Shows
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow AI Thinks: Chris Summerfield on human brains and machine algorithmsIn this episode of Data Malarkey – the podcast about using data, smarter – Master Data Storyteller, Sam Knowles, talks to Chris Summerfield, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Oxford. Chris shares insights into what makes human intelligence so remarkable, how AI models are both fundamentally different from AND similar to human brains, and why understanding cognitive science is critical for building better AI. They explore the future of AI-human collaboration, discuss Chris’ long experience at DeepMind, and consider why prediction sits at the core of both artificial and human intelligence. Take the Data Storytelling Scorecard: https://data-s...2025-07-2351 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastRebuilding trust in science with Caitlyn LoobyIn this compelling episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, Master Data Storyteller, Sam Knowles, welcomes Caitlyn Looby - scientist, journalist, and Great Lakes reporter at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. From conducting soil microbe research in tropical cloud forests to demystifying scientific communication for the public, Caitlyn’s career bridges hard science and human stories. This episode explores her journey, the importance of accessible science, and how local storytelling builds trust. What you'll learn: How Caitlyn transitioned from academia to journalism The hidden world of tropical montane cloud forests and their vulnerability to climate ch...2025-07-0940 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastMark Bonner on football, data, and the beautiful balanceIn this lively episode of Data Malarkey, Master Data Storyteller, Sam Knowles, is joined by Mark Bonner, Director of Football at Cambridge United. From academy coach to leading the club to shock cup victories, Bonner's football journey is anything but typical. Together, they explore the evolving role of data in football, the emotional highs and lows of managing a club, and what it really means to find balance between intuition and insight. Pep Guardiola's wild celebrations and Carlo Ancelotti's stoic eyebrow also make cameo appearances. What you'll learn: How Mark Bonner's career evolved from grassroots...2025-06-2545 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastTurning data into desirability: Automotive insights with Nick RatcliffeRecorded live at the DataComms 2025 conference in London, this very special episode of the Data Malarkey Podcast features Nick Ratcliffe, Customer Experience Director at Volkswagen Group UK. Host and master data storyteller, Sam Knowles, delves into how Nick and his team wield data to enhance customer experience, transform brand desirability, and prepare for the automotive industry’s electric future. With a career spanning leadership roles at BT, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz, Nick shares his evidence-based approach to marketing, the importance (and scarcity) of genuine insight, and a few personal stories from his eclectic selection of hobbies. What You'll Le...2025-06-1136 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastSeason 7 Greatest Hits: AI, Kindness & the Power of StorytellingWe’ve reached 51 episodes and wrapped Season 7 of Data Malarkey! In this greatest hits episode, host Sam Knowles shares the most powerful moments from a season packed with insights—from AI ethics to data puppets, from psychology and kindness to practical business transformation. Revisit brilliant guests like Sylvie Delacroix, Julie Holmes, Cecilia Dones, Robin Banerjee, Adam Davidson, and Scott Taylor, all of whom shared their real-world, often surprising, insights on how to use data smarter. What You’ll Learn: How to rethink AI through the lens of humility and uncertainty The...2025-04-3049 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastAI as an Intern, Not a Genius: Julie Holmes on Automation, Ethics & Human ImpactIn this energising episode of the Data Malarkey Podcast, Master Data Storyteller Sam Knowles speaks with Julie Holmes, entrepreneur, inventor, and AI advisor. Julie shares her insights into how businesses can make AI work with their people – not instead of them. She dives into creative automation, ethical AI, and the dangers of dabbling without direction. From her practical UPGRADE Framework to her “intern not genius” approach to creating effective prompts for LLMs, Julie delivers a candid, actionable masterclass on the human side of AI. What You'll Learn: Why AI should be seen as an int...2025-04-1649 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastTruth Before Meaning: Scott Taylor on Data Storytelling & Business ImpactIn this episode of the Data Malarkey Podcast, host Sam Knowles welcomes Scott Taylor, The Data Whisperer, to break down why data storytelling is the missing business skill in the world of AI, analytics, and business intelligence. Scott shares why he believes in Truth Before Meaning, the idea that businesses need clean, structured data before they can extract meaningful insights. He also explains why tech jargon is holding the data industry back, why business leaders don’t care how data works, and how he’s making the world of data more relatable through Data Puppets. What...2025-04-0251 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastThe Science of Kindness & Finding Joy in Data | Prof. Robin Banerjee on Psychology & EmpathyIs kindness just a “soft” concept, or is there real science behind it? In this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, Master Data Storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Professor Robin Banerjee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global and Civic Engagement at the University of Sussex. Robin’s research explores the psychology of kindness, empathy, and human connection, revealing how data can unlock powerful insights about our social world. From leading the BBC Kindness Test – a groundbreaking study with over 60,000 participants – to his work on how fiction and television shape empathy, Robin shares fascinating insights about the science of human connection...2025-03-1951 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastTrust, AI, and the Future of Human Connection with Cecilia DonesIn this engaging episode of the Data Malarkey Podcast, Master Data Storyteller and host Sam Knowles welcomes Cecilia Dones, a thought leader in data, AI, and human connection. Ceci explores how technology shapes the way we interact, trust, and build relationships—both online and offline. She shares insights into AI ethics, uncertainty in machine learning, and why trust is the cornerstone of all our digital futures. From her work in AI ethics to her philosophy on leadership and adaptability, Ceci provides fresh perspectives on the best ways to navigate the ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence. Tune in fo...2025-03-0551 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastFrom CERN to Ad Regulation: How AI & Data Science Are Changing Advertising | Adam DavidsonCheck out our Data Storytelling scorecard: https://data-storytelling.scoreapp.com In this episode of the podcast, Master Data Storyteller Sam Knowles