In The Know by INSEAD

INSEAD
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A collection of career development and leadership insights from INSEAD

  1. 12/10/2025

    Episode #50 - Redefining Executive Education: Inside the New INSEAD Global Executive MBA Flex

    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

    33 min

  2. 12/01/2025

    Episode #49 - From Europe to China: Lessons in Global Leadership with TIEMBA

    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

    46 min

  3. 10/27/2025

    Episode #48 - How the INSEAD MBA Fuels Entrepreneurship: Rani Khodijah’s Journey

    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

    38 min

  4. 09/22/2025

    Episode #47 - AI and the Future of Work: INSEAD Alumni Leading the Transformation

    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

    47 min

  5. 06/09/2025

    Episode #46 - INSEAD MIM Alumni: Career Outcomes from the First Class

    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

    43 min

  6. 04/08/2025

    Episode #45 - The Professional Impact of the INSEAD MBA

    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

    32 min

  7. 01/14/2025

    Episode #44 - How the INSEAD Master in Management (MIM) Supports Your Entrepreneurship Journey

    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!

    29 min

  8. 11/18/2024

    Episode #43 - Beyond ROI: The real value of the INSEAD Executive MBA

    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.

    18 min
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About

A collection of career development and leadership insights from INSEAD

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  • Creator
    INSEAD
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    53
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2019 INSEAD Institut privé d’enseignement supérieur
  • Show Website
    In The Know by INSEAD