Getting to Aha! with Darshan Mehta

On this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta speaks with Don Polite, Chief Marketing Officer at SKYGEN USA, about the power of customer insights, data, and collaboration in shaping successful marketing strategies. With over 20 years of experience across healthcare, entertainment, and corporate sectors, Don shares how to build effective voice-of-customer programs, drive cross-functional alignment, and turn marketing into a profit center. He introduces his “60-40 Framework” for balancing data with human insight and discusses how to combat survey fatigue, leverage AI responsibly, and secure buy-in from finance and leadership.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Dustin Elliott, the Senior Brand Manager at The Vitamin Shoppe. Join them as they explore misconceptions about performance enhancement, the impact of gut health on overall wellbeing, emerging trends in the supplements industry, and the future of nutrition and healthcare.

On this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta sits down with Ken Kring, a seasoned business leader with rich experience at Walmart, Walgreens, and Sears, to explore the transformative power of integrated thinking. Ken reveals how businesses can break down silos, align around a shared vision, and drive success through cohesive strategies. From customer experience flows to decision-making frameworks, this conversation offers practical insights for leaders eager to create nimble, connected organizations that thrive in today's complex business landscape.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Matt Swieca, Executive Producer/Program Director at The Martin Agency. They discuss the importance of customer insights, storytelling, and adapting to the evolving landscape of digital marketing and advertising. Matt shares valuable insights into the industry and the strategies employed by the Martin Agency to drive success for their clients.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta interviews e-commerce expert Neil Twa, CEO of Voltage Holdings. Neil shares his journey from corporate life at IBM to building Amazon FBA brands, generating over $100 million in sales. He discusses the power of product innovation over invention, how to find high-margin opportunities, and why premium pricing is essential for long-term success. Listeners will gain actionable insights into building scalable e-commerce brands and navigating Amazon's competitive marketplace.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Alex Genov, the Head of Customer Research and Marketing Insights at Zappos. Join them as they discuss the importance of customer insights and empathy in creating remarkable products and services, and explore misconceptions about data reliance, channel optimization, and hospitality. Alex also touches on the role of emotions in customer experiences and the challenges and opportunities of delivering excellent customer service in the digital realm.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta interviews multicultural research expert Kai Fuentes, President and Founder of Ebony Marketing Systems. Kai shares her journey from conducting interviews at age 12 to leading a firm that champions diverse voices. She discusses the importance of cultural sensitivity, creating space for authentic storytelling, and building trust in research. Listeners will gain actionable insights into conducting impactful multicultural studies and balancing qualitative depth with modern tools, such as AI.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Ross Franklin, the founder of Pure Green and CEO of Pure Green Franchise. Join them as they discuss challenges in the fitness industry, the misconceptions surrounding nutrition, and Ross's creation of Pure Green, a juice bar franchise focused on high-performance superfoods. Ross also discusses the importance of customer insights in business and some principles of entrepreneurial success.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta speaks with Stephanie Rogers, Senior Account Manager at Fame and seasoned digital nomad, about the realities of working remotely while traveling the world. Stephanie shares how she transitioned to a location-independent lifestyle following the pandemic, offering candid insights on maintaining relationships, embracing uncertainty, and balancing work with exploration. From debunking myths to sharing practical tips, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone curious about the digital nomad lifestyle.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Mary Crafts, CEO of Mary Crafts, Inc., and founder of Culinary Crafts. Join them as they explore Mary's experience of starting a multimillion-dollar catering company, overcoming the fear of failure, and the importance of vulnerability when connecting with others. Mary also discusses the value of continuous learning and creating unique customer experiences.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta speaks with Ami Meoded, Co-founder and CMO of LittleOne.Care, about the power of combining early childhood development with cutting-edge baby monitoring technology. Meoded discusses how consistent parenting, behavioral insight, and enhanced communication in a baby's first 1,000 days can shape lifelong growth. Discover how their device, Elora, supports nurturing relationships through data-driven insights, empowering caregivers to connect more meaningfully while reducing anxiety around parenting.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Vashte Johnson, the Founder of Slidedesignr. Join them as they discuss the importance of customer insights, Vashte's insights accelerator model for creating powerful deliverables, and the importance of storytelling, clarity, and emotional engagement in visualizations.

