframe legacy data not just as a cost center or liability, but as an opportunity to reset and future-proof their compliance strategies.

Debbie Reynolds “The Data Diva” talks to Temi Odesanya, Director, Responsible AI and Automation. We discuss her extensive background in artificial intelligence automation, detailing her journey that began with her family's business in the Netherlands. This early exposure to technology ignited her interest in data science, leading her to pursue postgraduate degrees and a scholarship in Italy. Throughout her career, she has become increasingly aware of the critical importance of data governance and compliance, particularly regarding customer data. The conversation highlights Temi's curiosity and the significance of ethical considerations in technology, especially in the context of automated decision-making and data privacy.

The discussion further explores the ethical implications of AI and the necessity for organizations to align their values with the technologies they adopt. Temi raises concerns about data misuse and the potential for technology to exacerbate privacy violations, emphasizing the need for transparency and meaningful consent in data handling. We advocate for multidisciplinary approaches to data governance, recognizing the growing consumer awareness of data misuse. Temi concludes with her vision for a future where privacy as prioritized, particularly for vulnerable groups, and where ethical considerations are integral to technological advancements.

Debbie Reynolds “The Data Diva” talks to Mathew Waddell, Founder, Tactically Secure. We discuss insights from his career in the tech industry, particularly in cybersecurity, and his experience working with government agencies and large corporations. He discusses his commitment to simplifying security for individuals and protecting them from threats like ransomware.
The discussion then shifts to the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, particularly the sophistication of ransomware attacks. Waddell stresses the need for businesses to integrate data privacy and cybersecurity strategies to combat these threats effectively. He points out the increasing trend of attackers stealing data and posting it online to coerce companies into paying ransoms, highlighting the interconnectedness of privacy violations and cybersecurity breaches. Both speakers agreed on the necessity for businesses to adopt proactive measures and recognize the importance of regulations like GDPR and CCPA in prioritizing data protection.
Waddell and Reynolds address the dual potential of AI tools in cybersecurity, noting that they can enhance security measures but can also be exploited by malicious actors. They discuss the importance of training employees to recognize cyber threats and the need for effective identity verification strategies in light of emerging technologies like deepfakes and his data privacy wish for the future.

Debbie Reynolds, "The Data Diva", talks to Michael McCracken, Privacy Consulting Manager at Credera. We discuss his career trajectory, transitioning from accounting to IT audit, which led him to specialize in data privacy, particularly concerning children's information and neurodivergence. He emphasizes the significance of inclusivity in the privacy sector, arguing that diverse teams enhance the effectiveness of privacy strategies.

The conversation highlights the complexities surrounding data collection, especially regarding minors. Michael argues that businesses should prioritize individual privacy and not rely on exploiting data. Debbie pointed out the risks associated with unnecessary data collection, which can lead to breaches and erode trust.

We advocate for treating data as a valuable asset requiring careful stewardship rather than a commodity to be exploited. They discussed the importance of passion and advocacy within organizations to bridge communication gaps and enhance collaboration on privacy initiatives.

Michael raises concerns about the inadequacies of current legal frameworks in protecting children's privacy, warning that companies often prioritize legal defenses over accountability. He and Debbie agreed that a multifaceted approach is necessary for effective privacy regulation. They emphasize the need for transparency and organizational responsibility in privacy practices, particularly as large companies struggle to adapt to regulatory changes. The discussion also touches on the impact of GDPR on U.S. business practices and the challenges posed by the lack of a cohesive national privacy framework.

In concluding,   Michael articulates his vision for a unified privacy ethic that prioritizes individual rights and ethical considerations. Debbie echoes this sentiment, advocating that organizations adopt clear ethical frameworks as guiding principles. 

In episode 235 of The Data Diva Talks Privacy, Debbie Reynolds welcomes Carly Kind, the Australian Privacy Commissioner at the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner. Carly shares her remarkable journey from a career in criminal defense law and human rights advocacy to becoming one of the leading voices in global privacy regulation. She discusses her early exposure to privacy issues through work at the UN and NGOs such as Privacy International and the Ada Lovelace Institute, where she focused on the intersection of technology, human rights, and AI governance.

