Shows
Insights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIA Pragmatic Look at the Evolution of Insights Technology with Bryan Orme, Sawtooth SoftwareExplore the transformation of market research techniques and the role of AI in the latest episode of MRII’s Insights and Innovators podcast. Join Jon Last, President of Sports and Leisure Research Group, as he talks with Bryan Orme, CEO of Sawtooth Software. Bryan shares his journey in data collection and analytics, the technological evolution in market research, and essential skills for future researchers. From the days of phone surveys to today's AI-enhanced methodologies, don't miss this engaging discussion on how technology is shaping the future of our industry.
00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:26 Mee...2025-07-2521 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIThe Immutable Skills for Effective Insights Professionals with Ravi Parmeswar, Kastu AnalyticsDiscover the steadfast skills and perspectives that make an insights professional truly effective with Ravi Parmaswar, President at Kastu Analytics, and host Jon Last, President at Sports and Leisure Research Group. In this episode, Ravi reflects on his varied career at global Fortune 100 organizations and shares key highlights, including the importance of taking career risks and fostering future-proofing strategies. Ravi delves into leadership evolution and offers advice for next-generation leaders, emphasizing continuous learning, taking risks, and cultivating people. They also explore global business dynamics and the future of the research profession in a data-driven world.
00:00 I...2025-07-1619 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIParallel Tracks: Why Brands and Agencies See Insights Differently with Steve Quirk, Quirk’s MediaIs there a disconnect between research suppliers and clients in today's market research landscape? In this episode of MRII's Insights and Innovators podcast, Jon Last, President of Sports and Leisure Research Group, interviews Steve Quirk, President of Quirk’s Media. They discuss the challenges brands face with the proliferation of research platforms, the importance of articulating a clear value proposition, and the impact of private equity on the industry. Learn about the skills future market researchers will need and the potential for AI and other technologies to reshape the field. Click subscribe to never miss an episode and visit us...2025-07-1023 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIThe Participant Economy: Your Front Row Seat to the Future of Research with Patrick Comer, Cint & LucidCan synthetic audiences reshape market research? Find out as Katie Gross, President of Suzy, speaks with Patrick Comer, Group CEO at Cint & Founder at Lucid. They discuss the innovative shifts in the industry, including the rise of AI, the importance of data quality, and the future of synthetic data. Comer shares how companies can stay ahead with AI advancements, the significance of trust and transparency in data handling, and his predictions for research technology in 2025. Tune in for practical insights and strategies from leading professionals in the field.
00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:35 Meet t...2025-06-2621 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIBuilding a Disruptive Brand in an Established Industry with Matt Britton at SuzyDiscover the secrets behind building a disruptive brand with Matt Britton, Founder & CEO of Suzy, on the latest episode of the Insights and Innovators podcast. Hosted by Katie Gross, President of Suzy, this episode delves into Matt's journey from the early days of the internet to the current landscape shaped by AI. Hear practical insights on how to help brands adapt to constant change, the philosophy of consumer-first strategy, and the unique challenges of the B2B market. Learn why doing the work and understanding your consumer is crucial, and get a fresh perspective on how AI is changing...2025-06-1917 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIThe Progress Curve: Are Your Skills Keeping Pace? with Michelle Froah, ETSDiscover powerful insights on navigating a rapidly changing world in the latest episode of the Insights and Innovators podcast. Join host Stan Sthanunathan, CEO of i-Genie.AI, as he interviews Michelle Froah, Global Chief Marketing & Innovation Officer at ETS. In this episode, Michelle discusses the importance of skills development, credentialing, and adapting to turbocharge your career. Explore the findings from the ETS Human Progress Report, understand the rise of AI literacy, and gain practical advice for young professionals to stay relevant and excel in their fields.
