Avery Smith, founder of Data Career Jumpstart and host of the Data Career Podcast, shares his insights on breaking into data careers. He introduces the 'learning ladder' to guide newcomers and highlights the importance of hands-on experience over theoretical knowledge. Avery discusses key strategies for building an impressive portfolio and utilizing LinkedIn effectively for job applications. He emphasizes tackling self-doubt, practical projects, and networking as vital components for success in the competitive tech landscape.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Incremental Career Pivot
Avery Smith transitioned incrementally from a chemical lab technician to a junior data analyst at his company.
He started with 25% data analyst tasks, gradually increasing to 100%, escaping hazardous lab work safely.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Strategic Data Learning Ladder
Start learning data tools in the order of Excel, Tableau, SQL, then Python for efficiency.
Prioritize skills that are both in high demand and easier to learn first to get your foot in the door fast.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Leverage AI Tools Wisely
Use large language models like ChatGPT and Claude to work smarter, not to replace your skills.
AI tools can get you 60-70% of the way in coding but you must know programming to correct AI mistakes.
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Atomic Habits by James Clear provides a practical and scientifically-backed guide to forming good habits and breaking bad ones. The book introduces the Four Laws of Behavior Change: make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy, and make it satisfying. It also emphasizes the importance of small, incremental changes (atomic habits) that compound over time to produce significant results. Clear discusses techniques such as habit stacking, optimizing the environment to support desired habits, and focusing on continuous improvement rather than goal fixation. The book is filled with actionable strategies, real-life examples, and stories from various fields, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their habits and achieve personal growth[2][4][5].
Feel-Good Productivity
How to Do More of What Matters to You
Ali Abdal
In 'Feel-Good Productivity,' Dr. Ali Abdaal challenges the conventional notion that productivity is about hard work and discipline. Instead, he argues that the secret to productivity is feeling good. Drawing on decades of psychological research, Abdaal introduces the three hidden 'energisers' that underpin enjoyable productivity, the three 'blockers' to overcome procrastination, and the three 'sustainers' to prevent burnout. The book includes inspiring stories from founders, Olympians, and Nobel-winning scientists and provides simple, actionable changes to make work more enjoyable and sustainable. Abdaal's approach focuses on cultivating a deeper energy for work, balancing well-being with productivity, and enjoying the journey.
Avery Smith is a passionate and motivational YouTuber and careers educator for data science. In this episode, Jon Krohn asks Avery about the tools and tricks he has learned from personal experience and from his students in how to get ahead in the tech industry. Avery shares the “learning ladder” he uses to help newcomers start on the right foot with great examples from former bootcamp students who have put his theories into practice. And, if you’re using LinkedIn to find jobs, Avery explains why this might be one of the reasons you’re not getting work.
Super Data Science: ML & AI Podcast with Jon Krohn 
