how to build tension in your data story

<p>Want to make your data story more engaging? Try adding a little tension. Join data storyteller Alli Torban as she explores how tension can create curiosity and keep your audience invested in your story.</p><p><br></p><p>You’ll learn three simple ways to build tension—<strong>expectation versus reality, knowledge tension, and action tension</strong>—and see how members of the storytelling with data community put each technique into practice.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>RESOURCES MENTIONED:</strong></p><ul><li><p><a href="https://ti.to/storytellingwithdata/course-late2026" target="_blank"><strong>Register for our 8-week online course</strong></a>: plan, create, and deliver your data story. September 28th–November 22nd, 2026. </p><ul><li><p><strong>Use the code PODCAST10 for 10% off your registration!</strong></p></li></ul></li><li><p>Join the storytelling with data <a href="https://community.storytellingwithdata.com/" target="_blank"><strong>community</strong></a>!</p></li><li><p>Look through the community exercise submissions for <a href="https://community.storytellingwithdata.com/exercises/build-the-tension" target="_blank"><strong>building tension</strong></a></p><ul><li><p><a href="https://community.storytellingwithdata.com/exercises/build-the-tension/build-the-tension-sales-vs-projection" target="_blank"><strong>Danny’s submission</strong></a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://community.storytellingwithdata.com/exercises/build-the-tension/our-new-product-needs-attention" target="_blank"><strong>Miroslav’s submission</strong></a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://community.storytellingwithdata.com/exercises/build-the-tension/will-competitor-overtake-us" target="_blank"><strong>Regina’s submission</strong></a></p></li></ul></li><li><p>Podcast: <a href="/podcast/102"><strong>help! my data story feels boring</strong></a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.storytellingwithdata.com/team-trainings"><strong>Book your own custom team training!</strong></a></p></li></ul>