Debbie and Carly explore privacy's philosophical and practical dimensions, touching on its roots in human dignity, autonomy, and democracy. Carly challenges the often-framed conflict between privacy and innovation, arguing that strong privacy protections foster trust and are essential for societal progress and sustainable technological development. She also shares her insights as a regulator, describing the complex and often resource-intensive reality of enforcing privacy laws and ensuring compliance across various entities.

The conversation then turns to pressing global concerns, particularly the privacy implications of artificial intelligence, including the erosion of purpose limitation principles and the growing dominance of data-rich tech companies. Carly raises important concerns about biometric surveillance, data exploitation in real estate and credit sectors, and the widespread tracking of individuals’ digital behavior.

One of the focal points of the discussion is Australia’s Social Media Minimum Age Act, which mandates a ban on children under 16 using social media platforms. Carly reflects on the privacy risks of increased identity verification, the evolving nature of the internet, and the unintended consequences of well-intentioned regulation. She also discusses the importance of advancing children’s online privacy rights through robust regulatory codes.

In closing, Carly shares her vision for a more equitable digital future. She emphasizes the need for public reconnection with the foundational values of privacy, calls for rebalancing power in the digital ecosystem, and advocates for genuine consumer choice and competitive digital markets. This thought-provoking conversation offers a nuanced look at the global state of privacy, regulation, and the future of human rights in the digital age.

Debbie Reynolds “The Data Diva” talks to Marko Dinic, CEO of Jatheon Technologies, Inc. We discuss the evolving landscape of data archiving, compliance, and artificial intelligence. Marko shares his extensive experience in the archiving space, spanning over two decades, and highlights how regulatory frameworks like Sarbanes-Oxley, GDPR, and CCPA have shaped data retention practices across industries. He explains the complexities of managing data archiving, including challenges with deletion, deduplication, and maintaining audit logs while complying with privacy laws. The conversation explores the growing tension between data retention requirements and privacy mandates, especially in light of AI advancements.

Marko emphasizes how AI-driven systems are transforming corporate data management, creating both opportunities and new legal and compliance concerns. The discussion touches on the evolution of data archiving from being a compliance necessity to becoming a strategic corporate asset. Laws such as Sarbanes-Oxley, GDPR, and CCPA significantly impact how organizations must retain and manage data while balancing individuals’ right to be forgotten. AI complicates data deletion processes, raising new privacy risks as organizations increasingly rely on automated compliance workflows. The growing importance of archiving systems as enterprise-wide data hubs underscores their role in providing AI-driven insights while ensuring regulatory adherence.

As AI continues to reshape the business landscape, organizations must rethink data governance strategies to navigate compliance challenges. AI models introduce complexities in legal discovery and searchability, requiring transparency in how AI-generated outputs are produced and stored. With companies leaning more heavily on archiving to manage the vast amounts of data being generated, data governance, compliance, and privacy concerns will remain central to business strategy. The integration of AI into archiving systems represents both an opportunity and a challenge, requiring careful consideration of legal, ethical, and technological factors to maintain compliance and data integrity.

Debbie Reynolds “The Data Diva” talks to Peter Cranstone, CEO, 3PMobile, Digital Ecosystems and Consumer Choice. We discuss his personal journey in technology, beginning with his early work on data compression inspired by his uncle. He discusses the creation of the Do Not Track web standard aimed at enhancing user privacy, which faced challenges due to consumer preferences for convenience. Despite the introduction of privacy regulations such as GDPR and CCPA, he notes that users often prioritize instant gratification over privacy. His collaboration with a Kaiser Permanente executive shifted his focus from IT architecture to business strategy, broadening his understanding of how technology can be tailored to meet individual needs in healthcare.

Cranstone also recountes the historical evolution of windshield wipers, illustrating how innovation can take time to gain public acceptance. He highlightes the contributions of Mary Anderson and Robert Kearns, emphasizing the importance of gradual acceptance in automotive technology. Additionally, he discusses the complexities of engaging patients in their health management, proposing a dynamic app that allows for continuous interaction with healthcare providers, thereby addressing the challenges posed by an aging population.

