Data Gurus Podcast | Insights on Business Strategy, Mergers and Acquisitions, Market Research & Data Collection

Sima Vasa
  • 5.0 (50)
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  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Welcome to the the Data Gurus Podcast! The world around us is changing faster than ever before. From automation, artificial intelligence, big data, geo-location to every aspect of how we work and live. This includes DATA. Welcome to Data Gurus Podcast… our mission is to bring you a real life perspective on what’s happening in the data industry and how successful companies and individuals in this niche navigate through the sea of change. Encouraging you to Be Bold, Be Brave and Be Fearless – Let’s navigate the Data Ecosystem together.

  1. From Gut Decisions to Causal Scenarios in Research with Jason Cohen of Simulacra Synthetic Data Studio

    17H AGO

    From Gut Decisions to Causal Scenarios in Research with Jason Cohen of Simulacra Synthetic Data Studio

    On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks to Jason Cohen, Founder and CEO of Simulacra Synthetic Data Studio, about the limits of traditional research, the evolution of synthetic data, and why causal modeling matters more than larger sample sizes. Drawing on his experience building and exiting Gastrograph AI, Jason explains how real-world data gaps undermine decision-making and how synthetic data can support scenario-based predictions when applied responsibly. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 05:24 Most brands can’t know in advance if research data is “correct.”​ 09:44 Generic LLM personas rarely represent any real population.​ 13:08 Cross‑coverage lets AI infer missing audience segments.​ 16:04 Synthetic data is real when it’s actually used.​ 19:36 Diversity in base samples drives credible synthetic expansion.​ 23:28 Sample boosting alone doesn’t fix bad research outcomes.​ 25:08 Synthetic data scales insights for hard‑to‑reach cohorts.​ 26:08 Misused synthetic personas can drive completely wrong decisions.​ Resources Mentioned: Simulacra Synthetic Data Studio | Website Thanks for listening to the Data Gurus podcast, brought to you by Infinity Squared. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #Analytics #MA #Data #Strategy #Innovation #Acquisitions #MRX #Restech

    29 min
  2. Linking Cultural Insight, AI and Brand Growth with David Wellisch of Collage Group

    FEB 10

    Linking Cultural Insight, AI and Brand Growth with David Wellisch of Collage Group

    On this episode, David Wellisch, Co-Founder and CEO of Collage Group, talks to Sima Vasa about cultural intelligence as a measurable driver of brand relevance, growth and purchase intent. David shares his path from AOL and private equity to founding Collage Group. He explains how understanding consumer values, linking insight to activation and leveraging proprietary data and AI helps brands drive meaningful business outcomes. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 03:15 Identifying demographic shifts creates massive entrepreneurial opportunities. 06:43 Marketers must link cultural insights to shareholder value. 09:44 Targeting consumer values is more effective than demographics.  13:31 AI makes proprietary data sets massively more discoverable.  17:03 Understanding the why allows for better business strategy.  20:54 Successful companies solve problems rather than just selling. Resources Mentioned: Collage Group | Website Thanks for listening to the Data Gurus podcast, brought to you by Infinity Squared. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #Analytics #MA #Data #Strategy #Innovation #Acquisitions #MRX #Restech