sits down with Adam Davidson, Head of Data Science at the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA). Adam shares his fascinating journey from CERN’s Large Hadron Collider, where he contributed to the search for the Higgs boson, to leading data-driven efforts in advertising regulation. 💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode: How Adam transitioned from physics to advertising regulation, with the constant drumbeat of data science The role of AI and machine learn...2025-02-1948 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can we build an AI future which respects ethics and data privacy? With Professor Sylvie Delacroix, Centre for Data Futures, King’s College LondonIn this thought-provoking episode of the Data Malarkey Podcast, master data storyteller Sam Knowles sits down with Sylvie Delacroix, the inaugural Jeff Price Chair in Digital Law in the Dickson Poon School of Law at King’s College London. Sylvie shares her insights into data ethics, the vulnerabilities we face in a data-driven world, and the transformative potential of generative AI. She also introduces the Centre for Data Futures, her initiative to build participatory data infrastructure that empowers individuals and communities. This is a conversation about ethics, identity, and the future of AI that you won’t want to miss...2025-02-0553 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastThe Smartest Data Moments from Season 6In this special wrap-up episode of Data Malarkey, host and Master Data Storyteller, Sam Knowles, takes us through the standout moments from Season 6 of the podcast. From neuroscience-driven storytelling to data privacy law, this compilation showcases some of the smartest and most impactful ways people are using data to improve communication, branding, and societal outcomes. Featuring insights from a diverse lineup of experts, this episode is packed with lessons and strategies for anyone curious about making data work smarter. Key Highlights: The Neuroscience of Marketing (00:02:10): Cristina de Balanzo discusses how to avoid the pitfalls of “ne...2024-12-1850 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can we improve product and brand design with data? With Bill Wallsgrove, Head of Ideas at BrandadIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, master data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Bill Wallsgrove, Head of Ideas at Brighton-based communications and design agency, Brandad. Bill has more than 30 years’ experience working in business strategy, brand creation, and communications development. He trained at the London College of Printing and cut his teeth at the legendary design agency, Coley Porter Bell. Bill’s worked in 3D design and packaging design. He is also the man responsible for the creation of the McCoy’s brand of crisps. Throughout his career, Bill has...2024-11-2043 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can we protect our privacy in the era of Big Tech? With Alice Wallbank, expert data privacy lawyer, ShoosmithsIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, master data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Alice Wallbank, a professional support lawyer for the law firm Shoosmiths, whose clients include Mercedes-Benz, Octopus Ventures, and Travelodge. The company also specialises in working for businesses in both the property and banking sector. The Financial Times has garlanded Shoosmiths as “one of Europe’s most innovative law firms”, and Alice’s pioneering role at the company – focused on privacy, data, and increasingly AI – is symptomatic of a business in the vanguard of a profession catching up with the broadest impl...2024-11-0641 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastSir John Curtice on Election Insights, Exit Polls, and Data StorytellingJoin master data storyteller, Sam Knowles, for an enlightening conversation with Sir John Curtice, professor of politics at the University of Strathclyde and senior research fellow at the National Centre for Social Research. As we navigate 2024 which has been dubbed "the ultimate election year," Sir John shares his insights on polling accuracy, political volatility, and data-driven decision-making in the UK and US elections. We explore the intricacies of his more-accurate-than-most exit polling methodology, the challenges of interpreting voter behaviour, and the future of electoral systems. Plus, Sir John reveals his secrets for communicating complex data effectively. 2024-10-2341 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can we unlock human behaviour with neuroscience and behavioural science? With Cristina de Balanzo, PhD, Founder of Walnut UnlimitedIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, we join master data storyteller Sam Knowles, in conversation with Cristina de Balanzo, PhD, Founder and Board Director at Walnut Unlimited, as she delves into the fusion of neuroscience, behavioural science, and strategic insights to unlock human behaviour. In this engaging discussion, Cristina shares practical examples of how neuroscience informs communication strategies and marketing, and the role of creativity in human understanding. Learn how insights, human behaviour, and neuroscience come together to shape the future of marketing and communication. Neuroscience has been a constant drumbeat of Cristina’s ca...2024-10-0948 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can we communicate numbers clearly so that people can better understand the choices they face in life? With Mike Ellicock, Founder & CEO of Plain NumbersIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, master data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Mike Ellicock, Founder and Chief Executive of The Plain Numbers Project. Plain Numbers says of its purpose: “We enable clear communication of numbers everywhere so that people can better understand the choices they face in life.” This matters, because about half the adults in the UK have the numeracy skills expected of a primary school child. And one in five suffers from “maths anxiety”. Plain Numbers works with all sorts of organisations to help them communicate the numbers that matter in...2024-09-2547 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow might we bring about gender equity in academic research? With Ylann Schemm, VP for Corporate Responsibility at Elsevier, and Executive Director of the Elsevier FoundationIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, master data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Ylann Schemm, Vice President for Corporate Responsibility at the leading academic publisher, Elsevier, home to almost 3,000 academic journals, specialising in scientific, technical, and medical content. Elsevier describes itself as “an information analytics” business – so right up our alley here at Data Malarkey. In a career with the publisher spanning almost two decades, Ylann has been on a remarkable journey of both personal and corporate development, moving from communications to corporate relations and from there into corporate responsibility. And for more th...2024-09-1149 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastOn risk, uncertainty, and impact: how using data smarter is the fast track to successUsing data