Mark Hardy, Head of Walmart Data Ventures, joins Katie Gross, host of the Insights and Innovators Podcast, to discuss how Walmart leverages data to drive business decisions and create value. They explore the principles behind Walmart's data strategy, the role of AI in accelerating insights, and the unique aspects of their data integration. Mark shares his insights on innovation, team building, and what it takes to succeed in a fast-growing data business. Tune in to learn how Walmart is transforming retail with actionable insights and a customer-centric approach.   00:00 Introduction to the Fast-Paced Business World 00:15 Welcome to MRII's Insights and Innovators Podcast 00:37 Introducing Mark Hardy and Walmart Data Ventures 01:26 The Creation and Evolution of Walmart Data Ventures 03:41 Core Principles for Success at Walmart Data Ventures 06:40 Unique Market Differentiation of Walmart Data Ventures 12:00 Leveraging AI for Business Insights and Actions 19:37 Skills and Qualities for a High-Performing Insights Team 23:34 Leadership Lessons and Industry Trends 27:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Navigating nothing to lose moments and beyond. Join us in this episode of Tori's Insights and Innovators podcast as Stan Sthanunathan, CEO of i-Genie.AI and former insights leader at Unilever and Coca-Cola, shares his invaluable experiences and lessons from his 40-year career in consumer insights. Hosted by Zontziry “Z” Johnson, Founder of MRXplorer, this episode delves into Stan's unique approaches to leveraging 'nothing to lose' moments, the importance of connecting the dots, and how storytelling can transform data into impactful business decisions. Stan also touches upon essential timeless skills and the role of passion in thriving within the insights function.   00:00 Introduction to Fact-Based Presentations 00:27 Welcome to Tori's Insights and Innovators Podcast 00:48 Introducing Stan Natan: A Storied Career 01:39 Capitalizing on 'Nothing to Lose' Moments 03:55 Mentorship and Impactful Guidance 05:26 Taking Pride in the Insights Function 07:11 Learning the Hard Way: Developing a Backbone 10:52 Defining Great Insights Work 12:15 The Power of Storytelling in Insights 15:31 Creating Impactful Insights Leaders 17:16 Timeless Skills for Insights Practitioners 19:21 Staying Relevant in a Fast-Paced Industry 22:55 Writing a Letter to the Next Generation 27:29 Guiding Principles: Passion and Bravery 28:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  

On this episode, Jon Last, President of Sports and Leisure Research Group, is joined by Nancy Smith, President & CEO of Analytic Partners. Dive into the evolution of analytics and how companies can make smarter, quicker decisions in a competitive landscape. Discover the concept of 'commercial analytics', the impact of rapid technological advancements, and how to effectively apply data in today's business environment. Gain insights into the future of analytics and valuable advice for those starting their career in this dynamic field.   00:00 Introduction to Insights and Innovators Podcast 00:35 Meet Nancy Smith: A Leader in Marketing Analytics 01:13 The Evolution of Analytics in Decision Making 03:39 Understanding Commercial Analytics 07:39 Challenges and Adoption in Analytics 15:11 Building a Successful Analytics Company 21:25 Future of Analytics and Career Advice 24:41 Conclusion and Farewell

Unlock the secrets of the evolving media landscape! Join our host, Jon Last, President of Sports and Leisure Research Group, and his guest, Helen Katz, EVP of Research at Publicis Media, as she delves into transformative changes in media and advertising. Discover how identity solutions and first-party data drive more effective targeting, understand the complexity of modern media planning and buying, and get insights into navigating a fragmented measurement landscape. Learn what skills are essential for today's media professionals and how AI is reshaping the industry. Tune in to this episode of MRII's Insights and Innovators podcast for these insights and more!   00:00 Introduction to Insights and Innovators Podcast 00:32 Meet Our Guest: Helen Katz 01:30 Transformations in Media and Advertising 03:36 Navigating the Measurement Landscape 05:57 Engagement Metrics and Cross-Platform Challenges 09:17 Skills for Modern Media Professionals 11:38 The Role of AI and Automation 13:13 Client-Provider Dynamics in Research 16:19 Future of Media Consumption: Gen Alpha 17:20 Conclusion and Farewell

Discover the transformative power of behavioral data and customer centricity in this episode of MRII's Insights and Innovators podcast, hosted by Jon Last, President of Sports and Leisure Research Group. Join a thought-provoking conversation with Pete Fader, a pioneer in customer lifetime value analytics and Professor of Marketing at The Wharton School. Explore what drives business impact, the integration of predictive analytics in decision-making, and the balance between technical skills and storytelling in the world of market research. Plus, learn how to ensure your data is clean and trustworthy. Tune in for insights you won't want to miss.   00:00 Introduction to MRII's Insights and Innovators Podcast 00:31 Meet Pete Fader: The OG of Customer Lifetime Value 02:08 The Evolution of Customer Data and Behavioral Analysis 03:54 Understanding Customer Centricity 05:58 The Role of Predictive Analytics in Modern Business 08:30 Bridging the Gap Between Insights and Action 10:22 Characteristics of Data-Savvy Organizations 12:46 Pete Fader's Entrepreneurial Journey 15:15 Ensuring Data Quality and Trustworthiness 17:57 Essential Skills for Future Insights Professionals 20:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Discover how insights and analytics shape decision-making at the C-suite level in this episode of MRII's Insights and Innovators podcast. Katie Gross, president of Suzy, hosts Chris Chesebro, Global Chief Digital Officer at Wella Company. They explore how data-driven strategies impact big-picture brand strategy and day-to-day operations in a fast-changing digital world. Learn about Wella's digital pillars, the balance between data and human intuition, and how insights can significantly influence business growth and consumer engagement. This episode is a must-listen for market research professionals aiming to make a strategic impact.   00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:34 Meet the Host and Guest 01:37 Role of Insights in Decision Making 01:59 Three Pillars of Digital at Wella 03:01 Data-Driven Decision Making 06:41 Real-World Examples of Insights Impact 11:25 Qualities of a Good Insights Professional 14:46 Delivering Insights Effectively 17:15 Conversational AI and Its Impact 20:24 Future of Insights and AI 23:33 Advice for Insights Professionals 25:41 Conclusion and Farewell

