Welcome to the Season 11 Finale of the PolicyViz Podcast! I’m ready for a summer break and am super excited to close the season talking with Shirly Wu—data visualization artist, technologist, and community thought leader. We talk about Shirley’s journey from creating vibrant, web-based data visualizations to developing physical, multi-sensory data art. Shirley shares what she learned during her recent graduate studies in art and technology, her reflections on data, emotion, and the role of art, and the ideas behind her widely discussed blog series on the state of innovation in the data visualization field. We also discuss how the pandemic reshaped our community, the challenge of maintaining creative joy, and the importance of making space for both functional and expressive data storytelling. From Tokyo to San Francisco, Shirley’s work bridges client projects and immersive art experiences, all grounded in data.

Keywords: Shirley Wu, data visualization, data art, scrollytelling, innovation in dataviz, physical data experiences, emotional data storytelling, PolicyViz Podcast, post-pandemic data, visual storytelling, ITP NYU, creative data design, interdisciplinary art, Jon Schwabish, data literacy, local data engagement, experimental visualization

Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast [https://patreon.com/policyviz?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] for as little as a buck a month

Check out Shirley’s website [https://www.shirleywu.studio/]

Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jschwabish/?hl=en],  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanschwabish/],  Substack [https://jschwabish.substack.com/],  Twitter [https://twitter.com/jschwabish],  Website [https://policyviz.com/],  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/JonSchwabish]

Email: jon@policyviz.com [jschwabish@gmail.com]

Shirley Wu on Data, Art, and Innovation in Visualization

In this week’s episode of the PolicyViz Podcast, I am reposting my 2015 interview with Edward Tufte, one of the pioneers of data visualization and author of seminal books like The Visual Display of Quantitative Information. At the time, Tufte was a well-known and hugely influential figure in the field. Over time, his influence has waned, and I find that fewer and fewer people are aware of his work and his impacts on the field of data visualization. Before closing up this season next week, I thought it worth looking back to this interview and listen to Tufte as he reflects on analytical thinking, visual reasoning, and the intersection of art and science. We discussed his sculpture work, the evolution of information design, the power of high-resolution displays, and the importance of clarity and excellence in presenting data. The conversation spans from Tufte’s early teaching days to his vision for the future of data communication, offering a rich mix of philosophy, design, and practical insight.

Keywords: Edward Tufte, data visualization, The Thinking Eye, PolicyViz Podcast, Jon Schwabish, analytical thinking, visual reasoning, sculpture, design excellence, high-resolution graphics, information design, flatland, Galileo, data storytelling, maps moving in time

Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast [https://patreon.com/policyviz?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] for as little as a buck a month

Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jschwabish/?hl=en],  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanschwabish/],  Substack [https://jschwabish.substack.com/],  Twitter [https://twitter.com/jschwabish],  Website [https://policyviz.com/],  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/JonSchwabish]

Email: jon@policyviz.com [jschwabish@gmail.com]

Edward Tufte: Designing with Data, Art, and Purpose

My friend Andy Kirk joins the show to reflect on the changing landscape of data visualization. We discuss the evolution of tools like Tableau and Flourish, the dispersion of social media communities, and how, how AI is reshaping workflows and data visualization. Andy shares insights from his freelance experience, the challenges of teaching data preparation, and his measured take on critique and awards in the field. This episode captures a moment of introspection in data viz—where progress is evident, but big questions remain.

Keywords: data, data visualization, flourish, graphic design, how to, information design, graphic design tutorials, graphic design portfolio, graphic design course, online learning, graphic design photoshop, graphic design trends 2024, how to draw, data scientist, Federica fragapane, accurat, AccessibilityInDesign, EngagingVisuals, Inspiration, DataNarratives, VisualizationDesign, InstagramPortfolio, BehancePortfolio, mathematics, Al, machine learning

Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast [https://patreon.com/policyviz?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] for as little as a buck a month

Check out Andy's website [https://visualisingdata.com/] and grab his new book, Data Visualisation: A Handbook for Data Driven Design [https://amzn.to/43nnPr6].

Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jschwabish/?hl=en],  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanschwabish/],  Substack [https://jschwabish.substack.com/],  Twitter [https://twitter.com/jschwabish],  Website [https://policyviz.com/],  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/JonSchwabish]

Email: jon@policyviz.com [jschwabish@gmail.com]

From Tableau to AI: Where Data Visualization Is Headed with Andy Kirk

In this episode of the PolicyViz Podcast, Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic joins me to discuss the evolution of her work in data storytelling—from corporate workshops to her newest venture into children’s literature. We explore how the pandemic transformed training formats, the collaborative nature of her team, and the creative process behind her latest book, Daphne Draws Data. Cole reflects on the importance of introducing kids to the visual language of data early in life and shares how simple storytelling principles can empower learners of any age.