smarter is an attitude of mind. It’s characterised by those who choose to communicate simply, clearly, and effectively, by making sense of the signals and cutting out the noise. Above all, it’s about empathy, humanity, and appreciating the likely data tolerance of your audience. After our fifth collection of six great guests, it’s a wrap for Season Five of Data Malarkey – the podcast about using data smarter. Your host, master data storyteller Dr Sam Knowles, picks out common themes and chooses his highlights from a lively series of conversations – recorded remotely, v...2024-07-3154 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can we make the world better and fairer for all? With Professor Sir Simon Baron-Cohen from the University of Cambridge and the Autism Research CentreIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Sir Simon Baron-Cohen, Professor of Developmental Psychopathology at the University of Cambridge, where he also runs the Autism Research Centre. Simon has been working in the field of autism for approaching 40 years and is one of the world’s leading authorities on the subject. Since the mid-1980s, the research he’s led and undertaken has led him to advance several different, complementary theories of the condition including: the mind-blindness theory, the prenatal sex steroid theory, and the empathising-systemising theory of au...2024-07-1753 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastWhy should you put people, love, and relationships at the heart of business? With John Hibbs of CoEfficientIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by John Hibbs, the Co-Founder of CoEfficient, a company that helps organisations grow from the human perspective. It does this by gathering genuinely useful feedback from those who work for an organisation and then deploying this intelligence in the most productive way possible, to drive both individual and organisational growth. Founded on the principle that businesses are simply groups of people, CoEfficient gives hearts and minds that make up a business a voice, ensuring that they feel heard and are valued. T...2024-07-0339 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can you tell if you should invest in a media company? With Ian Whittaker of Liberty Sky AdvisorsIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Ian Whittaker, one of the leading financial and commercial analysts covering the media and advertising sector. Ian is the managing director and owner of Liberty Sky Advisors, has twice been the City AM Analyst of the Year – first in 2014 and again in 2019 – and he writes regularly for both the media and the financial press. He helps marketers speak the language of the CFO – the Chief Financial Officer – and is the go-to guy for understanding how the media, digital, and marketing world is performing. ...2024-06-1948 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastWhy does marketing need to become more like engineering? With Sorin Patilinet from Mars, aka The Marketing Engineer.In this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, your host Sam Knowles is joined by Sorin Patilinet, Senior Director of Marketing Effectiveness at Mars. Sorin is also known as the Marketing Engineer. Our conversation was recorded remotely, via the medium of Riverside.fm, on 4 April 2024. Thanks to Joe Hickey for production support. Podcast artwork by Shatter Media. Voice over by Samantha Boffin. Sorin took an unusual route into marketing and has an unusually scientific approach to making every last marke...2024-06-0549 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can experts provide the public with risk information that works? With Olivia Jensen, Director of the Institute for Public Understanding of RiskIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, your host Sam Knowles is joined by Olivia Jensen, Director of the Institute for the Public Understanding of Risk (IPUR) based at the National University of Singapore. Our conversation was recorded remotely, via the medium of Riverside.fm, on 13 March 2024. Thanks to Joe Hickey for production support. Podcast artwork by Shatter Media. Voice over by Samantha Boffin. IPUR is a research institute that seeks to narrow the gap between people’s percept...2024-05-2250 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can we best communicate risk in our uncertain, post-truth world? With Sir David Spiegelhalter, Emeritus Professor of Statistics at the University of CambridgeIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, your host Sam Knowles is joined by one of the world’s finest data storytellers, David Spiegelhalter, the statistician and public communicator of his generation. Although he claims to have been retired for five years, the Emeritus Professor of Statistics from Cambridge University is working harder than ever. Our conversation was recorded remotely, via the medium of Riverside.fm, on 6 March 2024. Thanks to Joe Hickey for production support. Podcast artwork by Shatter Media. Voice over by Sam...2024-05-0853 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastThe data planets align. The more guests we welcome to Data Malarkey – and the more different their jobs and categories – the more we’re able to join the dots between how those who use data smarter do so. A look back on Season Four of Data MalarkeyAfter our fourth collection of six great guests, it’s a wrap for Season Four of Data Malarkey – the podcast about using data smarter. Your host, master data storyteller Dr Sam Knowles, picks out common themes and chooses his highlights from a lively series of conversations – recorded remotely, via the medium of Riverside.fm, between July and December 2023. Thanks as ever to Joe Hickey for production support. Podcast artwork by Shatter Media. Voice over by Samantha Boffin. In Season Four, our guests included: 2024-04-1053 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastWhat happens when you mash-up the history of bands, films, and politics with the iconography of the London Underground? With Mike Bell of Mike Bell MapsIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Mike Bell, the first data visualiser to feature in almost 30 episodes of the podcast. Mike is the Founder and Owner of a thriving new business called Mike Bell Maps which describes itself as “Tube maps of bands and other stuff”. Our conversation was recorded remotely, via the medium of Riverside.fm, on 13 December 2023. Thanks to Joe Hickey for production support. Podcast artwork by Shatter Media. Voice over by Samantha...2024-03-2742 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow is it possible to understand everything that the world’s Governments want to buy? With Ian MakgillIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Ian Makgill, the Founder of Spend Network. Ian and his company are on a mission to improve the global public sector procurement market. Spend Network’s website boldly claims that it can help users to “Unlock the $13 trillion global procurement market through the world’s leading tender, contract, spend and grant data”. That’s about 13% of the total global economy. Throughout his career – building databases for 20 years and working with AI for six – Ian has been a passionate believer that data can shape...2024-03-1337 