In The Know by INSEAD is a podcast produced by INSEAD, the international business school, offering career development and leadership insights. Episodes draw on research, faculty expertise, and the experiences of the school's global community of students, alumni, and executives. The show covers topics such as managing teams, advancing a career, decision-making, and personal growth in a business context. It is aimed at professionals and managers looking for practical, evidence-based guidance on leadership and career progression.
Épisodes
Episode #57 - The Tsinghua-INSEAD Executive MBA and the Rise of Chinese Innovation: Jireh Li
Antony Widjaja, Associate Director of Executive Degrees Recruiting at INSEAD, speaks with Jireh Li, Partner at INCE Capital and Tsinghua-INSEAD Executive MBA (TIEMBA) alumna, about China’s fast-evolving innovation landscape. Jireh explains why AI, embodied robotics and biotech deserve far more global attention, and how today’s AI-native founders differ from those of a decade ago.
Discover why this
Episode #56 - Tech, Consulting and Singapore: A MIM Student Navigating the Asian Market
Emmanuelle Lansari, Assistant Director and Career Coach, speaks with MIM’27 student Jacopo König about his bold transition from Italy to the heart of Asia. Jacopo discusses his passion for the booming robotics industry, his strategic shift from traditional consulting to tech and why he views Singapore as the ultimate launchpad for future innovation.
Discover his proven strategies for relationship
Episode #55 - Special Feature: Pregnancy and the INSEAD MBA | Student Life
Welcome to a special Student Life feature of INSEAD's In the Know podcast.
In this episode, host Eva Laporte from the Student Life team on the Europe campus explores a side of the MBA experience that's rarely discussed: pursuing one of the world's most intense MBA programmes while expecting a baby.
Eva is joined by two inspiring MBA'25J alumnae, Sophie Delaye and Therese Langseth, who share their
Episode #54 - The INSEAD Summer School (ISS) to MIM Journey: Curriculum, Practicals and Campus Life (Part 2)
Welcome back to the second part of our conversation with Nancy Blyth Piacentini, Assistant Director of Recruitment and Business Development for Degree Programmes, and Carlijn Nijhuis, an INSEAD MIM'27 student. In our previous episode, we explored Carlijn's INSEAD Summer School experience and her journey through the admissions process.
Today, we pick up right where we left off as Carlijn arrives on
Episode #53 - The INSEAD Summer School (ISS) to MIM Journey: ISS student experience (Part 1)
Welcome to In the Know, INSEAD's podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Nancy Blyth Piacentini, Assistant Director of Recruitment and Business Development for Degree Programmes, and Carlijn Nijhuis, an INSEAD MIM'27 student, to explore Carlijn's experience with the INSEAD Summer School.
Carlijn walks us through how she first discovered the programme and what drew her in, before taking us insid
Episode #52 - Demystifying the INSEAD MBA Admissions Process: Beyond the GMAT and GRE
Navigating the admissions process for a top-tier business school can be daunting. In this episode of the In The Know podcast, Jennifer Luo (Senior Director of Recruitment) and Larry Medina (Associate Director of Admissions) go behind the scenes of the INSEAD one-year MBA programme application journey to demystify standard testing requirements.
They address the common anxiety surrounding the GMAT a
Episode #51 - Navigating Career Uncertainty: Introducing the INSEAD MATCH Framework
Applying for jobs has never been easier, but standing out in today’s global hiring market has never been more challenging.
