S2E2 – What Crypto Data Teams Do Differently with Emily Loh

Could the most innovative data management practices be hiding in the cryptocurrency sector?
In this episode, we uncover how crypto data teams have pioneered approaches to resource allocation, automation, and strategic focus that every data leader needs in their toolkit.

Discover how crypto data teams navigate unique challenges that force innovation and strategic thinking. Emily Loh, Director of Data at MoonPay, shares her framework for maximising team impact while balancing operations, innovation, and future-proofing in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Episode Summary
Crypto operates under pressure: irreversible transactions, rapidly shifting regulations, and unpredictable market conditions. These constraints have driven data teams to develop highly efficient, flexible, and impact-led ways of working.

In this conversation, Emily breaks down her team’s approach—from resisting reactivity to protecting time for research and using AI where it adds real value. It’s a roadmap for building resilient, focused data teams in any industry.

Emily Loh leads MoonPay’s 15-person data team across engineering, data science, and machine learning. With previous roles at Coinbase and a background in literature, she blends deep technical understanding with sharp communication and business alignment.

Key Insights and Practical Applications
1. The 20/40/40 Resource Allocation Framework
Emily’s team divides time intentionally—20% for operations, 40% for delivery, 40% for research—to avoid constant firefighting.
✔️ Audit how your team spends its time and protect research with tools like opportunity sizing and innovation showcases.

2. Strategic AI Implementation That Delivers Real Value
MoonPay uses tools like Cursor to eliminate tedious engineering tasks (like YAML updates), freeing time for high-impact work.
✔️ Start with the repetitive tasks your team dislikes most—then measure the time you save.

3. Building Data Systems for Uncertain Futures
Crypto’s speed forces teams to prepare for unknowns. Emily shares how they build modular, flexible systems ready for whatever comes next.
✔️ Invest in solid data foundations and scenario planning, not just speed.

Why Listen
If you’re leading a data team in an environment shaped by complexity, growth, or change, this episode offers practical, field-tested strategies to help your team stay ahead—without burning out.

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💬 What’s one change you’d make to your team’s structure after hearing this? Share it in the comments.
🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Links
🔗 Emily Loh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyloh/
🌐 Listen to more episodes: https://pod.link/1763791020
📚 Matatika resources: https://www.matatika.com/library/
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