00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:27 Meet the Host a...2025-06-1238 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIMaking the Consumer the Boss via Insights with Nitesh Priyadarshi, DanoneDiscover the transformation of the insights function and how it can become critical for C-suite decision-making in this episode of Insights and Innovators. Host Stan Sthanunathan speaks with Nitesh Priyadarshi, Chief Strategic Insights & Analytics Officer at Danone, about his journey from anthropology to leading insights at global companies. Nitesh shares his strategies for making the insights function indispensable, the importance of empathy, consumer centricity, and leveraging technology to enhance the role. Learn how to bridge the gap between uncovering insights and driving business growth effectively.
00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome
00:31 Guest Introduction: Nitesh Priyadarshi2025-06-0427 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIBuilt to Predict: Inside the New Data Machine with Michael Ramlet, Morning ConsultWhat are the unseen trends in modern market research? On this episode of the Insights and Innovators podcast from Market Research Institute International, Jon Last, President of Sports and Leisure Research Group, engages in a compelling discussion with Michael Ramlet, CEO of Morning Consult. Explore how Morning Consult is revolutionizing public opinion research with daily data collection, the integration of AI, and a unique approach to blending syndicated and custom data. Michael shares his vision for the future of the insights industry, focusing on innovation, quality, and the evolving role of researchers in strategic decision-making.
00:00 I...2025-05-2927 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIITransforming the Media Business Through Insights with Colleen Fahey Rush at ParamountDiscover how to energize the insights function in this episode of 'Insights and Innovators.' Join Stan Sthanunathan, CEO of i-Genie.AI, as he hosts Colleen Fahey Rush, EVP and Chief Research Officer at Paramount. Colleen delves into the evolving role of insights in business decisions, particularly within the rapidly transforming media and entertainment industry. Learn from her experiences at Paramount and hear about her career journey from CBS to her current role. Get practical advice on activating insights, the importance of communication, and leadership in the world of media research. Don't miss this in-depth conversation filled with valuable...2025-05-1523 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIThe Role of AI in Market Research with David Boyle at Audience StrategiesDiscover how AI is revolutionizing market research in today's episode of MRII's Insights and Innovators podcast. Join host Jon Last, President of Sports and Leisure Research Group, as he speaks with David Boyle, Director at Audience Strategies. David shares his journey through various industries, culminating in the integration of AI-driven insights into market research. He discusses the impact of AI on audience segmentation, the importance of strategic thinking in research, and offers advice for future leaders in the field. Learn about the four Ps framework for effective language model usage and how AI can enhance your research capabilities.
2025-05-0818 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIAI-Powered Insights in Tech with Google's Marie Van BlaricumHow does AI impact the world of insights? Join us in today's episode of Insights and Innovators where Stan Sthanunathan, CEO of i-Genie.AI discusses this and more with Marie Van Blaricum, Senior Director of Global Insights at Google Brand Studio. Marie shares key differences between the insights function in CPG and tech industries, her career journey from Unilever to Google, and actionable advice on future-proofing careers in the dynamic tech environment. Learn how AI can empower insights professionals, the importance of being proactive, and the essential shift from delivering data to creating impactful business strategies.
2025-05-0120 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIEmpathetic Leadership in Market Research with Claire Kuhn, OvationMRIn this episode of the Insights and Innovators podcast from MRII, host Jon Last, President of Sports and Leisure Research Group, chats with Claire Kuhn, the SVP of Research & Insights at OvationMR. Recognized as one of the industry's 30 under 30, Claire Kuhn, SVP of Research and Insights at OvationMR, reflects on her career path and the hands-on, human aspects of the industry that surprised her. She discusses the ongoing transformation in market research, the balance of AI and human interaction, leadership with authenticity, and the essential skills for emerging professionals. Claire's insights highlight the importance of curiosity, continuous learning, and cu...2025-04-1718 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIAI, Career Evolution, and Leadership in Market Research with Katie Egge, SalesloftFrom building connections to staying curious, Katie Egge shares insights from her journey. Host Jon Last, President of Sports and Leisure Research Group, interviews Katie Egge, RVP at Salesloft, recognized as one of the 30 under 30 winners in market research. Discover Katie's unique career journey from sports and entertainment management to her pivotal role in market research. Learn about her take on AI's impact on the industry, balancing soft and technical skills, and evolving leadership in a tech-forward, remote world. Katie's insights into generating actionable strategies and maintaining the researcher's essential role with AI are not to be missed!