The conversation shifts to data privacy and decentralization, with Cranstone advocating for a secure wallet system that empowers users to manage their data. He argues for a trusted web model where individuals are compensated for sharing their information, contrasting it with current practices that often exploit user data. Cranstone also addresses the need for equitable resource distribution, suggesting that the value generated by major tech companies could be redirected to alleviate issues like food insecurity. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of AI in personalizing user interactions while maintaining privacy, advocating for a moral approach to data management that respects individuals and promotes equitable distribution, and his data privacy hope for the future.

Debbie Reynolds, "The Data Diva," talks to Caroline Lancelot Miltgen, a Social and Behavioral Scientist (PhD), Consumer/UX Privacy expert, and Responsible AI Expert (France). We discuss Caroline's expertise in consumer privacy, user experience (UX) privacy, and AI ethics. She shares insights from her academic career and extensive research on consumer behavior concerning privacy.

The discussion explores several critical topics, starting with the misconception that consumers don't care about their privacy simply because they frequently share their data. Caroline explains that, in reality, many consumers feel powerless and lack the tools or understanding to protect their personal information. We also explore the challenges posed by the power imbalance between consumers and companies collecting their data, highlighting that existing U.S. and European regulations have not fully addressed this issue.

The conversation also covers the differences between privacy regulations in the U.S. and Europe, particularly around consent and opting out. Caroline underscores consumers' difficulties in opting out of data collection and points out that companies often place the burden of privacy protection on the consumer. We discuss how artificial intelligence (AI) further complicates privacy matters, as many consumers unknowingly provide data used in AI models, raising concerns about AI's impact on privacy. The ethical implications of data usage in AI systems are also a focal point. Caroline calls for a multidisciplinary approach to address privacy challenges, combining legal, technical, and societal perspectives.

Caroline emphasizes that trust and education are essential in improving consumer privacy and suggests that businesses need to be more transparent and less intrusive in their data collection practices. She argues that solving privacy issues requires more than legal or technical solutions, stressing the importance of a broader perspective considering consumer needs. The episode offers valuable insights into how consumers, businesses, and regulators can collaborate to create a more privacy-conscious digital landscape and her hope for Data Privacy in the future.

Debbie Reynolds “The Data Diva” talks to Soribel Feliz, AI Governance, National Security. AI Coach - Ex-Meta. Former Diplomat. We discuss artificial intelligence policy, governance, and its societal implications. Soribel shares her unique career journey, beginning as a U.S. diplomat serving in Europe, South America, and Washington, D.C., before making a bold transition into the tech industry. She provides a behind-the-scenes look at her work at Meta, where she contributed to election integrity and content moderation, and later at Microsoft, where she helped shape the company’s response to the emergence of ChatGPT. She also discusses her time in Congress as a Rapid Response AI Policy Fellow, where she played a crucial role in helping lawmakers understand and regulate AI, leading to her current work in the US goverbment on AI compliance and governance.
Throughout the conversation, Soribel examines the necessity of AI guardrails to mitigate potential harms while fostering innovation. She challenges the notion that regulation stifles technological progress, arguing that responsible AI development is essential to prevent unintended consequences and protect vulnerable populations. She also provides insight into the growing efforts within Congress to improve technological literacy, including specialized fellowships and collaborations with think tanks to ensure more informed policymaking.
Debbie and Soribel also discuss the broader global impact of AI regulations, particularly the EU AI Act, which has set a precedent for risk-based governance. They explore the challenges of implementing age verification laws, weighing the benefits of child protection against the privacy risks and potential barriers to access that such laws may create. Soribel emphasizes the importance of workforce adaptation, noting that as AI reshapes industries, professionals must explore new career paths and leverage transferable skills to remain competitive. Drawing from her expertise as a career coach, she offers valuable advice on transitioning into emerging fields without the need for a complete restart.
The conversation highlights growing concerns over AI’s effects on employment, economic inequality, misinformation, and data privacy. Soribel underscores the importance of making AI discussions more accessible to the public, avoiding overly technical jargon, and focusing on real-world impacts. She warns of the dangers posed by unchecked AI development but also encourages a balanced perspective that acknowledges both the risks and opportunities presented by the technology.

