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Strategy Simplified

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.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Sep 12, 2026 · Source feed

  1. 731

    S24E20: Case Competition Applications Close Sunday at Midnight

    Send us Fan MailApplications for the Case Competition World Cup close this Sunday, September 13, at 11:59pm PT. APPLY NOWMore information:Undergraduate Track, presented by Grant Thornton StaxGraduate Track, presented by AdobeThis is an opportunity to get in front of top employers, including Accenture, EY-Parthenon, KPMG, Kearney, Charles River Associates, OC&C Strategy Consultants, and more.Connect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  2. 730

    S24E19: Why BCG Is Racing to Hire Forward Deployed Engineers

    Send us Fan MailBCG is racing to hire forward deployed engineers – and the application window closes September 17.This year's pay range for campus hires is $110,000 to $190,000, up from $110,000 to $160,000 last year. Same job, new title, $30,000 more at the top of the range.Big Tech has cut entry-level hiring by more than half since 2019, opening a window for BCG to hire AI talent it usually couldn't afford. That window won't stay open forever.But BCG isn't the only firm racing through it. McKinsey and Deloitte are already building similar teams.Applications for both the AI engineer and AI scientist roles close September 17. If BCG's on your list, get moving.Resources:BCG's actual postings, for the requirements: Forward Deployed AI Engineer and Forward Deployed AI Scientist – both close September 17The pay-band math and what it signals about BCG's business: read it on our siteEvery consulting firm's application deadlinesBCG still filters on soft skills and executive presence as much as Python – Black Belt builds the interview skills the posting doesn't testConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  3. 729

    S24E18: Deloitte, PwC, and 4,500 Firms Can't Find Adobe Talent

    Send us Fan MailDeloitte, PwC, IBM, and 4,500 other companies use Adobe Experience Cloud products.And they can't find enough people who know how to implement them.Nick Hilton, Tyler Tu, and Brian Au from Adobe's Customer Experience Certifications team named the Adobe jobs they're struggling to fill: MarTech analysts, implementation consultants, solution architects. None of them require a technical degree – what they require is proof you can use the tools.That's what Adobe is putting in front of graduate students this fall in the Case Competition World Cup Graduate Track.The 50 teams selected get a sandbox Customer Journey Analytics environment and a real business problem to solve inside it, not documentation to read about. Plus a free Adobe certification voucher.Free to enter. Applications close September 13.Resources:Grad students, apply to the Case Competition World Cup – Graduate Track presented by Adobe by Sunday, September 13Start free with Adobe CX courses and certificationsStudents: Get 50% off your certification exam applied automatically at checkout (use your university email)Connect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  4. 728

    S24E17: 3 Weeks Before McKinsey and BCG – How Not to Burn Out

    Send us Fan MailLangston got callbacks from McKinsey and BCG. His first instinct: 10 hours a day of studying for three weeks straight, a fast route to burnout.He'd applied to MBB once before and gotten nothing. But this time, two interviews landed in his inbox.Katie walked him off the cramming ledge and built a plan around the time he actually had. Three weeks is enough – if you spend it right.Resources:If your interview is in 3 weeks (or 3 days), Black Belt builds your plan around the time you have left – the September cohort closes September 9Connect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  5. 727

    S24E16: AI Took the Grunt Work – Consultants Are Getting Promoted Faster

    Send us Fan MailPaul Edwards has led more than 1,000 private equity deals. AI took the grunt work, and now Stax consultants are getting promoted faster.He leads the PE practice at Grant Thornton Stax. Inside the firm, that's 3 to 4 more projects a year for every consultant.But the one thing AI still can't do, he says, is teach curiosity. You either bring it or you don't.That's the exact bar Stax is judging this fall in the Case Competition World Cup Undergraduate Track – free to enter, teams of 4 to 5. So if curiosity is what gets you hired, this is where you prove it. Applications close September 13.Resources:Apply to the Case Competition World Cup – Undergraduate Track, sponsored by Grant Thornton Stax. Applications close September 13.Careers at Grant Thornton Stax.Connect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  6. 726

    S24E15: McKinsey's Cases Are Interviewer-Led – Most Candidates Practice the Wrong Way

    Send us Fan MailMost consulting interviews let you drive the case. McKinsey doesn't.McKinsey is one of the only firms that runs interviewer-led cases – the interviewer leads the case, not you.So candidates who prep the way BCG or Bain expects walk in ready for the wrong format.And the case is only half your score – the PEI (Personal Experience Interview) is the other half.Ex-McKinsey coach Mark Di Giorgio breaks down why the interviewer-led format catches strong candidates off guard, how to build your PEI story bank, plus the 3-week prep plan when you don't have a lot of time left.Resources:Join a Black Belt cohort to get paired with a McKinsey coach who's run McKinsey's actual interviewer-led cases from the insideCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S24E14: Why McKinsey Asks up to 25 Follow-Up Questions in the PEI