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can Kevin de Bruyne be worth 100 Leah Williamsons? With Kieran Maguire, Professor of Football Finance, University of LiverpoolIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles welcomes Kieran Maguire, an acclaimed expert in football finance. Kieran’s a chartered accountant, academic, author, and podcaster. For the past decade, he’s been a lecturer in football finance at the University of Liverpool’s Management School. He often appears in print and particularly broadcast media, making sense of the often bewildering and often chaotic world of football finance. He has a reputation for his “clear-headed and rigorous analysis of the financial imperatives and challenges facing football”. Kieran’s the author of the criticall...2024-02-2848 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastWhat can business learn from military logistics? With John McFall, ex-RAF and Amazon Web ServicesIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles welcomes John McFall, a master of logistics and Founder of the business SupplyChainWise. Logistics – a term that originated in the military – is defined as: “the process of coordinating and moving resources – people, materials, inventory, and equipment – from one location to storage at the desired destination”. John, too, originated in the military, and he has deep and broad logistical experience of in both the military and business. He spent more than 15 years in the Royal Air Force, including tours of duty in some of the world’s t...2024-02-1448 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can a beginner’s mind and a collaborative approach make you win at the team sport of “insight”? With Mark Montgomery, Novartis’ Head of Integrated InsightsIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Mark Montgomery, Vice President and International Head of Integrated Insights at Novartis, a role he’s held for the past three years. Mark has a rich and varied career in pharma, having served as the Global Head of Commercial Analytics and Insights at GSK before joining Novartis, following a seven-year spell at AstraZeneca in digital, data, and strategic planning. Before working in pharma, Mark spent a decade in creative, content strategy, and brand management in three different agencies. Mark holds bot...2024-01-3135 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can we ensure public, political, and media debate is based on evidence? With Tracey Brown, OBE, Director of Sense About ScienceIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Tracey Brown, the director of Sense About Science, a role she’s held since its founding in 2002. Scientific evidence can be a powerful tool for insight, accountability, and change. Yet in public life – particularly in politics and the media – debate often revolves around claims based on shoddy or misrepresented evidence. Sense About Science exists to change all that. The charity challenges the misrepresentation of science and evidence in public life and intervenes – often in partnership with others. It holds those responsib...2024-01-1740 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastVery different – yet spookily very much the same: on the radically different types of data used in different jobs in the modern knowledge economy, but the very similar approaches we all deploy to solve data-driven problems.After our third set of six great guests, it’s a wrap for Season Three of Data Malarkey – the podcast about using data smarter. Your host, master data storyteller Sam Knowles, picks out common themes and chooses his highlights from a lively series of conversations – recorded remotely, via the medium of Riverside.fm, between April and September 2023. Thanks as ever to Joe Hickey for production support. Podcast artwork by Shatter Media. Voice over by Samantha Boffin. Les Guessing, Emmy Award-winning copywriter and Zombie Data Hunte...2023-12-2053 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can you use data to make a business runner better, faster, with less friction? With Alexis Kingsbury, AirManualIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by serial entrepreneur, business simplifier, and podcaster, Alexis Kingsbury. Alexis is the co-founder of AirManual, a company that helps businesses document their processes, onboarding, and training so that employees can take on new responsibilities and deliver high quality work more quickly and efficiently. Indeed, on Alexis’ LinkedIn profile, he says that he saves “thousands of hours of time for business leaders each year, reducing stress, and unlocking business growth”. He’s been business savvy since before he became a teenager, and founded h...2023-12-0650 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can you use data to provide a first-class customer experience? With Shai Reichert, Experience Design Studio (XDS)In this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Shai Reichert, Co-Founder of XDS – a US-based business also known as the Experience Design Studio. Shai has almost 20 years’ experience working in web development, user and customer experience. He has held senior roles on both the client side (for Comcast and Rosetta) as well as in digital marketing agencies. Shai spent six years in charge of all things technological at the specialist healthcare agency the W2O Group – now known as Real Chemistry. Half-a-dozen years ago now, Shai co-founded XDS, where h...2023-11-2234 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow Brexit broke the structure of British politics. With Andrew CooperIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks to Andrew Cooper, President and Senior Advisor at Yonder Consulting. A research, data, and insights man through and through, Andrew founded the market research company Populus more than 20 years ago, which helped to reinvent the way polling is done in the wake of the 2015 UK General Election. Andrew ran research and polling and then strategy and political operations for the Conservative Party, either side of the 1997 Labour landslide for more than three years, and served as director of strategy to David Cameron i...2023-11-0847 min
The Data Malarkey Podcast“Better than CSI”. How can you use contradictory and incomplete data to solve cold murder cases? With Professor Angela Gallop, CBEIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles meets Professor Angela Gallop, CBE, the forensic scientists’ forensic scientist. Over the past four decades, the teams she’s led have solved some of the most complex, difficult, and intransigent cold cases in British criminal history: Rachel Nickell on Wimbledon Common, Roberto Calvi under Blackfriars Bridge, and Damilola Taylor in Peckham. And perhaps most notoriously of all, Stephen Lawrence, stabbed by a gang of racist thugs on the streets of Eltham. The details of how Angela and her teams cracked these cases – often bringin...2023-10-2546 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can you leverage data to be a diversity, equity, and inclusion change maker? With Sabrina ShadieIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles meets Sabrina Shadie, a multi-award winning ethics and equity change maker; a diversity and inclusion advocate; and, a resilience