It is once again that time of year when our host, Cindi Howson shares her favorite data and analytics book recommendations. In this special annual episode, we feature three of the industry’s top data writers, thinkers, and fellow podcasters. Tim Harford comes to the conversation with his new book, The Data Detective, and big-picture ideas about how traits like curiosity serve data scientists so well. Zhamak Dehghani shares her concept of The Data Mesh, especially as it relates to sharing data across business verticals. Finally, in his book, Effective Data Storytelling, Brent Dykes compels readers to think carefully about the way they craft the message or narrative around the data they’re interpreting. Tune in to learn:Making sense of the world through a data lens with Tim Harford (05:18)Tim’s favorite of the ten data commandments (07:11)Guard against using data as a control mechanism (15:14)How does curiosity create a healthier relationship with data? (19:57) Data Mesh with Zhamak Dehghani (32:31)Blending centralized and decentralized schools of thought (36:39)Data Mesh isn’t for everyone (48:11)How do you begin your data mesh transformation? (53:28)Brent Dykes and the importance of data storytelling (1:02:17)Why do data scientists need to be better communicators? (1:11:13)The Venn diagram of data storytelling (1:15:14)Mentions:The Data Detective: Ten Easy Rules to Make Sense of Statistics by Tim Harford Data Mesh: Delivering Data-Driven Value at Scale by Zhamak Dehghani Effective Data Storytelling: How to Drive Change with Data, Narrative, and Visuals by Brent Dykes Get even more insights from data and analytics leaders like Tim, Zhamak, and Brent on The Data Chief. Mission.org is a media studio producing content for world-class clients. Learn more at mission.org. Hear more from Cindi Howson here. Sponsored by ThoughtSpot.

Learn the art of data storytelling from experts Brent Dykes, Lea Pica, and Andy Cotgreave. Discover how to craft compelling data narratives, engage diverse audiences, tailor data presentations effectively, and deliver challenging information with empathy and cultural sensitivity. Get valuable tips on enhancing data storytelling and driving impact through clarity, readability, and engagement.

In this engaging conversation, Brent Dykes, bestselling author of Effective Data Storytelling and founder of Analytics Hero, shares his expertise in data storytelling for finance leaders. He explores the evolution of storytelling in analytics, the irreplaceable human element amid AI advancements, and the biggest challenges organizations face in communicating data effectively. Brent also provides insights into fostering a data-driven culture and emphasizes the continued relevance of tools like Excel in enhancing data literacy.