storytelling with data podcast

How do you handle a presentation when your boss gives you a slide limit? Join data storyteller Alli Torban as she tackles this common presentation constraint.
You'll learn why limiting slides doesn’t necessarily lead to shorter presentations, how negotiating for a time limit instead can lead to clearer communication, and practical strategies for when the slide limit truly isn’t negotiable.

SHOW NOTES: https://www.storytellingwithdata.com/podcast/107

RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Register for our virtual, public workshop on August 20, 2026⁠ (use code PODCAST10 for 10% off our public workshops and on-demand courses)

Alex’s blog post: limit the minutes and let the slides slide

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Join data storyteller Alli Torban as she talks with Riley Martin, founder of Sportsball, about one of the hardest parts of data storytelling: getting people to care before you show the data.
You'll learn how Riley translates complex topics into approachable visual stories, why he assumes his audience starts with little or no background knowledge, and practical techniques for uncovering what your audience actually wants to know.
Show notes: ⁠https://www.storytellingwithdata.com/podcast/106
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Register for our virtual, public workshop on August 20, 2026 (use code PODCAST10 for 10% off our public workshops and on-demand courses)
Riley Martin on LinkedIn
Sportsball website
Ilia Malinin figure skating infographic
Sakura Micron pens
Pentel PointLiner pens
Zebra ClickArt markers
Flourish Studio

Join Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic as she shares how AI can quietly flatten your data stories. You’ll learn why AI tends to smooth over the tension that makes a story compelling, how to keep the sharp edges that move your specific audience, and practical ways to stay in control—from analog brainstorming to sharper prompts. The goal: use AI as a thought partner without letting it dilute your perspective.

Show notes: https://www.storytellingwithdata.com/podcast/105

RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Learn about our Enhance with AI team training

Read our blog series on practical AI guidance

Watch our live event on YouTube: AI for data storytelling

Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off our public workshops and on-demand courses

Join data storyteller Alli Torban as she shares a very common slide title mistake: using questions as your slide titles. You'll learn why question-based titles can divide your audience's attention, how to write a better title, and a simple bonus tip for making both your slide titles and chart titles work together. It's a small change that can make your presentations much easier to understand.
Show notes: https://www.storytellingwithdata.com/podcast/104
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Simon Rowe's blog post: "be careful using questions as slide titles"

Alex Velez's blog post: "transforming slide titles"

Watch our AI virtual event recording on YouTube

Learn about our Enhance with AI team training

Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off our public workshops and on-demand courses

Do you have to be a designer to create better visuals?
Join data storytellers Alex Velez and Alli Torban as they share practical ways to train your design eye by studying great examples, recreating charts, and seeking feedback—all while making intentional design decisions that help your audience understand your message faster. If you've ever thought, "I'm just not a designer," this episode will show you where to begin.
Show notes: https://www.storytellingwithdata.com/podcast/103https://www.storytellingwithdata.com/podcast/103
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Cole’s blog post “can design be taught?”

Join the SWD community

Presenting Data Effectively by Stephanie Evergreen

Chart Spark by Alli Torban (X-RAY technique)

Watch our AI virtual event recording

Register for the 4-hour, public workshop on August 20th, 2026
Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!