2025-04-1020 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIA Look at the Next Generation of Insights Professionals with James Endersby, OpiniumJoin us in this episode of the Insights Innovators podcast from Market Research Institute International, hosted by Jon Last, President of Sports and Leisure Research Group. Our guest, James Endersby, CEO at Opinium and Chairman of the Market Research Society in the UK, discusses the distinct qualities setting next-gen Insights industry leaders apart. Learn about the 30 Under 30 Awards, the importance of mentorship, networking, and the evolving skill sets required in today's research landscape. Gain invaluable advice for young professionals aiming to make a mark in the field.
2025-04-0324 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIHow to Be a Pioneer in Market Research with Shelley Zalis, CEO of The Female QuotientJoin us on this episode of the Insights Innovators podcast from Market Research Institute International, hosted by Katie Gross, President of Suzy. In this insightful discussion, Shelley Zalis, the founder and CEO of The Female Quotient and a pioneer in online market research, shares her journey of disrupting the traditional market research industry by introducing online surveys. She recounts her challenges and triumphs in transitioning from off-line to online research at a time when the internet was in its infancy. Shelley also discusses her efforts to close the gender gap in the workplace through her work with The Female...2025-03-2027 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIICultivating a Culture of Service in Research Insights with Steve Schlesinger, SagoIn this episode, we dive deep with Steve Schlesinger, Executive Chairman at Sago, hosted by Jon Last, President at Sports and Leisure Research Group. Steve shares his valuable insights on the latest industry trends, leadership strategies, and the evolving landscape of market research. Tune in to discover how Steve's experience and vision continue to shape the sector and get a firsthand look at the discussions that influence the future of market research.
2025-03-1321 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIFrom Researcher to Investment Banker with Kristin Luck, Oberon SecuritiesOn this episode, host Katie Gross, CEO at Suzy, speaks with Kristin Luck, Managing Director of Oberon Securities. Kristin shares her unique career trajectory from a research assistant at Lieberman Research Worldwide to becoming an influential entrepreneur, investor, and banker. Learn how her passion for online research led her to build AC Nielsen's first online research platform, co-found OTX, and start a data visualization platform. She offers insights on financial literacy, business growth, and the importance of marketing. Also, discover how Women in Research (WIRe) is empowering women in the industry.
2025-03-0618 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIITransforming Insights: Colgate's Journey with Christian Niederauer at Colgate-PalmoliveDiscover how Colgate has transformed its insights function to be future-proof, the biggest challenges facing insight professionals today, and the critical components of their Insights Competence Framework.Join Stan Sthanunathan, CEO of i-Genie.AI, as he hosts Christian Niederauer, Vice President of Global Insights & Consumer Affairs at Colgate-Palmolive, in this engaging episode of Insights Innovators. Gain invaluable perspectives on the role of AI, the importance of proactive value creation, and how to ensure your insights are impactful and actionable. Don't miss out on this comprehensive journey into the evolving landscape of consumer insights!
00:00 Introduction and E...2025-02-2018 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIHow Can Market Research Founders Succeed with Mark Simon, Partner at Traction Advising M&AHow do investors see market research companies? Is it all about SaaS models, or can service companies scale in ways that attract investors? Mark Simon, Partner at Traction Advising M&A talks about retention as a KPI for growth and value. Consider net revenue retention or how a company grows outside of new customer acquisition. Go inside an M&A mind and hear insights like how the market research industry may not lend itself easily to SaaS models.
