In this episode of The Data Nerd Podcast, host Nisar Ahmed is joined by Mike Cisneros—award-winning data visualization expert, two-time Tableau Visionary, and co-author of the brand-new book Storytelling With Data: Before & After. Mike has built a career at the intersection of analytics, design, software development, and data education, bringing a rare blend of creativity, clarity, and technical depth to the craft of data storytelling. His work helps readers and practitioners transform real-world visualizations through thoughtful redesigns and intentional narrative choices.

What begins with childhood memories, hockey stories, and life lessons quickly reveals deeper parallels to data storytelling—how we process information, how flow states shape our work, and why the way we tell data stories often matters more than the charts themselves. Together, Nisar and Mike unpack the psychology behind communication, the power of relatable narratives, and why our lived experiences make us better storytellers in the age of AI.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

• How sports, childhood memories, and real-life experiences shape powerful data stories
• Why narrative beats numbers alone—especially when communicating with executives
• What Mike's new book Before & After teaches about redesigning visuals with intention
• How to recognize the hidden psychology behind insights that persuade
• Why AI adoption requires more human storytelling, not less
• The real reasons data teams struggle to deliver impact

Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikevizneros/

Storytelling with Data: https://www.storytellingwithdata.com/

🌐 Full episodes of The Data Nerd Podcast and exclusive merch (including the official Data Nerd hat) — visit: www.thedatanerdpodcast.com