Employee News

15 Oct

Posted at 15:18h in Employee News, Get to Know Us, UX

David Zax, our Senior User Experience Researcher, brings a unique mix of journalism, playwriting, and research expertise to Fluent. In this interview, he shares insights from his career, how he tackles challenges, and what excites him most about his role.

1) Tell us a bit about your career journey. What led you from a successful career in business journalism to becoming a user experience researcher?

A journalist is two things: a researcher and a writer. Actually, they are three things: a researcher, a writer, and lowly paid. About 10 years ago, I  completed a MFA in playwriting and began to identify as a different sort of writer in my creative practice. What was left over was that I had research skills and no money. That’s how I became a user experience researcher.

2) What’s a unique challenge you’ve faced in your career thus far, and how did you overcome it?

I have had some challenges. I had lectures on ethnography and statistics in my journalism school classes, for instance, and being a journalist inherently makes you practiced in interviews and lit reviews. However, I found that there can sometimes be a bit of a cultural disconnect between my approach and that of some of my colleagues and clients. I’ve overcome this by just being more aware of it, learning to “speak social science,” and taking the temperature of my client’s methodological bent before I get into research with them. I love scrappy, improvisational research (I began my UX career as an ethnographer), but if the client needs rigid uniformity to the data, I, of course, accommodate that.

3) With a diverse background in journalism and research, what skills have you brought from your career as a journalist into your work as a researcher?

I think more than anything, deep listening. My favorite thing to do in an interview, whether journalistic or research in nature, is to “probe” (in researcher parlance) or simply “ask follow-up questions” (in normal journalistic human speech). Wait, the person you spoke to just said something surprising — you felt it, your intuition says there’s something there, and now it’s time to go off-road from your discussion guide and see what you can dig up. That’s where the richest stuff — the most moving stories, the deepest insights — are mined.

4) What brings you joy outside of work?

I love to take my two dogs, Buddy and Junie, for walks in the park with my wife Shayna. I’m also a cinephile and go to see the latest auteurist film with my other movie-junkie friends.

5) What are you most excited about in your new role at Fluent Research?

I’m excited to focus on projects that increase wellness for children and families, just as I’m about to start a family of my own. I’m dying to work for Sesame Workshop and fulfill my lifelong dream of interviewing Big Bird.

6) What advice would you give to somebody just starting out their career in user research?

Try not to pigeonhole yourself in terms of methods. I thought of myself as a “qual guy,” but some of the most enjoyment I’ve gotten out of research studies in the last few years has been learning quantitative methods, and even doing a self-directed Codecademy course in Python. Don’t be scared of numbers! And ChatGPT can talk you through any methodological or spreadsheet issue you face.

Connect with David on LinkedIn!

09 Sep

Posted at 13:56h in Employee News, Market Research, UX

September 10, 2024 (New York, NY) –– Fluent Research, a data and insights-driven strategic consulting firm, announced today that David Zax has joined the company in the role of Senior User Experience Researcher. In his new position, David will conduct research for some of the world’s best-known brands and organizations; he will also help Fluent tell stories about the most successful of these research engagements.

“David joins Fluent after a distinguished career in both journalism and strategy consulting,” said Nellie Gregorian, Founder and President of Fluent Research. “His deep expertise in conducting empathic interviews and communicating his insights will delight both our existing clients and those we have yet to meet. We are excited to see all David can do to help Fluent Research in its mission of leveraging data and insights in order to make a positive impact on the lives of children, youth, and families.”

David has spent the last seven years working at other research agencies, conducting studies as varied as in-person ethnographic research with internet trolls (on behalf of Google) and large-scale user testing of AI chatbots (for Meta). Specializing in tech, and working on projects both strategic and tactical, his previous clients have included Airbnb, Dropbox, Intel, LinkedIn, Netflix, Twitch, and Twitter.

Before his years in research, David spent a decade as a journalist. His story on mattress marketing was named one of the best in Fast Company’s 25-year history. He has additionally contributed to The New York Times, This American Life, and other outlets. Holding a Master of Fine Arts degree from NYU in playwriting, David continues to write creatively. His plays have been produced and developed towards feature film production.

