In this episode, Dr. Ari Zelmanow joins us to explore the evolution of research in today’s business landscape.

We discuss the shift from traditional data collection to data connection, emphasizing the importance of integrating different business units for enhanced decision-making.

(00:55) The Evolution of Research

(01:43) Challenges in the Research Field

(03:49) Adapting to Business Needs

(08:59) Essential Research Methods

(12:23) Becoming a Trained Observer

(15:15) Strategic Communication of Insights

(19:12) Connecting Research to Business Goals

Today we delve into AI moderation!

I discuss my experiments comparing human and AI moderators, noting the structured approach of AI versus the more flexible, context-aware approach of human moderators.

(01:15) Human vs AI Moderators

(02:03) AI Moderation: Structure and Limitations

(04:21) Contextual Understanding in Moderation

(06:26) Engagement and Demographics

(07:50) Fraud Detection and Pressing Further

(09:40) Combining Human and AI Moderation

(11:13) Use Cases and Practical Applications

In this episode, we delve into the intriguing world of AI and explore how synthetic users can be integrated into the research process. I share my experiences and experiments with various local versions of large language models (LLMs), such as GPT, Mistral, and Llama, and discuss the important distinctions between human and synthetic user feedback.

We also touch on the potential benefits and limitations of using synthetic users, emphasizing that while they have their place, they can never replace real human interactions.

(0:11) Introduction to AI Series

(2:21) Exploring AI-Users

(4:48) Comparing AI-users and Real User Feedback

(8:50) Challenges and Limitations of Synthetic Users

(12:38) Practical Applications and Training with AI-Users

(16:09) Conclusion and Future Episodes

IMPORTANT: During the episode, I use terms like AI-users and synthetic users interchangeably. In every case, I’m generically referring to AI-generated users and not specifically to the brand “Synthetic Users”.

In this episode of Finders Builders, I sit down with Jake Burghardt, author of 'Stop Wasting Research,' to discuss methods for maximizing the value of research in organizations. We delve into his motivations for writing the book, the concept of research waste, and identify three key root causes: preparation, motivation, and integration.

Jake provides practical advice for small research teams, solo researchers, and even non-researchers on how to build a movement within their organizations to make research more impactful. We also touch on the necessity of a research-aware culture and ways to implement research practices even in smaller or newly-formed teams. This episode is packed with insights and actionable tips for anyone looking to turn their research findings into strategic assets.

(00:49) Discussing Jake's Book: Stop Wasting Research

(03:12) Understanding Research Waste(

07:16) Root Causes of Research Waste

(12:06) Connecting Research to Decision Making

(15:53) Advice for Small Research Teams

(19:56) Building a Research Culture

(24:10) Getting Started with Research Organization

(31:11) Final Tips and Conclusion

Part two of the interview with the amazing Joe Natoli.

We discuss his latest book and why its insights remain relevant today, alongside candid takes on the challenges and strategies for UX teams, particularly those who are small or even a team of one. Joe shares valuable advice on starting with what you have, embracing iterative improvements, and the importance of understanding the business context.

(0:38) Challenges Faced by UX Designers and Researchers
(1:35) Strategies for Managing Time and Resources
(3:34) The Reality of UX Work Environments
(6:41) Collaboration and Team Dynamics
(10:59) The Importance of Research and Specialization
(18:20) Final Tips and Advice for UX Professionals
(23:05) Conclusion and Where to Find More Resources

In this episode of 'Off My Bookshelf,' I interview the one and only Joe Natoli.

We discuss his latest book and why its insights remain relevant today, alongside candid takes on the challenges and strategies for UX teams, particularly those who are small or even a team of one. Joe shares valuable advice on starting with what you have, embracing iterative improvements, and the importance of understanding the business context.

(01:35) Intro
(01:49) Introducing Joe and His Book
(02:32) The Impact of Joe's Book
(04:58) Challenges in UX Design
(12:46) The Value Loop Explained
(19:51) Starting with Limited Resources
(23:41) Small Wins in Enterprise UX

Today we dive deep into the world of knowledge management and repositories with two keen experts, Emily Di Leo o and Alison Jones.

Together, they explore the vital role of knowledge management in research practices, why repositories sometimes fail, and actionable tips for those without dedicated resources. They emphasize the importance of starting simple, focusing on curation, access, and description, and the necessity of capturing tacit knowledge.

(00:25) Guest Introductions: Emily Deo and Alison Jones

(02:37) The Importance of Knowledge Management

(05:40) Challenges in Building and Maintaining Repositories

(07:43) Strategies for Successful Repositories

(23:50) Practical Tips for Researchers

(34:50) Conclusion

Welcome again to the show! This time, we discuss an exercise that helps assess the current state of research or research-like activities, identify pain points, and create a roadmap for research operations.

