Insights & Innovators Podcast from MRII

How Gen AI is Revolutionizing Market Research with Stefano PuntoniGenAI should not just help market research teams do today’s work faster, but enable “better things,” including work they are not doing at all. Stefano Puntoni, Co-Director, Wharton Human-AI Research, The Wharton School, joins host Nick Graham, Founder, Vertemis, to reframe GenAI’s impact from productivity to effectiveness, discussing just-in-time insights, synthetic data as an alternative to “no data,” and reaching hard-to-sample or restricted audiences. They unpack misconceptions and identity threat, argue for hybrid approaches combining human and synthetic inputs, and distinguish synthetic personas from true digital twins built from data on real individuals. The conversation also covers where LLMs may excel (belief estimation) versus struggle (context-driven experimental responses), how leaders can map use cases across the research workflow, and why accessible coding agents may accelerate experimentation.00:00 Beyond Efficiency00:20 Podcast Welcome01:38 Reframing Gen AI Value03:10 New Research Frontiers08:43 Better Things Not Faster09:55 Synthetic Data Basics10:45 Misconceptions And Threats15:47 When To Trust Synthetic21:22 Digital Twins Explained24:23 Can AI Model Humans31:57 What Leaders Should Do36:12 Staying Sane And Ahead38:07 Future Developments39:20 Key Takeaways OutroInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

“The first mistake people make is not hiring the people who look like who you’re trying to talk to.” In this episode, Kai Fuentes, President & CEO, Ebony Marketing Systems, joins host Zontziry “Z” Johnson, Founder, MRXplorer, to unpack what culturally aligned research really requires. They discuss why moderator–respondent alignment can unlock deeper insights, when it matters most (like hair, food, and lifestyle), and how nuance shows up as early as recruiting and screening across subgroups within broad demographics. Kai shares how Ebony builds cultural nuance into analysis, why speed expectations are changing, and how relationship-building and sharing findings back can strengthen trust with communities. They also explore training teams for diverse learning styles and lessons from Kai’s journey as a founder.00:00 Biggest Cultural Mistake00:22 Meet The Host And Guest01:28 Haircare Case Study05:57 Recruiting And Segments10:34 Cultural Nuance In Analysis12:35 Building Community Trust15:19 Training For Learning Styles20:11 Founder Lessons And Pivoting26:28 Wrap Up And ThanksInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

If insights teams don’t become best buddies with data science and AI, they risk getting sidelined. In this episode, host Nick Graham, Founder of Vertemis, is joined by Michelle Gansle, former Chief Data & Analytics Officer, McDonald’s, to talk about why insights needs to partner better with data and analytics instead of competing for control, budget, or credit. They discuss how big data created silos, why teams still rarely collaborate without being forced to, and how bringing consumer insights, business insights, and data science together early can create “one plus one equals three” outcomes. They explore practical ways to build bridges, from “day in the life” sharing to cross-conference learning, and how AI can support critical thinking, storytelling, and stakeholder-ready recommendations.00:00 Big Data Shockwave00:23 Meet the Host and Guest02:10 Is Insights Losing Ground02:48 Why Teams Compete07:19 AI as Common Cause10:08 Collaboration That Works13:42 Reframing Insights Role17:44 AI Tools and Hacks25:11 Future Skills for Leaders28:30 Practical Bridge Building32:35 Advice for Next Gen35:06 Wrap Up and SubscribeInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

Join us as Pavi Gupta, former VP of Insights & Analytics at Chobani, shares his extensive experience in the insights industry with host Stan Sthanunathan, CEO of i-Genie.AI. In this episode, they delve into the evolving role of insights in business, the importance of balancing technological innovation with domain expertise, and the critical difference between collaboration and consensus. Pavi also discusses the importance of curiosity, continuous learning, and the potential and pitfalls of AI in the market research field. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on driving business impact through insightful leadership.00:00 Introduction and Tech Collaboration00:36 Welcome to the Podcast01:00 Guest Introduction: Pavi Gupta02:05 Pavi's Career Journey06:09 The State of the Insights Industry08:32 Balancing Perfection and Progress12:44 AI's Role in the Future of Insights19:45 Leadership and Influence in Insights29:10 Advice for Newcomers in the AI Era32:26 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