In this episode, Christine Manipur, Associate Director of INSEAD MBA Product Marketing, speaks with Rhoda Yap, Executive Director of the INSEAD Career Development Centre, to explore how hiring decisions are really made in an increasingly competitive and AI-driven recruitment l
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
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 bu
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 st
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 P
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
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, leade
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
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
Episode #42 - Pursuing Your MBA as a New Mother - Student Life Feature
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
Episode #41 - More Than a Club: OUTSEAD & LGBTQ+ Inclusion at INSEAD
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
Episode #40 - INSEAD MBA Student Life in Singapore
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 o
Episode #39 - Women overcoming bias, building resilience, and letting go of guilt
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 opera
Episode #38 Choosing the Singapore Campus for your INSEAD MBA
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 understa
Episode #37 - Special Feature: Student Governance at INSEAD | Student Life
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
Purpose, Advantages, and Networking Opportunities - Unlocking Career Opportunities #3
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
Navigating Career Journeys with Lifelong Learning - Unlocking Career Opportunities #2
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 appro
Partnering With INSEAD: Insights, Support, and Community_StudentLife Feature_ITK#36
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 h
Opportunities with the INSEAD Employer Engagement Team - Unlocking Career Opportunities #1
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-po
Why Is INSEAD the Top Destination for Aspiring Consultants? - ITK#35
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 t
Leading the Way: The Importance of Executive Career Development - ITK#34
Committing to ongoing professional development is crucial for executives looking to thrive in today's rapidly changing business landscape. Without a dedication to personal growth, leaders risk falling behind their peers and becoming obsolete. To stay ahead of the competition, executives must stay informed about current trends, technologies, and best practices. In this episode, we're joined by Mike
How to Adopt mindfulness practices in Your Professional and Personal Life - Student Life Feature - ITK#33
The business world is often associated with stress and anxiety, but there is an increasing interest in mindfulness as a way to promote well-being in the workplace.
Mindfulness is about being present in the moment and paying attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment. It can help you cope with stress, boost your concentration, and improve decision-making. There is evidence that mindfu
Exploring the Intersection Between Fundraising, Education and NFT Technology - ITK#32
In today's business world, it's more important than ever to have a strong online presence. One of the best ways to achieve this is through the use of NFTs, or non-fungible tokens. NFTs are unique digital assets that can be used to represent anything from ownership of a piece of digital art to a stake in a company. NFTs can be bought and sold like any other asset, making them a valuable addition to
Insights Into the Vast Universe of INSEAD’s Student Clubs - #ITK31
INSEAD Student clubs are run by students and supported by the school. They play a vital role in the student experience.
Our clubs cover a broad range of topics from Professional, Social to Sports. A large proportion of the student population is honing their leadership skills by being the management team of clubs. There are 40+ clubs at INSEAD.
Campus activities or on-line events are organised b
Finding a Place to Assume Your Personal and Professional Identity and Belong - ITK#30
Belonging is knowing that you are a part of the world around you. It's about fitting in, finding your place, and feeling like you belong with the people around you.
But some may have difficulties in identifying a sense of belonging to a certain place, or with certain groups of people, especially after international experiences or careers that may have shaped the way they think, behaves, or addres
What Does Generation Z Want from Our Leaders? - ITK#29
Generation Z, the generation born from 1994 onwards, wants their leaders to be positive, according to “Generations”, a study of more than 18,000 working professionals and students across the world. This study conducted by INSEAD, Universum, and MIT found that the ever-increasing speed of technological change is opening up fissures in both generational expectations of leaders and their expectations
Back to the Future of Work - ITK#28
Are you curious about what the future of work might look like? You're not alone. Many people are wondering how work will change in years to come. Some believe that we'll see more jobs in fields related to technology and science. Others believe that work will become more flexible, with more people working from home or remotely. In this episode, we'll discuss some of the best skills to ensure we are
Balancing an MBA and Pregnancy - Student Life Feature - ITK#27
If you're a mother-to-be considering pursuing an MBA, or if you're already in the midst of your MBA program and expecting a baby, today's episode is for you.
Our guest for this episode is Kemi Ogunlesi from the 21D cohort, and she shared her experience of getting pregnant with her second child during the course of her INSEAD MBA. Kemi shares some tips on how to manage both pregnancy and an MBA pr
The World of Tomorrow - Possibilities & Opportunities - ITK#26
Technology change and innovation affect every domain of business, changing the face of the industry at an accelerating pace. With the start of a new year, it is often customary to look to the future and try and plan how we can become a better version of ourselves. To help share insights on the future we held a discussion with an INSEAD MBA alumnus who has dedicated his professional life to enginee
The Life and Experience of an INSEAD MBA Student - Student Life Feature - ITK#25
INSEAD’s student life is diverse and transformational. A cultural melting pot of experiences that triggers students to re-shape their perceived reality beyond the classroom; from sports activities to unforgettable travel experiences, or from cheerful parties to intimate heartfelt dinners.
