In this thought-provoking episode of the Data Malarkey Podcast, master data storyteller Sam Knowles sits down with Sylvie Delacroix, the inaugural Jeff Price Chair in Digital Law in the Dickson Poon School of Law at King’s College London. Sylvie shares her insights into data ethics, the vulnerabilities we face in a data-driven world, and the transformative potential of generative AI. She also introduces the Centre for Data Futures, her initiative to build participatory data infrastructure that empowers individuals and communities. This is a conversation about ethics, identity, and the future of AI that you won’t want to miss.

What you'll learn in this episode:

• The hidden vulnerabilities of our daily data leaks.

• How AI can both limit and empower personal reinvention.

• Why participatory infrastructure is essential for ethical AI development.

• The concept of ‘humility markers’ in AI and their potential to transform conversations.

• How Sylvie’s work bridges the gap between theory and practice in digital law and data ethics.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:27 - Sylvie Delacroix’s journey and research focus
07:43 - The vulnerability of self in the data-driven age
13:53 - Building participatory data infrastructures
20:02 - Rethinking AI and conversational models
30:36 - The importance of humility markers in AI
39:07 - The future of ethical AI: aspirations and hopes

About our guest:
Sylvie Delacroix is a leading expert in digital law and ethics. As the Jeff Price Chair in Digital Law at King’s College London, Professor Delacroix directs the Centre for Data Futures, focusing on participatory data infrastructure and ethical governance of AI. Her work on data trusts and habitual ethics has shaped policy initiatives worldwide. To learn more about her work, visit https://delacroix.uk

Resources mentioned:

• Sylvie Delacroix’s home page https://delacroix.uk

• The Center for Data Futures https://www.kcl.ac.uk/research/centre-for-data-futures

• The Dickson Poon School of Law at King’s College, London https://www.kcl.ac.uk/law

• Sylvie’s book, Habitual Ethics?, available via Bloomsbury (open-access) https://www.bloomsburycollections.com/monograph?docid=b-9781509920440

• Sam Knowles’ book, Asking Smarter Questions: How to be an Agent of Insight https://asksmarterqs.com

• Find Out What Kind of Data Storyteller you are: https://data-storytelling.scoreapp.com/

Join the conversation:

• Take the Data Storytelling Scorecard: https://data-storytelling.scoreapp.com

• Follow the podcast for more insightful conversations on data and AI

Connect with us:

• Sylvie Delacroix: King’s College London Profile, LinkedIn profile

• Sam Knowles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samknowlesdatastory

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In this special wrap-up episode of Data Malarkey, host and Master Data Storyteller, Sam Knowles, takes us through the standout moments from Season 6 of the podcast. From neuroscience-driven storytelling to data privacy law, this compilation showcases some of the smartest and most impactful ways people are using data to improve communication, branding, and societal outcomes. Featuring insights from a diverse lineup of experts, this episode is packed with lessons and strategies for anyone curious about making data work smarter.

Key Highlights:

• The Neuroscience of Marketing (00:02:10): Cristina de Balanzo discusses how to avoid the pitfalls of “neurobollocks” in neuroscience-driven market research.

• Data-Backed Simplicity in Storytelling (00:07:02): Natalia Talkowska explains how neuroscience and behavioural science enhance storytelling effectiveness in data-heavy communication.

• Breaking the Curse of Knowledge (00:12:26): Mike Ellicock shares tips for simplifying data communication, especially in utilities and financial services.

• GDPR: A Force for Good (00:18:09): Alice Wallbank defends the GDPR and unpacks its hidden benefits and costs.

• Levelling the Playing Field for Women Scientists (00:27:22): Ylann Schemm highlights how Elsevier uses data to advance inclusive research and health.

• The Science Behind Accurate Exit Polls (00:34:05): Professor Sir John Curtice reveals how academic methods have transformed election night predictions.

• Barbarians Rugby’s Data-Driven Rebrand (00:42:00): Branding guru Bill Wallsgrove showcases how data informed a fresh, digital-first identity for the iconic club.

External Links:

• Using Data Smarter guest application form: Submit a Guest

• Follow Sam Knowles on LinkedIn: Sam Knowles

• Catch full episodes and video content on YouTube: Data Malarkey YouTube Channel

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To find out what kind of data storyteller you are, complete our data storytelling scorecard at https://data-storytelling.scoreapp.com. It takes just two minutes, and we’ll send you your own personalised scorecard.