On this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta speaks with Sid Jain, Head of Insights at Gain.pro, about the power of data analytics in private equity. They discuss defining true insights, leveraging AI, and refining data interpretation techniques. Sid shares his expertise on finding meaning in financial data, industry trends, and the evolving role of AI in analytics. Tune in for valuable strategies to turn numbers into actionable intelligence.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Arnold Lee, CFO and Managing Director of CFO Growth Advisors. Join them as they explore the need for companies to understand why customers behave the way they do, the challenges faced by startups, and the formula of finance, strategy, and customer insights as the key to success.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta welcomes entrepreneur, best-selling author and success coach Grace Redman to discuss why connection—not competition—is the real key to business success. They explore how authentic relationships drive sustainable growth, the role of storytelling in building trust, and strategies for overcoming self-doubt. Grace shares insights from her 25-year career, highlighting the importance of listening, curiosity, and adaptability. Tune in for actionable tips on transforming your approach to success through meaningful human connections.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Kory Grushka, Founder and Creative Director of Stories Bureau. Together, they delve into the interaction of Kory's creative and legal career paths; explore the founding of Stories Bureau; and examine the impact of AI on storytelling.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta chats with Carrie Phillips, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, about the evolving landscape of higher education marketing. They explore the shift toward digital transformation, the balance between professional production and authentic storytelling, and the growing importance of personalization. Discover how universities can create engaging, data-driven campaigns that resonate with diverse stakeholders and adapt to the changing expectations of students and alumni.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Alex Montas, then Head of Marketing at BENlabs. They discuss Alex's background and entrepreneurial mindset, the importance of differentiation, the need to maintain humanity and connection in the digital landscape, the evolution of AI in marketing, and the importance of taking risks and learning from failure.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta chats with Gregorio Uglioni, a renowned CX expert and three-time bestselling author, about the transformative power of human-centric business strategies in an AI-driven world. They delve into the importance of time as our most valuable currency, creating emotional connections and balancing technology with human touchpoints, to enhance customer experiences. Discover how qualitative insights and active listening can drive meaningful organizational change, fostering deeper connections with customers and employees.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Ila Byrne, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Parch Spirits Co. Together, they delve into why you should always keep your finger on the pulse of your chosen industry; how the alcohol market is experiencing a massive shake-up; and why constant curiosity and observation are key to figuring out consumer insights.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta chats with Brian LeCount, Chief Marketing Officer and VP of Digital Travel Nursing at Health Carousel, about the emotional drivers behind consumer behavior and the power of insights in marketing. They explore the "5 Whys" framework, emotional connections, and AI's role in transforming strategies. Discover how deeper customer understanding leads to meaningful connections and impactful branding.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Ashutosh Mahindru, Founder and CEO at Foodtech Ventures. Together, they get right into some of the biggest hardships you will face when starting your first business, some of the best advice he'd give to his younger self, and how running a mobile food delivery business really works!

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta sits down with Paul Banks, founder of Javelin Content Management, to explore the evolution of social media marketing. Paul shares his journey from retail to content strategy and discusses the power of authentic content creation. They delve into the importance of moving beyond traditional marketing tactics, focusing on genuine conversations, active listening, and creating engaging video content. Paul also offers practical tips on generating content quickly and repurposing it across platforms for maximum impact. Tune in for expert insights on enhancing brand visibility and building meaningful connections in the digital age.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta revisits his discussion with Christine Trippi, CEO at The Wise Pineapple, where she travels all over the U.S. to inspire, consult, train, and present keynote speeches based on some of the biggest ideas from her best-selling book: Yes Is the Answer: How Positivity, Passion, and Pineapples Will Transform Your Leadership and Your Life. With more than thirty-four years of experience, Christine is an award-winning hospitality leader in the industry. She's so dedicated to her work that she left her six-figure salary at the largest travel company in the world to launch The Wise Pineapple.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta is joined by Brian Smalley, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Sales at National Steel Car. Brian shares his transformative journey from the U.S. Marine Corps to the railroad industry, revealing how his military discipline shaped his leadership approach. They discuss the evolving nature of sales, emphasizing the importance of understanding customer needs beyond price and how trust builds stronger business relationships. Brian also explores the future of rail transportation, focusing on sustainability, growth, and the potential of rail as a critical player in the economy. Tune in for valuable insights.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta revisits his discussion with Becky Lawlor, Founder and Chief Research and Content Officer at Redpoint. Together, they explore the power of niche research in content marketing, the critical role of research in crafting high-quality content, the transformative impact of AI, and the value of delivering affordable excellence.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta welcomes Kalil Vicioso, Principal Consultant at Tiny Hat Consulting, a firm dedicated to empowering brands through cultural and consumer insights. Kalil also serves as a Board Member for Insights in Color. Together, they explore Kalil's Aha! journey, his dynamic career, and his work on bilingual and multicultural projects that foster a more integrated approach to marketing by emphasizing the significance of cultural trends.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta is joined by Maz Nadjm, a leading figure in the world of social media and generative AI. Maz shares his journey from programming to becoming a global leader in AI marketing at Tata Consultancy Services, detailing his path through roles at Ogilvy, Wipro, and Sky. The conversation explores the evolution of social media, its potential as a tool for insights, and how AI is reshaping the marketing landscape.

