Data-Smart City Pod

Data-Smart City Solutions

As the central resource for cities on the intersection of government, data, and innovation, the Data-Smart City Pod from Harvard University's Data-Smart City Solutions features leaders and experts in governance, innovation, and research. read less

GovernmentGovernment

Start Here

Leveraging Data for Healthier Neighborhoods with Kate Robb

Leveraging Data for Healthier Neighborhoods with Kate Robb

In this episode, host Stephen Goldsmith interviews Kate Robb, discussing her groundbreaking research on how city governments can use data to improve public health. By examining the intersection of housing conditions and health outcomes, Robb shares her work in Chelsea, MA (Substandard Housing and the Risk of COVID-19), and Buffalo, NY (Tackling Persistent, Boundary-Spanning Problems Through Collaborative Innovation), demonstrating the power of innovative housing inspections, social service referrals, and collaborative city programs like Clean Sweep. This conversation provides actionable insights for city leaders on using data to create healthier, safer neighborhoods - and to become more than the sum of the parts. Clean Sweep video mentioned in podcast: CleanSweepYIR2022.mp4 on VimeoMusic credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Episodes

Leveraging Data for Healthier Neighborhoods with Kate Robb

Leveraging Data for Healthier Neighborhoods with Kate Robb

In this episode, host Stephen Goldsmith interviews Kate Robb, discussing her groundbreaking research on how city governments can use data to improve public health. By examining the intersection of housing conditions and health outcomes, Robb shares her work in Chelsea, MA (Substandard Housing and the Risk of COVID-19), and Buffalo, NY (Tackling Persistent, Boundary-Spanning Problems Through Collaborative Innovation), demonstrating the power of innovative housing inspections, social service referrals, and collaborative city programs like Clean Sweep. This conversation provides actionable insights for city leaders on using data to create healthier, safer neighborhoods - and to become more than the sum of the parts. Clean Sweep video mentioned in podcast: CleanSweepYIR2022.mp4 on VimeoMusic credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

A Local Approach to Improving Urban Air Quality

A Local Approach to Improving Urban Air Quality

In this episode, host Stephen Goldsmith interviews Michael Ogletree, division director of Air Pollution Control for the state of Colorado. Ogletree shares his insights from leading one of the most significant urban air quality programs in the US, the Denver Love My Air program, which aimed to reduce asthma rates in public school children through the use of low-cost air quality sensors. He provides valuable insights for city leaders on using innovative technology and community engagement to tackle air pollution and enhance public health.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

From Intent to Impact: Mayor Victoria Woodards on Equity

From Intent to Impact: Mayor Victoria Woodards on Equity

In this episode host Stephen Goldsmith interviews Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards, exploring her strategies for embedding equity into every aspect of municipal operations. Mayor Woodards explains how to use data, mapping, and community engagement to not just talk about equity but actively implement it. She also highlights the Tacoma Equity Index, which is a pivotal tool for identifying and addressing disparities across neighborhoods.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Future Tides: How Kaua'i Fights Sea Level Rise with Data

Future Tides: How Kaua'i Fights Sea Level Rise with Data

In this episode host Stephen Goldsmith interviews Alan Clinton, the administrative planning officer for the county of Kaua'i, about the county's Sea Level Rise Constraint District Viewer, an award-winning data visualization for protecting and preserving the island coastline. They discuss the importance of a proactive response to chronic erosion and rising sea levels, and how to integrate cutting-edge data visualization technology into policy-making. Kaua'i offers a blueprint for other coastal communities seeking to mitigate the impacts of climate change.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Navigating Trust in the Digital Landscape with Jacqueline Lu

Navigating Trust in the Digital Landscape with Jacqueline Lu

In this episode host Stephen Goldsmith interviews Jacqueline Lu, co-founder of Helpful Places, exploring her journey from public service to spearheading innovative digital privacy initiatives. Lu discusses the challenges and opportunities of deploying digital infrastructure in public spaces, emphasizing the importance of building trust and transparency. They delve into the Digital Trust for Places and Routines standard, its potential to empower communities, and how Helpful Places is driving efforts to reshape data governance and foster inclusive urban environments.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Framing Equity Work with Data: The Tucson Strategy

