What if the missing link to making better decisions with AI isn't technology, but data literacy? In this episode of The Data Nerd Podcast, Nisar Ahmed sits down with Jordan Morrow, widely recognized as a pioneer of data literacy, author, and founder of Bodhi Data, for a conversation about data literacy, artificial intelligence, critical thinking, and the human skills needed to make better decisions in an AI-driven world. Jordan explains why everyone is already using data to make decisions, whether they realize it or not, and why becoming data literate doesn't mean you need to become a data scientist. As AI makes data and analytics more accessible, the real challenge is understanding how to use these tools effectively and turn information into meaningful decisions. Together, Nisar and Jordan explore how AI is changing the role of data professionals, why data storytelling and communication are becoming increasingly important, and why investing in technology alone won't make an organization data-driven. Jordan introduces his concept of Engineered Intelligence, which combines data, AI, human intelligence, and emotional intelligence to improve decision-making. The conversation also explores the potential risks of becoming too dependent on AI. Are we outsourcing our ability to think? Jordan shares his concerns about cognitive decline, the importance of exercising our critical-thinking skills, and why AI should be a partner rather than a replacement for human intelligence. Nisar and Jordan also discuss the future of education, how organizations can improve data and AI literacy, and why schools and businesses need to rethink how they teach, develop, and evaluate skills in the age of AI. Whether you're a data analyst, business leader, educator, or someone looking to make better decisions with data and AI, this episode explores why data literacy is becoming an essential skill and why the human element matters more than ever. In this episode you'll learn: What data literacy really means and why everyone is already using it Why data literacy is becoming increasingly important in the age of AI How to use data and AI to make better decisions Why access to data and AI tools doesn't automatically make an organization data-driven What Jordan's Engineered Intelligence framework reveals about combining technology with human intelligence Why emotional intelligence and critical thinking are essential for effective decision-making How AI is changing the role of data analysts and the skills they'll need in the future Why data storytelling and communication can be more influential than data alone How organizations can identify and address gaps in data and AI literacy Why investing in AI technology without investing in people can limit its value The risks of becoming overly dependent on AI and outsourcing our thinking How to use AI as a partner without losing your critical-thinking skills Why education needs to evolve to prepare students for an AI-driven future How schools can approach AI policies, responsible AI adoption, and digital literacy Why human intelligence remains essential as AI becomes more powerful Connect with Jordan Morrow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanmorrow/ Website: https://www.bodhidata.com/ 🌐 Full episodes of The Data Nerd Podcast and exclusive merch, including the official Data Nerd hat, are available at www.TheDataNerdPodcast.com.