In this episode of Getting to Aha! Host Darshan Mehta engages Hawah Kasat, a global humanitarian and co-founder of One Common Unity, in an inspiring discussion about the transformative power of moments. Hawah shares his journey, shaped by his early travels, passion for peacebuilding, and commitment to fostering connection through education and the arts. They explore themes of personal growth, critical thinking, meditation, and thriving beyond survival, offering listeners powerful insights into living with purpose and curiosity.

In this episode of Getting to Aha! Host Darshan Mehta interviews John Jorgenson, CMO of Cambium Learning Group, to explore the interplay of education, marketing, and technology. John reflects on his career transition from English major to EdTech marketing leader, emphasizing the importance of aligning marketing strategies with educators' and students' needs. They discuss the pandemic's acceleration of technology adoption, AI's role in personalized learning, and future trends in education. John also shares insights on branding, strategy, and the EdTech CMO Collective—a networking initiative fostering collaboration among marketing leaders to address challenges in K-12 education.

In this greatest hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Robert Spector, Author of Nordstrom Way. They discuss Robert's aha! moments, how to use customer service to improve businesses, the benefits of efficient customer service, and approaches to delivering more value to customers.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta and guest Renee Brown dive deep into the world of customer insights and marketing strategies. Renee, a seasoned leader in financial services, shares her expertise on using ethnographic research to uncover customer pain points, and how simple, often overlooked insights can lead to transformative business strategies. The conversation covers social media's role in brand authenticity, the power of AI in marketing, and the evolving landscape of influencer marketing. Renee emphasizes the importance of open dialogue, feedback, and vulnerability in both personal and professional growth.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta talks with Joe Lazer, Head of Marketing at A.Team. Joe shares his pivotal "aha!" moment and highlights the critical role of storytelling in marketing. He emphasizes the need to connect with audiences genuinely, especially as attention spans shorten.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta connects with Stephen Phillips, Founder and CEO of Zappi, an agile consumer insight platform. Join them as they explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on market research. Stephen shares his journey from the early 1990s to leading innovative consumer insights solutions, emphasizing the critical role of AI in interpreting emotional context and enhancing decision-making.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta revisits his conversation with Nikhil Jain, Co-Founder of Mealawe, to discuss three integral lessons learned during his entrepreneurial journey, the long-term benefits of curiosity, and the lengthy yet worthwhile process of finding new chefs and kitchens.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Benjamin Moróne, founder of Zabota. Join them as they discuss building a local brand, how to hire for success, and AI's potential role in recruitment.

Welcome to this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha! Let's relive Darshan's conversation with Dan Fleetwood, President of Research and Insights at QuestionPro. Join them as Dan Fleetwood shares key moments from his career journey, offering insights into optimizing online survey responses and the role of online communities in market research. They explore how COVID-19 accelerated the adoption of online surveys and discuss the growing influence of atomic research. Dan provides expert advice on improving survey presentation and shares his vision for the future of online qualitative research.