GUESTS:
Jad ANTOUN MBA'21D
MBA Student, versatile problem solver, interested in Sustainable Innovation and St
The Future of Business Education - ITK#24
Welcome to series three of In The Know. Over the course of this academic year, we will continue to discuss the latest career advice like the future of the workplace and inside the mind of a recruiter while also covering many leadership insights featuring episodes on business in the Middle East and managing generation Z.
To kick off series three, we are joined by our Associate Dean of Degree Progra
How Understanding Yourself Can Lead to Transformation - ITK#23
Most people are strangers to themselves; many of them resort to the manic defence – filling their calendar with a flurry of activities meant to prevent them from having any time to reflect. They are always running, without knowing what they are running for or running towards. Also, they feel drained, but they don’t understand why. Others, having reached the pinnacle of professional success, fail t
Pushing Beyond Your Career Limitations - ITK#22
We live in a world of constraints - some are physical, some cultural but they are 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.
INSEAD celebrates women who have dared to push beyond their own limits and conquer obstacles in their lives to create positive change.
Welc
The Life of a Pioneering MIM Student - Student Life Feature - ITK#21
INSEAD's Master in Management (MIM) programme is designed to empower the next generation of innovative individuals who are ready to positively impact society. If you are a young professional with zero to two years of work experience looking to learn beyond theory, acquire practical skills and maximise your career potential, INSEAD's MIM is one to explore. Discover more about the programme as we di
Coaching and the Art of Giving Back - ITK#20
Successful executives seldom get to the top alone. Even the most talented need the help of other people to reach their true potential. As the workplace becomes more competitive and interactive, the practice of leadership coaching and mentoring is becoming more common as ambitious individuals seek guidance, and senior executives realise the importance of helping people reach their full potential by
Career Strategies in 2021- ITK#19
“Don't wait for the future to tell you what to do. It is better to make mistakes in a strategy than having no strategy at all.” - José Luis Álvarez, INSEAD Senior Affiliate Professor of Organisational Behaviour. In episode 19 we discuss the importance of having a strategy or at least an idea ready for implementation and what career strategies look like in 2021.
Our Guests
Sonal Bahl
Sonal is the F
Pursuing an MBA with your Partner and Children - Student Life Feature - ITK#18
Partners and children enrich and enliven our community and we try to make sure that everyone benefits from the INSEAD experience. Through the availability of on-campus support, activities and the INSEAD Partners' community INSEAD children even get their own network of international friends, just like mum and dad. Plus, both Singapore and Fontainebleau are child-friendly places to live.
Our Guests
How to Succeed in Your Future Career - ITK#17
The last 12 months have shown us that the unpredictable can happen and our best-laid career plans don’t always work out the way we intend them to.
To help us explain how we can understand and succeed in an ever-changing career landscape I am joined by two individuals responsible for ensuring students in the pioneering INSEAD Master in Management class build solid foundations for their future caree
Special Event - The Top Challenges in Navigating the MBA Application Process - ITK#16
INSEAD has four equally important application criteria that guide our selection of an exciting, dynamic and diverse student body.
The MBA Admissions team is looking for people with intellectual curiosity, personal qualities to contribute to the many INSEAD activities and a desire to stretch themselves in a rigorous academic programme. We welcome applications from around the world regardless of rac
MBA Student Life and Partners in Singapore - Student Life Feature - ITK#15
Around 30 per cent of students bring partners to INSEAD, which makes for a large, vibrant community. We try to make sure that everyone benefits from the INSEAD experience in every possible way through the availability of on-campus support, activities and the INSEAD Partners' community. A year as a partner at INSEAD is also a great opportunity to experience new cultures and learn new languages.
In
MBA Student Life and Partners in Fontainebleau - Student Life Feature - ITK#14
Around 30 per cent of students bring partners to INSEAD, which makes for a large, vibrant community. We try to make sure that everyone benefits from the INSEAD experience in every possible way through the availability of on-campus support, activities and the INSEAD Partners' community. A year as a partner at INSEAD is also a great opportunity to experience new cultures and learn new languages.
In
Media, Communications and Careers in Asia - ITK#13
The region of Asia is incredibly diverse in people and culture, you need to be aware of those differences to be successful when conducting business or pursuing a career in Asia.
The Tsinghua – INSEAD Executive MBA (TIEMBA) is a unique partnership between INSEAD and Tsinghua, one of China’s most prestigious universities. The programme takes place across INSEAD’s three campuses in Singapore, Abu Dha
Space, Technology and Careers in Asia - ITK#12
The region of Asia is incredibly diverse in people and culture, you need to be aware of those differences to be successful when conducting business or pursuing a career in Asia.