Whether you're conducting this exercise in a group setting or one-on-one, the goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the company's research processes and pinpoint areas for improvement.

(00:11) Introduction and Personal Update
(01:03) Today's Topic: Understanding Research Activities
(03:38) Mapping Exercise Walkthrough
(06:12) Analyzing and Utilizing the Mapping Exercise
(08:23) Conclusion and Additional Resources
(08:43) Sponsored Message: Bright AI

Let's discuss research intake forms. You know, that handy tool that many larger organisations use as an inbox for research requests from stakeholders?

Well, I’ll be exploring when it’s helpful to have one in place, when it might not be the best fit, and how to deal with it in low-maturity contexts or within embedded teams.

Let's jump right into it!

(01:20) What is a Research Intake Form?
(02:51) When to Implement a Research Intake Form
(05:37) When a Research Intake Form May Not Be Necessary
(07:56) Hybrid Approaches and Flexibility
(09:02) Tracking and Managing Research Requests
(11:45) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of From Finders to Builders, we dive deep into the dynamic collaboration between PMs and researchers with our guests Giulia Tumminelli, a Senior UX Researcher, and Marcos Monteiro, a Head of Product.

We talk about common misconceptions between PMs and researchers and discuss the significance of forming a united front in business.

Whether you are a PM or a researcher, you'll find valuable insights on how to enhance your collaboration for impactful product decision-making.

(00:11) Introduction and Guest Welcome

(00:44) Guest Introductions and Backgrounds

(01:22) Exploring PM and Researcher Collaboration

(01:42) Addressing Misconceptions

(06:08) Improving Collaboration: Tips and Strategies

(29:34) Balancing User and Business Needs

(39:02) Final Thoughts and Recap

In this episode, we explore the critical aspects of budgeting for research practices, especially for those who are the first or only researchers in their organization, or part of a small research team.

We'll cover the main components of a research budget, which include researchers' salaries, tooling costs, and participant incentives, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing incentives to ensure successful research efforts.

I provide practical advice on how to strategically allocate limited resources and leverage tools already in use within the organization to maximize impact.

Join me to learn valuable tips and strategies to effectively advocate for and manage your research budget.

(1:10) Introduction and Episode Overview
(1:40) Defining a Budget for Small Research Teams
(03:49) Key Components of a Research Budget
(05:09) Prioritizing Incentives in Your Budget
(07:03) Calculating Incentives and Budgeting Tips
(08:51) Choosing the Right Tools for Your Research
(10:37) Leveraging Existing Tools and Final Thoughts
(12:15) Recap and Conclusion

In this episode, I discuss the evolving role of researchers in organizations, drawing on a football analogy to explain the shift from a 'striker' mentality to a 'playmaker' approach.

As companies face changes with AI, product discovery, and the distribution of research teams, researchers must leverage their skillset in new ways.

By adopting a playmaker mindset, researchers can help elevate everyone's understanding and use of data, ensuring better decision-making and greater company success.

Tune in to learn how this shift can positively impact the research industry and enhance the value of researchers across the board.

(0:11) Introduction and Warm Welcome
(1:15) Researchers as Playmakers: A New Role
(1:32) Challenges and Opportunities in Research
(2:48) From Strikers to Playmakers: Changing Mindsets
(5:00) The Playmaker's Role in Research
(6:57) Practical Applications of the Playmaker Role
(10:54) The Future of Research and Final Thoughts

In this episode, we welcome two phenomenal guests: Ruby Pryor, founder of UX research and strategic design firm Rex, and Emily Anderson, founder of design studio Ampersand. Ruby shares her extensive background in human-centered design, strategic design, and her journey of content creation, which began after an unexpected layoff.

Emily shares her own path of creating impactful design content inspired by personal stories and frustrations, and how it evolved into public speaking and influencing other designers.

Both guests delve into the importance of writing content, overcoming associated anxieties, and sustaining collaboration between designers and researchers.

Their insightful tips for first-time researchers and designers provide valuable advice on staying motivated, showcasing business impact, and navigating the complexities of their roles. Don't miss out on the wisdom and experiences shared by these accomplished professionals.

(0:11) Welcome and Guest Introductions
(0:35) Ruby Pryor's Journey in UX Design
(1:23) Emily Anderson's Diverse Design Experience
(2:22) The Start of Content Creation
(3:56) Ruby's Content Creation Journey
(5:53) Emily's Content Creation Journey
(7:46) From Content to Courses and Speaking Engagements
(16:12) The Value of Content Creation
(17:43) Overcoming Anxieties and Building Connections
(22:53) Dealing with Negative Feedback
(23:55) Anxiety and Posting Content
(28:58) Collaboration Between Researchers and Designers
(34:26) Balancing Research and Design
(36:58) Business Impact and Communication
(39:35) Tips for Designers and Researchers
(44:34) Conclusion and Where to Find Us

In this episode of Finders to Builders, we delve into the hot topic of impact in UX research.

