Strategy Simplified - podcast cover

Strategy Simplified

Management Consultedmanagementconsulted.com

Strategy Simplified is here to demystify the consulting industry and help you land your dream job in management consulting. Hosted by the expert team at Management Consulted - the world's largest resource for consulting news and interview prep - each episode covers topics related to the consulting world, from interview preparation and case study techniques to networking strategies and industry trends. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to make a transition, Strategy Simplified is the go-to resource for anyone looking to break into the consulting industry. With actionable advice, insider tips, and real-life success stories, this podcast is the ultimate guide to simplifying your career strategy and landing your dream consulting job.

Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

S17E4: Can You Break Into Consulting with 25+ Years of Experience?

Send us a text With 25+ years in aviation, Matt Granger wasn’t the typical McKinsey candidate. But that didn’t stop him from landing an expert role in McKinsey’s Travel, Logistics & Infrastructure practice. In this episode, Matt pulls back the curtain on his journey, sharing: How he positioned his deep industry expertise to stand out The 3-round interview process he went through (and how he prepared) The key resources that helped him ace the case and PEI Advice for experienced professionals ...

Mar 19, 202535 minSeason 17Ep. 4

S17E3: McKinsey Automotive Industry Practice Case Interview

Send us a text Listen in on a real McKinsey-style case interview. Former McKinsey consultant Kabreya Ghaderi, who has coached dozens of candidates to MBB offers, guides a candidate through an automotive industry case interview - exactly like those used in McKinsey assessments. Follow along as the candidate navigates structuring, problem-solving, mental math, and data interpretation under pressure. If you're prepping for McKinsey or looking to sharpen your case skills, this is a can't-miss episod...

Mar 14, 202554 minSeason 17Ep. 3

S17E2: Early Career Playbook: Job Search, Networking, and Success Mindsets

Send us a text Calling all students and early career job seekers. If you're navigating internships, job searches, or your first professional role, this special mic takeover episode is packed with insights to help you get ahead. Sophomore Emma sits down with Jenny Rae (ex-Bain consultant) to uncover the secrets to landing top job opportunities and excelling in the workplace. They discuss: Key skills that open doors to career success How to build your reputation and stand out The power of networki...

Mar 12, 202538 minSeason 17Ep. 2

S17E1: How to Not Whiff Your Bain Application and Interviews

Send us a text Bain & Company is hiring NOW for Associate Consultants and Consultants . The firm is one of the most competitive to break into - and too many candidates make avoidable mistakes that sink their chances. Listen to this episode for the most common application and interview mistakes candidates make when recruiting for Bain, and how you can sidestep them. Bain doesn't conduct just-in-time hiring often - take advantage of this rare opportunity. Purchase tailored resume and cover let...

Mar 07, 202538 minSeason 17Ep. 1

S16E30: Canva Business Breakdown: Can the Design Disruptor Keep Growing?

Send us a text Canva has taken the design world by storm - offering easy-to-use tools for everyone from casual users to global enterprises. With a skyrocketing valuation and millions of loyal users, the platform has redefined graphic design. In this segment of Business Breakdowns , Jenny Rae Le Roux and Namaan Mian explore Canva’s business model, growth opportunities, and the risks that could shape its future. But as competition from Adobe, AI-powered tools, and other upstarts continues, can Can...

Mar 07, 202524 minSeason 16Ep. 30

S16E29: The world's top 40 consulting firms ranked

Send us a text The 2025 Top Consulting Firms Ranking by Management Consulted is here! See the ranking now . Listen to this short episode for 3 key insights the ranking tells us about the consulting industry - where it is today and where it's heading. Did DOGE really make the list? See the ranking to find out. Additional Resources Unlock top consulting jobs on the Management Consulted Job Board Join the Black Belt program for a structured approach to consulting recruiting Connect with Japheth Mas...

Mar 05, 20258 minSeason 16Ep. 29

S16E28: DOGE has $65B in federal consulting spend on the chopping block

Send us a text The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), helmed by Elon Musk, has been tasked with optimizing federal processes, cutting redundancies, and improving transparency in government operations. Now, large consulting firms are in DOGE's crosshairs. The top 10 largest consulting firms that do business with the U.S. government have been called in to "defend the spend" this Friday. These firms represent over $65B in outstanding consulting contracts. Whether you agree with DOGE's miss...

