In The Know by INSEAD

How is INSEAD reshaping executive education for a world where senior leaders need both global exposure and greater flexibility? In this episode of In The Know, we speak with Anne Bresman, Senior Director for Degree programmes, and Daniella Wagner, Director of Recruitment and Business Development for Executive MBAs. Together, they break down how the GEMBA Flex format blends in-person learning with virtual and asynchronous components, creating a pathway for high-potential executives who previously could not commit to a fully in-person programme. Timestamps 0:00 – Introduction and episode overview 1:25 – Who the GEMBA is for 1:41 – Global structure across three regions and Flex 2:51 – Cohort diversity and participant profile 3:36 – What candidates seek in an Executive MBA 4:45 – Global campuses and formats for busy executives 7:59 – One global cohort: electives and networking 10:43 – Choosing your section and planning mobility 13:08 – Why INSEAD created GEMBA Flex 15:20 – How GEMBA Flex works in practice 18:54 – Flex benefits, time on campus and participant stories 21:06 – Anne’s advice for prospective GEMBA participants 25:43 – Navigating the admissions process 28:05 – Ideal candidate profiles and support from the recruitment team

In this episode, In The Know explores the journey of Frauke Steiner, Partner and Head of the German Business Network at EY USA. She shares what it takes to move from Europe to China and beyond, navigating cultural differences, leadership expectations, and evolving global markets. Discover how the Tsinghua–INSEAD Executive MBA shaped her approach to leading across borders and building meaningful business relationships. “ I am very proud of our strong partnership with Tsinghua SEM. Together, we have built a truly global programme that not only prepares executives to lead across borders but also fosters a deep understanding of business in both the East and the West. ” – Professor Francisco Veloso, Dean of INSEAD   Timestamps 0:00 - Setting the Scene: From Europe to China and Beyond 1:12 - Discovering Purpose in Auditing and Leadership 3:44 – Climbing the Ladder: Lessons from EY Germany 6:20 – Taking the Leap: Moving to Beijing 8:24 – Why China? Choosing Growth over Comfort 11:00 – First Impressions of China: Culture, Scale and Surprise 14:09 – Bridging Cultures: Leadership Lessons from East and West 19:39 – Rethinking China: Myths, Markets and Mindsets 25:09 – Inside China’s Work Ethic: Collaboration Without Pause 28:04 – A New Chapter: From Beijing to New York  

What does it take to build a business that survives crisis, reinvention, and growth — all while pursuing an MBA and raising a family? In this episode of In The Know, host Danny Xue speaks with Rani Khodijah (MBA ’25D), entrepreneur and founding partner of Ambiz. From selling handmade goods as a child to leading a consulting firm today, Rani shares how her entrepreneurial spirit has shaped every stage of her journey. She reflects on the realities of scaling a company, navigating near-bankruptcy, and transforming setbacks into opportunities for renewal. Learn more about how the INSEAD MBA can support your entrepreneurship goals. Rani also reveals how the INSEAD MBA is helping her strengthen governance, sharpen her leadership, and scale with purpose across markets. Her story is a candid look at what it means to build with resilience and lead with heart — proving that entrepreneurship is as much about people and purpose as it is about growth. Episode Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:00 Early sparks of entrepreneurship 08:26 Start of Rani's company Ambiz 11:56 Facing bankruptcy as an entrepreneur 15:06 Managing employee health as a business owner 18:40 Job fulfilment and performance levels 19:15 Rani's goals for Indonesia and South East Asia 21:06 Managing work and studies as an INSEAD MBA student 25:25 Why INSEAD 26:50 Advice to INSEAD MBA prospects 30:49 Motivating factors 32:58 Managing family when doing the INSEAD MBA 35:08 AI as a business tool 

Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, careers, and organisations, and INSEAD alumni are at the forefront of this transformation. In this episode of In The Know, moderator Pankaj Kumar speaks with two experts driving AI strategy and innovation. Kevin Pereira (MBA ’14D) is Managing Director at Blu, where he advises global firms on AI consulting and education. Asan Hu, (MBA'25J) is an AI Product Manager at Alpheya and a former TikTok product strategist, building AI-powered solutions for the future of wealth management. They share authoritative perspectives on: How leaders can cut through the hype and integrate AI responsibly into business models Why successful adoption depends on mindset, education, and change management The evolution of work, from task automation to the creation of new roles The critical skills business leaders must prioritise, including continuous learning, critical thinking, and storytelling This conversation positions AI as an urgent opportunity for executives and organisations today, with insights that connect strategy, product innovation, and leadership. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction 02:10 - Breaking down fear and confusion around AI adoption 08:11 - The changing role of product managers in an AI-first world 11:35 - How organisations should identify the right use cases for AI 16:28 - Job evolution versus job creation and the future of skills 20:41 - Wealth management and fintech: balancing AI and human judgment 23:35 - How different industries use AI 32:33 - INSEAD MBA reflections and how education adapts to AI 43:09 - AI and the human touch Learn more about the INSEAD MBA: insead.edu/mba

In this episode of In The Know, we catch up with Stefano Pizzoli and Francesca Fitzgerald, two alumni from the pioneering INSEAD Master in Management (MIM) class that graduated in 2021. Five years after starting their INSEAD journey, they share how the MIM shaped their careers, from launching a startup to consulting at BCG, and reflect on the personal growth and global opportunities they’ve gained. If you're wondering whether a Master in Management is worth it, their stories offer honest, inspiring answers.  Timesteamps 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guests: Stefano and Francesca from INSEAD's pioneering MIM cohort 01:24 – Guests' introductions: Background and current roles at Celonis (Stefano) and BCG (Francesca) 02:25 – Why they chose to join the pioneering INSEAD MIM programme 05:35 – Stefano’s memorable experience applying to INSEAD 10:11 – Navigating the unexpected challenges of starting the programme during the COVID-19 pandemic 17:14 – Maintaining strong bonds with classmates post-graduation 21:44 – Stefano's global career journey in tech at Celonis 27:10 – Francesca's career path in consulting, across Portugal, the Middle East, and now New York City 33:44 – Stefano shares the entrepreneurial story behind his tomato sauce business 37:16 – Francesca highlights the unexpected benefits and personal growth from the INSEAD MIM experience

In this episode hosted by Julio Suarez of the Marketing and Recruitment Department, we explore the long-term impact of the INSEAD MBA through the lens of leadership, personal growth, and global collaboration. Our guest, MBA'19D Jacqueline Liao, reflects on how the INSEAD MBA programme and her experience with the Personal Leadership Development Programme (PLDP) shaped her communication style, leadership approach, and ability to thrive in diverse, international environments. From challenging assumptions to building lasting networks, she shares personal stories that bring the MBA journey to life. We also discuss: What actually happens in the PLDP The benefits of an INSEAD MBA How the programme continues to shape life and career post graduation Whether you're considering an MBA or are already part of the INSEAD community, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.   Learn more about the INSEAD MBA: insead.edu/mba

In this episode, we talk to Ahmad Sleiman, MIM'24, the founder of SPK Platforms. Ahmad shares how his transformative journey at the INSEAD Master in Management (MIM) programme has shaped his path as an entrepreneur. He delves into the invaluable connections he made during his time at INSEAD, highlighting how the diverse network of peers and alumni has been a cornerstone of his success. Ahmad also sheds light on the INSEAD faculty and staff's pivotal role in supporting his entrepreneurial aspirations. If you're curious about how a world-class business school can propel your entrepreneurial dreams, this episode is a must-listen!

Join guest host Antony Widjaja, Associate Director of Executive Degrees Programme Recruitment & Partnerships at INSEAD, as he sits down with current GEMBA participant Rachid Ouazizi to uncover the transformative impact of the INSEAD Executive MBA.   In this insightful conversation, they explore diverse approaches to funding the programme—whether through personal investment or securing employer support—and share valuable strategies for building a strong business case to gain company backing. They also discuss the unique challenges and rewards of the Executive MBA experience, offering a holistic view of the programme’s value that extends far beyond financial returns.   Tune in for practical advice and inspiration, whether you’re self-funding or seeking corporate assistance for this pivotal career investment.

