Value Driven Data Science: Boost your impact. Earn what you’re worth. Rewrite your career algorithm.

Episode 91: [Value Boost] How Your Hobbies Can Supercharge Your Data Science Career

03 December 2025 12:26 Dr Genevieve Hayes

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About this episode

Activities outside of data science can strengthen the very skills data scientists need for their careers in surprising ways. From improving stakeholder communication to learning how to work with resistance rather than against it, hobbies and interests often teach lessons that directly translate to professional effectiveness.

In this Value Boost episode, Colin Priest joins Dr. Genevieve Hayes to explore how unexpected hobbies and activities can make you a more effective data scientist and enhance your career.

You'll discover:

  1. How dancing skills translate into better stakeholder presentations [02:02]
  2. What swimming teaches about working with resistance [06:30]
  3. Why coaching swimmers improves communication with non-technical colleagues [08:10]
  4. The simple activity anyone can try to expand their data science thinking [11:03]

Guest Bio

Colin Priest is an actuary, data scientist and educator who has held several CEO and general management roles where he has championed data-driven initiatives. He now lectures at UNSW, where he specialises in adapting education for the age of AI.

Links

  • Connect with Colin on LinkedIn
  • Connect with Genevieve on LinkedIn
  • Be among the first to hear about the release of each new podcast episode by signing up HERE

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