How Can Insights Partner Better with Data and Analytics with Michelle Gansle

If insights teams don’t become best buddies with data science and AI, they risk getting sidelined. In this episode, host Nick Graham, Founder of Vertemis, is joined by Michelle Gansle, former Chief Data & Analytics Officer, McDonald’s, to talk about why insights needs to partner better with data and analytics instead of competing for control, budget, or credit. They discuss how big data created silos, why teams still rarely collaborate without being forced to, and how bringing consumer insights, business insights, and data science together early can create “one plus one equals three” outcomes. They explore practical ways to build bridges, from “day in the life” sharing to cross-conference learning, and how AI can support critical thinking, storytelling, and stakeholder-ready recommendations.00:00 Big Data Shockwave00:23 Meet the Host and Guest02:10 Is Insights Losing Ground02:48 Why Teams Compete07:19 AI as Common Cause10:08 Collaboration That Works13:42 Reframing Insights Role17:44 AI Tools and Hacks25:11 Future Skills for Leaders28:30 Practical Bridge Building32:35 Advice for Next Gen35:06 Wrap Up and SubscribeInsights & Innovators Podcast from MRII | Hosted by The Greenbook Podcast NetworkExplore more episodes and resources → https://www.greenbook.org/podcast-networkLearn more about MRII → https://mrii.org/