How are industry icons like Tod Johnson and Karyn Schoenbart paving the way for the next generation of research tech? As Co-Founders of Duo Partners Consulting, they share their perspectives on innovation in the research space, the challenges of data quality and fraud, and the exciting developments they foresee. Discover the types of disruptive data companies they are investing in and the qualities they look for in successful ventures. Dive into their views on AI's role and the future trends set to shape market research. Join our host, Katie Gross, President of Suzy, as she unravels these critical insights.   00:00 Introduction to MRII's Insights and Innovators Podcast 00:36 Meet the Guests: Tod Johnson and Karyn Schoenbart 01:36 Duo Partners: Investing in Disruptive Tech 03:07 Evaluating and Supporting New Ventures 06:52 Examples of Disruptive Companies 12:48 Data Quality and Fraud in Market Research 18:15 Future Trends in Market Research and Data Analytics 21:47 Advice for Newcomers in the Industry 23:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Explore 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 Meet Brian Orme: A Pioneer in Data Collection and Analytics 01:53 Brian Orme's Journey to Sawtooth Software 04:51 Evolution of Data Collection Methods 09:28 The Impact of AI on Market Research 13:02 Skills for Future Insights Professionals 16:50 Leadership and Work Culture in Modern Organizations 20:38 Conclusion and Farewell  

Discover 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 Introduction to Ravi Parmaswar 00:57 Key Skills for Insights Professionals 03:28 Career Highlights and 2 Percent Moments 05:13 Leadership and Continuous Learning 06:54 Future of Research and Insights 10:09 Cross-Cultural Interactions and Advice 12:57 Reflections and Advice to Younger Self 15:51 Looking Ahead: The Future of the Industry 18:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Is 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 at mrii.org for more market research insights.   00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:26 Meet the Guest: Steve Quirk 01:36 The Disconnect Between Buyers and Sellers of Insights 04:58 Challenges in the Market Research Industry 06:16 Impact of Private Equity on Market Research 09:00 The Role of ResTech and AI in Market Research 16:44 The Future of Market Research Skills 18:59 Predictions for the Next Decade in Market Research 22:55 Conclusion and Farewell

Can 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 the Guest: Patrick Comer 01:26 The Evolution of Market Research 03:14 Defining ResTech 05:43 Data Quality in 2025 08:08 Privacy and Data Clean Rooms 10:06 Synthetic Audiences and AI Moderators 17:33 Quick Fire Round 20:21 Conclusion and Call to Action

Discover 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 the dynamics of the industry.   00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:34 Meet the Guest: Matt Britton 01:01 Lessons from a Serial Brand Builder 03:14 The Birth of Mr. Youth 04:52 Navigating the Digital Marketing Landscape 07:28 The Genesis of Suzy 11:07 Building a Disruptive Brand 15:03 The Role of AI in Market Research 17:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Discover 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 and Today's Topic 00:57 Guest Introduction: Michelle Froah 01:37 Michelle's Career Journey: From Engineering to Marketing 08:38 Insights from the ETS Human Progress Report 14:09 The Importance of Durable Skills 19:53 Future Nav: Measuring and Mapping Skills 22:09 AI Literacy and Its Impact on the Workforce 26:00 Tips for Accelerating Skill Development 30:13 Challenges for Insights Professionals 37:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Discover 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 Priyadarshi 01:40 Nitesh's Career Journey 05:45 The Importance of Consumer Centricity 14:08 Leadership and Empathy in Insights 19:49 Opportunities and Challenges in the Insights Industry 25:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What 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 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:43 Meet the Guest: Michael Ramlet, CEO of Morning Consult 02:20 The Importance of Daily Data in Market Research 03:54 AI and Its Impact on Market Research 05:25 Challenges and Innovations in the Insights Industry 09:19 The Role of Insights in Shaping Public Opinion 14:11 Ensuring Quality in Market Research 21:52 Career Advice for Aspiring Researchers  

Discover 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 takeaways!   00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic 00:29 Guest Introduction: Colleen Fahy Rush 01:22 The Role of Insights in Media Transformation 04:57 Challenges and Learnings in Media Research 07:15 Colleen's Career Journey 11:11 Differences Between Media and Consumer Insights 14:23 Impact of AI on Media Insights 16:28 Advice for Aspiring Media Insights Professionals 20:20 Leadership and Influencing Skills 22:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Discover 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.   00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:32 Host Introduction and Episode Overview 01:17 David Boyle's Career Journey 02:55 The Role of AI in Market Research 06:18 AI's Impact on Audience Segmentation 12:55 The Four Ps Framework for Effective AI Use 15:04 Pragmatic Advice for Future Leaders 17:56 Conclusion and Farewell  

How 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.   00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:16 Differences Between CPG and Tech Insights 03:03 Marie's Career Journey 04:43 Consumer Centricity and Strategic Leadership 06:45 Impact of AI on Insights 08:58 Future-Proofing Careers in Insights 10:35 Leadership in Times of Rapid Change 13:05 Personal Career Advice from Marie 15:15 Opportunities and Threats in the Insights Industry 18:55 Conclusion and Final Thought

In 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 cultural fit in driving business impact through market research.

From 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!