Have you ever wanted to have an informational interview with a Data Analyst? This podcast is based on sources that collectively discuss the increasing demand for data analysts, particularly in the financial services sector, while also highlighting the challenges and necessary skills for individuals in this role. The "Bridging the skills gap" document focuses on the broader financial services landscape, noting the growing need for both technical and behavioral skills like data analytics and empathy, while also addressing issues like gender balance in technical roles and the impact of AI and Net Zero on future skill requirements. The various Reddit threads from "dataanalysis" and "analytics" forums provide a more personal perspective from data analysts themselves, detailing the daily tasks and struggles of the job, including data cleaning and preparation, dealing with unclear or inconsistent data, and the critical importance of soft skills such as communication and understanding business needs to effectively convey insights and manage stakeholder expectations. Collectively, the texts emphasize that succeeding as a data analyst requires not only technical proficiency but also strong interpersonal and problem-solving abilities to navigate the complexities of data and organizational dynamics.