The Public Sector Podcast: Data Discipline is the Foundation of Government Innovation

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Public Sector Podcast, we’re joined by Josh Wagner, Arizona’s State Chief Data & Analytics Officer, for a candid conversation on how the state is building a data-driven future rooted in transparency, collaboration, and citizen impact.

Josh shares how Arizona is laying a strong data foundation to enable trusted AI, advance cross-agency collaboration, and foster innovation that starts with people. From overcoming cultural resistance to shifting how government leaders think about governance, this episode is a must-listen for anyone shaping digital transformation in the public sector.

Key Takeaways:

🔹 Laying the Groundwork for Innovation:
Arizona’s statewide data catalog is helping build a common language across more than 200 agencies, driving interoperability and enabling holistic service delivery for complex challenges like homelessness.

🔹 Governance as a Catalyst, Not a Constraint:
Josh reframes data governance as an enabler of responsible innovation. With policies that promote “sharing by default,” Arizona is empowering data champions at all levels of government to collaborate more effectively.

🔹 Culture > Tech:
The biggest obstacle to transformation isn’t technology—it’s culture. Josh explains how building trust, recognizing agency-based data champions, and fostering human networks is key to unlocking systemic change.

🔹 AI with Guardrails:
As one of the first states to launch an AI Steering Committee, Arizona is leading with a proactive, equity-driven approach. High-quality, standardized data is positioned as essential “fuel” for ethical, citizen-focused AI deployment.

🔹 Citizen-Centric Storytelling:
Josh reminds us that data leaders are also translators. Tying metrics to real-life outcomes—like connecting 5,000 more families to services—is the key to winning hearts and minds.

Why You Should Listen:

If you're navigating data strategy, governance, or AI readiness in government, this episode offers practical insights into how to move from policy to implementation—with empathy, clarity, and impact. Learn how Arizona is aligning its day-to-day delivery with long-term transformation goals.

🎧 Listen Now

Tune in to hear how trust, storytelling, and a strong data foundation are transforming Arizona’s approach to public sector innovation.