Humanizing Data: Creativity and Leadership with Tiankai Feng

 In this episode of IT`S IN YOU!, I sit down with Tiankai Feng, a data leader, musician, and author of Humanizing Data Strategy. With over a decade of experience in data analytics, governance, and digital transformation, Tiankai brings a fresh perspective on how creativity can transform leadership in data-driven industries.

From blending storytelling with analytics to leveraging music for engagement, Tiankai shares how leaders can make data more relatable and empower their teams through collaboration and communication. Whether navigating the complexities of tech leadership or exploring ways to balance technical expertise with emotional intelligence, this episode is full of actionable insights.

What You’ll Learn:

• How storytelling and music can humanize data and make it more engaging.
• The importance of collaboration in building a data-driven culture.
• Why mindset and diversity are essential for attracting women to data and tech roles.
• Leadership advice for empowering teams in the evolving digital landscape.
• The role of critical thinking and responsible AI in the future of work.

Key Moments:

• [00:34] Tiankai’s journey from a pianist to a creative data leader.
• [03:12] The inspiration behind his book Humanizing Data Strategy and its impact on leadership.
• [08:45] How to attract and retain more women in data and tech roles.
• [14:18] The intersection of creativity and analytics: Why storytelling matters in data communication.
• [20:09] Leading in the age of AI: The balance between technical knowledge and critical thinking.
• [28:07] Tiankai’s vision for the future of work: Collaboration over competition.

Sound Bites:

• “Data is about people. Without connection, the numbers lose meaning.”
• “The best leaders combine creativity with technical expertise.”
• “It’s not just about AI—it’s about asking the right questions and using it responsibly.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Book: Humanizing Data Strategy by Tiankai Feng
• Follow Tiankai Feng: LinkedIn Profile, YouTube Channel (featuring Tiankai’s creative data videos)  

Call-to-Action:
If this episode resonated with you, take a moment to reflect on how you can integrate creativity into your leadership style.

Let’s transform how we think about leadership and data—together!

Keywords: leadership, creativity, storytelling, data strategy, AI, critical thinking, women in tech, innovation, career growth, digital transformation

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