Data Storytelling with Kat Greenbrook - AgileData #48

In this episode of the Agile Data N’ Info Podcast, host Shane Gibson sits down with Kat Greenbrook, founder of Rogue Penguin, author of The Data Storyteller’s Handbook, and an expert in data visualization and data storytelling.

In this episode, the conversation explores the intricate world of data storytelling and the ABT (And, But, Therefore) narrative framework. Kat explains how the ABT model operates as a flexible framework that makes audience engagement and clear messaging first-class citizens, extracting meaning out of complex analytics and linking it directly to actionable business goals. By focusing on simple narrative structures and audience motivation rather than just overwhelming numbers, the ABT framework ensures that your data communication remains highly impactful and clear enough to drive real business change.

The discussion also dives deep into the complexities of visual communication, clarifying the crucial role of separating data exploration tools from storytelling. Kat breaks down how adopting high-contrast pivot words—like “but,” “however,” or “despite”—prevents audience disengagement—like the dreaded “death by and”. This approach achieves clear, captivating communication by definitively shifting the direction of the narrative to highlight core business challenges and solutions.

Whether you are curious about how to weave the ABT framework into your everyday work, how avoiding “chart vomit” can actually strengthen your message, or want to learn why dashboards should never be confused with data stories, this episode is packed with valuable insights for data practitioners.

You can get in touch with Kat via LinkedIn or at https://www.roguepenguin.co.nz/

Buy Kat's new book "The Data Storyteller's Handbook" on Amazon.

If you want want to read a summary generated with GenAI, head over to:

https://agiledata.info/i/203810968/google-notebooklm-briefing

If you want to download the transcript for the podcast, head over to:

https://agiledata.info/i/203810968/transcript

Listen to more podcasts on applying Agile Data patterns over at https://podcast.agiledata.io/ Read more on the Agile Data Way of Working over at https://AgileDataGuides.com/

If you just want to talk about making magic happen with agile and data you can connect with Shane @shagility on LinkedIn.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Spotify | Google Podcast | Amazon Audible | TuneIn | iHeartRadio | PlayerFM | Listen Notes | Podchaser | Deezer | Podcast Addict |

Buy the Green Book now!

Simply Magical Data Ways of Working