champion. Sabrina’s the founder of the D’Rose Development Consultancy, a company that aims to simplify ethics and equality regulations so that caring business owners can deliver inclusive and sustainable strategies. She’s a catalyst for change not only through her own business and the impact it can have on its clients, but also in the networks and associations she creates, from Change the Balance to the Divers...2023-10-1140 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can you blend AI and data science with creativity and win an Emmy? With Les GuessingIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Les Guessing, a 360-degree creative and marketer. Les is an Emmy Award-winning copywriter, video virtuoso, and self-professed data fool. He describes himself as a creative director “with a passion (some would say ‘personality disorder’) for using aspects of data, data science, machine learning, and AI … to make advertising creative better and more impactful”. On his website is, perhaps, one of the longest and most impressive resumés (CVs to British listeners) ever written, a full, 34-page PDF. Our conversation was recorded rem...2023-09-2750 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastOn the Curse of Knowledge, the opportunities and risks of AI, and why data scientists need to speak the same language as business. A look back on Season Two of Data Malarkey – the podcast about using data smarterAfter our second set of six great guests, it’s a wrap for Season Two of Data Malarkey – the podcast about using data smarter. Your host, master data storyteller Sam Knowles, picks out common themes and chooses his highlights from a lively series of conversations – recorded remotely, via the medium of Riverside.fm, between March and May 2023. Thanks to Joe Hickey for production support. Podcast artwork by Shatter Media. Voice over by Samantha Boffin. Steven Pinker, Professor of Psychology at Harvard University 2023-09-1357 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can you apply AI and data science to inform business decision-making? With Jean-Baptiste Bouzige, EkimetricsIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles is joined by Jean-Baptiste Bouzige, the CEO of Ekimetrics. The company describes itself as “a pioneering leader in data science and AI-powered solutions for sustainable business performance”. Jean-Baptiste is one of the founders of Ekimetrics, a business he launched in 2006 after starting his career at the ad agency DDB. At DDB he was in charge of developing analytics and modeling methodologies. Jean-Baptiste is passionate about finding innovative ways to deliver simple insights from complex methods for better decision-making, and Ekimetrics is increasingly focused on he...2023-08-3044 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastIs it possible to clean up the digital advertising market, providing the same level of information for both buyers and sellers? With Stijn Gimbrère, Media Futures MarketIt’s fair to say that one of the markets that has become most complex and least transparent in the digital age has been advertising. The market was described in 2016 by Marc Pritchard – the Chief Brand Officer of Procter & Gamble, both the world’s biggest consumer goods business and the world’s highest-spending advertiser – as “murky at best, fraudulent at worst”. In this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks to Dutch media entrepreneur Stijn Gimbrère, Founder and CEO of Media Futures Market. Media Futures Market is an innovative platform that directly co...2023-08-1635 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastWhat does it take to be a data leader in business today? With Elizabeth Press, D3M LabsIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks to Elizabeth Press, the creator and owner of D3M Labs – “the Data-Driven Decision Making Blog”. Elizabeth is an experienced data leader, having held data and business intelligence leadership roles with a variety of different businesses in Europe, particularly Berlin, including more than five years with Dell and the same period running her own consultancy. Originally a journalist, it’s to these roots that she’s recently returned with the Data-Driven Decision Making blog. Our conversation was recorded remotely, via the medium of Riversid...2023-08-0237 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow do you know what matters and what you can ignore when it comes to online reputation? With Sam Michelson, Founder & CEO, Five BlocksIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks to Sam Michelson, Founder & CEO of Five Blocks – a technology and a consulting firm specialising in digital reputation management. He and his team of more than 50 truly do make smarter use of data to understand what the world says and thinks about companies, brands, and corporate executives – and if their opinions really matter or are just froth, bluster, and noise. The company is based in both Jerusalem, Israel, and New York City. A psychology graduate from Yeshiva University, New York, Sam is also...2023-07-1931 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can smarter use of data mean that the doctor comes to you rather than you having to go to the doctor? With Tim Jobson, consultant gastroenterologist and Medical Director at Predictive Health IntelligenceIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks to Tim Jobson, a consultant gastroenterologist at the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust in South West England. Tim truly is a product of Oxbridge, having studied Natural Sciences at Cambridge for three years and then Medicine at Oxford for a further three. He went on to take a PhD in Medicine from Nottingham University, and he is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians. Tim is an expert in what’s sometimes rather unglamorously known as “internal medicine”, and one of his special...2023-07-0547 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can we avoid the Curse of Knowledge? With Steven Pinker, Harvard professor of psychologyTo kick-off the second season of Data Malarkey, Sam Knowles talks to one of the all-time greats of academic psychology – Steven Pinker, the Johnstone Family Professor of Psychology at Harvard University. An experimental psychologist interested in all aspects of language, mind, and human nature, Steve is one of the most important public intellectuals – and best-selling authors – of the past 30 years. He came to global attention with his 1994 book, The Language Instinct, and followed that three years later with How The Mind Works. In the 2000s, Steve’s interests – and popular-science best sellers – have flexed and grown to cove...2023-06-2149 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastOn digital balance, neurodiversity, and cat food. A look back on Season One of Data Malarkey – the podcast about using data smarterAfter six great guests, it’s a wrap for Season One of Data Malarkey – the podcast about using data smarter. Your host, master data storyteller Sam Knowles, picks out common themes and chooses his highlights from a lively series of conversations with his mixed bag of academics, marketers, a leading voice in clearing down space junk, and a coach helping bring balance to our data-rich, digital