Sharpen The Saw

Do you ever feel like your to-do list keeps growing no matter how much you check off? I’ve been there—busy all day but still feeling unproductive and overwhelmed. In this episode of The Effective Statistician, I share practical strategies to help you take back control. You'll learn why to-do lists spiral out of control, how to use the “single bridge system” to manage tasks efficiently, and how prioritization, delegation, and leadership skills can transform the way you work. If you’re ready to break free from endless tasks and start making real progress, this episode is for you!

In this episode of The Effective Statistician, I tackle the challenge of a packed calendar head-on. If back-to-back meetings, endless calls, and constant interruptions leave you with no time for deep, meaningful work, you’re not alone. I once averaged 37 meetings per week, so I know exactly how overwhelming it feels. I break down why our calendars spiral out of control, the real cost of this nonstop busyness, and, most importantly, three actionable strategies to reclaim your time. If you’re ready to take charge of your schedule and work smarter—not just harder—this episode is for you!

In this episode of The Effective Statistician, I tackle a challenge that many of us face—working long hours and feeling stuck in an endless cycle of pressure and expectations. I’ve spoken to countless professionals who struggle with ever-growing workloads, limited resources, and rigid workplace structures that make it difficult to work more efficiently. But the real issue isn’t just about managing tasks better—it’s about shifting the way we think about work. Here, I break down the limiting beliefs that keep us trapped, like equating our value with how hard we work, mistaking busyness for productivity, and chasing perfection at the expense of progress. Join me as I share strategies to work smarter, achieve more, and create a healthier work-life balance. Plus, I’ll tell you about an upcoming free webinar where I’ll dive even deeper into how you can become a more effective statistician while still enjoying life outside of work.

In this episode of The Effective Statistician, I explore how GAMS—the General Algebraic Modeling System—can solve complex optimization problems and transform how you approach modeling. I talk with Steve Dirkse, an expert who explains how GAMS simplifies challenges in logistics, healthcare, and beyond. Unlike generalized additive models, GAMS uses an algebraic modeling language to handle intricate systems with ease. Together, we uncover how you can start using this powerful tool, access its resources, and apply it to real-world scenarios. Join me as we dive into this fascinating topic and uncover how GAMS can make a difference in your work!

Are you tired of rushing through endless meetings, juggling countless tasks, and feeling like the grind never stops? Do you wonder if all this hustle is worth the toll it’s taking on your health, relationships, and happiness? In this episode of The Effective Statistician, I challenge the unsustainable culture of constant hustle and offer a better path: long-haul leadership. I’ll show you how focusing on personal growth, prioritizing your well-being, and building meaningful connections can help you break free from the burnout cycle. Let’s explore how to create a career that’s not only impactful but also sustainable for the long run.

Welcome to another episode of The Effective Statistician podcast! Today, I tackle the essential skill of negotiation—a tool we statisticians use every day, often without realizing it. We negotiate when we push for better study designs, adjust project timelines, or secure resources like training and conference budgets. Beyond work, we negotiate in our personal lives with family, friends, or vendors. In this episode, I share proven strategies to prepare for negotiations, uncover interests behind positions, and confidently advocate for yourself and your work. Mastering these skills empowers you to drive success and create a bigger impact as a statistician. Let’s jump in!

In this Friday edition of The Effective Statistician, Alun Bedding takes center stage to discuss a topic central to leadership and personal influence: Trust. With his characteristic insight and practical approach, Alun explores how trust forms the foundation of effective leadership, regardless of one’s title or position. Drawing on real-world examples and actionable strategies, he highlights the habits and choices that help build trust, foster authenticity, and inspire those around us. Whether you consider yourself a leader or not, this episode will challenge you to think differently about your role and influence. Tune in and discover how trust can transform your personal and professional life.

Welcome to a brand-new year and an exciting new episode of The Effective Statistician! I’m thrilled to kick off 2025 by sharing some incredible news—I’ve written a book! After years of planning, false starts, and a lot of learning along the way, How to Be an Effective Statistician is finally complete and will officially launch on January 15th. In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of how the book came to life. I’ll share why I wrote it, how it’s structured, and the practical insights it offers for statisticians, data scientists, and other quantitative professionals. Whether you’re looking to improve communication, manage challenges, or simply be more effective in your role, this book was designed with you in mind. I’ll also give you all the details about the book launch party, where we’ll celebrate, learn, and connect. Join me as I reflect on this journey and what it means for our community!

In this Friday edition of The Effective Statistician podcast, Alun Bedding tackles the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome. He shares his own experiences with self-doubt, offering listeners a transparent and relatable perspective on how these feelings can affect even accomplished professionals. Drawing insights from Dr. Steve Peters' The Chimp Paradox and other tools, Alun explains how our "inner chimp" drives insecurities and outlines actionable steps to regain control.