Why subscribe to Field Notes?

I’m Vivian, a qualitative researcher with a lifelong passion for people and stories. With over 30 years of experience, I’ve helped organizations listen more closely—so they can speak more effectively. My superpower is building immediate, authentic rapport, even in sensitive conversations. Whether I’m exploring how people make decisions, navigate change, or process challenges, I uncover the emotional truths that drive behavior.

Field Notes is my monthly reflection on the rich intersection of life and work—how personal experience shapes professional insight, and vice versa.

My path to research began unexpectedly—with a job interview that turned into a conversation about James Joyce. That moment launched a career rooted in curiosity, empathy, and a humanities-trained ear for nuance.

Today I live in Portland, Maine, where I walk daily along Casco Bay with my aging terrier, taste-test the city’s food scene with my husband, and mentor young people in my community. I’ve been in the same book group since 1995—back when they were still a little nerdy.

People are my purpose: those I talk to, learn from, and represent. If you need to hear more deeply from your audience—or if you're just curious about the human experience—I’d love to connect.

And also….

Said and Done is my quarterly dispatch on recent research—what I’ve been hearing, noticing, and making sense of in the field. Each edition offers a quick, insightful glimpse into the themes and questions shaping my work with clients. It’s designed to spark ideas, share perspective, and show what good qualitative research can do.

To reach me directly, please email vivian@vmhqualitative.com