lives. Our conversations were recorded remotely, via the medium of Riverside.fm, in February and March 2023. Thanks to Joe Hickey for production support. ...2023-06-0747 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastCould you live without your smartphone? With Anastasia Dedyukhina, Chief Inspiration Officer of Consciously DigitalIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks to Anastasia Dedyukhina, the founder and Chief Inspiration Officer of Consciously Digital. Consciously Digital is a coaching, training and development company – it’s more than that; it’s a movement – that’s looking to build a world in which technology brings out the best in humanity. And very definitely not the worst, as many of the apparently “free” social and digital platforms have done with such negative impact. When their currency is our attention, we and our mental and physical health are the losers. Herself a digi...2023-05-2445 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastWhat’s the connection between Harvey Keitel’s Winston Wolf, 200g pouches of cat food, and neurodiversity? The answer is marketer, coach, and podcaster Mark EvansIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks to Mark Evans, one of the most successful marketers of his generation. Mark worked for ten years at Mars, rising to be Brand Director of Petcare Europe, before spells at 118118 Media UK and HSBC. In 2012, Mark joined leading UK insurance business Direct Line Group where he helped to transform the business and the fortunes of its brands. Perhaps most notably – and in the teeth of stiff competition from the price comparison websites – he relaunched and reenergised the company’s flagship Direct Line brand...2023-05-1043 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can brands find suitable environments where they can advertise successfully? With DoubleVerify’s Laetitia ZinettiIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks to Laetitia Zinetti, Regional Vice President for Southern Europe of software company DoubleVerify. The company is on a mission to build a better advertising industry, helping brands to improve the effectiveness of their online ad spend, giving them clarity and confidence in their digital investment. Sam first met and worked with Laetitia more than a decade ago when she arrived at Ebiquity – the independent media investment analysis business – to run the Paris office. In almost 13 years with the company, she rose to be Eb...2023-04-2638 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastHow can we clean up space junk and make space sustainable? With GNOSIS chair Katherine CourtneyIn this episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks to Katherine Courtney, Chair of the Steering Board of GNOSIS, the Global Network on Sustainability In Space. Katherine has had a significant career in business, public life, and public service. After a decade in telecoms and communication, Katherine had a series of high profile civil service jobs – at the Home Office and Departments of Work & Pensions and Business, Innovation, & Skills. In 2016, she became Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency. Our conversation was recorded remotely, via the medium of Riverside.fm, on 28 Feb...2023-04-1238 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastWhy do evidence, insight, and academic impact matter? With Brighton University’s Professor Rusi JaspalIn the second episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks with Professor Rusi Jaspal. Rusi is the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange – and a Professor of Psychology – at the University of Brighton. He’s in charge of both the REF and the KEF – the university’s preparations for the UK Government’s seven-yearly Research Excellence Framework as well as its Knowledge Exchange Framework. This means that data and evidence, insight and impact are central to everything he does. His own research is focused on psychological and physical health outcomes, especially in minority g...2023-03-2942 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastWhat does it mean to be a digital humanist? With Quadriga University’s Professor Ana AdiIn the first episode of the Data Malarkey podcast, data storyteller Sam Knowles talks with Professor Ana Adi, Head of the Department of Corporate Communications, and Vice President of Quadriga University of Applied Sciences in Berlin. Ana describes herself as a “digital humanist”, whose work focuses on online strategic communications. This includes both corporate social responsibility and activist communication, and she has a special interest and expertise in communication that features innovative and online-based research methods. This conversation was recorded remotely, via the medium of Riverside.fm, on 24 February 2023. Thanks to Joe Hi...2023-03-1541 min
The Data Malarkey PodcastData Malarkey – Pilot EpisodeWelcome to the pilot episode of Data Malarkey – the podcast about using data smarter. Data Malarkey is a new, fortnightly podcast hosted by master data storyteller, Sam Knowles. In each episode, Sam talks to leaders and leading thinkers in data storytelling. Guests will be from many and various different fields and categories – business, academia, sports analytics, charity and the third sector, and government departments. The first full episode will be available from 15 March 2023, when Sam will be joined by Professor Ana Adi from Quadriga University in Berlin. Thank...2023-03-0204 min
Raise the BarEpisode #62 – Quality over Quantity of exercise!!In this Episode Sam and Grant discuss how if you concentrate on the quality of your exercises over the quantity of them you will not only save time in your sessions but also see better results.
To down load the EBOOK spoken about in this episode please join Sam Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/2380836261934545/2022-05-2429 minRaise the BarEpisode #58 - Q and AIn this episode Sam and Grant cover off some of the questions that Sam has regularly been asked on social media.
Reading Recommendation - 5am Club by Robin Sharma
2022-01-1340 minRaise the BarEpisode #52 - What to focus on leading up to ChristmasIn the Episode Ellie Probyn is introduced as a new member of the panel or co-hosts. Sam and Ellie then discuss what to focus on in the lead up to Christmas if you have a new goal going into the new year.
Sam's Instagram - @sknowlesfitness
Ellie's Instagram - @ellieprobynfitness
2021-11-1037 min
Raise the BarEpisode #47 - Sam's 35thIn this episode Sam and Tom are joined by friends of the podcast Taylor Johnson (Xplore Lifestyle founder) and Grant Mathews. They talk about achievements to date, times of celebration and life in general. 2021-05-031h 04Raise the BarEpisode #43 - Training for StrengthIn this episode Sam and Tom are joined by Aaron Hopkins a Pt and gym owner who specialises in strength training. They discuss not only the benefits of strength training but also the best ways to get started. 2021-04-011h 03Raise the BarEpisode #42 - Prioritising your time for successIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss how we often see time and a barrier to success but in reality it is just that we don't priorities the things that are really going to make us successful.
