Today I launched The Behavioral Data Scientist.
A newsletter about making data human.
Weekly frameworks from 15 years consulting with various companies across several industries.
First issue: "The Behavioral Data Scientist Manifesto"
Link —> substack.com/home/post/p-...
This is what I call behavioral data science:
Statistical rigor + Behavioral insight + Cultural intelligence
Most analysts have the first.
Some add the second.
Almost none integrate the third.
The magic happens at the intersection.
The organizations that actually drive change aren't distinguished by technical sophistication.
They're distinguished by their ability to understand WHY people do what they do.
And translate that into action.
We have more data than ever. More tools. More dashboards.
Yet:
• 56% of orgs stuck at basic reporting
• <10% link people data to business outcomes
• Brilliant analyses die in PowerPoint
We're drowning in data and starving for insight.
I've spent 15 years in people analytics.
Here's what nobody tells you:
The hard part isn't the analytics.
It's the people.
🧵
Change doesn’t have to feel like starting over. It can sound like a key change.
Inspired by KPop Demon Hunters, I wrote about why most change fails, how to respect your nervous system, and what it means to transpose instead of demolish.
tayorockson.substack.com/p/what-chang...
Applause should be a tip jar, not a paycheck.
tayorockson.substack.com/p/the-price-...
This essay explores why applause is a dangerous currency, how to protect your essence while pursuing evidence, and why your voice was never meant to be collateral.
Applause should be a tip jar, not a paycheck.
#kpopdemonhunters
tayorockson.substack.com/p/the-price-...
I share some of my thoughts on the questions that find you in seasons of change here ==> open.substack.com/pub/tayorock...
It is truly terrifying. I think people have gotten so used to not having to show their work or cite their sources that they can’t fathom doing the work.
Curiosity is one of the most important traits you can develop. Here's why: It keeps your mind active as opposed to being passive. It ensures your mind becomes more observant of new ideas. It opens up new worlds and possibilities. It brings excitement into your life.
Architect your dreams, engineer your foundation, develop your focus, market your skill sets and be efficient with your surroundings.
You see success is NEVER the result of just one thing. It’s a series of things coming together. It’s important that you see where you could end up before you start. Give yourself a direction and work your way up to the person who achieves that success.
Failure is not who you are. It’s an event. It doesn’t happen to you. It happens for you. You’re not a victim as long as you can learn from it. When you fail, it’s not you that suffers. It’s your ego that suffers.
They are two different things.
A night to remember…
Each thread of time weaves a unique story. Today is a canvas, waiting for you to paint your dreams and passions. The lessons of yesterday guide your brush, while the vision of tomorrow fuels your imagination. So, show up for yourself—your story deserves to be told.
The biggest reason we get into unsuccessful relationships OR stay in them is because we don’t demand our worth.
We do this because of any combination of these reasons: fear, insecurity or impatience.
Reflecting on my years in therapy, I realize how much I've grown. I've learned the power of surrendering, letting go of control, embracing uncertainty, and being present. It’s fascinating how vulnerability can lead to profound growth. Each step into the unknown has brought me closer to healing.
When someone takes life away from you, they rob you of joy; when someone gives life to you, they nurture your dreams.
When someone takes life away from you, they shatter your hope; when someone gives life to you, they build your strength.
When someone takes life away from you, they steal your light; when someone gives life to you, they ignite your spirit.
When someone takes life away from you, they dim your flame; when someone gives life to you, they fan your passions.
Looking forward to learning more!
Denial is the only river that exists in every country in the world.
My current streak on Duolingo.
9/ All of this is like updating your internal software. Each discomfort = a patch. Each habit = a new feature. Over time, you’ll operate at a whole new level.
10/ What’s your uncomfortable action for today? Let’s grow together.
8/ Finally, craft your self-story:
- Present: “I am someone who takes small steps daily to grow.”
- Future: “I’ve proven I can transform by showing up consistently.”
7/ Accountability changes the game:
- Pick a measurable metric (e.g., workouts/week, public talks/month).
- Partner up or use a habit-tracking app to keep yourself honest.
6/ Example:
- Want to run in the morning? Shoes by the door, playlist ready, alarm set.
The easier it is to start, the harder it is to quit.
5/ Next step: Eliminate distractions & redesign your environment.
- Distraction: Scrolling social media > procrastination.
- Solution: App blockers.
- Environment: Set up cues that nudge you forward (e.g., lay out running clothes).
4/ Triggers often fuel limiting beliefs:
- “I’ve always been bad at this.”
- “It’s just who I am.”
Rewrite that narrative.
- Instead of “I’m lazy,” try: “I’m someone who shows up even when it’s hard.”