In this episode of the In The Know Podcast, we delve into the unique challenges and triumphs of pursuing an MBA while managing the responsibilities of parenthood. Join us as we explore the journey of navigating the INSEAD MBA programme with a baby, from the initial decision to enrol, to overcoming major concerns and preparing for life in Fontainebleau.  We’ll discuss the essential support systems and childcare challenges faced during the programme. Finally, we'll share insights on how the MBA experience can influence careers and offer valuable advice for future MBA parents. Tune in for a heartfelt and informative conversation that sheds light on this inspiring journey. The guests: Rola Awad (MBA’24J) MBA'24J Rola Awad is a licensed pharmacist who leads a team of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to deliver community-based pharmacy and counselling services. Beyond her work in pharmacy, she is dedicated to enhancing her management and business skills. On a personal level, Rola enjoys organic gardening and supports community-based aid programmes. Mazen Ferzley (24J MBA Partner) Host: Eva Laporte (Student Life Officer, INSEAD Degree Programmes) Timestamps 1:10 - About the guests and reasons for applying to INSEAD? 2:32 – Deciding to pursue the INSEAD MBA with a baby 3:10 – Major concerns and preparation for the year in Fontainebleau 4:23 – Navigating the MBA, keys to making it work 6:28 – Support systems & childcare challenges during the MBA   10:11 – Biggest challenges and how to overcome them 12:01 – Managing classes and breastfeeding 13:03 – The MBA experience and influence on careers 14:28 – Advice and tips for future MBA parents  

Welcome to another episode of INSEAD's In The Know podcast. In this episode, we'll discuss with MBA'24J Jeffry Lum about his experiences in OUTSEAD. OUTSEAD is a fun-loving and inclusive club representing the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) community at INSEAD. The club aims to foster an inclusive atmosphere for everyone on campus and provide a social network for community members and allies. Expect to learn about the diversity and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community at INSEAD and the various scholarships available to the community. Head to insead.edu/mba to learn more about our MBA programme! Have a great listen!  Our Guests Today: Jeffry Lum MBA’24J is a co-president of OUTSEAD with experience organizing community events. He is also a member of the LGBTQ+ Community. Ben Ning As Assistant Director for Marketing and Recruitment at INSEAD, Ben is responsible for driving business development and student recruitment efforts for INSEAD's full-time MBA and MIM programmes across Greater China (Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan) and India. Timestamps 0:25 - What you can expect in the episode 2:25 - Why was Jeffry drawn to INSEAD 4:38 - Diversity at INSEAD 5:02 - The role of allies 8:38 - How has society progressed so far? 10:31 - What drives Jeffry to keep striving for change 11:50 - Support from INSEAD 12:55 - Scholarships 15:31 - The special bond among classmates

In this episode, we'll talk with Jay Kenton (Associate Director of Student Life & Experience (Degree Programmes) and Saraphine Pang (MBA'24J) about their experiences of student life on INSEAD's Asia campus.  Expect to learn about the career perks of living in Singapore, common misconceptions, cost and accommodation, student life on campus, and more. Head to insead.edu/mba to learn more about our MBA programme!  Enjoy the show! Our Guests Today Saraphine Pang Saraphine Pang (MBA'24J) is a skilled strategist with expertise in international business development and strategic marketing initiatives. With a career spanning the dynamic gaming industry landscape, Saraphine has honed her skills across multiple markets, including the United States, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand. Her extensive experience underscores a deep understanding of global business dynamics and strategic decision-making, positioning her as a versatile and valuable asset in her field. Jay Kenton As the Associate Director of student life for degree programmes at INSEAD, Jay Kenton is a catalyst for student engagement and community building, revolutionizing the educational experience beyond conventional boundaries. Jay orchestrates opportunities for hundreds of students from varied backgrounds to interconnect and exchange ideas poised to shape society's future. His impact reverberates across several institutions, where he has pioneered innovative initiatives encompassing social and creative development programs, student wellness initiatives, and strategic enrollment planning. Timestamps 0:50 About our guests 2:42 How Jay feels about Singapore 3:45 What inspired Saraphine to pursue her MBA 4:40 Opportunities in Asia 5:40 What’s Saraphine’s experience with the INSEAD MBA 10:35 Cost of living in Singapore 11:15 MBA Career Treks 13:10 How has INSEAD helped Saraphine prepare for what’s next in her career? 13:30 Working with people form different cultures 14:30 What does student life do at INSEAD? 17:20 Student clubs at INSEAD 21:35 Student life advice to students