    24 min
  3. Synthetic Sample with Carol Sue Haney of Qualtrics

    JAN 13

    Synthetic Sample with Carol Sue Haney of Qualtrics

    Host Sima Vasa welcomes Carol Sue Haney, Head of Research and Data Science, Engineering at Qualtrics, to discuss the transformative role of AI and data science in the market research industry.  Carol Sue explains Qualtrics’ early bet on generative AI and the development of proprietary LLMs, moving into agentic work and synthetic sampling, which she predicts will rival non-probability human sampling for quick-turn research. She emphasizes the challenges CMOs face with data overload and the fundamental importance of using regression analysis to link customer experience (CX) data, including the surprising weight of marketing messages, to crucial business outcomes like renewal and revenue growth.  Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 03:12 Data research careers spanned decades before computers existed. 06:35 Early generative AI investment provides significant competitive advantages. 09:20 Synthetic research boosts accuracy using rich, proven seed data. 13:02 AI models instantly incorporate new information for continuous improvement. 17:09 Regression remains essential for identifying true business drivers. 20:42 Curated data and guided AI make regression faster and reliable. 24:18 Financial independence through careers empowers women in critical ways. 25:42 Mentorship and knowledge sharing strengthen the entire research industry. Resources Mentioned: Qualtrics | Website #Analytics #MA #Data #Strategy #Innovation #Acquisitions #MRX #Restech

    14 min
  4. Why Insights Need a Spotify Moment with Casper Henningsen of GetWhy

    12/02/2025

    Why Insights Need a Spotify Moment with Casper Henningsen of GetWhy

    Host Sima Vasa talks to Casper Henningsen, CEO and Co-Founder of GetWhy, about reimagining insights through technology, empathy and human connection. Casper shares his unconventional journey from professional sports to entrepreneurship, highlighting how patience, curiosity and deep understanding of human behavior have shaped his company’s mission to make insights more actionable and creative for modern businesses. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction.01:52 Transitioning from sports to business brings valuable discipline and focus. 04:10 Strong insights drive creativity, profitability and better decision-making. 06:55 Patience and curiosity are essential for meaningful business growth. 10:55 Modern marketing requires dynamic, always-on decision-making models. 13:33 Human empathy remains central to driving innovation and connection. 15:47 Real conversations create richer datasets for strategic decision-making. 19:30 Effective storytelling and packaging determine insights adoption. 21:18 The future of insights lies in consumable, engaging content formats. 24:08 Shifting from projects to capabilities creates long-term impact. 26:52 Visionary leadership and collaboration drive successful transformation. Resources Mentioned: GetWhy | Website Thanks for listening to the “Data Gurus” podcast, brought to you by Infinity Squared. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #Analytics #MA #Data #Strategy #Innovation #Acquisitions #MRX #Restech

    16 min
  5. Leading Change Without Losing Connection with Tim Wragg of Human8

    11/18/2025

    Leading Change Without Losing Connection with Tim Wragg of Human8

    On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks to Tim Wragg, CEO of Human8, who shares insights on leadership, AI’s role in research, and maintaining human connection in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Tim discusses how trust, empathy and timing remain vital in an industry defined by data abundance and technological transformation. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:54 Behavioral science background shaped leadership in insights. 05:56 Strong networks consistently drive new business opportunities. 08:58 Human-led insights, AI-enabled, define the mission. 11:26 East-to-west innovation now reshapes brand strategies. 15:20 Synthetic data accelerates low-risk performance decisions. 17:50 Leaders should regularly meet real customers in person. 20:49 Cultural context often determines new product success. 24:32 Pace transformation carefully to protect teams and stakeholders. 27:26 AI changes slowly, then suddenly accelerates across organizations. Resources Mentioned: Human8 | Website Thanks for listening to the “Data Gurus” podcast, brought to you by Infinity Squared. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #Analytics #MA #Data #Strategy #Innovation #Acquisitions #MRX #Restech

    14 min
  6. Teaching the ‘Why’ Behind Advanced Analytics with Megan Peitz of Numerious

    10/23/2025

    Teaching the ‘Why’ Behind Advanced Analytics with Megan Peitz of Numerious

    Sima Vasa speaks with Megan Peitz, Founder and Owner of Numerious. Megan shares her journey from math and statistics at Georgetown to building a powerhouse analytics consultancy, partnering directly with global product teams and empowering more leaders to make data-driven decisions. The episode covers Megan’s approach to advanced analytics, the foundations of Numerious, client partnership strategies and Megan’s commitment to transparency and teaching. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 03:28 Curiosity drives effective business problem-solving. 09:12 Teaching methodology builds client trust and adoption. 10:59 Choice-based research simulates real purchasing decisions. 15:19 AI tools require human context validation. 16:17 Statistical quality checks improve data reliability. 17:48 Smart planning upfront leads to stronger insights later. 21:50 The best insights come from collaboration, not hierarchy. 23:09 Leading projects for major brands fuels future impact. Resources Mentioned: Numerious | Website Thanks for listening to the “Data Gurus” podcast, brought to you by Infinity Squared. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #Analytics #MA #Data #Strategy #Innovation #Acquisitions #MRX #Restech

