Insights & Innovators Podcast from MRII

How Research Drives Innovation at Robinhood with Celeste Ridlen

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 Podcast
00:28 Meet Celeste Ridlen: Head of Research at Robinhood
01:08 The Role of Research in Robinhood's Mission
03:31 Impact of Insights on Product and Marketing
05:05 Ensuring Research is Acted Upon
07:10 Executive Expectations and Demonstrating Value
10:11 Staying Agile in Research Approaches
12:20 Leveraging AI in Research
15:53 Essential Skills for Modern Researchers
19:12 Challenges in Data Accuracy
20:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 

The Case Against Paying Research Respondents with John Dick

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 Trends
00:13 Welcome and Episode Overview
00:26 Guest Introduction: John Dick of CivicScience
00:37 The Problem with Traditional Surveys
00:56 Civic Science's Innovative Approach
01:39 Engaging Respondents Without Incentives
01:59 The Importance of Short Surveys
04:56 Scaling Data Collection
07:24 Ensuring Data Representativeness
10:24 Comparing Traditional and New Methods
12:38 Challenges in Convincing Clients
15:34 Efficiency and Profitability of New Methods
17:35 The Role of AI in Market Research
21:39 Skills for Success in Market Research
25:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Beyond Insights: Shaping Business Decisions and Strategy with Vijay Raj

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 Insights
00:13 Welcome to the Podcast
00:57 Meet Our Guest: Vijay Raj
02:08 Vijay's Career Journey
03:40 The Pyramid of Insights
06:31 Leadership and Influencing Skills
09:44 Advice for Aspiring Professionals
19:51 Opportunities and Challenges in Insights
20:47 The Role of Technology and AI
28:03 Future of Insights Functions
30:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

An Inside Look at Walmart’s Insights Advantage with Mark Hardy

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

Lessons Learned: A Life in Insights with Stan Sthanunathan

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 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
 

From Report Card to Growth Engine with Nancy Smith, Analytic Partners

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

Cracking the Code of Modern Media with Helen Katz, Publicis

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

The OG of Customer Lifetime Value: A Conversation with Wharton’s Pete Fader.

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