Empowering consumer centricity across all levels is critical in today's rapidly evolving business environment. Join Kalindi Mehta, Global VP, Head of Insights, The Estée Lauder Companies, as she sits down with host Jon Last, President of the Sports and Leisure Research Group, to discuss strategies for embedding consumer insights into decision-making processes. This episode dives deep into the significance of democratizing consumer-centric decisions, leveraging AI and technology, and fostering a culture of shared ownership within organizations. Learn how to navigate the complexities of influencing decisions without formal authority and ensuring insights translate to tangible business results.00:00 Introduction to Business Language and Insights00:24 Welcome to the Podcast00:43 Guest Introduction: Kalindi Mehta01:24 Driving Decision Making and Impact at Scale02:30 The Evolution of Consumer-Centric Decisions03:30 Empowering Decision Makers with Consumer Insights06:16 Building Decision-Backed Systems09:20 Influencing Decisions at Scale15:15 The Role of Technology and AI17:27 Defining Success in Insights18:46 Organizational Structure and Insights21:28 Cultural Shifts for Consumer-Centricity22:49 Influencing Without Formal Authority24:09 Aligning Teams Across Markets25:48 Advice for Insights Professionals28:56 Advice for Agencies and Partners30:23 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of synthetic data and digital twins in marketing research. Host Niels Schillewaert of Conveo.ai is joined by Koen Pauwels, Associate Dean of Research at Northeastern University, who shares key insights from his recent conference at Columbia University. Learn about the practical applications of AI-generated data, why senior executives might over-rely on AI, and how synthetic data should augment human insights rather than replace them. Tune in to explore the benefits, pitfalls, and the future of synthetic data in marketing.00:00 Introduction: Overreliance on AI by Senior Executives00:33 Welcome to Tori's Insights and Innovators Podcast00:47 Introducing Today's Topic and Guest02:43 Understanding Synthetic Data and Digital Twins04:58 Comparing Traditional and Modern Research Tools06:41 Lessons from the Columbia University Conference08:57 The Role of Human Insight in AI11:52 Strategic Decision-Making with AI18:57 Addressing Bias in Digital Twins22:05 Combining AI with Human Input25:41 Practical Implementation Framework28:15 Future of Synthetic Data in Marketing30:14 Final Thoughts and AdviceInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

Generative AI requires human direction to excel, argues our guest, Tina Tonielli, former US & NA Lead, Consumer & Business Insights, Haleon. Join host Niels Schillewaert, Head of Research at Conveo.ai, as they delve into the concept of 'AI Sameness' and explore how insights professionals can maintain their creative edge in an era dominated by efficiency. Discover why Tina believes the real value of AI lies in augmenting human abilities rather than replacing them. Gain insights into the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and maintaining a growth mindset in leveraging AI for impactful business results.00:00 Introduction to AI and Efficiency00:26 Welcome to the Podcast00:39 Understanding AI Sameness01:46 Generative AI in Business Insights03:31 Efficiency vs. Effectiveness in AI06:02 Driving Business Impact with Insights09:40 Generative AI as a Research Assistant13:49 Optimism for AI in Insights17:42 Advice for Insights Professionals27:19 Final Thoughts and ConclusionInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

Join us in this episode of Insights and Innovators as James Cummings, SVP, Global Head of Consumer & Business Intelligence at Kenvue, delves into the evolving role of AI in market research. Cummings discusses the critical transformation needed for insights functions to remain pivotal in business decisions and highlights the importance of balancing data with human empathy. Dissecting the notion that AI can sometimes be misleading, he advocates for human-centric decision-making to maintain a competitive edge. Gain invaluable perspectives on navigating the changing landscape of consumer insights, the influence of AI, and the importance of human touch in analytics.00:00 Introduction to AI Driven Foresight00:28 Welcome to Insights and Innovators Podcast00:49 Introducing Today's Topic and Guest01:58 Big Changes in the World of Insights04:36 Threats and Opportunities in Insights06:17 The Role of AI in Insights12:38 Leadership and Influencing Skills18:38 Advice for Agency Partners20:48 Future of Insights23:40 Conclusion and Closing RemarksInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

When insights partnerships fall short, what can be done? Join Nick Graham, Founder of Vertemis and former global insights leader at Mondelez and PepsiCo, as he discusses the challenges and solutions in the world of market research and insights partnerships. In this episode of MRII’s Insights and Innovators podcast, Nick reveals where the disconnect happens between agencies and clients, shares real-life examples, and offers a strategic approach to evolving the industry. Learn what both sides need to do differently to drive impactful business growth and how to better leverage technology in research.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:54 Meet Nick Graham: Insights Leader01:29 Challenges in Insights Partnerships02:11 Nick's Perspective on Insights Impact05:29 Real-Life Examples of Insights Failures09:48 Redesigning Brand-Agency Relationships14:57 Client-Side Responsibilities19:39 From Insights to Strategy26:07 Advice for Future Insights Leaders31:40 Conclusion and FarewellInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