Framing Equity Work with Data: The Tucson Strategy

In this episode, Stephen Goldsmith interviews Tucson's Chief Equity Officer Laurice Walker and Equity Data Manager Laura Sharp about using data and mapping to reshape city policies and services to prioritize equity, and how to lay the groundwork for lasting transformation. They discuss the city's equity framework the Tucson Equity Data Strategy and why it's important to leverage multiple types of data for impactful decisions.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Time and Trust with Brad Keywell

Time and Trust with Brad Keywell

In this episode, Stephen Goldsmith interviews Brad Keywell, entrepreneur and co-founder of Groupon, about the importance of time. They discuss how urgency, efficiency, and trust are crucial in maximizing outcomes and resident satisfaction, highlighting the need for leaders to prioritize decisive action and leverage technology to optimize processes. They also explore practical strategies for instilling a culture of accountability and responsiveness within organizations, drawing from Keywell's experiences as a founder and Goldsmith's insights from his tenure in government.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Tackling Homelessness with Strategic Data and Skills

Tackling Homelessness with Strategic Data and Skills

In this episode, Stephen Goldsmith interviews Carin Clary, the director of Homelessness and Housing at Harvard's Government Performance Lab. They discuss the challenges faced by cities in addressing homelessness, the crucial role of data in guiding effective interventions, and innovative approaches to reshaping homeless response systems for lasting impact. Clary offers valuable insights into data-driven strategies that not only tackle immediate challenges but also provide a roadmap for cities seeking sustainable solutions to this cross-sector problem.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

The Essential Capabilities for Problem-Oriented Governance with Jorrit de Jong

The Essential Capabilities for Problem-Oriented Governance with Jorrit de Jong

In this episode Stephen Goldsmith talks with Jorrit de Jong, director of the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, about his new research on the crucial role of collaborative capabilities, data analytics, and innovation in addressing complex urban challenges. They discuss the three key principles outlined in de Jong's article State Capabilities for Problem-Oriented Governance and accompanying Action Insights paper "Tackling Big, Thorny Problems: Building the Capabilities Your Organization Needs." They also touch on applying these principles to address cross-sector problems like homelessness. Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Exclusive: Collaborating Across Sectors in Cities

Exclusive: Collaborating Across Sectors in Cities

At a recent event held at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University host Professor Stephen Goldsmith interviewed Chao Guo, professor of nonprofit management at the University of Pennsylvania and G.T. Bynum, mayor of Tulsa, Oklahoma. They discussed how city leaders can work across sectoral boundaries to improve social outcomes for residents. Professor Guo presented scholarly research on cross-sector collaborations and Mayor Bynum shared real-world lessons in regards to forming partnerships, using data, and breaking down historic lines of division.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Recoding America: Author Interview with Jennifer Pahlka

Recoding America: Author Interview with Jennifer Pahlka

In this episode host Professor Stephen Goldsmith interviews Jennifer Pahlka, former Deputy Chief Technology Officer for President Obama and founder of Code for America. They discuss Jennifer's new book, "Recoding America," which focuses on how to approach big and small projects in the digital age, the challenges of government technology, and the need for a reevaluation of how we think about and invest in government. Pahlka shares insights on successful projects, the importance of collaboration between tech and policy experts, and the need to rethink bureaucratic processes to achieve better public outcomes.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Climate, Equity, and Resilience with Chief Heat Officer Marta Segura

Climate, Equity, and Resilience with Chief Heat Officer Marta Segura

In this episode host Professor Stephen Goldsmith talks with the Chief Heat Officer for the city of Los Angeles, Marta Segura, about her background as an environmental justice advocate and the city's response to extreme heat as a primary climate hazard. The conversation covers the use of mapping to address health disparities, prioritizing climate-resilient infrastructure investments, and how she fosters cross-agency collaboration, highlighting the crucial role of data-driven strategies in building resilient and equitable cities.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Exclusive: Victoria Brown on Local and Federal Housing Innovation

