A conversation with Alexander Schacht and Alun Bedding

Why You Should Listen:

✔ Hear my personal reflections on 456 episodes and the evolution of this podcast.

✔ Learn a simple, values-based view of leadership that applies no matter your level.

✔ Discover how to influence people—not departments—and build trust.

✔ See why contextual teaching beats generic “Stats 101” courses.

✔ Walk away with three immediate actions: decide to lead, listen deeply, and invest in your presentation skills.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 – Why Alun is interviewing me for Episode 456

01:57 – What counts as an “episode” and why this milestone matters

03:03 – From estimands to blurred lines across stats/data science

06:10 – My view of leadership: helping others accomplish something

08:08 – Values, purpose, and the “win–win” principle

10:09 – Goal-driven meetings and tying them to vision and values

12:44 – Why you can’t influence a department—you influence people

15:47 – Trust = character × competence × care (as others perceive it)

17:16 – Being known: why personal and departmental branding matters

19:00 – How targeted training builds credibility and influence

23:00 – Presentation skills as a multiplier for all other communication

28:34 – Listening: the most underrated leadership skill

33:00 – My three practical actions to apply this week

35:30 – Closing thoughts and invitation to connect

Resources and Links:

• Stephen R. Covey — The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People





• Michael Hyatt — leadership and values-driven success





• John Blakey — trust model (ability, integrity, benevolence)





• Oscar Trimboli — How to Listen





• Toastmasters — practice for public speaking





• How to Be an Artist (book on learning and creativity)

🔗 The Effective Statistician Academy – I offer free and premium resources to help you become a more effective statistician.

🔗 Medical Data Leaders Community – Join my network of statisticians and data leaders to enhance your influencing skills.

🔗 My New Book: How to Be an Effective Statistician - Volume 1 – It’s packed with insights to help statisticians, data scientists, and quantitative professionals excel as leaders, collaborators, and change-makers in healthcare and medicine.

🔗 PSI (Statistical Community in Healthcare) – Access webinars, training, and networking opportunities.

Join the Conversation:
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