Success hinges on finding the right balance between humans and AI. In this episode of MRII's Insights and Innovators podcast, host Z Johnson is joined by Simon Glass, CEO of Discuss. Together, they delve into the impact of AI on the workplace, examining how it redefines roles, the importance of critical thinking, and effective change management strategies. With AI automating various tasks, discover how organizational dynamics and leadership must evolve to prepare and empower employees in this new hybrid environment.00:00 Introduction: Balancing Human and AI in the Workplace00:39 Podcast Introduction and Guest Introduction01:40 Transforming Teams with AI: A Leader's Perspective03:33 AI's Impact on Job Roles and Skills05:49 Critical Thinking: The Key to Thriving with AI09:19 Change Management in the Age of AI13:21 Balancing AI and Human Roles19:05 Advice for Leaders and Employees on AI Integration21:54 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

“AI helps you understand what keeps people awake at night without human bias.” In this episode of MRII's Insights and Innovators podcast, host Niels Schillewaert, Head of Research at Conveo.ai, speaks with Stan Sthanunathan, CEO of i-Genie.AI. Stan shares his journey from corporate roles at Unilever and Coca-Cola to co-founding his AI-driven insights company. The discussion covers reinventing oneself, the evolving role of AI in the insights industry, and valuable advice for early to mid-career professionals and leaders on leveraging AI while maintaining human-centricity. Tune in for a candid conversation on the future of insights and leadership.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:47 Meet Stan Sthanunathan: A Career Overview02:06 The Pivot to Entrepreneurship03:34 Challenges of Starting a New Company05:33 The Role of AI in Insights10:27 AI's Impact and Limitations21:45 Skills for Thriving in the AI Era25:28 Advice for Leaders on AI Integration28:01 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

“Stop trying to pretend that everything is smooth.”In this episode of Insights and Innovators, host Jon Last sits down with Brianna Sylver, President of Sylver Consulting and author of 'Leading Through Free Fall'. They discuss how researchers and innovators can navigate project turbulence, reframe resistance, and create safe landings for their ideas. Brianna delves into understanding emotional intelligence, creating actionable insights, and maintaining stakeholder engagement from concept to implementation.Tune in as they explore practical tools and strategies to manage change and drive innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of market research.00:00 Introduction to Resistance in Projects00:18 Welcome to Insights and Innovators Podcast00:32 Interview with Brianna Sylver01:07 Understanding Turbulence and Resistance02:18 The Grief Curve and Project Resistance03:54 Framework for Innovation: Suiting Up, Free Fall, and Safe Landing04:11 Suiting Up: Preparing for Project Success07:24 Navigating Resistance: Embracing Free Fall08:39 Real-World Examples and Practical Tools17:59 Safe Landing: Ensuring Implementation Success22:59 Future of Innovation and Emotional Intelligence24:33 Conclusion and Free Gift for ListenersInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

Discover how Robinhood's research team navigates the rapidly changing financial landscape to democratize finance for all. In this episode of MRII's Insights and Innovators podcast, Katie Gross speaks with Celeste Ridlen, Head of Research at Robinhood. They discuss the crucial role of research in shaping Robinhood's product and marketing strategies, the evolving responsibilities of insights leaders, and how Robinhood leverages AI to enhance research efficacy. Learn about the unique challenges faced by a high-growth fintech company and the strategies used to stay agile and customer-focused.00:00 Introduction to Insights and Innovators Podcast00:28 Meet Celeste Ridlen: Head of Research at Robinhood01:08 The Role of Research in Robinhood's Mission03:31 Impact of Insights on Product and Marketing05:05 Ensuring Research is Acted Upon07:10 Executive Expectations and Demonstrating Value10:11 Staying Agile in Research Approaches12:20 Leveraging AI in Research15:53 Essential Skills for Modern Researchers19:12 Challenges in Data Accuracy20:55 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

Senior leaders don't want the data, they want the answer. In this episode of 'Insights and Innovators' hosted by Zontziry “Z” Johnson, Founder of MRXplorer, J. Walker Smith, Chief Knowledge Officer at Kantar, discusses the vital importance of presentation delivery. He shares how to effectively connect data with people, tackle common delivery mistakes, and why eye contact and hand movements matter. Smith also covers strategies for ending presentations strongly, handling Q&A sessions, and the importance of practice and preparation.Chapters00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Delivery in Presentations00:17 Welcome to MI Eyes Podcast00:30 Data to Drama: Part Two with Kantar's Jay Walker Smith01:05 The Significance of Delivery Over Data03:01 Common Presentation Mistakes04:32 Rapid Fire Tips for Effective Presentations08:20 The Power of Ending Strong13:06 Handling Q&A Sessions18:39 Final Thoughts and Practical Advice21:28 Closing Remarks and Thank You22:55 Writing a Letter to the Next Generation27:29 Guiding Principles: Passion and Bravery28:49 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

