In this episode, we chat with Melissa Seligmann, COO of Thingtesting, as she dives into the importance of authenticity in consumer insights and brand engagement. Melissa shares how Thingtesting has grown from an Instagram account into a robust review platform, helping brands connect with consumers in genuine ways. With a background that includes building customer loyalty at BarkBox, Melissa also provides insights on creating memorable, mission-driven experiences. Favorite Moments: [00:02:00] Building Authentic Review Platforms: How Thingtesting transformed from a simple Instagram to a trusted product review hub. [00:06:00] Bridging the DTC-Retail Gap: Strategies for brands to gain insights on customers as they shift from direct-to-consumer to retail. [00:11:00] The Role of Design in Brand Experience: How creative design shapes customer perception and drives loyalty. [00:19:00] Startup Life and Operations: Melissa’s day-to-day at Thingtesting and balancing remote work with team productivity. [00:32:00] Lessons from BarkBox: Melissa’s time at BarkBox and how a thoughtful, mission-driven approach to customer experience can build a passionate community. Join us for an episode filled with actionable insights on building trust, creating authentic consumer connections, and staying mission-focused! Want to learn more about Melissa and Thingtesting? Hit the links below! Melissa Seligmann Linkedin Thingtesting -------------------------- Enjoying Above the Fold? Keep the insights coming by subscribing to my newsletter, Sunday Postcards. Each week, I share tips, stories, and strategies that help you unlock the secrets to brand success. Written from my experience in the marketing world, it’s your go-to source for staying ahead of the curve. Subscribe at www.sundaypostcards.co and join the community! --------------------------- Connect with Jess on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-cervellon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justjessssss Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess.cervellon/