1 million steps in March Donations2021-03-2918 minRaise the BarEpisode #40 - Why we have re-brandedIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss the plans for the podcast going forward and give an idea of the guest that will be coming on the show going forward. 2021-03-1529 minRaise the BarEpisode #39 - Sam 1 million steps in MarchIn this Episode Sam and Tom discuss Sam's goal of 1 million steps in March and break down 5 main ways to help you when focusing on a goal.
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sknowlesfitness?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=sknowlesfitness&utm_campaign=pfp-whatsapp&utm_term=81ab8a3931b748189e23bc1efcbce70a2021-03-0121 minRaise the BarEpisode #38 - Tackling boredomIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss the ways that you can deal with boredom when trying to achieve a goal. They discuss off plan meals, off plan training sessions and look at ways to deal with eating out of boredom. 2021-02-2229 minRaise the BarEpisode #37 - Non-negotiablesIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss how implementing non-negotiables to you plan may help you with you adherence and eventual success. 2021-02-1520 minRaise the BarEpisode #36 - Tracking and Measuring your goalsIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss the most common mistakes people make then tracking and measuring there progress when in pursuit of a goal.
SKnowlesfitness@gmail.com2021-02-0815 minRaise the BarEpisode #35 - 3 ways to hold yourself accountableIn this episode Sam and Tom look at 3 ways you can hold yourself accountable of your goals. 2021-02-0121 minRaise the BarEpisode #34 - Motivation Vs DisciplineIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss how we can't be motivated all the time so therefore it is important to have an element of discipline in your life should you want to achieve your long and short term goals.
If you want to contact Sam about any of this please contact sknowlesfitness@gmail.com2021-01-1824 minRaise the BarEpisode #33 - NEAT and why it is important in lockdownIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss the importance of Neat when in lockdown. They talk about the importance of making sure you do not lead a sedentary lifestyle when confined to your home.
As well as discussing forms of NEAT you could do in your own home Sam also mentions a home workout guide that you can find posted in his closed Facebook group below.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/23808362619345452021-01-1122 minRaise the BarEpisode #32 - My Fitness Journey Ft. Matt Heath (Client)In the episode Sam and Tom welcome Matt one of Sam's clients who has recently gone thought a lifechanging transformation the culminated in him doing a photo shoot.
They discuss everything he had to go through to get into the shape of his life and how he has now change habits that he will keep for the rest of his life. 2020-11-3040 minRaise the BarEpisode #31 - weddings, Photo shoots and Lockdown Vol.2In this Episode Sam and Tom discuss have a catch up on life in general and explain how the current lockdown has effected there lives.2020-11-1917 minRaise the BarEpisode #30 - Why listening to your body and cheat meals are the reason you're not hitting your goalsIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss how consistency is key when looking to achieve your goals and how making up excuses isn't a a problem but it will slow down your progress.. 2020-10-1422 minRaise the BarEpisode #29 - Valuing yourselfIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss why people should value themselves more then they do.. The Key message from this podcast is that you are the most important person in your own life. 2020-09-1016 minRaise the BarEpisode #28 - The Reason you shouldn't start on a Monday.In this episode Sam and tom discuss Sam's theory on why starting your new diet or training plan on a Monday is just setting yourself up to fail. 2020-09-0712 minRaise the BarEpisode #27 - Progressive OverloadIn this episode Sam and talk about how to implement Progressive overload into your training.. 2020-08-2813 minRaise the BarEpisode #26 - Self doubtIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss how in many cases people don't achieve there goals because they doubt themselves. They discuss how self doubt is normal and it shouldn't get in the way of you achieving what you set out to do. 2020-08-2024 minRaise the BarEpisode #25 - SPORTIn this Episode Sam and Tom talk about the option of Sport for your cardio and how it can be used to have a positive impact on your lifestyle.
2020-08-0326 minRaise the BarEpisode #24 - Lifestyle Ft Taylor JohnsonIn this Episode Sam and Tom are joined by Taylor Johnson who is the Founder of XPLORE Lifestyle UK. They discuss how XPLORE Lifestyle has been set up to help people on their life journey. They discuss common goals and how different people will take difference paths to achieving them.
You can find Explore Lifestyle at the following:-
Website: https://www.xplorelifestyle.co.uk/
Instagram: @xplorelifestyleuk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Xplorelifestyleuk/2020-07-2735 minRaise the BarEpisode #23 - The Blue PrintIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss how everyone is different and there is no blueprint to life. They talk about how this is similar to achieving your Health and Fitness goals and how comparing your journey to someone else's is going to get you nowhere.
In you need to talk to someone about this topic please emails Sam on Sknowlesfitness@gmail.com2020-07-1329 minRaise the BarEpisode #22 - Basic Nutrition Series 5 of 5 (Alcohol)In this episode Sam and Tom finish there 5 part series on basic nutrition by covering Alcohol. They are Joined in this episode by good friend Grant. They discuss the best options of drink when dieting and also share a few funny story on the way. 2020-06-2942 minRaise the BarEpisode #21 - Basic Nutrition Series 4 of 5 (Fats)In this episode Sam and Tom continue their 5 Part series by covering the basics of Fats and how they can best be utilised to help you achieve your goals. For a reduced price customised nutrition plan please click here2020-06-2230 minRaise the BarEpisode #20 - Basic Nutrition Series 3 of 5 (Carbohydrates)In this episode Sam and Tom continue their 5 Part series by covering the basics of carbohydrates and how they can best be utilised to help you achieve your goals.
