In this episode of the Greenbook Podcast, host Karen Lynch sits down with Bethan Blakeley, Research & CX Manager at SimpliSafe UK, to discuss her journey from agency-side researcher to client-side insights leader. Bethan shares what it’s like to be a research team of one, balancing strategic priorities with stakeholder demands, and how she builds trust with both agencies and internal partners.

She also opens up about work-life balance as a parent of two, the importance of transparent communication, and why trust is at the heart of successful client–agency partnerships. From shaping TV ad campaigns to instilling customer-centricity across her organization, Bethan reveals how insights come to life when researchers are empowered.

Key Discussion Points:

• Transitioning from agency to client side and lessons learned.
• Building insights functions as a team of one at SimpliSafe UK.
• Why trust and transparent communication are essential in client–agency relationships.
• Balancing stakeholder priorities while driving strategic research.
• Navigating parental leave, work-life balance, and modeling healthy boundaries.

Resources & Links:

• SimpliSafe UK
• SimpliSafe US
• Zappi
• AURA UK

You can reach out to Bethan Blakeley on LinkedIn.

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