2025-02-0619 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIEarning a Seat at the Strategy Table with Diane Hessan at C-SpaceIn this episode of 'Insights and Innovators,' hosted by Stan Sthanunathan, special guest Diane Hessan, Chairman of C-Space, discusses her transformative journey as an entrepreneur in the insights industry. Diane shares her thoughts on balancing speed, depth, and relevance in market research and provides valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. She recounts her early career experiences, the foundation and success of Communispace, and offers practical tips for business success and common pitfalls to avoid.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:14 Meet Diane Hessen: Visionary and Disruptor
03:18 The State of the Insights Industry
10:14 Diane's...2025-01-2330 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIICreating an Exciting Market Research Tech Company with Andrew Reid, Founder & CEO of Rival TechnologiesThe path to creating an exciting startup can be a circuitous route. Andrew Reid, Founder & CEO of Rival Technologies may have started in film, taken a right turn in advertising, to end up building technology companies that solved research problems. And sometimes, it’s a family affair. Andrew’s father and sister both played key roles in influencing his path. Hear about his journey and excitement about the future of tech-enabled market research solutions.
2025-01-1619 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIITransforming the Insights Function in Large Corporations with Elaine Rodrigo at ReckittDive into an engaging conversation between Elaine Rodrigo, Chief Insights & Analytics Officer at Reckitt, and Stan Sthanunathan, CEO of i-Genie.AI, as they explore the evolving landscape of consumer insights, data-driven decision-making, and embracing AI. Elaine shares her nearly 30-year journey in research, her dream role realization, and the transformative power of AI in harnessing data for business growth. From her career milestones to the significance of consistency, focus, and creating proprietary capabilities, Elaine offers invaluable advice for the industry while highlighting the promise of synthetic data and the essential role of innovation.
00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks2025-01-0926 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIThe Evolution of Market Research to Today with Dr. Marcus Cunha, University of GeorgiaIn this episode of the MRII's Insights and Innovators podcast, host Jon Last, President at Sports and Leisure Research Group, speaks with Dr. Marcus Cunha Jr., Director of the University of Georgia's Masters of Marketing Research Program. They discuss the transformative changes in the market research industry over the past few decades, including the democratization of research tools, the shift from statistical analysis to business insights, and the evolving skill sets required for success. They also explore the impact of AI on the industry and the importance of linking research to ROI to avoid becoming a cost center. Marcus emphasizes...2024-12-1918 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIFrom Capital Raising to Integration: A Deep Dive into M&A with Jeff KrentzJoin us for an enlightening episode of MRII's Insights and Innovators podcast, featuring a conversation with Jeff Krentz, a seasoned expert in mergers and acquisitions within the market research industry. Hosted by Katie Gross, the discussion delves into the nuances of raising capital, the importance of product-market fit, and strategic decisions companies must make between organic growth and acquisitions.
Krentz shares valuable insights on the essential factors that drive successful investments, how to attract the right investors, and the dynamic balance required during company growth and integration. Learn about the transformative impact of the acquisition of TNS...2024-12-1218 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIFrom Market Researcher to Investment Banker with Sima Vasa, Managing Director at Oberon SecuritiesThe market research industry is far from homogenous. There are many different business models within it. Sima Vasa, Managing Director at Oberon Securities began as a market research analyst and became an investment banker. That switch means she looks at business models, leadership, and the fundamentals of market research firms through a new lens. Learn how to think like an investment banker.
2024-12-0515 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIThe Entrepreneurship Journey in Market Research with Vivek Bhaskaran, Founder & CEO QuestionProHow do we get customers? How do we lean into our strengths? These are some of the questions that Vivek Bhaskaran, Founder & CEO QuestionPro talks about in his journey to building his own company and business. Is building great software and launching globally still possible versus in a specific market? Learn lessons in entrepreneurship in the market research industry.
