Articles by Matt Close

QRCA 2022-23 President Michael Mermelstein
From the President

From The President – Summer 2023

June 22, 2023 0

A role model is someone whose behavior is in some ways imitated by others, primarily because role models have abilities. But it is their passion, values, and willingness to help others through coaching and mentoring that stands out. […]

Travelwise

Home 2 Home: Travel, Research, and My Hybrid Identity

June 21, 2023 0

Professor Weronika Kusek knows firsthand that while one’s physical home may change, we carry our identity wherever we go. A migrant from Poland to the United States, she discusses the complexities of living between two countries, with teaching commitments in one and extended family in another, all while conducting qualitative research. Her current work focuses on migrants in Poland, specifically on Ukrainian laborers moving into Poland. This research is led by current global events, as many Ukrainians come to Poland due to the refugee crisis caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. […]

Global Sustainability
Global

Sustainability Meets War, Inflation, and Drought: A Snapshot of Conscious Environmentalism in Germany

June 21, 2023 0

A long-term online consumer research community in Germany reveals choices consumers make on consumption and purchasing habits around sustainability impact in light of the economic downturn. The reader will gain a deeper understanding of the effectiveness of sustainability programs and the extent to which consumers are willing to alter their lifestyles for conservation. […]

Shooting a stand-up show. Stand-up comedian on stage at the microphone.
Business Matters

3 Things Stand-Up Comedy Can Teach You About Building a Moderating Business

June 21, 2023 0

With a background as a professional stand-up comedian, focus group moderator/interviewer Leigh Kessler delivers a unique perspective on the fundamentals of both, highlighting similarities and sharing three unique lessons learned in stand-up comedy that can help develop interview skills and make you a great focus group moderator. Learn how you can benefit as a moderator—and businessperson—by spending a little time doing stand-up comedy. […]

Book Reviews

Don’t Trust Your Gut: Using Data to Get What You Really Want in Life by Seth Stephens-Davidowitz, Dey Street Books, 2022

June 20, 2023 0

Mira Lares reviews this book which presents the importance of data-backed strategies in building better lives. Addressing everything from parenting to financial success, the author illustrates how big data can guide choices that help us become happier and avoid common misconceptions on the way to building our ideal life. An uplifting and inspiring summer read. […]