Keywords: data, data visualization, flourish, graphic design, how to, information design, graphic design tutorials, graphic design portfolio, graphic design course, online learning, graphic design photoshop, graphic design trends 2024, how to draw, data scientist, Federica fragapane, accurat, AccessibilityInDesign, EngagingVisuals, Inspiration, DataNarratives, VisualizationDesign, InstagramPortfolio, BehancePortfolio, mathematics, Al, machine learning

Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast [https://patreon.com/policyviz?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] for as little as a buck a month

Check out Cole's latest book, Daphe Draws Data on Amazon [https://amzn.to/4kC2Sjp] or wherever you get your books!

Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jschwabish/?hl=en],  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanschwabish/],  Substack [https://jschwabish.substack.com/],  Twitter [https://twitter.com/jschwabish],  Website [https://policyviz.com/],  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/JonSchwabish]

Email: jon@policyviz.com [jschwabish@gmail.com]

Drawing Data with Dragons: Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic on Teaching Kids and Adults Alike

Amanda Cox reflects on her career path from the New York Times to Bloomberg News, highlighting her efforts to make data more accessible and meaningful through journalism. We dive into the shifts in data journalism—from scarce print real estate to the rise of AI tools—and how these transitions affect newsroom priorities, audience interaction, and storytelling techniques. Amanda emphasizes the importance of reducing friction for domain experts and considers the future implications of AI in data analysis and design.

Keywords: data, data visualization, Amanda Cox, Data journalism, Bloomberg, USAFacts, AI in journalism, Visual storytelling, Data accessibility, Media evolution

Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast [https://patreon.com/policyviz?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] for as little as a buck a month

Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jschwabish/?hl=en],  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanschwabish/],  Substack [https://jschwabish.substack.com/],  Twitter [https://twitter.com/jschwabish],  Website [https://policyviz.com/],  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/JonSchwabish]

Email: jon@policyviz.com [jschwabish@gmail.com]

Amanda Cox on Data Journalism, AI, and Democratizing Design

In this episode, I chat with Mandy Spaltman and Sebastian Graeff, co-leads of the data team at The European Correspondent, a volunteer-driven journalism initiative covering news across Europe. They discuss how their team of passionate designers and analysts craft daily data visualizations, their creative process, the tools they use, and the challenge of maintaining a cohesive style while allowing artistic freedom. Hear how they balance storytelling and design, and what the future might hold for interactive and multilingual content.

Keywords: data, data visualization, European Correspondent, data visualization, journalism, infographics, storytelling, media startup, volunteer, creative process, visual design, newsletters, Europe

Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast [https://patreon.com/policyviz?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] for as little as a buck a month

Check out the European Correspondent [https://www.europeancorrespondent.com/]!

Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jschwabish/?hl=en],  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanschwabish/],  Substack [https://jschwabish.substack.com/],  Twitter [https://twitter.com/jschwabish],  Website [https://policyviz.com/],  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/JonSchwabish]

Email: jon@policyviz.com [jschwabish@gmail.com]

Data for a Continent: Inside the European Correspondent’s Visual Journalism

In this episode of the PolicyViz Podcast, I speak with Yanni Loukissas, an Associate Professor at Georgia Tech, about the importance of context in working with data. Yanni argues that data are not universal but local—shaped by their origins, environments, and the intentions of those who collect them. Our conversation dives into how this perspective challenges dominant narratives in data science, particularly the assumption that datasets are neutral or universally applicable. We also discuss how design and storytelling can play a role in exposing the situated nature of data and how educators and practitioners can better teach and communicate these ideas.

Keywords: Yanni Loukissas, PolicyViz Podcast, data visualization, data context, data storytelling, situated data, data ethics, data science, data politics, Georgia Tech, Jon Schwabish, design and data, local data, neutral data myth, data literacy, communicating data, data education, critical data studies, data and power, podcast interview

Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast [https://patreon.com/policyviz?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] for as little as a buck a month

Check out Yanni’s website [https://loukissas.lmc.gatech.edu/projects/] and read his book, All Data are Local [https://amzn.to/4jkhPps]

Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jschwabish/?hl=en],  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanschwabish/],  Substack [https://jschwabish.substack.com/],  Twitter [https://twitter.com/jschwabish],  Website [https://policyviz.com/],  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/JonSchwabish]

Email: jon@policyviz.com [jschwabish@gmail.com]

Data Are Local: Context, Power, and Storytelling with Yanni Loukissas

In this week’s episode of the PolicyViz Podcast, I sit down with data visualization expert Moritz Stefaner to reflect on his journey in the field. We discuss Stefaner's work on the Data Stories Podcast, his shift from bespoke data visualization projects to scalable design systems, and his collaborations with organizations like the World Health Organization. Moritz shares insights on the evolution of data visualization trends, the importance of clear communication, and the challenges of building sustainable design frameworks.