David is a graduate of Yale University and has a master’s degree in Science Journalism from Columbia University.

About Fluent Research
Fluent Research is a data and insights-driven strategic consulting firm. Since 2006 Fluent has leveraged understanding of human behavior to help the world’s best-known brands and organizations advance worthy causes, innovate transformational products, and successfully navigate change. Fluent’s work centers around three practice areas: thought leadership research, formative research and evaluation, and social impact assessment. Fluent has applied rigorous and innovative research solutions in service of promoting children’s access to and quality of education, and gender equality in the U.S. and in over 70 countries around the world.

Contact: Stefanie Cousins
[email protected]

 

 

 

19 Aug

Posted at 19:38h in Employee News, Get to Know Us

We’re thrilled to introduce our newest staff member, Emma Clarke.  Emma’s journey from intern to full-time Associate Researcher demonstrates her passion for research. In this interview, she shares insights into her career path and what excites her most about her new role.

1) Tell us a about your career journey so far. What inspired you to pursue a career in research. How did you navigate your path from being a student to joining Fluent?

I have always been a curious person, seeking to know as much as I can about the world around me. I was first introduced to research through a family member who researches child development. As a child, I often helped out in her research. Through this experience, I became aware of the many different ways that a research career can manifest itself.

Years later, I majored in psychology and cognitive studies at Tulane University. Exploring the different research opportunities available to me as a psychology major, I was introduced to Fluent through that same family member. I contacted the company in hopes of becoming an intern and was luckily given that opportunity. In college, I also pursued a more academic form of research in a social psychology lab, studying intergroup relations and marginalized groups. Ultimately, I chose to pursue a full-time career at Fluent instead of staying in academia. I appreciate Fluent’s welcoming company culture, the intelligent and helpful staff, and the variety of client projects.

2) What unique challenge have you faced during your college career or as an intern? How did you overcome it?

A unique challenge I faced at the beginning of college was starting my freshman year in the middle of the pandemic. I had always wanted to go far away for college and meet lots of new people. COVID-19 posed a strong challenge to my plan. Although it was extremely difficult to meet people, I was able to reach out to other incoming students through social media and make the best of the situation.

3) As a recent college graduate, what advice would you give to students or recent graduates looking to pursue a career in research?

Internships are very important for a college student or a recent graduate who wants to find a job in research. Having internship eperiences in different research settings throughout my college career helped me figure out my passion and the work settings I enjoyed most. In addition to internships, volunteer opportunities can also provide valuable insight into different research fields and careers. Since research is a key component of solving just about every problem, there are many ways to participate in the process. Internships and volunteering can help you figure out which one is right for you.

4) What’s your go-to hobby or activity outside of work that brings you joy?

Although I have many hobbies outside of work, two things that bring me a lot of joy are weightlifting and participating in trivia nights. I first started weightlifting at the gym during COVID-19 and have been really consistent with it ever since. Not only does it provide me with a good mental health boost, I love that I can just keep improving. Attending trivia nights is so much fun. I love to see how much I know!

5) What are you most excited about in your new role at Fluent?

As an Associate Researcher at Fluent, I am most excited to have full involvement in the research process, from trying out new technologies to learning from my coworkers. While I was able to assist with research as an intern, I didn’t always have the chance to complete the projects I worked on. I am looking forward to seeing projects through from start to finish and learning to use new tools that help analyze and group data. Of course, one of the best things about Fluent is the people. I am so excited about working with so many accomplished and experienced individuals.

07 Jun

Posted at 15:05h in Employee News, Get to Know Us

Meet Aeliya Ahmed Fluent’s new project manager! With over six years of experience in the non-profit, education, and healthcare sectors, Aeliya excels at streamlining processes and promoting informed decision-making. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, her journey includes supporting families at a crisis nursery and even teaching in NYC Public Schools through Americorps! We sat down with her to learn more about her background, approach to project management, and what excites her about her new role at Fluent.

1. Tell us a little about your background. What did you want to be when you were younger and what motivated you to pursue a career in project management?

When I was younger, I wanted to be an artist. I didn’t know what project management was until after I graduated college, and once I realized how detail-oriented the role could be, I decided it was the right fit! The perfectionism and attention to nitty-gritty details that project management involves feels like a close enough fit to an artist.

