Marc Engel
Marketing Research & Human Insights,
Creative Problem-Solving using
Applied Improvisation.
Thank you for visiting my site!
(with inspiration from—and apologies to—INXS and Dylan)
Thank you, Jeff Shelton, for filming and editing this piece.
I began my careers in research and comedy while I was in college. (Reagan was still president.) My research roots are in quantitative, but I branched out into qualitative 15 years ago, and I’m a better researcher (and comedian) because of it. My comedy roots are in stand-up and writing, but I branched out into improv nearly 20 years ago, and I’m a better person and researcher (and better comedian) because of it. As a counter-balance to the fun and creativity, I’m also a member of the California Bar.
If academic pedigree were as prized as a canine’s, my degrees from Cornell and UCLA and year at Oxford might qualify me for the Westminster Kennel Club. But, my best education has come outside the classroom. The animating principle in my life is discovering and honoring the common humanity and dignity that reside within each of us. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with, and performing for, thousands of people from all walks of life. I’m enriched by the diversity of perspectives I’ve heard, and I’m heartened whenever I witness the kindness and generosity of spirit that recognizes the shared needs, wants, values, fears and motivations that make us human.
Co-Chair, San Francisco Chapter, Qualitative Research Consultants Association
Inclusive Culture Committee
Applied Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Sub-Committee
2021 Annual Conference Committee
Co-presented ‘playshops’ with Pascal Patenaude at the worldwide conference and individual chapters on the value and utility of Applied Improvisational Thinking for qualitative researchers.
Co-presented, “Tapping into the Creative Storytelling Processes of Broadway and Hollywood”
with Dina Shulman, exploring what researchers can learn from the mindset and approaches of writers, actors and directors.
Member