    25 min
  7. How Client Voices Drive Strategy with Elizabeth Finn of The Directions Group

    10/07/2025

    How Client Voices Drive Strategy with Elizabeth Finn of The Directions Group

    On this episode, host Sima Vasa talks to Elizabeth Finn, President and CEO of The Directions Group. Elizabeth shares her journey from market research beginnings to leading a respected insights firm. She explains how she is guiding the company with an AI-first mindset, integrated intelligence framework and client-centric leadership. Elizabeth offers candid reflections on building strategy without a playbook, empowering teams and breaking barriers as a woman CEO in the industry. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 03:05 Early experiences build the foundation for client-centric leadership. 07:00 Direct client interaction creates credibility and market relevance. 09:08 A disciplined approach ensures strategy delivers measurable results. 11:00 Transparency and consistent communication drive cultural alignment. 15:11 AI requires reimagining workflows, not just automation. 21:13 Leaders strengthen culture by listening before giving direction. 24:18 Reflection and recognition help overcome imposter syndrome. 25:42 Rapid decision-making is essential when you don’t have a defined playbook. Resources Mentioned: The Directions Group | Website Thanks for listening to the “Data Gurus” podcast, brought to you by Infinity Squared. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #Analytics #MA #Data #Strategy #Innovation #Acquisitions #MRX #Restech

    13 min
  8. Solving Data Quality Challenges with Dyna Boen of Escalent, Jon Kay of Intuit, Bob Fawson of Data Quality Co-op and Steven Snell of Rep Data

    09/23/2025

    Solving Data Quality Challenges with Dyna Boen of Escalent, Jon Kay of Intuit, Bob Fawson of Data Quality Co-op and Steven Snell of Rep Data

    On this episode, host Sima Vasa leads a candid panel discussion on the state of data quality with four industry leaders: Dyna Boen, EVP/Managing Director of Escalent; Jon Kay, Principal Market Research Manager of Intuit; Bob Fawson, Co-Founder of Data Quality Co-Op; and Steven Snell, EVP, Head of Research of Rep Data. Together, they explore the growing challenges of fraud, trust and integrity in research, and the solutions needed to safeguard reliable insights. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 03:26 Prospect panel data quality has declined sharply. 08:30 The industry faces a coordination problem in data quality. 11:42 Good-looking fraud now impacts up to a quarter of respondents. 18:20 Vendor tools differ greatly in detecting fraud and inattention. 24:28 Respondent experience is critical to achieving trustworthy results. 26:38 Brands cannot rely on flawed data for product launches or tracking. 31:02 Industry change is accelerating, creating both risk and opportunity. 32:54 Real progress begins when clients ask vendors the tough questions. 35:06 Data quality is a game of inches, not silver bullets. Resources Mentioned: Escalent | Website Intuit | Website Data Quality Co-Op | Website Rep Data | Website Thanks for listening to the “Data Gurus” podcast, brought to you by Infinity Squared. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #Analytics #MA #Data #Strategy #Innovation #Acquisitions #MRX #Restech

    18 min
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About

Welcome to the the Data Gurus Podcast! The world around us is changing faster than ever before. From automation, artificial intelligence, big data, geo-location to every aspect of how we work and live. This includes DATA. Welcome to Data Gurus Podcast… our mission is to bring you a real life perspective on what’s happening in the data industry and how successful companies and individuals in this niche navigate through the sea of change. Encouraging you to Be Bold, Be Brave and Be Fearless – Let’s navigate the Data Ecosystem together.

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