In this episode, we'll hear from Priyanka Nath, who will share about her experiences, challenges, and opportunities she has faced as a woman in the working world. Our Guest Today Priyanka Nath is a strategic and results-driven marketer with 16 years of experience in the Asia-Pacific region's travel, technology, lifestyle retail and FMCG sectors. With roles and responsibilities across B2B/B2C operations, global/country/regional teams and traditional/new media campaigns, she has cultivated a broad skill set and an agile approach. She is an ardent believer in the digital medium and its potential to transform multiple facets of our lives—the trajectory of our careers, the business models of the companies we work for, and our community at large.   About Limitless We live in a world of constraints—some physical, some cultural, but always personal. These mindsets limit our human potential to achieve great things in life and hinder experiences that not only enrich ourselves but also benefit society at large. Through LIMITLESS, INSEAD strives to create a diverse community where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and pursue their ambitions. In honour of this commitment, we are proud to launch "Ambition Has No Gender - Stories of Vulnerability and Courage". Head to https://insead.edu/limitless to learn more! Timestamps 1:17 - Priyanka's self-introduction 1:50 - Transition into setting up her own business 4:24 - Common barriers she faced as a woman in the working world 10:00 - How she felt when facing discrimination 10:57 - Advice to women who have faced discrimination 14:10 - The broken rung 14:26 - Common issues that women face in the working world 17:15 - Importance of her support system 21:32 - What led her to pursue her MBA at INSEAD 23:08 - How has INSEAD helped her career 24:45 - Her role models 26:58 - Her message to other women Have a great listen! 

Welcome to another episode of INSEAD's In The Know podcast.   In this episode, we'll discuss with MBA24j's Ankita Pathak about her experiences as an MBA candidate in INSEAD's Asia campus.    Expect to learn about global career and networking opportunities, student life, our curriculum, and more. Furthermore, we'll delve into how pursuing your MBA in Singapore allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the global economy and how you can get on-the-ground exposure to various industries.   Head to www.insead.edu/mba to learn more about our MBA programme!   Have a great listen! 

By joining the INSEAD MBA, you choose academic excellence, a rich diverse community and extracurricular opportunities to enhance your overall student experience. As the world's future leaders, why not leverage these opportunities and hone your leadership skills by taking on an impactful leadership position?  For example, be the voice of your section as a class representative, be a member of a club management team for one of the 40+ clubs, help recruit for future MBA intakes as a student ambassador, or represent and advocate for the student body as a whole by being part of the student council.  So what exactly do these different roles involve? What impact can you make and what is some advice on balancing your busy student life with these responsibilities? In this podcast episode hosts Angela and Eva speak to two students from the MBA'23J cohort to learn more. 

By joining the INSEAD MBA, you choose academic excellence, a rich diverse community and extracurricular opportunity to enhance your overall student experience. As the world's future leaders, why not leverage these opportunities and hone your leadership skills by taking on an impactful leadership position?  For example, be the voice of your section as a class representative, be a member of a club management team for one of the 40+ clubs, help recruit for future MBA intakes as a student ambassador, or represent and advocate for the student body as a whole by being part of the student council.  So what exactly do these different roles involve? What impact can you make and what is some advice on balancing your busy student life with these responsibilities? In this podcast episode hosts Angela and Eva speak to two students from the INSEAD MBA'23J cohort to learn more. 