We discuss the reasons behind the request to showcase research impact, ranging from senior management's interest in understanding the value of research to scenarios where the company questions the need for a research department.

We talk about the four types of impact: direct, guidance, knowledge availability, and accumulated knowledge.

Tune in for practical tips on how to effectively showcase the impact of your UX research.

(00:57) Introduction to Impact in UX Research
(01:26) Reasons for Showcasing Research Impact
(03:46) Improving Perception of Research
(04:53) Types of Research Impact
(08:42) Tracking Research Impact
(10:42) Building Relationships for Better Tracking
(12:14) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Hey everyone, Julian here. In this episode, I dive into the rapidly changing world of AI.

Now, I’ll be the first to admit—I’m not an AI expert. But like many of you, I’m trying to make sense of the hype, the reality, and what it all means, especially for researchers.

Throughout the episode, I share my thoughts on why it’s important to stay curious but also skeptical.

01:29 – Introduction
02:08 – Why Talk About AI?
03:41 – The Unpredictable Nature of AI
05:15 – Who to Trust in the AI Space
06:30 – Global Perspectives on AI Development
10:02 – AI in Research: Opportunities and Challenges
12:42 – The Risk of Misusing AI in Research
14:41 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Hungry for more? Follow me on Substack

Join me in this episode as I sit down with two amazing guests, Nikki and Chris, to dive into the world of content creation. Nikki is a user researcher and founder with a passion for horror fiction, while Chris runs the creator businesses UX Playbook and Backlog.

We explore their journeys, the importance of creating content, overcoming challenges, and tips for getting started. From the pitfalls of chasing vanity metrics to the positives of finding your authentic voice, we cover it all.

Whether you're considering content creation or looking to improve, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.
(02:15) Background and Interests

(05:35) Starting Content Creation: Nikki's Perspective

(06:42) Starting Content Creation: Chris's Perspective

(08:31) Challenges and Rewards of Content Creation 10:15 Inspiration and Tools for Content Creation

(17:33) Writing Tips and Overcoming the Blank Page

(21:26) Benefits of Content Creation for Career Growth

(23:29) Exploring Content Creation on Instagram

(23:52) The Benefits of Creating Content

(24:48) Challenges of Creating Content for Business

(27:14) The Long Game in Content Creation

(29:27) Horror Stories and Challenges

(33:12) Dealing with Plagiarism

(42:34) Tips for New Content Creators

(48:16) Conclusion

Hungry for more? Subscribe to our ⁠⁠newsletter⁠⁠ or find me on ⁠⁠LinkedIn

You can follow Nikki on Linkedin or her User Research Strategist page

You can find Chris on Linkedin at or at UX Playbook

In this episode, we discuss why the traditional 'big reveal' in research presentations is often ineffective and detrimental to the research process. Instead, I advocate for a 'building in public' approach, where insights and updates are shared regularly with the team.

This method ensures alignment, reduces misunderstandings, and increases the likelihood that your insights will be acted upon. I also share practical tips on how to keep stakeholders engaged throughout the research process.

(01:43) Welcome and Personal Anecdote

(02:20) The Big Reveal: Why It's Harmful

(06:30) Alternatives to the Big Reveal

(09:36) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Hungry for more? Subscribe to our ⁠newsletter⁠ or find me on ⁠LinkedIn

In this episode of Refunders to Builders, I sit down with two incredible guests, Meltem and Marvin, who are seasoned UX career coaches.

We dive deep into the challenges faced by UX professionals, from feeling stuck in well-paid jobs to navigating career transitions and deciding on the next steps.

We discuss the importance of taking time to learn, understanding one's unique strengths, the role of soft skills, and networking.

Whether you're just starting in UX, considering a shift, or wondering how to stand out in the current job market, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical advice.

Tune in to understand how to align your career goals with what truly motivates you and how to approach career development in a meaningful and impactful way.

(01:57) Meet Our Guests: Meltem and Marvin

(02:48) Understanding Career Stagnation

(06:46) Advice for Career Transitioners

(09:12) Growing in Your UX Career

(13:19) Finding Direction When Feeling Lost

(17:00) Considering a Step Back from Management

(20:45) The Importance of Soft Skills

(24:52) Navigating the Current UX Job Market

(29:36) The Power of Networking

(33:38) Conclusion and Farewell

Hungry for more? Subscribe to our newsletter or find me on LinkedIn

You can find Meltem on LinkedIn or Substack And you can find Marvin on LinkedIn