Why Subscribe to Graymatter?
Welcome to Graymatter, expanding your intelligence in data and AI strategy to accelerate business and career innovation. You will also discover how to apply cutting-edge technology and frameworks to operationalize your strategy and deliver results.
I’m James Gray, a seasoned technology leader, entrepreneur, and educator who empowers organizations and leaders to accelerate innovation through data and artificial intelligence.
In Graymatter, you’ll find a blend of high-level strategic thinking and practical frameworks to operationalize that strategy. Whether you’re leading a business, designing innovative AI solutions, or navigating your career in technology, this newsletter equips you with the tools, ideas, and inspiration to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
My purpose is to serve an audience with my data, AI, and leadership expertise, which I have amassed over a 30-year career through my work with organizations and as a data and strategy instructor at the Berkeley Haas School of Business.
What You’ll Learn in Graymatter
Each edition of Graymatter is designed to offer clarity and direction in five key areas:
Data and AI Strategy
Discover how to align data and AI with business objectives to deliver measurable outcomes. I write about frameworks, methodologies, and best practices for designing strategies that drive innovation and create competitive advantage.
Data and AI Products and Platforms
Innovation today is powered by data, AI, and the platforms that enable them.
I break down the end-to-end process of building cutting-edge data-driven and AI-powered products—from initial concept to deployment and beyond. This includes exploring the technology platforms and tools that make it possible to operationalize AI at scale. Whether you’re navigating cloud infrastructure, leveraging MLOps frameworks, or choosing the right analytics tools, I provide insights to help you implement best practices, overcome obstacles, and harness the latest technologies to drive growth and innovation.
Data and AI Business Transformation
Understand how advanced technologies reshape industries. Through real-world case studies, I analyze the critical factors behind successful transformations and how organizations like yours can harness these lessons.
Leadership in the Era of AI
In a world where technology moves faster than ever, strong leadership is the differentiator. I share insights on leading through uncertainty, aligning teams around strategic objectives, and fostering innovation in an AI-driven world.
Career Strategy and Personal Growth
Your ability to thrive in a data and AI economy depends on how well you integrate personal development with professional growth. Learn how to craft a career strategy that aligns with your strengths, ambitions, and the demands of the future of work.
About Me
I bring three decades of experience in technology, including leadership roles at Microsoft, and a track record as a fractional data and AI executive. My career spans diverse areas, including data science, engineering, product management, and executive leadership roles such as Chief Information Officer and Chief Product Officer.
As a data and AI strategy instructor at the Berkeley Haas School of Business, I combine academic rigor with real-world expertise. I also serve as a certified leadership coach, helping individuals and organizations harness the power of self-awareness, strategy, and AI-driven innovation.
Beyond strategy, I’m passionate about operationalizing ideas—bridging the gap between high-level plans and actionable execution through the latest frameworks, tools, and platforms.
Let’s connect on LinkedIn.
Why Graymatter?
This newsletter goes beyond theory. It’s for decision-makers, innovators, and lifelong learners who want to stay at the forefront of data and AI while mastering the leadership skills to turn vision into reality. If you’re ready to think strategically and act decisively, Graymatter is your roadmap to success.
✍️ Posting Schedule
• Weekly Sunday Posts: Every Sunday, I deliver a brand-new, in-depth post packed with strategic insights, practical frameworks, and actionable advice on data, AI, leadership, and career growth.
• Midweek Nuggets: Throughout the week, I share shorter, relevant updates, including breaking news in data and AI, thought-provoking insights, and tools or resources to keep you ahead of the curve.
Subscriber Benefits
Monthly Insight: Receive roughly one email a month packed with high-value insights, frameworks, and strategies on data and AI topics to keep you informed and inspired. This ideal is for readers seeking an introduction to data and AI strategy or staying updated with occasional industry insights.
Posts and Full Archive: Gain access to subscriber-only posts, packed with advanced frameworks, case studies, in-depth strategies, and the full archive of past content to ensure you never miss a valuable insight.
Private Community: Join an exclusive Discord group of data and AI enthusiasts, professionals, and leaders. Collaborate, exchange ideas, and grow with a network of like-minded peers focused on mastering data and AI strategy.
Exclusive Discounts: Save on my Maven cohort courses and 1:1 coaching sessions designed to deepen your expertise and accelerate your career growth.
Direct Collaboration: Have questions or need guidance? Get personalized insights through Q&A in the comments section or by responding to any newsletter email.