2. How do your experiences in the non-profit, education, and healthcare industries inform your approach to project management? 

Having worked with so many different people across different industries has certainly made me a better project manager. I’ve worked with energetic five-year-olds in classrooms, stressed attending surgeons in the ER, worried parents at community centers, and busy tech clients with crunched timelines. All of these experiences have made me comfortable working with and talking to anyone. Project management involves a lot of cross-functional collaboration, so that’s a skill I’ve been able to develop having worked in these different roles.

3. With your diverse background, what advice do you have for individuals looking to pursue a career in project management, especially those interested in working with children or in research?  

The best advice I have is to try as many different paths as you can. Working in the education, healthcare, and non-profit spaces has helped me realize what I didn’t enjoy working on — which is just as important as realizing what you do enjoy. If you have varying interests, I would say to test as many of them out as you can, and you’ll rack up immeasurable experiences along the way. Project management involves a lot of organizing and streamlining processes — having varied experiences can help you approach finding ways to improve those processes with a new lens!

4. What’s your go-to hobby or activity outside of work that brings you joy?

I’m a serial hobby collector. This year, I’m getting back into figure skating. Last year’s focus was on learning how to surf, and next year’s goal is to learn kung fu!

5. What are you most excited about in your new role at Fluent Research?

I am super grateful to be working with such an awesome team. I’ve gotten to learn so much from my teammates in a short amount of time. I’m looking forward to streamlining some more of our processes, and ensuring that every project is a smooth operation.

Connect with Aeliya on LinkedIn!

07 Jun

Posted at 14:53h in Employee News, Get to Know Us

We’re thrilled to introduce Kelly Sheehan, our new Senior User Experience Researcher! With over a decade of experience in technology, including roles at Meta and Age of Learning, we’re excited to welcome Kelly and her expertise in qualitative and quantitative methodologies to our team. We caught up with Kelly to learn all about her career journey, her passion for user experience research, and what brings her joy outside of work!

1. Tell us a bit about your career journey. What inspired you to become a user experience (UX) researcher, and how did you navigate your path to Fluent?

I knew I was a researcher ever since my first research methods class in college. I loved the idea that research could help answer any question, and bring us closer to understanding why people do and think the way they do. I went right to grad school to get my PhD with the intention of becoming a professor but realized the long years from research to publishing and academic bureaucracy were not for me.

I discovered UX research after doing an informational call with a former member of my graduate school lab who landed a UX research job. I loved that UX experience research was fast, and rigorous, and that you could see the impact of your research on people’s everyday lives. I landed my first UX researcher job at Age of Learning, an ed-tech company that creates educational products for kids, students, and families. I spent four years at Age of Learning leading UX research on their flagship app, ABCMouse, before leaving to work for Instagram.

At Instagram, I worked on the Integrity team, with the goal of making Instagram safer for teens. I led foundational research on users’ experiences with negative comments, as well as testing design changes to make hashtag pages safer for teens. After a year and a half at Meta, I worked briefly at a small market research firm called Brilliant Experience before joining Fluent.

I found my way to Fluent after a former manager of mine, who is now a client of Fluent, saw that they were hiring a Senior UX Researcher and connected me to a few people at the company. I was incredibly impressed not only by the organization’s portfolio of work but also by how genuinely kind and smart everyone was that I met with. I was also excited to work on a variety of projects and have the opportunity to hone some new research skills. I feel very lucky to be part of the Fluent team!

2. What’s a unique challenge you’ve faced in your career as a user experience researcher, and how did you overcome it?

I, unfortunately, experienced two rounds of layoffs as a UX researcher in the span of a year, during a time when the competition for a UX research role was fierce. It was challenging to position myself as unique in a large pool of highly qualified candidates.

I kept myself focused and motivated by doing lots of networking calls, which helped me get my name out there and also feel connected to the UX research community. In a way, I felt like I was conducting my own UX research with the goal of learning about research at other companies, and understanding how other researchers landed their current jobs. While it was challenging being on the job market, I learned a lot about what I want in a career and who I am as a researcher, and I’m ultimately thankful for the space and insight it provided me.