The Tsinghua – INSEAD Executive MBA (TIEMBA) is a unique partnership between INSEAD and Tsinghua, one of China’s most prestigious universities. The programme takes place across INSEAD’s three campuses in Singapore, Abu Dha
Career Development Advice from Finance Professionals - ITK#11
What is it that sets finance professionals apart?
The ability to evolve with your industry’s changing priorities can make the difference between building a good career and a truly great one.
The rapid change that has characterised the finance sector over the past 10 years shows little sign of slowing. FinTech firms are leveraging big data from e-commerce and other internet-based services to perso
Special Event - Careers with Purpose - ITK #10
Episode #10 features one of the discussions from a three-day series of events that was part of the Sustainable Development Goals week organised by the Hoffmann Global Institute for Business and Society in collaboration with INSEAD student clubs. SDG Week brought leaders working on the SDGs together with students, faculty and staff. The week featured presentations, panel sessions and exhibitions th
How to Transform Yourself and Your Organisation - ITK#9
Understanding how to create a fit between our colleagues, our organisation and our corporate goals is incredibly important as we try to make significant contributions in our careers.
Today we are talking about how to transform yourself and your organisation with our guests from the Executive Master in Change Programme.
Our Guests Today
Samantha Yarwood
Samantha recently left the corporate world t
Career Development and How to Achieve Career Fulfilment - ITK#8
Everybody has diverse needs for career support, whether they are already on their way to building a successful career in their current organisation, or looking to progress in a new organisation or a new field. Today we discuss Career Development and Career Fulfilment to help you engineer not just greater success at work but also personal and professional fulfilment.
Our guests today
Yassine Lahlo
Non-traditional Business Careers - ITK#7
When considering whether to apply to the INSEAD MBA, you may be concerned that you might be lacking in experience compared to those that have been working in the corporate sector, financial services or as consultants. We discuss the benefits differences in knowledge and experience can bring to your career and how these experiences will give you the skills you will need to successfully manage diver
How to Become a Force for Good in Your Career - ITK#6
We explore the intersection of business and society and discuss careers in social impact and sustainability. The challenges of our times are immense, and the decisions made by leaders today will determine the future. We discuss what "Force For Good" means as INSEAD develops the next generation of global business leaders, managers and entrepreneurs who will tackle world-scale problems. We also lear
Career Changers - ITK#5
You may be part of an organisation where you are already on your way to building a successful career, or you may be looking to progress your career in a new organisation. In episode #5, we discuss career changes, and whether you are internal-career or external-career focused, we encourage you to take this opportunity to reflect on your career trajectory.
Our guests today
Kai Sieng
Kai Sieng Fun
Ambition Has No Gender - ITK#4
What does ambition mean to you? Do we define success the same for both men and women?
In episode 4 we discuss how ambition doesn't favour any particular gender and how you can support gender initiatives in your career and leadership positions. INSEAD is committed to developing the next generation of global leaders who will change the world with initiatives such as the Force for Good Campaign an
Social Ventures - ITK#3
In episode 3 we feature a little more about careers and leadership in entrepreneurship and in particular social ventures. Social entrepreneurship is the use of start-up companies and other entrepreneurs to develop, fund and implement solutions to social, cultural, or environmental issues. Ideally cultivating purpose-driven leaders and businesses that can transform the world and achieve a sustainab
Executive Entrepreneurs - ITK#2
In episode 2 we discuss careers and leadership in entrepreneurial startups. Approximately half of INSEAD graduates run their own companies at some point in their careers, others join high growth ventures, lead entrepreneurial projects within corporations, or focus on social ventures. We discuss some of the challenges that present when running your own company.
Our guests today
Alexander Bregman
Al
Masters of Change - ITK#1
We begin episode 1 in conjunction with the Executive Master in Change Programme Forum and two of our EMC Alumni, Dr Arpana Vidyarthi and Mrs Catherine de Dietrich.
Our guests today
Dr Arpana Vidyarthi
Dr Vidyarthi has two decades of experience as a leader in academic medicine in the United States and Singapore and is currently the head of advanced in internal medicine at the National University Ho
