Data, Creativity & Being More Than One Thing | Data Scientist, Comedian & Behind the Data Podcast

Data is shaping how we understand health, politics, work, and everyday life, but without context, it can mislead more than it informs. In this episode, Kara Duffy speaks with Andrea Jones-Rooy, data scientist, former professor, comedian, and host of Behind the Data Podcast, about how to think critically about statistics, misinformation, and measurement in today’s information-saturated world. Andrea explains why data doesn’t speak for itself, how charts and trends can be manipulated without context, and why critical thinking and data literacy are essential skills for modern leaders. The conversation also explores career identity, fractional paths, creative work, and why being multi-hyphenate can lead to more fulfillment, better problem-solving, and stronger decision-making in both business and life.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
02:55 The Power of Data Science
05:55 Measuring What Matters
08:59 The Importance of Context in Data
12:05 Personal Experiences with Data and Measurement
15:03 Navigating Misinformation in Data
18:09 The Journey to Embracing Data Science
20:55 The Role of Data in Decision Making
24:09 Challenges in Trusting Data
27:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
30:50 The Intersection of Comedy and Academia
34:49 The Dichotomy of Seriousness and Fun
38:10 The Privilege of Being Multifaceted
42:03 Redefining Work-Life Balance
44:39 The Impact of Personal Fulfillment
46:11 Understanding the Us vs. Them Mentality
47:24 Influences of Powerful Women
49:20 Defining Power and Femininity
51:19 Self-Assessment of Power
52:39 Manifesting Creative Projects

The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms.

Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think.

Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com.

Powerful Ladies:
IG @powerfulladies
thepowerfulladies.com

Kara Duffy:
IG @kara_duffy
karaduffy.com

Andrea Jones-Rooy:
Instagram: jonesrooy
Website:jonesrooy.com
LinkedIn: jonesrooy
TikTok: @jonesrooy
YouTube: @jonesrooy
Substack: @jonesrooy
Email: andrea@jonesrooy.com

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