3. With over 10 years of research experience, what advice do you have for those looking to pursue a career in the field?

There are two key parts of being a UX researcher that are important for being successful. First, there’s the research part, which includes selecting appropriate methodologies, being a good moderator, managing research projects and timelines, and delivering insights that are impactful. I would encourage those new to the field to try to get as much diverse research experience and training as they can so that they can understand how to make the best strategic research decisions for a variety of situations.

The second part is the relationship part. Whether you are an in-house researcher or a market researcher working with clients, building strong relationships with your stakeholders is essential to being a great researcher because it ensures that your research is impactful. For example, I once had to deliver research insights that I knew would not be received positively by my team because the findings suggested that we should not move forward with a product idea we were pursuing. I had a great relationship with the product manager on my team, so I leaned on him to help me strategize how to present the results in a way that offered a more viable and exciting solution. The team ended up accepting my recommendations and shifting product directions, which led to the whole product team being successful because of my research.

What makes UX research valuable is not only that it is rigorous and designed appropriately, but also that someone takes the research and does something with it to improve a product or experience. If you’re new to the field, make sure you’re investing not only in your research expertise but in your collaboration and relationship-building skills.

4. What’s your go-to hobby or activity outside of work that brings you joy?

Relationships are extremely important to me, so I try to spend my free time planning activities and spending time with my family or friends. About a year ago, I started a “club” for my group of friends that meets every month where we take turns hosting get-togethers at our houses. I’ve been friends with the same group of friends since middle school, and having a recurring event on the calendar for us to get together brings me so much joy and means there’s always something to look forward to.

When I’m not sipping wine and eating cheese with my life-long friends, you can typically find me spending time with my husband, Frank, and my 2-year-old daughter, Madison. Maddie is absolutely wild and has boundless amounts of energy, and I love watching her climbing and jumping at gymnastics, digging in the dirt, and talking to literally anyone that she sees. Every moment with her is pure joy.

5. What are you most excited about in your new role at Fluent Research?

I am most excited to work on projects with an amazing group of smart and driven researchers. What drew me to Fluent was the people, who are not only incredibly bright and interesting, but driven, empathetic, and kind. Even when work is busy, people are always asking how they can help move a project forward. I’m looking forward to working with such great people, and I know I will be learning a lot from them.

Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn!

18 Dec

Posted at 17:38h in Employee News, Get to Know Us

From festive gatherings and Secret Santa exchanges to sweet treats and laughter-filled moments, learn about our team’s favorite holiday traditions that bring us joy and connection during this special time of year.

 

Aeliya Ahmed – Associate Project Manager

My little sisters and I love baking, so we’ll spend time making cinnamon rolls & chocolate chip cookies together for the rest of our family!

 

Charlotte Beatty – User Experience Researcher

My favorite holiday tradition is starting the day with having cinnamon buns with my family on Christmas morning and ending it with watching a fun movie. We tend to pick something long and epic — like “The Lord of the Rings,” “Stars Wars,” Ridley Scott’s “Alien,” “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World,” “Marie Antoinette,” and “Diehard” have all been some popular selections in the past. There are a lot of film buffs in my family, so it’s our favorite way to unwind and relax after a busy day of celebrations.

 

Farrah Bresinger – Senior User Experience Researcher

With my husband’s family, we enjoy a special Christmas breakfast every year. At the end of the meal, there is always the “candy cane bread.” No actual candy canes are involved, but the bread is made to look like a candy cane with cranberry filling and white icing. It’s tradition to grab a slice of the bread and then head over to the tree to open presents!

 

Stefanie Cousins – Vice President, Marketing and Communications

We have several holiday traditions in our family. We celebrate Hanukkah for eight days by lighting an additional candle each night on our menorah, making potato latkes, playing the dreidel game, and exchanging gifts. On Christmas Day, we watch Elf first thing in the morning. Then we like to go to the movies and get takeout from a Chinese restaurant. Eating and movies continue to be the theme throughout the holidays as I cook and bake a lot and we make our way through old and new classics.

 

Heath Cozens – Director, Productions

It’s winter cleaning for me. A huge chunk of my life was spent in Japan, where it’s the local custom to do the big spring clean in winter, before or around New Year’s. It’s really therapeutic and sets the stage for all those ambitious plans and resolutions in the year ahead.

