In this episode of Data Jam, Dr. Michael Quinn Patton reflects on his personal and professional journey through the field of evaluation, tracing his early roots in sociology, his foundational work in qualitative methods, and the development of major evaluation approaches like Utilization-Focused Evaluation, Developmental Evaluation, and Blue Marble Evaluation. He critiques the continued dominance of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) as the gold standard, arguing instead for understanding natural variation and embracing methodological pluralism. Patton underscores the importance of relationships, context, and values in effective evaluation, emphasizing that meaningful use must be planned from the outset—not treated as an afterthought. He calls for evaluators to be adaptive, relational, and principled, positioning “evaluation science” as a mother discipline that informs and integrates other applied sciences.

Have you ever wondered how Netflix knows exactly what to recommend to you? Or why some movies seem to dominate the box office while others struggle to find an audience? The answer lies in the numbers—data are everywhere in the entertainment world. From casting decisions to streaming algorithms, to the box office projections that decide whether a film even gets made, Hollywood is using data in ways we’ve never seen before.  

But here’s the big question: What happens when data meets art? Can we quantify creativity? Or are we at risk of letting the numbers dictate what stories get told?  To help unpack this, we sat down for lunch with former SAG President Courtney B. Vance.

In this episode, we’ll start with Hollywood by the Numbers, where we break down how data analytics drive decisions in the entertainment industry—from predicting box office success to shaping the stories that get told.

Next, in Beyond the Spotlight: Life Lessons from Courtney, I’ll share a more personal side of our conversation—how a near-accident on set led him to a powerful realization about self-advocacy, and what we can all learn from it.

Then, in The Science Behind a Blockbuster: Can Data Predict a Hit?, we’ll dive into how predictive analytics influence casting, marketing, and even the types of movies Hollywood prioritizes.

So, grab your popcorn and settle in. This is going to be a blockbuster of an episode.

In this episode of the Data Jam Podcast, host Liz DiLuzio sits down with Dr. David Fetterman, a pioneer in the field of evaluation and founder of Empowerment Evaluation. With over 25 years of experience, Fetterman shares his unique approach to using evaluation as a tool for fostering self-determination and capacity building within communities. He discusses the transformative power of empowerment evaluation, highlighting its role in enabling individuals and organizations to take control of their futures by building evaluation skills that extend beyond the lifespan of a single project.

The conversation also delves into the intersection of evaluation and technology, including the challenges and opportunities posed by AI and digital tools. Fetterman emphasizes the importance of using affordable, user-friendly technologies that align with the needs and values of the communities being served. Through rich storytelling and practical insights, this episode offers a compelling look at how evaluation can drive meaningful change and empower communities worldwide.