Exclusive: Victoria Brown on Local and Federal Housing Innovation

At a recent event held at Harvard University Victoria Brown, at the time serving as the Deputy Chief of Staff at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, spoke to chiefs of staff and deputy mayors of 30 large US cities, and we're releasing the audio of that speech with a bonus question and answer session. Listen to Brown discuss the critical role of city staff in addressing housing challenges in their communities and developing innovative solutions. She also provides insights on how cities can collaborate with the federal government to prioritize housing and offers examples of successful initiatives across the U.S.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Exclusive: Gregg Colburn Explains Why Homelessness is a Housing Problem

Exclusive: Gregg Colburn Explains Why Homelessness is a Housing Problem

At a recent event held at Harvard University the author and professor Gregg Colburn spoke to chiefs of staff and deputy mayors of 30 large US cities, and we're releasing the audio of that speech with a bonus question and answer session. Listen to Colburn discuss the role of housing availability in homelessness, and explain how even when individual factors such as mental illness and substance abuse contribute to homelessness, the root cause is the lack of affordable housing. Colburn emphasizes the need for a structural solution to the housing crisis, as well as the importance of clear messaging and evidence-based interventions. Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

How to Responsibly Navigate Government's AI Frontier with Luis Videgaray

How to Responsibly Navigate Government's AI Frontier with Luis Videgaray

In this episode host Professor Stephen Goldsmith interviews Luis Videgaray, director of MIT AI Policy for the World Project, senior lecturer at the MIT Sloan School of Management, and former Foreign Minister and Finance Minister of Mexico. In this captivating discussion they explore the dynamic landscape of AI adoption in cities, from basic applications to transformative processes, why generative tools demand leadership attention, and the best approach to AI procurement. They also propose novel ideas around the role of AI in a bureaucratic organization. Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Leading First and Leading Local with Clarence Anthony

Leading First and Leading Local with Clarence Anthony

In this episode Professor Goldsmith interviews Clarence Anthony, the CEO and executive director of the National League of Cities. Both former mayors, they discuss how leading at the local level means leading first - which provides an opportunity for cities to lead the way on technological innovation, racial equity, and accessibility. Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

The Complicated Interplay: AI and Government

The Complicated Interplay: AI and Government

In this episode Professor Goldsmith interviews Professor Dan Huttenlocher, inaugural dean of the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing and expert on artificial intelligence and computer science. They discuss the different ways that generative AI could be used by governments, in service of constituents, and what kinds of operational standards are required for the productive and safe use of AI technologies. Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Recast - The Intersection of Privacy, Technology, and Bias with Dr. Latanya Sweeney

Recast - The Intersection of Privacy, Technology, and Bias with Dr. Latanya Sweeney

In this episode Professor Goldsmith interviews Dr. Latanya Sweeney, an influential expert in the areas of tech policy, data privacy, bias, and regulation. Previously Chief Technologist at the Federal Trade Commission and a pivotal figure in the formation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), Dr. Sweeney discusses how cities can better create inclusive and transparent services, why biased data leads to biased results, and how one simple challenge in grad school changed her whole view on technology and computers.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Exclusive: Edward Glaeser on the Survival of Cities

Exclusive: Edward Glaeser on the Survival of Cities

In this episode professor and economist Edward Glaeser answers questions sourced from city leaders at Data-Smart's recent Project on Municipal event, which gathered chiefs of staff and deputy mayors from 30 of the largest US cities. Listen to him talk about how cities can utilize their comparative advantages, why mayors must focus on schools rather than attracting "white whales," and how to attract and cultivate a strong city hall workforce. And be sure to read the transcript of Glaeser's full talk here. Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsHoused at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, we work to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.

Amanda Daflos on the Power of Curiosity

Amanda Daflos on the Power of Curiosity

In this episode, Professor Stephen Goldsmith interviews Amanda Daflos, current executive director of the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins University and former chief innovation officer for the city of Los Angeles. They discuss Amanda's data-driven approach to police recruitment in LA, how her local government experience informs her role now, and why it's important for innovation teams to have a seat at the head table of government.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsHoused at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, we work to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter.