Moderating Life

Unscripted Wrap Up, Recognitions, and Thanks

In the final episode of the DLG Research 20th Anniversary podcast, siblings Edgardo and Elvia de la Garza reflect on their 20-year journey of running their multicultural market research firm. They reminisce about the genesis of DLG Research, the doubts Elvia had about leaving a comfortable job in Miami, and the support from their family that made their venture possible. They discuss their alternate career paths, with Edgardo's love for cooking and Elvia's initial dream of being a TV host. The duo highlights the unique aspects of working with a sibling, emphasizing their balanced work dynamic and mutual respect. They express heartfelt gratitude to their supportive parents, loyal clients, dedicated partners, and loving families. This unscripted and emotional episode serves as a heartfelt tribute to their shared journey and the people who have supported them along the way. Connect with Edgardo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgardodlg/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgardodlg/] Connect with Elvia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elviadelagarzamorales/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elviadelagarzamorales/] Visit our website: dlgresearch.com [http://dlgresearch.com] Share your thoughts on this episode with hashtag #ModeratingLife or tag us online!

The Art of Listening – What Makes a Great Moderator

In this heartfelt fifth episode of 'Moderating Life,' hosts Edgardo and Elvia dive deep into the art of listening and what it takes to be a truly exceptional moderator in market research. They share personal anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, emotional intelligence, and genuine connection with participants. The duo discusses how understanding the vibe and rhythm of a group is crucial, how to frame the right questions, and the magic that happens when you create a space where people feel truly heard. They also touch on the delicate balance of maintaining the client's objectives while being present with participants, the role of flexibility in uncovering unexpected insights, and the unique 'moderator's high' that comes from those golden moments of deep connection and discovery. The episode is filled with reflections on their journey, the challenges and rewards of the profession, and the profound impact of making every participant feel like the most important person in the room. Connect with Edgardo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgardodlg/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgardodlg/] Connect with Elvia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elviadelagarzamorales/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elviadelagarzamorales/] Visit our website: dlgresearch.com [http://dlgresearch.com] Join us for the next chapter of our 20-year journey! Share your thoughts on this episode with the hashtag #ModeratingLife or tag us online!

Behind the Mirror Part 2 – The Emotional & The Uncomfortable

In the fourth episode of DLG's 20th Anniversary podcast, Moderating Life, Elvia and Edgardo de la Garza explore the deeply human side of market research. Moving away from last episode's topics of tequila and interruptions, they share profound stories that reveal the emotional core of their work. Edgardo recounts a moving interaction with an HIV-positive participant who opened up about his family's rejection of his sexuality. Elvia shares the heartbreak of a young Hispanic couple facing home loan rejection during the 2008 housing crisis. The episode also details the challenges and resilience of a diverse group of disabled voters in Texas. Finally, they discuss the frustrations of dishonesty in research and the value of integrity. This episode underscores the significance of genuinely hearing and seeing people, highlighting the therapeutic potential of market research. Connect with Edgardo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgardodlg/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgardodlg/] Connect with Elvia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elviadelagarzamorales/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elviadelagarzamorales/] Visit our website: dlgresearch.com [http://dlgresearch.com] Join us for the next chapter of our 20-year journey! Share your thoughts on this episode with the hashtag #ModeratingLife or tag us online!

Behind the Mirror Part 1– The Funny, the Wild, the What-Just-Happened?

In the third installment of DLG's 20th Anniversary Podcast, Moderating Life, hosts Elvia and Edgardo de la Garza delve into the lighter side of market research. The episode is packed with amusing and unexpected stories from their careers as focus group moderators. Elvia recounts a memorable session where a participant forgot she was being recorded and adjusted her clothing in full view of the clients. She also shares a story about a participant who was convinced she was a famous celebrity and insisted on getting her autograph. Edgardo contributes a tale of an in-home interview that turned into a lively party complete with tequila and vodka, and a focus group participant who attempted to steal a competitor's bottle of whisky. The episode also highlights the occasional unpredictability of clients, such as a CEO who unexpectedly joined a session to thank participants personally, and a client who found romance with a receptionist during a research session. These entertaining anecdotes offer a behind-the-scenes look at the humorous and human aspects of consumer research, making for a captivating and engaging listen. Connect with Edgardo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgardodlg/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgardodlg/] Connect with Elvia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elviadelagarzamorales/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elviadelagarzamorales/] Visit our website: dlgresearch.com [http://dlgresearch.com] Join us for the next chapter of our 20-year journey! Share your thoughts on this episode with the hashtag #ModeratingLife or tag us online!

The Magic of Insight – Projects That Moved Us

In this heartwarming second episode of 'Moderating Life,' hosts Edgardo and Elvia celebrate their journey at DLG Research by sharing some of their most memorable projects. They discuss the 'Press the Button' campaign for Sonic Drive-in, revealing the cultural and linguistic hurdles faced by Hispanic consumers. They also highlight a poignant study with the Environmental Defense Fund that uncovered the tough decisions marginalized communities make regarding air quality. The episode continues with the duo reminiscing about their collaborative work with Bush's Beans to develop products authentically tailored to Hispanic tastes, and how the everyday use of vinegar in Hispanic homes inspired a new Windex product. Through these stories, Edgardo and Elvia beautifully illustrate the profound impact of truly understanding cultural nuances, culminating in products and campaigns that resonate deeply with their audiences. Connect with Edgardo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgardodlg/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgardodlg/] Connect with Elvia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elviadelagarzamorales/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elviadelagarzamorales/] Visit our website: dlgresearch.com [http://dlgresearch.com] Join us for the next chapter of our 20-year journey! Share your thoughts on this episode with the hashtag #ModeratingLife or tag us online!