In this episode of Talking AI, Matt Paige speaks with Andy McMillan, CEO of Alteryx, to challenge the narrative that AI will make data analysts obsolete.

Andy argues that AI can make analysts indispensable by automating routine tasks, enhancing scalability, and providing specific business insights.

They discuss the evolving role of analysts, the importance of business logic, and how AI can aid in building useful tools.

The conversation touches on applying AI in various business processes, from budgeting to sales commissions, and how analysts can leverage AI to add value.

Andy also shares insights on Alteryx’s latest developments and future direction, emphasizing automation, data preparation, and AI tools designed to enhance productivity and accuracy.

Key Moments:

00:50 The Evolving Role of Data Analysts
03:19 AI and Data Preparation: A New Era
04:04 Real-World Examples: AI in Action
07:00 The Analyst's Superpower: Business Context
10:07 AI and the Semantic Layer
12:44 Empowering Analysts with AI
21:11 The Future of AI Agents
23:46 Applying AI to Automation
23:56 The Future of AI Agents
24:55 Preparing for AI Integration
25:37 Challenges with AI in Business
27:45 AI in Finance and Data Accuracy
30:06 Strategic Shifts with AI
35:29 Build vs. Buy in the AI Era
38:56 Alteryx's New AI Capabilities
41:22 The Future Role of Analysts
42:18 Overhyped and Underhyped AI

Key Links:

Mentioned in this episode:

Free report from HatchWorks AI — State of AI 2026

What’s real in AI this year, what’s hype, and what leaders should prioritize — including production lessons, designing for agents, and governance. https://hatchworks.com/state-of-ai-2026/

CEO of Alteryx on Why AI Agents Need Real Business Logic