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.

• 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

• What actually happens in the PLDP
• The benefits of an INSEAD MBA
• How the programme continues to shape life and career post graduation

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!