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.

Join Brent Dykes, a data storytelling expert and author, Lea Pica, a pro in data communication, and Andy Cotgreave, a data visualization guru. They explore the transformative power of storytelling in analytics, emphasizing that numbers alone don't drive impact. The conversation reveals how to craft compelling narratives, balance jargon for accessibility, and engage audiences effectively. They also discuss the human touch needed in AI presentations, proving that creativity and clear communication are key to effective data storytelling.

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.

Brent Dykes, Author of Effective Data Storytelling, discusses low user adoption rate in Power BI and the importance of user enablement. The podcast covers challenges of measuring success and engagement, approaches to increase user adoption, and the need for a monitoring solution for Power BI.

Brent Dykes, Senior Director of Insights & Data Storytelling at Blast Analytics and author, dives into the art of data storytelling. He shares his journey and the reasons behind his book on the subject. Discover how empathy and understanding your audience can transform data into compelling narratives. Brent discusses the integration of visuals and narratives in decision-making and the importance of collaboration between data scientists and business teams. He also explores the future of data storytelling and its role in enhancing organizational data literacy.