Soribel shares her vision for a future where AI’s economic benefits are more equitably distributed and where technological advancements align with sustainability efforts. She advocates for a more responsible and ethical approach to AI development—one that prioritizes fairness, transparency, and societal well-being.
This episode offers an in-depth look at the most pressing AI policy challenges and the evolving role of governance in shaping the future of technology.

Debbie Reynolds “The Data Diva” talks to Lawrence Gentilello, CEO and Founder of Optery, a company dedicated to removing personal data from online databases to enhance privacy and security for individuals and businesses. We discuss his career journey, beginning with his early work in the data industry at BlueKai, a firm specializing in collecting intent and purchase data for targeted advertising. He discusses how the industry evolved from simple ad personalization into a vast ecosystem where personal data is used in ways that can pose risks to individuals. His decision to launch Optery in 2020 was influenced by both his professional experience and a personal incident in which criminals used publicly available information to create fraudulent IDs in his and his wife’s names.
Debbie and Lawrence examine the hidden world of data brokers—companies that gather, package, and sell personal information without individuals’ direct knowledge or consent. Lawrence describes how these brokers operate across different sectors, from advertising and email prospecting to risk analytics and law enforcement databases. He highlights the difficulty individuals face in protecting their information, as the average person has around 100 exposed online profiles, making them vulnerable to identity theft, cyberattacks, and even physical security threats.

The discussion also covers emerging threats, including the rise of AI-native data brokers—companies that use artificial intelligence to automate the collection and sale of personal data at an even greater scale. Lawrence describes how these firms often operate without transparency and avoid legal disclosure, making it harder for individuals to track how their information is being used. He also references a recent incident involving the Russian ransomware gang Black Basta, where leaked internal communications revealed that cybercriminals were using data broker services like ZoomInfo and RocketReach to research and target victims.
Debbie and Lawrence explore the real-world consequences of unchecked data sharing, including phishing scams, cyberattacks, and even physical harm. They discuss how executives, government officials, and everyday individuals become targets due to the ease of accessing their personal data online. Lawrence explains how Optery’s services help address these risks through deep-crawling search technology, before-and-after screenshot verification, and automated monthly scans that continuously remove exposed information.
Lawrence outlines his vision for improving privacy protections. He advocates for a standardized set of privacy laws across the U.S., stronger enforcement against data brokers that fail to comply with regulations, and the inclusion of authorized agent provisions in all privacy laws to ensure individuals can get assistance in managing their data. Debbie emphasizes the importance of ongoing awareness and proactive steps to combat the risks associated with data brokers. This insightful discussion sheds light on the urgent need for privacy-focused solutions and stronger policies to protect individuals and their data.

In this episode of The Data Diva Talks Privacy podcast, host Debbie Reynolds welcomes back Kenya Dixon, litigation partner at Nelson Mullins and former Director of White House Information Governance. Their discussion centers on government data privacy, the impact of artificial intelligence on federal records, and the importance of following proper protocols in handling personal information.

Kenya provides insight into the Privacy Act of 1974, which was enacted in response to concerns about government misuse of personal data. She explains how federal agencies are required to follow structured processes when handling personally identifiable information (PII) and creating new systems of record. The conversation delves into the recent controversies surrounding the government's data practices, including concerns over the lack of transparency regarding artificial intelligence and data consolidation efforts. Kenya emphasizes that while the government has a right to upgrade its technology and streamline data processes, the public must be informed through proper documentation and procedural adherence.

The discussion also touches on the role of artificial intelligence in government data management and the potential concerns regarding private entities' access to government-held personal information. Kenya highlights the importance of public engagement and awareness in privacy-related matters, encouraging individuals to stay informed, participate in democratic processes, and understand how their data is used. She also shares her experiences from her time in government, addressing misinformation and misconceptions about data handling in federal agencies.

As privacy issues continue to make headlines, Kenya and Debbie explore the broader implications of data governance, cybersecurity regulations, and the likelihood of federal privacy legislation. They conclude by stressing the significance of state-level privacy laws, the role of AI in shaping the future of data governance, and the ongoing need for transparency in government data practices. This episode offers valuable insights for privacy professionals, policymakers, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of data privacy.