The signal in the noise: how researchers can futureproof their own careers with Mina McBride

In this episode of The Curiosity Current, Stephanie Vance and Molly Strawn-Carreño sit down with strategic foresight practitioner Mina McBride to explore why valuable research often fails to translate into action. Mina explains how researchers can build credibility, understand their clients’ realities, and recognize resistance as a potential signal rather than a setback. From taking calculated career risks to using small experiments and staying curious, Mina shares practical ways to create impact while continuing to grow in an evolving research industry. Ultimately, she encourages researchers to ask themselves a simple question: do you still love the work? What You’ll Learn: How to make your research more likely to influence real decisions How to build trust and credibility with clients before presenting your insights How to navigate client resistance and uncover what it may be telling you How to use foresight to make better decisions when the future is uncertain How to filter industry trends and new technologies based on your priorities and strengths How to take meaningful career risks without having to bet everything at once How to stay motivated and keep learning by reconnecting with the work you genuinely enjoy About the Guest: Mina McBride is a strategic foresight practitioner, consultant, speaker, and facilitator who specializes in helping organizations and individuals bridge the critical gap between insight and action. With expertise in foresight methodology and organizational decision-making, Mina has worked extensively with leaders to translate complex signals and research findings into practical, implementable strategies. Her work has helped countless organizations and professionals move beyond analysis paralysis to make decisive, forward-thinking decisions that create real business value. Episode Resources: Mina Mcbride on LinkedIn Stephanie Vance on LinkedIn Molly Strawn-Carreño on LinkedIn The Curiosity Current: A Market Research Podcast on Apple Podcasts The Curiosity Current: A Market Research Podcast on Spotify The Curiosity Current: A Market Research Podcast on YouTube The Curiosity Current: A Market Research Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so