For a reduced price customised nutrition plan please click here2020-06-1530 minRaise the BarEpisode #19 - Basic Nutrition Series Part 2 of 5 (Protein)In this episode Sam and Tom continue their 5 part series by covering the basics of Protein and how can best be utilised to help you achieve your goals.
For a reduced price customised nutrition plan please click here.2020-06-0729 minRaise the BarEpisode #18 - Basic Nutrition Series Part 1 of 5 (Calorie Balance)Over the next 5 episodes Sam and Tom will be doing a series on the basics of nutrition. In this episode they discuss calorie balance and meal frequency.
For a reduced price customised nutrition plan please click here. 2020-06-0132 minRaise the BarEpisode #17 - Tough loveIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss how you are responsible for your own successes and and you failures.... You can get all the help and guidance in the world but if you are not willing to put in the work its pointless.
For a FREE home workout guide click here and join my Facebook group.2020-05-1120 minRaise the BarEpisode #16 - Why you need to stop comparing yourself to others!In this Episode Sam and Tom discuss how very individual has there own goals and that to achieve these comparing yourself to someone else is not going to help you.
For a FREE home workout guide click here and join my Facebook group.2020-05-0425 minRaise the BarEpisode #15 - Dealing With Anxiety!!! (Featuring Chloe Gosiewski)In this episode Sam and tom are joined by Chloe Gosiewski who is a certified life coach. Together they all discuss the battle with Anxiety and the methods to dealing with it.
To find out more about what Chloe has to offer you can visit her website: https://www.onewayjourney.com/2020-04-2741 minRaise the BarEpisode #14 - LOCKDOWN Q & AIn this episode Sam and Tom go live on Facebook and do a Q & A on anything fitness related when in lock down.
For a FREE home workout guide click here and join my Facebook group.
2020-04-2039 minRaise the BarEpisode #13 - Home WorkoutsIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss what to focus on with your home workouts and what other aspects of training you could be focusing on.
For a FREE home workout guide click here and join my Facebook group.2020-04-1327 minRaise the BarEpisode #12 - LOCKDOWN Vol.2In this episode Sam and Tom continue to discuss the issues they are facing in lockdown and Sam give 4 tip tips to staying on plan.
If you're interested in working with Sam on your goals please contact him directly via is Instagram @sknowlesfitness or email him on sknowlesfitness@gmail.com2020-04-0830 minRaise the BarEpisode #11 - LOCKDOWNIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss been put into lockdown due to the corona virus.
If you're interested in working with Sam on your goals please contact him directly via is Instagram @sknowlesfitness or email him on sknowlesfitness@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2380836261934545/?2020-03-2629 minRaise the BarEpisode #10 - Covid-19In this episode Sam and Tom discuss the how the covid-19 virus has hit the UK and how it is going to effect the country.
If you're interested in working with Sam on your goals please contact him directly via is Instagram @sknowlesfitness or email him on sknowlesfitness@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2380836261934545/?2020-03-2423 minRaise the BarEpisode #09 - The reason you have failed to achieve your goals before now!!In this episode Sam and Tom look at the main reasons why people fail to achieve there goals and give some simple ideas to how to make little changes that will help you to succeed.
If you're interested in working with Sam on your goals please contact him directly via is Instagram @sknowlesfitness or email him on sknowlesfitness@gmail.com2020-03-1418 minRaise the BarEpisode #08 - SEXIn this Episode Sam and Tom discuss the relationship between sex and excercise.
If you're interested in working with Sam on your goals please contact him directly via is Instagram @sknowlesfitness or email him on sknowlesfitness@gmail.com2020-03-0616 minRaise the BarEpisode #07 - Exercise Selection and ExecutionIn this Episode Sam and Tom discuss how important exercise selection and execution is when looking to make progress in your training.
If you're interested in working with Sam on your goals please contact him directly via is Instagram @sknowlesfitness or email him on sknowlesfitness@gmail.com2020-02-1335 minRaise the BarEpisode #06 - Working outside your comfort zoneIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss the importance of working outside your comfort zone when looking to progress within your training.
If you're interested in working with Sam on your goals please contact him directly via is Instagram @sknowlesfitness or email him on sknowlesfitness@gmail.com 2020-02-0316 minRaise the BarEpisode #05 - Goal Setting and MotivationIn this episode Sam and Tom discuss the importance of setting goals and how to keep motivated when working towards them.
If you enjoy please share, follow and comment.
For further information contact Sam on his Instagram - @sknowlesfitness2020-01-0842 minRaise the BarEpisode #04 - NEATIn this episode Sam and tom discuss how NEAT can make a huge difference when it comes to someone's weight loss goals. 2019-12-0213 minRaise the BarEpisode #03 - CardioDuring this episode Sam and Tom discuss the different types of Cardio Training, the benefit, negatives and how this can impact your lifestyle. 2019-11-1835 minRaise the BarEpisode #01 - Meeting SamIn this episode we get to know your host, Sam.
We learn how he got in the fitness industry and what he hopes the listeners will gain from the podcasts.
If you enjoy please subscribe and leave a review.
For more information:
Instagram : @sknowlesfitness
Email : sknowlesfitness@gmail.com 2019-11-1721 minRaise the BarEpisode #00 - IntroductionHosted by Sam Knowles, a personal trainer who has worked in the health and fitness industry for over 10 years.
Sam is joined by Tom Chillery, a close friend and client. Together they tackle the simple things that people often overlook when looking to improve their health and fitness.
This podcast is aimed at anyone interested in improving themselves but have yet to reach their end goal.
2019-11-1706 min