Before “online communities” became a buzzword, she built a movement.

In this episode, Leonard Murphy speaks with Diane Hessan, legendary founder of Communispace (now C Space), and one of the original disruptors in the market research industry.

Hessan shares the remarkable story of how she went from General Foods executive to pioneering tech entrepreneur, launching Communispace in 2000 with a then-radical idea: use the internet to bring consumers and brands into direct, ongoing dialogue.

She opens up about:

• Building trust in a skeptical industry
• Scaling from startup to a global powerhouse with 700 employees
• The leadership lessons that helped her navigate early-stage doubt and drive lasting change
• How the original spirit of community is more relevant than ever in today’s AI-fueled world

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the roots of innovation in insights, entrepreneurial grit, and the enduring power of putting consumers at the center.

You can reach out to Diane Hessan on LinkedIn.

Many thanks to Diane Hessan for being our guest.