Mar 03, 202511 minSeason 16Ep. 28

S16E27: BCG Healthcare Case Interview Example - Novartis

Send us a text What does a BCG healthcare case interview really look like? Find out in this live breakdown. In this episode, former BCG consultant Ish Mawla guides a candidate through a realistic, healthcare-focused case interview - just like the ones used in actual BCG interviews. You’ll get a front-row seat as the candidate navigates frameworks, complex math, data analysis, and executive-level communication under pressure. Then, Ish provides a detailed performance review, breaking down what wo...

Feb 28, 202552 minSeason 16Ep. 27

S16E26: Sophomore Roadmap to Consulting – 3 Pillars of a Strong Recruiting Strategy

Send us a text If you're a sophomore eyeing a consulting internship, the time to start preparing is now - even if it feels too early. With firms recruiting a full year in advance, your 2026 internship interviews will happen in 2025 - and the candidates who win have a strategy in place well before applications open (as early as June!). In this episode, the Management Consulted team lays out the 3 pillars of a winning recruiting strategy, breaking down: Key milestones you need to hit Common pitfal...

Feb 26, 20251 hr 8 minSeason 16Ep. 26

S16E25: The Advanced Degree's Shortcut to Consulting: The Power of Bridge Programs

Send us a text Advanced Degree Candidates - speaking to PhDs, JDs, MDs, Postdocs, PharmDs, etc. - what if you could "skip the line" to a consulting role? You can, through Bridge Programs designed specifically for ADCs! These programs offer a direct path to consulting, often ending with a guaranteed final-round interview for a full-time role - and application deadlines are coming up soon . In this episode, you'll hear directly from leaders at Bain & Company, ClearView Healthcare Partners, Gui...

Feb 21, 202557 minSeason 16Ep. 25

S16E23: Adobe Business Breakdown: Can the Creative Giant Keep Its Edge in the AI Era?

Send us a text With a business model built on innovation and recurring revenue, Adobe dominates the creative software space. But as competition rises and AI disrupts the landscape, how can it protect its market share? In this episode of Business Breakdowns , Jenny Rae Le Roux and Namaan Mian dive into Adobe’s business model, explore untapped growth opportunities, and assess the risks that could threaten its dominance. Can Adobe stay ahead of the curve, or will challengers like Canva chip away at...

Feb 19, 202529 minSeason 16Ep. 23

S16E22: Sophomore Success: Taking the streamlined pathway to top consulting firms

Send us a text Freshmen and sophomores - it's time to act. Application deadlines for summer "early entry" programs are coming due as soon as February 23 at firms like KPMG, Bain, PwC, and BCG. These programs represent a streamlined path into consulting - if you can get in. Today's conversation is with Alex Poroy, who participated in multiple early entry programs on his way to an Associate Consultant role at Bain. He breaks down: Who these early entry programs are for Why to consider applying Ben...

Feb 14, 202534 minSeason 16Ep. 22

S16E21: Bridge to BCG: Your Fast Track from Advanced Degree to Consulting

Send us a text A guaranteed decision round interview for a full-time role at BCG? That's what accepted candidates to Bridge to BCG get! This conversation with Ish Mawla - Management Consulted case coach, former BCGer - covers everything you need to know about Bridge to BCG : Eligibility criteria How to stand out in applications The day-to-day of Bridge to BCG Benefits of participating If you're an advanced degree candidate serious about consulting, you're going to want to listen. Note : The 2025...

Feb 13, 202538 minSeason 16Ep. 21

S16E20: Pay is flat, hiring is up: the 5 forces shaping consulting in 2025

Send us a text Consulting salaries froze from 2024 to 2025 - but hiring is trending up. What the heck is going on? This episode has the answers you need. Listen for: Big picture compensation trends and key drivers - and what they mean for candidates and firms What to expect for consulting comp in 2025 Predictions for the 2025/2026 labor market If you haven't yet, download the 2025 Consulting Salary Report . It's free. What are you waiting for? Additional Resources Join the SuperPrep program to l...

Feb 07, 202554 minSeason 16Ep. 20

S16E19: Is it too late for a Walgreens turnaround?