Keywords: Data visualization, Moritz Stefaner, PolicyViz Podcast, Data Stories Podcast, Design systems, Data journalism, WHO design language, Data communication, AI transcription, Data storytellingmathematics, Al, machine learning

Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast [https://patreon.com/policyviz?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] for as little as a buck a month

Explore all of Mortiz’s amazing work on his website [https://truth-and-beauty.net/]

Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jschwabish/?hl=en],  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanschwabish/],  Substack [https://jschwabish.substack.com/],  Twitter [https://twitter.com/jschwabish],  Website [https://policyviz.com/],  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/JonSchwabish]

Email: jon@policyviz.com [jschwabish@gmail.com]

Exploring the Evolution of Data Visualization with Moritz Stefaner

In this episode of the PolicyViz Podcast, I chat with communication expert Davina Stanley about the power of clear and structured messaging in business communication. Davina shares insights from her books Engage and Elevate, discussing how leaders and teams can improve their communication efficiency through message mapping. She explains how a well-structured message can reduce back-and-forth revisions, build trust, and lead to faster decision-making. Drawing from her diverse career—from teaching kindergarten in Australia to working at McKinsey—Davina emphasizes the importance of outlining, visual hierarchy, and strategic thinking in crafting compelling business messages. Whether it's an email, a presentation, or a major proposal, she reveals how clarity in communication can transform workplace productivity and leadership effectiveness.

Keywords: business communication, message mapping, clarity, leadership, structured messaging, workplace productivity, presentations, effective writing, trust in communication, decision-making, corporate communication, professional development, consulting, strategic messaging

Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast [https://patreon.com/policyviz?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] for as little as a buck a month

Check out Davina’ Clarity First Program [https://clarityfirstprogram.com/]

Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jschwabish/?hl=en],  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanschwabish/],  Substack [https://jschwabish.substack.com/],  Twitter [https://twitter.com/jschwabish],  Website [https://policyviz.com/],  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/JonSchwabish]

Email: jon@policyviz.com [jschwabish@gmail.com]

Engage, Elevate, Communicate: Davina Stanley on Crafting Clear Business Messages

In this week’s episode of the PolicyViz Podcast, I speak with Braden Crooks, co-founder of Designing the We, about their project Undesign the Redline, an interactive exhibit that explores the history and lasting impact of redlining in the U.S. Braden shares how his background in landscape architecture and urban design led him to develop this project, which combines research, storytelling, and community engagement. He discusses the importance of making history tangible through physical exhibits, the role of public participation in shaping the narrative, and the upcoming digital expansion of the project. We also discuss how organizations can bring Undesign the Redline to their communities, using it as a tool for education, dialogue, and activism.

Keywords: data, data visualization, Redlining, Undesign the Redline, Urban policy, Structural inequality, Community engagement, Designing the We, Interactive exhibit, Storytelling in policy, Housing discrimination, Urban history, Social justice, Data visualization, Public participation, Community organizing, Historical inequities, Urban renewal, Environmental advocacy, Fair housing, Policy storytelling, Systemic racism

Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast [https://patreon.com/policyviz?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] for as little as a buck a month

Check out Braden’s work and Designing the We on their website [https://www.designingthewe.com/]

Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jschwabish/?hl=en],  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanschwabish/],  Substack [https://jschwabish.substack.com/],  Twitter [https://twitter.com/jschwabish],  Website [https://policyviz.com/],  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/JonSchwabish]

Email: jon@policyviz.com [jschwabish@gmail.com]

Mapping Inequality: Braden Crooks on Redlining and Urban Transformation

Learn how to be a great data communicator and visualizer with host Jon Schwabish. Hear from experts in the fields of data science, data visualization, and presentation skills to improve how you and your organization collect, analyze, and communicate your data in better, more efficient, and more effective ways.

The PolicyViz Podcast

Jon's Show

Helping you do a better job processing, analyzing, sharing, and presenting your data.

Jon

Shows