In this episode of "Don't Kill the Messenger," host Kevin Goetz sits down with Melva Benoit, founder and president of the Marian Dupree Group. A trailblazer in research and consumer insights, Benoit has held senior executive positions in major media companies including Viacom, Disney, Turner, NBC Universal, and Fox. Together, they delve into her rich background in television market research, discussing her unique insights and experiences in the entertainment industry.Benoit's Early Career (06:25)Growing up in Houston, Texas, Benoit developed a love for television and aspired to be in charge of Saturday morning cartoons. She attended Howard University and began her career in research at King World, eventually moving to Cartoon Network and Comedy Central.The Role of Research in Television (11:15)Benoit explains the three main functions of research within media institutions: keeping the lights on, taking requests, and anticipating stakeholders' needs. She emphasizes the importance of research teams contributing to meetings even when there isn't a direct need for research.Analyzing Successful Television Shows (17:25)Benoit discusses the testing and success of shows like Seinfeld (17:25), Friends (20:24), and South Park (46:31). She highlights the importance of understanding how audiences learn to watch and relate to characters in television shows.The Changing Landscape of Media (32:45)Benoit and Goetz explore the shift in the media industry, with tech companies like Apple, Google, Facebook, and Amazon becoming the four biggest media companies. They discuss the challenges of targeted advertising and the need for a more nuanced approach to understanding audiences.Reframing Audience Measurement (34:25)Goetz and Benoit discuss a new way of looking at marketing to consumers, focusing on shared attitudes, behaviors, and values rather than solely relying on demographic information. They emphasize the importance of reaching diverse audiences and the need for the advertising industry to adapt to this new way of thinking.Melva Benoit's insights into the world of television market research shed light on the complex relationship between content creators, audiences, and advertisers. By advocating for a more nuanced understanding of entertainment consumers and embracing the changing media landscape, Benoit and Goetz offer a unique vision for the future of the industry. This engaging conversation highlights the importance of adaptability, creativity, and audience-centric thinking in the changing media landscape. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or connect on social media. We look forward to bringing you more revelations from behind the scenes next time on Don't Kill the Messenger!Host: Kevin GoetzGuest: Melva BenoitProducer: Kari CampanoWriters: Kevin Goetz, Darlene Hayman, and Kari CampanoFor more information about Melva Benoit:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melvabenoit/Twitter: https://twitter.com/MelvagBenoitThe Marian Dupree Group, Inc. https://linkedin.com/company/the-marian-dupree-group-llc/For more information about Kevin Goetz:Website: www.KevinGoetz360.comAudienceology Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Audience-ology/Kevin-Goetz/9781982186678Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @KevinGoetz360Linked In @Kevin GoetzScreen Engine/ASI Website: www.ScreenEngineASI.com