simplifying the complexities of data One Human at a time

Be Data Lit started with a simple yet profound belief—data should not be reserved for the few, for the tech-savvy or large enterprises. Data should be accessible to anyone with a dream, especially small business owners who dare to open their doors with hope and ambition. Too often, these dreamers wonder what others have that they don’t. How do they know what’s working, and what’s not? How do they measure success? The answer is simple: they have data. And that’s where we come in.

So who are we?

Be Data Lit isn’t just a business; it’s a community-driven movement that began in 2021, founded by Sarah Nell-Rodriguez. Inspired by the disruptions of 2020, when industries crumbled and jobs were lost, Sarah saw the impact on friends and family and realized the need for a way forward. Data skills became the solution—a path to reskill, rebuild, and create a future where people are empowered and equipped to succeed.

Since then, Be Data Lit has evolved into an agency dedicated to helping small businesses and entrepreneurs use data to thrive. We believe data is the missing link for many, and our mission is to make it accessible, purposeful, and deployable by anyone.

Our Mission

When people talk about data literacy today, the focus is often on “Organizational Data Literacy” (ODL), which is crucial. However, at Be Data Lit, we believe that something equally important has been overlooked—“Individual Data Literacy” (IDL). IDL is central to our mission of empowering everyday individuals who may feel left behind by the rapid pace of technology or the high cost of education. It’s about equipping people with the data skills they can use in their personal lives and businesses.

Our mission is to build a network of data advocates who believe data literacy isn’t a luxury but a necessity for everyone. We go beyond profits and spreadsheets by focusing on people’s well-being and success. As our community grows, we invite leaders from all walks of life to join us in creating more pathways for individuals and businesses to thrive with data.

Consider this your invitation to join our mission. Let’s elevate each other, share resources, and build a future where data literacy is a way of life for all.

meet our lit Founder

Sarah Nell-Rodriquez is a driving force in data education, shaping strategies that empower individuals and organizations to thrive in today’s data-driven landscape. At Tableau, Sarah built out multiple foundational courses and led the product strategy, ensuring that data education aligned with business goals. She also traveled the world, teaching Tableau’s network of partners, customers, and trainers how to effectively teach data. Her global work positioned her as a leader in scaling education and ensuring data became a tool for success across industries.

Sarah’s influence extends beyond Tableau. She developed the data literacy strategy that drives many customer success discussions at Salesforce and has built education teams for innovative startups looking to expand their reach. With a career that began as an analyst and evolved into roles as a data educator and customer success leader, Sarah sits at the intersection of data, education, and customer success—three pillars that work together to drive impactful outcomes.


Through Be Data Lit, Sarah now wants to help others “get lit” with data education. She’s focused on making data accessible to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and data professionals. Her platform-agnostic approach enables organizations to scale internal data education as AI reshapes the landscape, ensuring that data education aligns with real-world goals and customer needs. At Be Data Lit, Sarah is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to use data for growth, empowerment, and long-term success.

  • Sarah Nell-Rodriquez

    FOUNDER

  • Alex Rodriquez

    CO-FOUNDER

  • Allen Hillery, Data Literacy Advocate

    THOUGHT PARTNER

  • Sam Garrett, Little Bird Studio

    THOUGHT PARTNER

  • Amanda Clark, Grammar Chic

    THOUGHT PARTNER

Thought Partners

Be Data Lit partners with thought leaders in the data science, analytics, and people space to bring you cutting-edge insights and perspectives. Our thought partners include a diverse group of experts from academia, technology, and creative business sectors who are at the forefront of innovation. They contribute their expertise to enrich our content, ensuring that our audience receives the most relevant and impactful information. Together, we explore complex data concepts, cutting-edge technologies, and transformative strategies, empowering our community to harness their full potential.

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  • "Sarah possesses a unique blend of professional expertise and personal warmth. She doesn't just offer advice; she provides a safe space to explore one's professional anxieties and aspirations. Her approach is holistic, addressing not just career progression but also the impact of work environments on mental and emotional well-being. What sets Sarah apart is her ability to listen deeply and provide insights that resonate on a personal level. Sarah empowered me to advocate for myself, to seek environments that not only recognize my value but also nurture my growth."

    — Sam Garrett: SaaS Product Marketing Leader

  • "Sarah has an amazing way of connecting with people that makes them feel supported. She’s the consummate cheerleader who enjoys helping others. Sarah has worked across many industries and is ready to share her wisdom to motivate her clients to find a fulfilling career."

    — Allen Hillery: Data Literacy Advocate

  • "With a non-traditional background and a breadth of experience spanning industries, levels of achievement, and functions within an organization, Sarah brings an outsider’s (rebels, underdogs) perspective to the homogenized world of corporate work. She can help you understand your value, align your work with your values, and can help you forge a bold and individual path for yourself."

    — Erin Gengo: Technical Program Manager

  • "I was stuck, overthinking, and lost in too many thoughts about an important career crossroads. Sarah guided me with some of the smartest advice I’ve ever received. After following her advice, the outcome was even better than expected. Sarah is the only choice if you are looking for someone who can help you achieve the next step. "

    — Amy Affre: Sales Executive

  • “Sarah’s expertise in relationship building, communication, and leadership makes her an ideal career coach. She has experience with all levels of roles at different points in a person's life. Highly recommend her for anyone looking for a career change or someone they can trust.”

    — Catherine Denmeade: President, WMS Marketing LLC

  • “Collaborating with Sarah has been an incredible journey. Her ability to offer profound insights and unwavering guidance has been instrumental in helping me break through barriers and overcome obstacles that once held me back. What sets Sarah apart is her resourcefulness; she doesn't simply hand you the answers but empowers you to uncover them. She's wonderful at nurturing self-belief and opening your eyes to a realm of possibilities. Working with Sarah has truly transformed the way I see my career and propelled me toward my goals.”

    — Julissa Perez: Revenue Enablement Director, Software and SaaS industry

  • “Sarah understands better than most what it takes to thrive in a tech career. Her background and experiences are an asset to helping others navigate the workplace and find advocates that will bring out their strengths.”

    — Christina Gorga: Lead Data Designer

  • “Sarah has supported me through multiple career transitions, always offering her business savvy and insight. She has posted thoughtful questions to help me make difficult choices and has been a consistent voice of support as I navigated an unconventional career path.”

    — Sandlin Preecs: Former learning professional and future policy leader