Send us a text Walgreens is closing over 1,000 under-performing stores in an attempt to turn the company around. Can they save themselves or is it too late? In this segment of Business Breakdowns , Namaan and Jenny Rae dissect Walgreens' struggles, explore potential turnaround strategies, and debate whether the brand can reclaim its footing. Can Walgreens script a comeback story, or is this the beginning of the end? Tune in to find out. Business Breakdowns drops on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of e...

Feb 05, 202522 minSeason 16Ep. 19

S16E18: Do "Cybersecurity Consulting" Jobs Really Exist?

Send us a text Cybersecurity consulting - does it really exist? The answer is "yes" and Wavestone can prove it. Wavestone is a leading consulting firm specializing in digital and data strategy, IT and cybersecurity solutions, and services optimization. In this episode, Senior Manager Florian Drouin shares about the firm's collaborative culture, exciting projects, and career opportunities in the firm's cybersecurity practice. See jobs at Wavestone below. Connect with Wavestone See jobs at Wavesto...

Jan 31, 202531 minSeason 16Ep. 18

S16E17: Work-Life Balance in Consulting: What It's Really Like

Send us a text What’s the reality of work-life balance in consulting? In this episode, Jenny Rae dives into the truth behind the lifestyle. Discover when and where you're most likely to find balance in the consulting world, and how to manage it when the demands of the job ramp up. Jenny Rae shares tips on navigating firm cultures, project timelines, and strategies for maintaining personal well-being, even in a fast-paced environment. Relevant Links Join the next SuperPrep cohort Connect With Man...

Jan 29, 202510 minSeason 16Ep. 17

S16E16: 2025 Consulting Salary Report available now!

Send us a text The announcement you've been waiting for is finally here. Management Consulted's 2025 Consulting Salary Report is now available! Download it now for free . The report contains detailed compensation data for 100+ consulting firms - from base salary to bonuses to PTO and beyond. It's everything you need to make critical decisions about where to work. Relevant Links Download 2025 Salary Report Register for free webinar on Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 5PM ET: 2025 Consulting Salary Trends Reve...

Jan 27, 20253 minSeason 16Ep. 16

S16E15: Women in Consulting - Building a Thriving Career

Send us a text This is an intimate conversation with 6 women leaders in consulting who reveal the honest truth about: What life in consulting as a woman is like What it takes to build a meaningful career in consulting No BS or half-truths here. Just the real deal. Explore job opportunities at these firms and connect with the speakers. Relevant Links Unlock top consulting jobs on the Management Consulted Job Board Join the SuperPrep program to prepare for your next opportunity (full prep plan wit...

Jan 24, 20251 hrSeason 16Ep. 15

S16E14: Bain Full Interview Demo: Fit + Case Interview

Send us a text Most consulting interviews include two components: fit interview and case interview. If you're not prepared for both, you can't get an offer. This episode demonstrates both components. Listen in as Tobe Ofili, a Management Consulted coach and former Bain Associate Consultant guides a consulting candidate through a Bain-style interview - complete with detailed feedback. Coaching with Tobe Purchase a la carte coaching hours to work with Tobe one-to-one Join the Black Belt case prep ...

Jan 22, 202553 minSeason 16Ep. 14

S16E13: Re-recruiting for Consulting After a Failed Attempt

Send us a text Re-recruiting for consulting? This episode is your guide to bouncing back stronger after a failed attempt. Jenny Rae walks through a strategic approach to re-enter the recruiting process with confidence. Learn how to gather valuable feedback from firms, understand when to re-apply, and create a personalized plan to improve your candidacy. If you're ready to boost your chances of success the second time around, this episode is for you! Additional Resources Boost your resume for the...

Jan 21, 20259 minSeason 16Ep. 13

S16E12: Advanced Case Frameworks with Former McKinsey Consultant Lisa Bright

Send us a text Successful candidates use creative frameworks. That's exactly what Lisa Bright, an ex-McKinsey consultant with 10,000+ coaching hours on our platform, teaches in this advanced case frameworks masterclass. Learning basic frameworks is a great starting point. But interviewers (especially at MBB) will see a canned framework coming from miles away and won't advance you if that's all you got. To get invited back for a round 2 interview and land the offer, you MUST know how to drive dee...