 

Tom Fuller – Vice President, Business Development

The only tradition my wife and I have been able to maintain without fail is watching “Love Actually.” We pretty much know it by heart. I make popcorn, my wife drinks half a glass of Prosecco and then we repeat the procedure while watching Notting Hill on New Year’s Eve. Sometimes the popcorn has gone stale and the Prosecco has gone flat by then, but we persevere.

 

Mary Meyn – Director, Research

I have always loved decorating the Christmas tree. I love looking at the ornaments we’ve collected over the years: one with a dated picture of my parents’ first married Christmas, handmade ornaments from preschool, and ornaments we’ve received as gifts from friends and family over the years. We all gather together to decorate the tree, enjoying the present moment together, while each ornament reminds us of special moments in years past.

 

Sofia Polo – Director, Research Strategy

Secret Santa with my family!

 

Dan Warren – Director, Youth Development & Education

Going to my Dad’s house on Christmas Eve and eating Nana Jo Jo’s meatballs. Watching Elf!

 

22 Nov

Posted at 10:40h in Employee News, Research

Fluent Research is proud to announce that Sofia Polo, our Director of Research Strategy, has been honored with the Outstanding Young Researcher Award at the 2023 Marketing Research and Insight Excellence Awards. This prestigious award, powered by Quirk’s Media, is presented to an individual 30 years of age or younger who has made significant contributions to the marketing research and insight industry.

At Fluent Research, we have always known that Sofia Polo is a force to be reckoned with in the field of marketing research. Her attentiveness to clients, skill in fostering a comfortable and open interview environment, dedication to excellence, and insightful analyses have propelled our projects to new heights.

Sofia oversees a wide range of global research studies, informing the development of products and programs that benefit children, youth, and families. Sofia has a strong interest in leveraging research to promote education, health and mental health of children, youth and families. A native Spanish speaker, she has worked tirelessly in engaging to engage Latino communities in health research initiatives.

The Marketing Research and Insight Excellence Awards, celebrated this year on November 14 in a virtual ceremony, recognize the outstanding achievements of individuals and teams in the industry​​. These awards shine a spotlight on those adding value and impact to marketing research, and we are thrilled that Sofia has been recognized among her peers for her exceptional work.

Upon receiving the award, Sofia expressed her gratitude: “I am deeply honored to receive this recognition and deeply appreciate the support and collaboration of the entire Fluent team. This award fuels my commitment to continue pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve in market research.”

Fluent is committed to fostering up-and-coming talent and innovation in marketing research. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Sofia and look forward to her continued contributions to our industry and beyond.

16 Oct

Posted at 21:01h in Employee News, Get to Know Us

Welcome to Fluent Research’s special Boss’s Day celebration! We couldn’t resist the opportunity to reflect on what makes our boss, Nellie Gregorian, unique. Join us as we share our favorite things about working with Nellie — it’s a refreshing reminder that a kind leader creates an environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and ready to give their best.

Lia Abrams, User Experience Researcher

Nellie is such a joy to work with! She is an inspiration to me as a woman who is confident, personable, has an entrepreneurial spirit, and yet encourages us to enjoy the little things in life. I love seeing her in the office and catching up about our lives. She has an abundance of knowledge and wisdom and I have learned so much from her.

Charlotte Beatty, User Experience Researcher

Nellie is creative, positive, and knows how to make work fun!

Farrah Brensinger, Senior User Experience Researcher

Nellie believes that everyone has something important to bring to the table. Despite leveraging our strengths, she makes sure to provide opportunities that stretch us. I love that Nellie is intentional about hearing from each team member on a regular basis, whether in a small 1:1 meeting or in a larger group setting. Her leadership helps me hone the things I already do well, and challenges me to develop skills in other areas.

Allison Caplovitz, Director, Content Research & Evaluation

Nellie is a smart, fearless leader who trusts the work of others. She values professional development and roots for everyone to succeed. AND, she knows how to have a good time!

