In this episode of the Greenbook Podcast, host Karen Lynch sits down with longtime friend and industry veteran Michelle Finzel, Senior Manager of Consumer Insights at DAP Global. Michelle shares her unique career journey — from growing up in her mother’s market research business, to running Maryland Marketing Source for nearly a decade, to making the leap into corporate life at a leading home improvement manufacturer.

She reflects on navigating the challenges of COVID, letting go of business ownership, and discovering new fulfillment and balance in an in-house role. Along the way, Michelle offers valuable lessons on transferable skills, building collaborative teams, streamlining vendor relationships, and embracing change with confidence.

Key Discussion Points:

• Michelle’s career evolution from small business owner to corporate insights leader
• Lessons learned transitioning from self-employment to working within a large organization
• How DAP integrates research into product development and innovation
• Balancing in-house capabilities with trusted external research partners
• The importance of community, collaboration, and inclusive workplace initiatives

Resources & Links:

• DAP Global
• Qualitative Research Consultants Association (QRCA)

You can reach out to Michelle Finzel on LinkedIn.

Many thanks to Michelle Finzel for being our guest. Thanks also to our production team and our editor at Big Bad Audio.