More Bang for Your Buck

In this episode, Morag is joined by Tom Prentice, social and brand strategist and former lead of Ogilvy Social Lab London, to explore why brands need to rethink their approach to social. Together, they discuss how social has evolved from a broadcast channel into an ecosystem shaped by creators, communities, commerce and culture. From the importance of authenticity and emotional connection to the r...

In this episode, Morag speaks to Michelle Roberts, Brand Strategist and Co-founder of Red Line Foundry about why focusing on the brand and product so often fails to deliver growth, and what businesses should be looking at instead. Together, they unpack the shift from product thinking to problem thinking, and the three critical questions every team should be asking: is it a real human problem, is i...

In this episode, Claire is joined by Ruth Hinton, Chair of AURA, to explore how stronger client-agency partnerships can unlock greater value from research and insight. Together, they discuss the principles behind AURA’s Working Well Together Charter, examining the common challenges that can undermine collaboration and the practical steps organisations can take to build more productive, trusting re...

In this episode, Claire explores whether objectivity is always the gold standard in research, in conversation with Sam Salama, Insights Lead at the Met Police.  Together, they examine where objectivity genuinely matters - and where it can limit impact - discussing the role of judgement, prioritisation, and the responsibility researchers and insight teams have to bring a clear, commercially grounde...

In this episode, Morag explores how AI can (and can’t) support qualitative research with Hugh, founder of Live Minds. Hugh shares his journey in the industry and offers a practical view on where AI adds real value highlighting why human expertise is still essential for context-rich interpretation and strategic decision-making.  Together, they discuss AI’s potential to widen access to research, the...

In this episode, Claire is joined by Coral McConnon, founder of 8 Innovation, to discuss the value of 'listening at the edges' in research for driving innovation.  They delve into the importance of exploring the perspectives of extreme users, early adopters, brand lovers, and haters to fuel creativity and breakthrough ideas. By steering away from the mainstream and habitual thinking, Cla...

In this episode, Claire is joined by Giulia Romanò, head of customer innovation at Field Notes, and they dive into the dangers of “content foie gras” - when research gets stuffed with too many questions. They discuss why focus starts with purpose, how to manage client expectations, and why keeping research lean shows respect for everyone involved, from participants to clients. 

In this episode, Claire talks with Aileen Bentall, Head of Shopper and Consumer Insights at Heineken UK, about the art of writing a great brief. Aileen shares why a strong brief acts as a North Star for any project - aligning stakeholders, guiding agencies, and setting the foundation for smarter, more impactful research.  She highlights the importance of openness, context, and collaboration and re...

In this episode, Claire explores the power of curiosity with Nicky Thompson, co-founder of Bright Futures Research. Together, they unpack what it means to stay curious in the face of tight deadlines, limited budgets, and growing pressure to deliver.  Nicky reflects on how fear and familiarity can dull creative thinking, and why openness, questioning, and reframing are essential for deeper insight....

In this episode, Claire and guest Susie Mullen, a quant researcher and data analyst, discuss the importance of revisiting existing data to ensure new research isn't redundant and to enhance the quality of briefs. They talk about the barriers that prevent clients from revisiting data, including time pressures and the appeal of quick results.  

In this episode, Claire discusses the value of hypotheses and pitfalls to avoid with Paul Thomas, Global Insights Director at Suntory. Paul shares insights from his industry experience, stressing the significance of forming initial hypotheses, managing stakeholder opinions, and maintaining flexibility to adapt findings.