# The PRQL: Redefining Data Roles in an AI World with Barry McCardel of Hex

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-data-stack-show/the-prql-redefining-data-roles-in-an-ai-world-with-barry-mccardel-of-hex
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-data-stack-show/the-prql-redefining-data-roles-in-an-ai-world-with-barry-mccardel-of-hex.md
Podcast: [The Data Stack Show](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-data-stack-show)
Published: 2025-10-06T08:30:00+00:00
Episode link: https://datastackshow.com
Audio file: https://afp-928695-injected.calisto.simplecastaudio.com/e3c6184e-48d3-4aee-9dd0-50ad0b9a5b4c/episodes/5dd7e95d-3acc-43c3-9812-9197b8c4ba7b/audio/128/default.mp3?aid=rss_feed&awCollectionId=e3c6184e-48d3-4aee-9dd0-50ad0b9a5b4c&awEpisodeId=5dd7e95d-3acc-43c3-9812-9197b8c4ba7b&feed=m3Tr79ut
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/the-data-stack-show/episodes/the-prql-redefining-data-roles-in-an-ai-world-with-barry-mccardel-of-hex
Duration seconds: 231

## Resource

A preview of the upcoming discussion with Hex CEO Barry McCardel regarding the shifting landscape of data roles. The conversation explores how AI-driven efficiencies are redefining job descriptions and the fundamental structure of the modern data stack.

## Highlights
- Main idea: AI is fundamentally altering the assumptions behind data professional job descriptions and tool selection
- Main idea: The rapid evolution of technology is calling into question the very definition of a 'data stack'
- Practical takeaway: Organizations must prepare for shifting workflows as AI integrates into core analytics and data science processes
- Failure mode: Professionals and teams face risks of obsolescence if they do not adapt to AI-driven efficiencies
- Main idea: The focus of modern data tools is shifting from simple processing to AI-augmented analytical workflows

## Topics

Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Data Stack, Hex, Automation, Data Engineering, Technology Trends

## Chapters
- 0:00 — Introduction: An introduction to the episode preview and the upcoming full-length discussion.
- 0:30 — Reflecting on the Past Year: A look back at how much the data technology landscape has changed since the last annual visit.
- 1:00 — The Evolution of Hex: Barry McCardel discusses his background at Palantir and the transition of Hex into an AI-first analytics platform.
- 2:10 — AI and Job Security: Addressing concerns regarding AI's impact on job roles, team sizes, and professional relevance.
- 2:30 — Redefining the Data Stack: A discussion on how new technological possibilities are blurring the lines of traditional data architecture.
- 3:30 — Closing Preview: Final thoughts and a reminder for the full episode release.

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## Transcript

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