Stefanie Cousins, Vice President, Marketing & Communications

Nellie has a leadership style that encourages the people who work for her to grow, develop, and become even better versions of themselves. She respects her staff and sees everyone’s potential. Nellie cares about our wellbeing and wants to make sure we are finding balance in our lives. Yes, she is a fantastic boss!

Heath Cozens, Director, Productions

The genuine care she has for the staff! And her hilariously black sense of humor 🙂

Tom Fuller, Vice President, Business Development

Nellie’s the best boss I have ever had. She’s fair and generous and works very hard.

Evelin Garcia, User Experience Researcher

I really enjoy working with Nellie. She actually cares about us as people and not just employees. She’s always asking how we are doing, encouraging us to take care of ourselves, and supporting our professional and personal growth. I think Nellie really prioritizes our wellbeing, which is really refreshing and hard to find in many professional spaces.







Sofia Polo, Director, Research Strategy




She has very chill vibes and believes in all her employees!


Amy Warren, Senior Child Development Researcher 


Nellie embodies the values that guide Fluent’s work and empowers us to do the same. Wellbeing, innovation, equity, and access are not just missions we advance, but are woven into the culture of Fluent, into the way we work, the way we relate to one another and to our clients, the way we evolve as a company. That is integrity in its highest form. That is Nellie.






Dan Warren, Director, Youth Development & Education


Nellie has taught me to be open to and listen for helpful advice, even when it stings a bit.




 



                                                    

                                
                            

                        					

				

			

		

		

                    		

			

									

						
					

								

					

						
24 Aug 

						

							Posted at 23:18h
							in Employee News, Get to Know Us                            																														
													

						
At Fluent, our four-legged friends are not just pets, but cherished members of our extended family. This National Dog Day, we’re thrilled to share the canine companions that bring joy, laughter, and love to Fluent’s employees. From a Jack Russell-beagle mix that loves lounging to an adopted Shih Tzu who is devoted to her owner, prepare to fall in love with the dogs of Fluent Research!    


 


Max, Age 13 – Owned by Lia Abrams, User Experience Researcher


Max is a little bundle of fun! He is a bichon poodle and weighs about 15 pounds, but don’t be fooled by his small stature. Max was an epic hiker in his prime, frequently going on 10+ mile hikes and leading his family along the path. Max scratches each family member’s door every morning to wake them up and greet them before moving on to the next. If you want to cuddle up with him, I recommend doing so in the morning when he is extra affectionate. By the evening time he can usually be found under his owners’ bed. 


 


 


 


Izzy, Age 13 – Owned by Natalia Belchikov, User Experience Researcher


Izzy is a sweet dog who loves lounging at home and luring people to give her food with her puppy eyes. She is a Jackabee (50% Jack Russell/50% beagle). Izzy’s relaxation time is very precious to her, she does not like to be moved or bothered when she gets comfortable. In fact, she is a notorious seat nabber; if you need to get up from your spot, don’t be surprised to see Izzy getting comfortable in it by the time you get back. One of her favorite activities is chasing after squirrels during a walk. She loves to make a scene, barking loudly and pulling on the leash so we can keep up! Be warned that she loves to show her affection with licks and by staring at you with adoring eyes. She has grown up with cats all her life, and though the cats can be a pain, she loves them too. 


 


 


Milo, Age 4 & Lily, Age 9 – Owned by Allison Caplovitz, Director, Content Research and Evaluation


Milo is active and friendly. He is my walking buddy and will happily walk 5 miles with me every day! He loves to get into food that he is not supposed to – and is often caught rummaging through the trash to find a tasty morsel.


Lily is my lap buddy and will cuddle any time she has the chance. You will often find her on my lap during long work days. Even though she only weighs 12 pounds, she will put her much larger brother, Milo, in his place if he makes a wrong move!


 


 


Lily, Age 7 – Owned by Stefanie Cousins, Vice President of Marketing and Communications


Meet Lily, a 9-pound Shih Tzu we adopted 18 months ago from my best friend’s mother who became too frail to care for her. Lily is 95% love and affection and 5% “don’t mess with me.” Lily’s full-time job is to keep her people company and make sure they feel her devotion, and she is a pro. She spends her days sleeping on my lap while I work, or curled up somewhere warm and soft waiting for the next recipient of her cuddles and licks. But don’t let our tiny, Ewok look-alike fool you. Lily has short bursts of energy when she fetches her toys like a retriever and plays sock tug-of-war like a bulldog. When Lily’s younger brother Mochi (a 1-year-old Russian Blue cat weighing in at 14 pounds) wants to play, Lily engages in fun-loving games until she’s had enough and charges at him with a growl that would force any kitty to slink away.


