Charles Wheelan

"Data are to statistics what a good offensive line is to a star quarterback." Everyone’s talking about big data. But what we should focus on, instead, is statistics. Data is like a resource—a raw fuel that is abundant, but formless. It’s just there. Statistics are what allow us to turn data into intelligence, into pragmatic action in government, the corporate world, science, innovation, education. Without this interpretive filter, we are left asking bad questions, which leads to bigger bad answers. In this talk, Charles Wheelan turns data on its head, makes it comprehensible, and—with humor and real world examples—shows you how to turn this suddenly “sexy” concept into something actually, and endlessly, useful. His case studies are relatable and resonant: How does Netflix know which movies you’ll like? Why is autism on the rise? How can we catch schools that cheat on standardized testing? How can we become more effective marketers? These are just a handful of examples. He also customizes for various industries, pulling out the newest and most illuminating intelligence. In the end, you’ll come to see how you can exploit the valuable data all around you to solve your thorniest problems. Wheelan’s keynote is witty, fast-moving, and essential—it’s one of the most useful statistics and big data talk you’ll hear. Also, the most fun!

We are facing a seismic shift in the economic future of the industrialized world, and U.S. leaders will have to blaze a near-perfect direction of economic oversight, including crucial moves with taxes, stimulus programs, regulation and increased government involvement in key financial industries. Find out what these moves are, how they affect your industry, and what the future holds in store, economically, in this fascinating talk.

In this talk, Charles Wheelan reveals how a series of events led to the economic crisis we face today--and how to avoid them in the future. Also: now that we are in this mess, how, practically, can we get out of it? What, specifically, does your industry need to know to weather this financial crisis, and how do you come out the other side, robust and profitable once again?

"I've never liked how economics is taught-- too dry, too, mathematical, too detached from the real world." On stage, Wheelan offers a corrective. He speaks with humor, clarity, and insight; makes inspired pop culture allusions; and possesses a rare gift for making the tough economic concepts and trends not only understandable, but also fun and empowering. Wheelan addresses timely issues-- such as outsourcing, and rocketing gas prices-- showing how individuals, companies, and communities are likely to be affected. An agile presenter, he is available to speak with you beforehand to hone in on a specific topic, such as health care or regional development.

Why can't the folks in Washington "just do the right thing"? Why is it so hard to "make the world a better place"? With two decades of public policy experience, Wheelan shows you why running a community or a nation is not like running a business, why healthy public policy is important, and how to realistically achieve it.