In this episode, we’re joined by Sibulele Mjali, a seasoned Consumer Insights specialist with nearly a decade of experience driving strategy for leading FMCG brands like Premier Foods and Ferrero. Together, we explore how today’s insights landscape is evolving and what it really takes to uncover the human truths behind the numbers.

From uncovering emotional narratives in quantitative data to navigating the challenges facing insights teams today, she brings a refreshing, story-first perspective to the world of consumer understanding.

We also unpack real examples where research has shaped high-impact strategic decisions, demonstrating how powerful market insights can be when brands truly listen.

Tune in for:

- How the market research landscape has evolved—and what trends matter now

- Why the real magic in research lies in the stories behind the data

- A behind-the-scenes example of data influencing major brand decisions

- Five practical tips for blending quant and qual to unlock deeper, more actionable insights

Learn more about SMG: ⁠https://smg.com/⁠

Read our latest blog on why you need brand communities: ⁠https://smg.com/blog/brand-communities-your-secret-weapon-for-agility-and-customer-loyalty⁠

In this episode, we’re joined by Ariane Guy, Senior Manager of Brand Experience at European Wax Center (EWC), to explore what it takes to design unforgettable customer experiences in a world that often prioritizes digital over human connection.

From the deeply personal nature of beauty and self-care to the importance of creating consistency across hundreds of in-person touchpoints, Ariane shares how EWC builds experiences that go beyond service to foster confidence, trust, and loyalty.

We also explore how AI is helping EWC transform mountains of guest feedback into clear, actionable insights, empowering teams to focus on what matters most and create seamless, thoughtful, and memorable experiences at scale.

This conversation dives into the realities of modern customer journeys—where every moment matters, from booking to follow-up—and unpacks how actionable insights, emotional connection, and seamless design come together to keep guests coming back.

Tune in for:

• Why real, human touchpoints still matter in a digital-first landscape

• How AI and data are shaping smarter, more efficient CX strategies for EWC

• A lightbulb moment where customer experience truly came to life

• Tips to design experiences that are memorable and drive long-term loyalty

Learn more about SMG: https://smg.com/ 
Read our latest blog on why you need brand communities: https://smg.com/blog/brand-communities-your-secret-weapon-for-agility-and-customer-loyalty

In this episode, we’re joined by Nicola Gunby, Co-Founder and CMO of CLIQ, to explore why real-life connection is making a major comeback in a digital-first world. As social media shifts from connection to content consumption, CLIQ is flipping the script—putting the “social” back into social media.

Nicola shares how she’s helping brands build meaningful communities, and how co-creation communities are playing a crucial role in shaping standout brand and customer experiences. From micro-communities that act as powerful advocates to the importance of genuine engagement over vanity metrics, this episode unpacks the new rules of community building.

From lightbulb moments of community building success to the evolving roles of influencers, creators, and loyal customers, this conversation dives into what community really means today, and how brands can truly get it right.

Tune in for:

• The rising power of branded communities
• Defining the real MVPs: influencers vs. advocates
• How co-creation communities drive better brand experiences
• Tips to build authentic, thriving brand ecosystems

Learn more about Bulbshare: www.bulbshare.com
Download our latest Gen Z shopper report: https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/whitepapers/generation-flex-how-gen-z-shoppers-are-redefining-the-grocery-aisle/705172.article

In this episode of Bulbshare Future Voices, we’re joined by Sheila Akinnusi, Head of Research and Insights at Nedbank, to explore how financial services can stay ahead by putting consumers at the heart of innovation.

With nearly two decades of experience across financial services, insurance, and FMCG, Sheila shares her expert perspective on:

• How market research drives decision-making in banking

• The biggest shifts in consumer expectations over recent years

• The complex role of AI in financial services

• Where predictive analytics is taking the future of banking

• Her top three tips for turning insights into innovation

Tune in to discover why truly understanding your audience is the key to banking on success, and how your business can harness insights for smarter, more human-centred growth.  

Learn more about Bulbshare: www.bulbshare.com

Download our latest Gen Z shopper report: https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/whitepapers/generation-flex-how-gen-z-shoppers-are-redefining-the-grocery-aisle/705172.article 

In this episode of Bulbshare Future Voices, we sit down with Mamta Mithal, Bulbshare's Associate Director, to explore the transformative power of video research and AI in the world of consumer insights. Mamta dives into how this dynamic approach is reshaping traditional market research methods, offering deeper, more authentic understandings of consumer behaviour. From overcoming challenges to tapping into the latest advancements in video technology, Mamta shares invaluable tips on how to leverage video research to drive growth and innovation. Tune in for actionable insights that will take your consumer research to the next level.Download our latest report: https://bit.ly/4i2vIbiCatch up on our latest webinar: https://bit.ly/4gPbyRb

What happens when AI meets human intuition in market research? In this episode, we sit down with Abi Awomosu, founder of Data, Heart and Soul, as well as ex-Uber, Meta, eBay and Microsoft insights expert, to explore the answer.

From demystifying "AI hallucination" to unlocking qualitative insights at scale, Abi shares the cutting-edge future trends for consumer research. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of how data and humanity are transforming the business landscape - and what this means for you.

Watch our latest webinar:

Learn more about Bulbshare: https://bit.ly/47JTJim

In this episode, we sit down with Tshedza Magugumela, ex-Community Engagement Manager at Airbnb Middle East and Africa, to explore the transformative power of community-driven marketing.  

Tshedza shares his insights from his time at Airbnb, where he witnessed firsthand how prioritising community input and engagement can shape impactful marketing strategies. From lightbulb moments that sparked innovative campaigns to tips on fostering authentic relationships in a digital-first world, this episode dives deep into what it means to be a truly community-powered brand.   

Whether you’re a marketing leader, an insight professional, or simply curious about the future of community-driven marketing, this episode is packed with valuable insights, real-world examples, and future-facing predictions.  

Tune in to discover how your brand can create meaningful connections that resonate deeply with your audience.

In this episode of Bulbshare Future Voices, we sit down with Thomas Snitker, Head of Research at the LEGO Agency, to explore the role of AI and synthetic data in redefining consumer insights and shaping the future of brand storytelling.

Thomas discusses how LEGO uses AI to dive deeper into understanding its global audience, tapping into the power of synthetic data to reach new levels of creativity and precision. He reveals how LEGO is blending AI with traditional research to create data-driven, emotionally resonant experiences for consumers.

Tune in to explore:

- How LEGO leverages AI to strengthen its connection with fans and tailor experiences across diverse markets.

- The role of synthetic data in unlocking more meaningful insights and creative brand strategies.

- Innovations in AI that allow brands to understand and predict consumer needs more effectively.

- Practical guidance for brands interested in integrating AI to build stronger, insight-led connections with audiences.

Listen in for an inspiring look at how AI is helping LEGO make data feel human!

To learn more about Bulbshare, click here: https://bulbshare.com/

In this episode of Bulbshare Future Voices, we sit down with Simon Pollock, Global Insights and Analytics Lead at Kellanova, to unpack the evolving role of AI in consumer insights and its power to drive smarter business decisions.

Simon shares how AI is not only transforming data processing but also enhancing the way brands understand and anticipate consumer trends - bridging meaning with efficiency.

In 2023 the ‘consumer’ no longer just ‘consumes’. They innovate. They co-create. They advocate.

But how can your brand empower its customers to become co-architects of its mission? Bulbshare talks with TikTok’s Janay Marie and giffgaff’s Roxy Baciu to unpick the power of the people that truly make your brand special: your customers.

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