The Test Set by Posit Roger Peng: Sustaining data science — in classrooms, code, and conversations
Aug 26, 2025
Roger Peng, a Professor of Statistics and Data Science at UT Austin and co-host of Not So Standard Deviations, discusses his unique journey in data science. He shares insights from his early projects that shaped his passion for R and the importance of hands-on experience in education. The conversation dives into the dynamics of podcasting and how to maintain meaningful content over time. Roger also emphasizes the evolving roles of programming languages like R and SQL, and the community's pivotal role in shaping the landscape of data science.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Make Podcasts Sustainable
- Design a podcast process that fits your life and goals: keep prep minimal and aim for sustainable production.
- Balance depth and effort so the show remains enjoyable and long-lived.
Origin Of Not So Standard Deviations
- Roger started Not So Standard Deviations to mimic a hallway conversation between data scientists.
- He launched it in 2015 to have informal, deep conversations rather than scripted instructional episodes.
Sustainability Trumps Short Bursts
- Longevity requires sustainable output rather than burning out with overproduction.
- Successful long-running creators design workflows that preserve energy over years.