Want your audience to remember your big idea? Join Zontziry 'Z' Johnson as she speaks with J. Walker Smith, Chief Knowledge Officer at Kantar, on the 'Insights and Innovators' podcast. Smith shares his expertise on the art and science of storytelling with data, including why many research presentations are forgettable and how to ensure your key point sticks. Get tips on creating impactful headlines, structuring your story, and understanding the importance of focusing on one central idea to make your presentations truly memorable.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:35 Meet J. Walker Smith01:17 The Art of Storytelling with Data04:32 Engaging Different Audiences12:56 Crafting Memorable Headlines16:35 Structuring Your Presentation22:04 The Perfect One-Slide Presentation26:02 Conclusion and FarewellInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/

Discover why John Dick, Founder and CEO of CivicScience, believes that paying survey respondents introduces bias and why shorter surveys offer better data. In this episode of Insights and Innovators by MRII, host Jon Last explores CivicScience's innovative micro-survey method that scales to over a million responses daily without financial incentives. Learn about the evolution of syndicated data, the impact of AI, and the importance of storytelling in market research. This session is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of market research and insights.00:00 Introduction to Market Research Trends00:13 Welcome and Episode Overview00:26 Guest Introduction: John Dick of CivicScience00:37 The Problem with Traditional Surveys00:56 Civic Science's Innovative Approach01:39 Engaging Respondents Without Incentives01:59 The Importance of Short Surveys04:56 Scaling Data Collection07:24 Ensuring Data Representativeness10:24 Comparing Traditional and New Methods12:38 Challenges in Convincing Clients15:34 Efficiency and Profitability of New Methods17:35 The Role of AI in Market Research21:39 Skills for Success in Market Research25:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Discover what separates a 'wow' insight from a great insight, and why commercial acumen is key. Join Stan Sthanunathan, CEO of i-Genie.AI, as he chats with Vijay Raj, EVP of Consumer and Market Insights at Unilever. Learn how insights can drive business decisions at the C-suite level, shape your career, and transform the trajectory of a brand. Vijay shares valuable perspectives on the future of the insights industry, the role of AI, and essential advice for aspiring insights professionals.00:00 Introduction to Wow Insights00:13 Welcome to the Podcast00:57 Meet Our Guest: Vijay Raj02:08 Vijay's Career Journey03:40 The Pyramid of Insights06:31 Leadership and Influencing Skills09:44 Advice for Aspiring Professionals19:51 Opportunities and Challenges in Insights20:47 The Role of Technology and AI28:03 Future of Insights Functions30:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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 World00:15 Welcome to MRII's Insights and Innovators Podcast00:37 Introducing Mark Hardy and Walmart Data Ventures01:26 The Creation and Evolution of Walmart Data Ventures03:41 Core Principles for Success at Walmart Data Ventures06:40 Unique Market Differentiation of Walmart Data Ventures12:00 Leveraging AI for Business Insights and Actions19:37 Skills and Qualities for a High-Performing Insights Team23:34 Leadership Lessons and Industry Trends27:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Navigating nothing to lose moments and beyond. Join us in this episode of MRII'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 Presentations00:27 Welcome to Tori's Insights and Innovators Podcast00:48 Introducing Stan Natan: A Storied Career01:39 Capitalizing on 'Nothing to Lose' Moments03:55 Mentorship and Impactful Guidance05:26 Taking Pride in the Insights Function07:11 Learning the Hard Way: Developing a Backbone10:52 Defining Great Insights Work12:15 The Power of Storytelling in Insights15:31 Creating Impactful Insights Leaders17:16 Timeless Skills for Insights Practitioners19:21 Staying Relevant in a Fast-Paced Industry22:55 Writing a Letter to the Next Generation27:29 Guiding Principles: Passion and Bravery28:49 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 Podcast00:35 Meet Nancy Smith: A Leader in Marketing Analytics01:13 The Evolution of Analytics in Decision Making03:39 Understanding Commercial Analytics07:39 Challenges and Adoption in Analytics15:11 Building a Successful Analytics Company21:25 Future of Analytics and Career Advice24:41 Conclusion and Farewell