What is a realist interview, really? How do we design interviews and focus groups that go beyond collecting stories to actually testing and refining theory?

In this engaging and thought-provoking episode, Alejandro is joined by Professor Ana Manzano — a leading thinker in realist methodology — to unpack exactly that. From the roots of theory-driven interviewing to the practical realities of asking “how” and “why,” Ana shares insights that will change how you think about realist research.

Drawing on decades of experience in evaluating complex health and social interventions, Ana explores how realist interviews work, when (and why) they don’t, and what ittakes to build genuinely dialogical, theory-informed conversations with stakeholders.

Whether you’re planning your first realist interview, refining programme theory, or simply looking for practical wisdom from someone who's been there — this episode is for you.