Jan 17, 202554 minSeason 16Ep. 12

S16E11: eBay Unpacked: Revitalizing the Online Marketplace Giant

Send us a text "Buy Now." A platform built on connecting millions of buyers and sellers, eBay is no stranger to the world of online commerce. Once a pioneer of online auctions, eBay remains a household name. But with increasing competition from Amazon, Facebook Marketplace, and niche marketplaces, can it keep its position? In this segment of Business Breakdowns , Jenny Rae Le Roux and Namaan Mian dissect eBay's business model and how the company makes money, highlight key challenges, and share h...

Jan 15, 202526 minSeason 16Ep. 11

S16E10: 3 Reasons Why I Left Management Consulting

Send us a text Why did Jenny Rae leave consulting despite loving her time there? In this episode, she shares the incredible experiences consulting gave her, the skills she gained, and the opportunities that shaped her career... and also why she ultimately stepped away. Additional Resources Join Black Belt for a game plan to break into consulting Unlock top consulting jobs on the Management Consulted Job Board Connect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Wa...

Jan 14, 20257 minSeason 16Ep. 10

S16E9: McKinsey M&A Case Interview Example: Coffee Retailer Acquisition

Send us a text In this McKinsey M&A case interview demonstration, Management Consulted coach and former McKinsey Associate Partner, Divya Agarwal, provides a firsthand look at how top consulting firms approach case interviews. Listen to: Observe how MBB interviewers evaluate candidates Practice alongside the candidate for hands-on learning Gain insider case tips Whether you’re preparing for upcoming interviews or just curious about the process, this episode will help sharpen your case skills...

Jan 09, 202545 minSeason 16Ep. 9

S16E8: Business Breakdown: Inside the AmEx Advantage

Send us a text Membership rewards. Premium perks. A charge card with swagger. An iconic brand built on exclusivity. American Express (AmEx) is in the spotlight. For over 170 years, AmEx has set itself apart in the competitive financial services space. But with shifting consumer behaviors and growing competition, how can the company continue to lead? In this segment of Business Breakdowns , Jenny Rae Le Roux and Namaan Mian unpack the AmEx business model, pinpoint opportunities for growth, and of...

Jan 08, 202527 minSeason 16Ep. 8

S16E7: Beating the Odds - How Thomas Broke Into McKinsey U.S. as an International Student

Send us a text There are major challenges for international students recruiting into consulting in the U.S. But Thomas Poloniato beat the odds, landing at McKinsey and working his way up to Engagement Manager. At McKinsey, Thomas focused on ESG issues for clients and also stood up an ESG-focused "internal start-up" at the firm. He interviewed 150+ candidates and knows exactly what McKinsey looks for. Now, he's a Management Consulted case coach. Listen to learn: Important mindset shifts to give y...

Jan 03, 202528 minSeason 16Ep. 7

S16E6: Will Buc-ee's Become the Next 7-Eleven?

Send us a text Clean restrooms. 100+ gas pumps. A beaver logo. Buc-ee's has entered the chat. Though the travel center/convenience store chain - coined the "Disneyland of gas stations" - has been around since 1982, growth has accelerated in recent years, and Buc-ee's mania is here to stay. But what makes Buc-ee's so special? And can it sustain this success? In this segment of Business Breakdowns , Namaan Mian and Jenny Rae Le Roux examine the chain's business model for hints at what is next for ...

Jan 01, 202521 minSeason 16Ep. 6

S16E5: How to Choose the Right Consulting Office

Send us a text Choosing the right consulting office can shape your career, work-life balance, and opportunities for growth. In this episode, Jenny Rae breaks down the factors to consider when selecting a consulting office location, including firm culture, project variety, and lifestyle impact. Learn how to assess your fit with different offices, understand the benefits of smaller versus larger locations, and navigate firm-specific dynamics without needing to "game" the system. This guide provide...

Dec 27, 202411 minSeason 16Ep. 5

S16E4: Keys for Acing the McKinsey PEI (with incoming Business Analyst Madeleine)

Send us a text Anyone who lands an offer at McKinsey - one of the world's most selective firms - did SOMETHING right. Madeleine recently secured a 2025 Business Analyst role, so we had to bring her on the pod to get all the deets. Listen for Madeleine's best tips on: Prepping for the McKinsey PEI (Personal Experience Interview) Overcoming a lack of quant skills Being someone McKinsey wants to hire Maximizing your network Episode Links Strategy Sprint one-week consulting project: learn more and j...

Dec 23, 202433 minSeason 16Ep. 4
Hosted on Buzzsprout
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android