 


 


Elle, Age 5 – Owned by Paige Frankovich, Producer


Meet Elle, the ultimate mix of husky, pitbull, and German Shepherd craziness! She was adopted about a year ago after being surrendered by her previous owner at 2 1/2 years old. In the 6-8 months she was bouncing around in shelters, she had some sort of head trauma. She’s all healed now and her only side effect is having the cutest mismatched ears. Elle loves to play with her spiky ball, run around with her doggy friends, and eat any food that lands in her vicinity. She is loving her carefree new life!




 


 


Luna, Age 3 – Owned by Amber Gonzalez, Quantitative Researcher


Meet Luna, the ultimate lap dog with an adorable persuasion technique — puppy eyes! She knows just how to win you over and claim her spot on your lap. Luna loves making new friends- at just 6 pounds, she fearlessly befriends dogs over ten times her size. Her favorite hobbies include exploring dog-friendly spots in the city and snacking on yak chews and peanut butter.


 


 


Skylar, Age 5 – Babysat by Nellie Gregorian, Founder and President


I don’t have a dog (a childhood dream that still hasn’t been realized) but I babysit my friend’s dog, Skylar. Skylar is a pomsky and the coolest dog ever. She is very poised and carries herself with dignity. When other dogs approach her, she looks at them calmly but with an unmistakably superior attitude, like a grown-up looking at an impetuous kid. She is also stunningly beautiful, with eyes of different colors – one light brown and one cool blue. She loves me, and is always happy to come for a visit — my treating her with Russian cutlets might have something to do with it! 🙂


 


 


Lola, Age 5 – Owned by Kelly Sheehan, Senior User Experience Researcher


Meet Lola, a 5-year-old German Shepard mix. My husband and I adopted Lola in 2020 the day before the world shut from COVID. She does not like other dogs or people, but she gives us all her love every day. When she’s not barking at Amazon drivers, she loves tearing apart stuffies, chewing bones, and cuddling in bed with us. She’s taught me a lot about patience, loyalty, and empathy. We love her!


 

                                                    

                                
                            

                        					

				

			

		

		

                    		

			

									

						
					

								

					

						
15 Jan 

						

							Posted at 20:38h
							in Content, Employee News, Research                            																														
													

						
January 17, 2023 (New York, NY) – Fluent Research, a data and insights-driven strategic consulting firm, announced today that Farrah Brensinger has been promoted to Senior UX Researcher. In this role, Farrah will oversee a wide range of global research studies, informing the development of new technologies and content.


 


“Farrah has demonstrated her deep analytical skills while working on diverse projects, ranging from UX research to impact assessments of educational content,” said Nellie Gregorian, Founder and President of Fluent Research. “I am excited to see Farrah’s accomplishments in her new role.”


 


Farrah is passionate about designing products, services, and experiences that create a better quality of life and a brighter future for all. She leverages qualitative research methodologies to build empathy and provide data-driven, actionable recommendations.


 


Prior to joining Fluent, Farrah worked at Shimmy Technologies, contributing user research for the development of game-based training tools used in the manufacturing sector.


 


About Fluent Research

Fluent Research is a data and insights-driven strategic consulting firm. Since 2006 Fluent has leveraged understanding of human behavior to help the world’s best-known brands and organizations advance worthy causes, innovate transformational products, and successfully navigate change. Fluent’s work centers around three practice areas: thought leadership research, formative research and evaluation, and social impact assessment. Fluent has applied rigorous and innovative research solutions in service of promoting children’s access to and quality of education, and gender equality in the U.S. and in over 70 countries around the world. Fluent’s creative arm, Fluent Productions, is an award-winning producer of original documentary content that harnesses the power of visual storytelling to bring attention to important issues facing our society, to build empathy and inspire action.


Contact: Stefanie Cousins

[email protected]