As we close out 2025, I want to pivot from talking about "market trends" to talking about "market movers." On December 17th, I am hosting the final episode of the year for the Talking Headless Show.
We often treat Analysts and AR professionals as functions—inputs and outputs for a marketing strategy. We forget they are humans with fascinating career trajectories that shape the industry itself. This episode is my personal "Thank You" to that community.
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Why Tech Analysts Matter (The Market Truth)
In a world flooded with AI hype and vendor noise, the Tech Analyst is the last line of defense for the buyer. They are the market's "BS detector."
They don't just write reports; they guide billion-dollar purchasing decisions. A glowing validation from an analyst like Blair Pleasant can put a vendor on the map. Conversely, a critical question during a briefing can force a product roadmap to pivot. They provide the "market truth" that CEOs and CTOs desperately need to validate their strategies.
The AR Professional: The Strategic Bridge
Then there is the Analyst Relations (AR) professional. Too often, they are misunderstood as "calendar managers" or "briefing schedulers." This is a massive mistake.
The AR pro is the Strategic Translator. They sit between the chaotic reality of engineering and the polished perception of the market. Their job is to take raw technical innovation and shape it into a narrative that resonates with the analysts. They are diplomats, strategists, and storytellers who ensure the company isn't just "seen" but understood.
The Guests: A Masterclass in Perspective
For this finale, I am bringing together two powerhouses who represent both sides of this critical table:
- Blair Pleasant (President & Principal Analyst, COMMfusion): The veteran voice with over 30 years of experience. She cuts through the noise in CX technologies and knows what "real" looks like.
- Anoushka Suchowa (Senior Manager, AR at Celonis): The dual threat. She spent a decade inside Forrester before moving to the brand side. She understands the machinery of influence from the inside out.
A Note of Gratitude
Hosting this show has been a highlight of my year. I want to extend a massive thank you to Paul Greenberg and Brent Leary at Playaz Productions for the platform, and to the entire community of AR pros who support this work.