2024-11-2120 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIWhat Does Leadership Look Like Today and Tomorrow with Crispin Beale, Insight250How can we celebrate the innovators and leaders in Market Research? Crispin Beale, CEO of Insight250 and Group President of Behaviorally, has created the main platform for identifying these leaders. Jon Last, President at Sports and Leisure Research Group, talks with Crispin to understand how Insight250 works and how important it is for driving innovation and leadership in the industry.
2024-11-1417 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIResearch at the Strategy Table with Brett Townsend, QuesterIs Research on the Brink? That’s the title of the new book from Brett Townsend, SVP of Strategy at Quester. Jon Last, President at Sports and Leisure Research Group, talks with Brett about how the industry has changed or needs to change from its academic roots to a discipline that drives business impact.
2024-11-0722 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIITransforming Market Research in Big Companies with Stephan Gans, PepsicoIs there a consumer insights revolution, and will that change how multinational corporations do research? Stephan Gans, SVP, Chief Consumer Insights and Analytics Officer at Pepsico, wrote the book, The Consumer Insights Revolution. Stan Sthanunathan, CEO i-Genie.AI talks with Stephan about future-proofing your business through the control of data and tools.
2024-10-2825 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIFive Lessons from a Market Research Entrepreneur with Dan Coates, YPulseA veteran entrepreneur of five startups, Dan Coates, CEO of YPulse, shares the rollercoaster ride of starting research businesses. Join Katie Gross, Chief Customer Officer at Suzy as she talks with Dan about the skills needed to start and run a business. Dan shares about adapting to cultural and market changes, including the shortening attention span for young people, the sweet spot of his current business, YPulse.
2024-10-2126 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIStaying Ahead of the Curve in Research with Simon Chadwick, CambiarWhat’s hype and what’s real? Jon Last, President at Sports and Leisure Research Group, talks with industry legend Simon Chadwick, Managing Partner at Cambiar, about what changes and innovations—including AI—are likely to change the insights industry. The reintegration of data and insights across functions (CX, Sales, marketing) is hot now and will be in the foreseeable future.
2024-10-1419 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIFinding Your Seat at the Strategy Table with Pam Forbus, Mondelez InternationalJoin Stan Sthanunathan, CEO of i-Genie.AI, as he talks with Pam Forbus, Global Chief of Insights & Analytics at Mondelēz International, about how to earn a strategic business role by sharing relevant insights that drive business decisions. Knowing the question the CEO needs to answer is the start to pursuing insights that matter. To be a growth leader, the researcher must know what grows the business. Pam shares what it means to speak the language of the CFO, the office where decisions are often made.
2024-10-0725 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIMaking Research Talent More Agile with Ryan Barry, ZappiFor research companies to succeed, they need to be willing and able to disrupt themselves. That’s where more agile talent comes in. They are willing to learn, experiment and go beyond what’s working today. Join Katie Gross, Chief Customer Officer at Suzy, as she talks with Ryan Barry, President of Zappi, to discover what he looks for in new talent and how he supports his team.
2024-09-3022 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIEffective Qualities of Market Research Leadership with Ben Page at Ipsos‘Intelligence is not enough. Self awareness, being able to read a room and resilience are all key.’ Join Stan Sthanunathan, CEO i-Genie.AI as he talks with Ben Page, CEO of Ipsos about the qualities for talent and leadership in the insights business. Ben shares about the importance of integrity, especially in relation to data quality, and a willingness or hunger to learn and innovate. And don’t forget about luck and our ability to take advantage of it when it presents itself.
2024-09-2324 minInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRIIThe Essential Skills of the Market Researcher in Healthcare with Lisa Courtade, OrganonHow can researchers bridge the gap between technical expertise and business impact? Our host, Jon Last, Sports and Leisure Research Group, talks with Lisa Courtade, a veteran researcher with top healthcare companies including Merck, Sanofi Pasteur, and, now, Organon, as she shares insights from her wild ride career, including lessons learned like “Perfect data only exists in the classroom.” Hear her POV on the skills researchers need to succeed in the healthcare industry.
2024-08-2619 min