I’ll change how you think about data.

I combine personal experiences, real-world examples, and ah-ha moments in memorable talks about how to be a responsible data visualization designer in an AI-enthusiastic world

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My signature talks

Making Data Meaningful

In a world where data is everywhere, how can we make data meaningful? During this talk, I dive into the ways data visualization, data storytelling, and purposeful design can help us reach people.

Always updated with new examples from my work and the wider world of data visualization, you’ll leave inspired and with practical recommendations on how the simple acts of decluttering, using meaningful text, and purposeful color can transform your data communication.

The Human Elements of Health Data Visualization

From working across more than a dozen countries to help people use data more effectively, I’ve found one universal truth: focusing on people, rather than technology, is key to communicating data effectively. That means thinking about who you’re communicating to, who is represented in the data, and the personal connections your audience has in the data.

This talk reframes how we think about charts and brings in personal examples from my life that highlight why health data visualization is a uniquely personal endeavor.

The Dark Side of Data Democratization

Data is often perceived as objective, with charts making people believe information with even more certainty. But what happens when design tools and GenAI make creating charts and images seemingly simple?

This talk asks the audience to consider the many ways we communicate information, from stats and charts to stories and anecdotes, and the challenges of communicating research in a world hungry for quick answers and sound bites.

You’ll leave a more thoughtful chart reader with an understanding of the human cost when we don’t visualize data responsibly.

You can read my reflection on loss and misinformation, which includes discussion losing her son when he was an infant and having personal content appropriated by the anti-vaccine community, in her New York Times Opinion Essay

Testimonials

At the Tableau Conference, I was particularly impressed by Amanda's approach to guiding the audience in completing her sentences to make her messages on data practices more memorable.

I have always been amazed by her ways to articulate her considerations and justifications. I am more impressed when she does it live in person. I have SO MUCH to learn from you, Amanda!

Kevin Wee, PhD Tableau Visionary and Ambassador

Amanda was an absolute standout as the keynote speaker at Chart Champ in 2023. She’s not just a natural presenter - she’s a luminary in the field of data visualization. Her presentation was the perfect blend of engaging, insightful, and funny, all while drawing from her deep well of expertise.

She didn’t just share knowledge - she brought it to life for the audience. Whether leading a corporate training, developing a specialized curriculum, or headlining an industry event, Amanda is easily in the top 1% of her field.