Welcome to another episode of "Unlocking Career Opportunities with INSEAD Employer Engagement." Join us as we uncover more about the Career Development Centres Employer Engagement teams with the team Global Directors Zeynep Fouret and Henrik Jonson. We discuss the team's unique advantages including connecting students with local champions and global companies. Discover how the employee engagement team facilitates student-professional networking and the diverse types of engagements available with companies. Furthermore, we'll delve into the flexibility and timelines for joining Insead's clubs and the invaluable resource of its extensive alumni network.  Our Guests Zeynep Flouret Zeynep is a former M&A and project finance lawyer, Certified career coach, Financial services recruitment specialist, and diversity and inclusion champion. Zeynep is Passionate about leadership development, talent development, executive coaching, interview preparation, cross-cultural awareness training, and recruitment of future leaders. Henrik Jonson Henrik is a Business Development Strategist with 15 years of experience expanding territories and building client relationships across a variety of industries. Henrik has an extensive understanding of Education Management and business environment which has translated directly into new and add-­on business. Content Covered What is the purpose of the employer engagement team? We are going to dive into the sector advisors in the next episodes. Can you describe the structure of the team?  How does the CDC help students network and connect with professionals in their desired industries? "What are the most effective ways to stay informed about the evolving needs and expectations of employers, and how can individuals proactively develop the skills and qualities that are in high demand?

In today's rapidly evolving world, where technological advancements and shifting global landscapes continuously reshape industries, the concept of lifelong learning has emerged as a beacon of success. Embracing a mindset of constant growth and intellectual curiosity, individuals actively engage in lifelong learning and position themselves for remarkable career advantages. This transformative approach to education not only fosters adaptability and resilience, but also opens doors to new opportunities, enhances professional competence, and cultivates a deeper understanding of the intricacies within one's chosen field. By embracing the philosophy of lifelong learning, individuals can navigate the ever-changing professional landscape with confidence, agility, and the unwavering ability to seize the future's boundless prospects. Welcome to episode two of our INSEAD Career Development Centre mini-series. Join us as we explore the lifelong career management skills imparted by the CDC, as well as how the centre helps high-potential talent navigate the job market and identify suitable career options. In today's episode, we delve into the world of lifelong learning and its indispensable role in shaping successful career journeys. We are joined by Larry Medina, the Director of Career Coaching and Education at INSEAD, joining us as our special guest. Larry will share invaluable insights on how INSEAD cultivates impactful learning experiences for their vibrant community, ensuring continuous growth and development. As we embark on this enlightening conversation, we will explore the strategies to embrace lifelong learning at any stage of one's professional journey and discover how it propels individuals towards their desired career objectives. Furthermore, we will unravel the secrets of navigating the twists and turns in the ever-evolving business landscape, all while upholding the principles of global citizenship and making a positive impact on the world. Our Guest Larry Medina Larry is the Director of Career Coaching and Education at INSEAD and a seasoned professional in Student Services, Finance, Human Resources, Accounting and Operations, with 30 years of professional experience in Asia (19 years), North America and Europe. Larry is passionate about helping others reach their career aspirations through hundreds of 1-on-1 sessions and career development workshops. Timestamp 1:43 - What does the CDC do to ensure INSEAD continues to offer impactful learning experiences for the INSEAD community? 3:52 - What are the different populations at INSEAD and how do their career journeys differ? 6:53 - What are some effective strategies for continually learning and growing in your career, no matter what stage you're at in your professional journey? 10:37 - How can one navigate the various twists and turns in their career journey, and continually embrace the idea of lifelong learning, to eventually achieve their desired end goal or career objective? 12:32 - Is career progression for everybody? 13:35 - What steps can one take to build a successful career while embracing the principles of global citizenship and positively impacting the world?

Partners play a crucial role in the MBA experience, providing support, encouragement, and a listening ear throughout the intense and challenging program. They are often the unsung heroes behind the success of MBA students, offering a sense of stability and perspective during a time of significant personal and professional growth. From relocating to a new country to managing a household, partners have to navigate a unique set of challenges while supporting their significant other in pursuit of their academic and career goals. In this context, understanding the partner experience and providing support to partners is essential for the INSEAD MBA to cultivate a supportive and inclusive community. This episode discusses the experiences of a partner at INSEAD, a business school with campuses in Europe and Asia. Our guest Helen Willis shares her excitement about her partner's acceptance to INSEAD, and discusses her own decision to join him in Singapore. Helen provides advice for partners who are working remotely, including the importance of having a purpose and setting aside sacred time. The episode also highlights the support provided by INSEAD to partners, the responsibilities of a partner representative and the initiatives they organise. Helen also shares her favourite memory at INSEAD and summarises her overall experience in three words or less. Our guests:  Dr. Helen Willis (Cognitive neuroscientist and an MBA'23J Partner)  Our hosts:  Angela Rachel (Student Life Officer, INSEAD Degree Programmes)  Eva Laporte (Student Life Officer, INSEAD Degree Programmes)  Timestamp:   01:15 - About the guest and her background  01:45 - How did you feel about your student partner's acceptance to INSEAD? 02:35 – Decision to accompany Student partner to INSEAD  04:13 – The INSEAD Partner experience 05:30 – How INSEAD fosters the community spirit among partners  07:00 – Advice for Partners who may be juggling work 10:22 – INSEAD resources that are useful for personal and professional development  11:55  – Advice for partners to maximize their time on and outside of INSEAD 13:40  – Opportunities and responsibilities of a Partner representative 16:20  – Favorite memory at INSEAD

