03 Sep The Faces Behind Fluent: Farrah Brensinger
As part of Fluent Research’s 20th anniversary, we’re highlighting the people whose perspectives and experiences shape the work we do.
This week, we’re featuring Farrah Brensinger, a User Experience Researcher at Fluent. Drawn to the process of sense-making, Farrah brings together seemingly disconnected pieces of information to uncover the stories, patterns, and insights that help teams better understand the people they serve.
In the latest installment of “The Faces Behind Fluent,” Farrah shares what she enjoys most about research, why connecting with participants makes the work meaningful, and a few of the interests and routines that shape her life outside of Fluent.
1) Farrah, what’s your role at Fluent, and what does a typical day look like for you?
As a user experience researcher, I see my work as sense-making and forging new directions. Part of the joy of my role is taking what could look like disparate, disconnected pieces of information or data, and identifying the symbolism and story connecting them all. A typical day could look like moderating 1:1 interviews with user research participants, analyzing diary data, and capturing findings in writing.
2) What’s been your most memorable project or moment at Fluent?
I was moderating in-field research that consisted of 1:1 interviews with children. One of the participants was a particularly garrulous and incredibly intelligent boy of about 7 years old. I could tell he was having a good time during the research session, and I was enjoying the session as well. Completely unbidden, he came up to me after the session and invited me to his house to “hang out and play some more.” While I of course didn’t take him up on his offer, his comment was a happy reminder of how research can be fun for participant and researcher alike.
3) If you could have dinner with any public or historical figure, who would it be and why?
Robin Williams, hands down. I think the conversation would be both hilarious and sentimental.
4) What’s a book, movie, or podcast you’d recommend to everyone?
The movie Pan’s Labyrinth has the perfect blend of historical fiction, magic, and metaphor, with the power of a gut-wrenching twist at the end. The main character’s courage and love for her baby sibling is so moving. It is my favorite film.
As far as books, Circe by Madeline Miller has to be in my top 10 favorite books of all time. The writing is so rich, and I do love a strong female lead.
5) Farrah, what’s your go-to productivity hack?
Noise-canceling headphones playing cafe jazz or soothing ambient (e.g., Henry Green) transports me into my own little, very productive, working world.
6) If you weren’t in research, what career would you have pursued?
Probably a therapist or teacher/instructor, but really anything where I’d get to connect with people in a meaningful way and be a part of their growth journey.
7) What’s one word you’d use to describe Fluent Research? Why?
Adaptive. I’ve witnessed Fluent navigate the seismic shift of AI.
8) What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?
Cooking something delicious but uncomplicated, or going on a family walk with my husband and dog.
9) What’s your favorite snack or drink to have while working?
In our house, we are more than slightly obsessed with super-food smoothies (usually with blueberries or cacao as the star ingredient) and Aloha Bars.
10) What’s a hobby or activity you’re passionate about outside of work?
Mat Pilates/strength training. It’s a great energy booster! I’m also looking forward to getting back into rock climbing and dance.