In this episode of @Getting to Aha!, @Darshan Mehta is joined by @Gitesh Dubal, Founder and CEO of Nova Spark Ventures. They explore the significance of curiosity in fostering meaningful conversations, the challenges of extracting actionable insights from data, and the critical need for understanding the patient journey in healthcare marketing. Gitesh emphasizes the role of automation tools in simplifying data accessibility for decision-makers and advocates for a patient-centric approach that leverages insights from patient organizations.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta is joined by Gil Eyal, the Head of Marketing and Innovation at Silverstein Properties. Their conversation delves into Gil's transformative “aha!” moments, contrasting influencer marketing with celebrity endorsements, avoiding common pitfalls in celebrity endorsements, and highlighting the importance of storytelling in effective marketing. They also discuss diversification in digital marketing, the critical nature of conversions in marketing metrics, the longevity and scalability of various marketing channels, and the evolving role of AI in the marketing landscape.

In this episode of @Getting to Aha!, @Darshan Mehta is joined by @Marc Kerachsky, CMO of AMC Health. Marc has over 32 years of experience in healthcare. Join them as they discuss the power of storytelling in organizations and how it can build trust, improve communication, and foster empathy within teams. Marc shares his journey and aha moments, emphasizing the importance of including people in stories. They also explore the role of humor and culture in organizations and discuss the future of human connections. This insightful conversation provides valuable insights for anyone interested in enhancing teamwork and finding meaning in the workplace.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan talks with John Zogby, Senior Partner at John Zogby Strategies, a marketing and political consulting firm offering opinion research services. John has served as an election analyst for networks like ABC Australia, BBC, CBC, and NBC News.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Rick Denton, Managing Principal at EX4CX. Join them as they discuss how businesses can improve customer experience by leveraging feedback and data, the importance of combining process improvement with a customer-centric approach, and the alignment of customer experience (CX) efforts with business objectives.

In this ‘Greatest Hits' episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta is joined by Stephen Griffiths, Director of Insights & Strategy at Post Consumer Brands. You'll learn why, when gathering data, you must strike a balance between qualitative and quantitative data, get the lowdown on why insights need to be broader than just market research, and uncover new, valuable insights for your company!

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Millie Tadewaldt, the founder and CEO of Brilliant. Join them as they discuss personalized corporate gifting, the need for technology in the gifting process, and the measurement of ROI.

In this ‘Greatest Hits' episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta is joined by Andrew Custage, Senior Director and Head of Insights at Medallia Market Research. Join them as they discuss striking a balance between qualitative and quantitative data, customizing survey questions, and differentiating between active customers and inactive customers.

In this episode of @Getting to Aha!, @Darshan Mehta is joined by @Lisa Curtis, founder and CEO of Kuli Kuli Foods. Join them as they discuss Lisa's journey in promoting nutritious and sustainable food products, the challenges of sourcing high-quality ingredients, and her commitment to paying it forward.

In this ‘Greatest Hits' episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta is joined by Sanjai George, CEO of Double Horse. Join them as they discuss effective communication and simplicity in retail, the value of adapting to the changing retail landscape, and why customer feedback is so important. Sanjai also discusses the changes and trends that have emerged post-COVID, and the challenges of inadequate primary processes, storage and distribution facilities.

In this episode of @Getting to Aha!, @Darshan Mehta is joined by @Greg Segal, a writer/director and producer. Join them as they discuss Greg's journey from lawyer to filmmaker, the value of contemplating life choices, and his involvement in producing vertical movies for platforms like TikTok.

In this ‘Greatest Hits' episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta is joined by Steve Sidelnyk, highly accomplished session drummer and music programmer, and Jim Turner, an experienced entertainment industry professional. Join them as they discuss the importance of standing out in a competitive industry, the importance of curiosity and learning new things, and the significance of understanding human nature in the creative process.

In this episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Alan Versteeg, Global Chief Revenue Officer at Growth Matters. Join them as they discuss conveying customer value, the use of generative AI, and the role of empathy in sales. Alan also touches on the future of sales, and the role of sales managers.

In this ‘Greatest Hits' episode of Getting to Aha!, host Darshan Mehta is joined by Brandon Rhoten, Chief Marketing Officer at GroundTruth. Join them as they discuss the impact of social media in humanizing brands, why digital marketing channels should be seen as tools to solve specific brand problems, and leveraging customer insights beyond surface-level metrics. Brandon also discusses specific hiring tactics and details his career journey as a digital marketer.