Episode 1 - Unlocking Career Opportunities with the INSEAD Employer Engagement Team Welcome to a new special edition series of In The Know. In this series, we will take you behind the scenes of one of the world's leading business schools, and its Career Development Centre (CDC). Join us as we explore the lifelong career management skills imparted by the CDC, as well as how the centre helps high-potential talent navigate the job market and identify suitable career options. Today we speak with Rhoda Yap, the Global Director of the INSEAD CDC, who will give us insights into the role of the CDC and the responsibilities of the centre's career coaches, employee engagement specialists, and operations team. But that's not all - over the next 12 months, we will be delving into the world of employee engagement, featuring the team, individually and collectively, to focus on the different sectors they cover. We will also explore how they interact with the market and recruiters to gain knowledge and provide opportunities for INSEAD students and alumni. So, whether you're a student looking to kickstart your career, a recent graduate navigating the job market, or an employer looking to build relationships with top talent, this podcast series has something for everyone. If you are interested in hearing from the INSEAD Employer Engagement team as they discuss best practices, trends, and strategies for career development and employer engagement, then this series is for you. Join us as we uncover the secrets of career success and the value that the INSEAD CDC brings to the world of business. Episode 1 - Rhoda Yap 0:12 - Join us as we explore the lifelong career management skills imparted by the CDC 2:21 - Introducing our guest, Rhoda Yap  3:05 - What is the INSEAD Career Development Centre (CDC)? 6:50 - What kind of relationships and partnerships does the INSEAD CDC have with employers and recruiters in order to provide students and alumni with job opportunities? 9:25 - What can listeners expect to learn from the Employer engagement team?

INSEAD is one of the world's top business schools, known for its global reach, the diversity of its student body, and rigorous academic programs. And when it comes to preparing students for a career in consulting, INSEAD is second to none. From its strong connections with top consulting firms to its innovative courses and hands-on projects, INSEAD provides students with a comprehensive education that gives them the skills, experience, and connections they need to succeed in this competitive field. In this podcast, we'll hear from The career development centres resident consulting expert and a current sponsored MBA student from Strategy& who will share their insights on what makes INSEAD a top destination for aspiring consultants. Guests:  Stephane Ponce Stephane is an experienced professional in the fields of partnership development, talent acquisition, talent development, campus recruitment, business advisory services, coaching and training. Stephane works with professionals around the world from a young high potential from our new Master in Management programme to the Managing Director of a reputed global organization. Walid Haddad Walid is an MBA’23J and consultant with Strategy&. Walid with other consultants including Johan, Virginia, Simon, Kevin, Tim and others have been working with the Consulting Club, joined forces with the INSEAD Consulting Club to create a mentor-mentee platform, by reaching out to all the consultants in their cohorts and try to match the consultants with mentees wanting to apply to consulting . Now, they are trying to standardize this matching system within a peer-to-peer learning system and include it in INSEAD’s current platforms. Timestamp: 0:01 - Waleed and Stefan’s Introduction. 2:57 - What inspired you to get into consulting? 8:39 - What is the difference between a good consultant and a good listener? 14:48 - Who are the major players in the consulting industry? 20:22 - What happens if there is a change in the market. 25:07 - How do you approach problem solving in the industry? What role does critical thinking play? 28:26 - How to prepare yourself for a career in consulting. 34:17 - How would you describe consulting to someone who has never heard of it before? 40:05 - What’s the future of consulting? 43:40 - Why Insead’s MBA programme is unique.