    Send us Fan MailMost candidates prep for the McKinsey PEI like a regular behavioral interview.McKinsey built it to do more than that. One story, and up to 25 follow-up questions testing whether what you said the first time still holds.That's why memorized answers fall apart under the PEI. Scripted stories crack under repeated follow-ups. The ones that hold up are built to survive being asked the same thing five different ways. In this episode, Namaan breaks down the four traits McKinsey scores in the PEI and how to build stories that survive the follow-ups.Resources:Prep your PEI stories one-on-one with a former McKinsey interviewer through Black BeltLearn more about McKinsey's interview processConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S24E13: The AI Hire Every Consulting Firm Is Struggling to Find

    Send us Fan MailEvery firm on our new 2027 Top Enterprise AI Consulting Firms ranking wants to hire the same person right now. And none of them can find them. Namaan calls it the unicorn hire: technical enough to deploy AI, business-minded enough to define the problem, and clear enough to explain it to a non-technical client.That's the same skill behind telling deployment from transformation, the mistake costing firms deals right now.The people who can spot that difference are the ones every firm wants, and there aren't enough of them to go around. We cover:The 3 traits that make you the hire firms are struggling to findNamaan's 4-part test for telling real transformation from deploymentWhy most AI pilots stall before production, and what changes when a firm gets it rightResources:Our full breakdown is in the 2027 Top Enterprise AI Consulting Firms ranking – see who made the cut and whyWant your firm's perspective in our next ranking, panel, or research piece? Tell our research teamIf you're trying to become the hire firms can't find, Black Belt is where you build the technical-plus-business skill set they're looking forConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S24E12: A McKinsey Coach's Playbook for Winning Case Competitions

    Send us Fan MailLast year, 500 students on 100 teams competed in the Case Competition World Cup. Before they saw the case, coach Divya – 8 years at McKinsey – taught them the first move that separates winning teams from the rest.It's the day 1 answer: a hypothesis you lock in before you have the data, even though it feels premature. But skip it, and teams start boiling the ocean – expanding the question until there's no path left to a real recommendation.This fall, the competition returns with two tracks – undergraduate, presented by Grant Thornton Stax, and graduate, presented by Adobe – co-hosted with Case Questions and Marc Cosentino, author of Case in Point. Any current student can apply – completely free. Application deadline: September 13, 2026.Resources:Undergrad students: apply for the Case Competition World Cup – Undergraduate Track, presented by Grant Thornton StaxGrad students: apply for the Case Competition World Cup – Graduate Track, presented by AdobeLooking for more case competitions? We keep a running list of competitions across the US and internationallyConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  10. 722

    S24E11: Inside Private Equity Consulting: AI Bets, Harder Exits, and Real Diligence

    Send us Fan MailA private equity firm bought a paint company. Turned out their sales reps were handing out 50% discounts to any contractor who asked nicely.That's the kind of blind spot 3 PE leaders talk through in this episode – what actually happens once a private equity deal gets underway.Carl Evander (OC&C), Sean McDevitt (Arthur D. Little), and Dave Clement (Simon-Kucher) break down how a deal actually gets picked, checked out, and sold for a profit.You'll learn:Why the numbers on older deals are forcing PE firms to sell now, ready or notWhat "real diligence" looks like once you've actually bought the companyThe 1 skill partners say will matter more than AI in 3 yearsFull speaker bios and firm profiles here.Resources:See this year's Top Private Equity Consulting Firms rankingIf breaking into a PE-focused practice is the target, Black Belt pairs you with an advisor who's coached candidates into firms like OC&C and Simon-KucherExplore top firms hiring in Private Equity Consulting on the Management Consulted Job BoardCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  11. 721

    S24E10: The Toothbrush Test: Why Most Case Frameworks Fail at MBB

    Send us Fan MailIf your case framework doesn't pass the toothbrush test, it's too generic for McKinsey, Bain, and BCG.Ex-Bain coach Abi Chen walks through the toothbrush test, the 3 mistakes that cost most candidates their offer, and the 4-step process to build strong frameworks.Finally, she walks through two full framework examples – an M&A case and a pharma product launch.Resources:If your frameworks keep failing the toothbrush test, Black Belt is how you fix the processWant to build a framework like this on a real client problem? Apply for the Case Competition World CupConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S24E9: Inside a Bates White Economic Consulting Case Interview

    Send us Fan MailBates White let us inside a real economic consulting case interview.Annie Olecki, a senior consultant in Bates White's antitrust practice, ran a live case interview with a volunteer from the MC community. And economic consulting cases don't look like the strategy cases at McKinsey or Bain.The case: a phone manufacturer suing its battery suppliers for price-fixing. The candidate has to size the damages, then revise the number - twice - as new evidence shifts the picture.That's the instinct Bates White is testing for. Annie wanted to see if the candidate would revise the estimate once new information proved it wrong.After the case wraps, Annie and Bates White recruiter Julian Pritcher take audience questions - interview rounds, what stands out in a resume, and R vs. Python.Join Bates White:Bates White's summer consultant program is open for applications. If you're an undergrad rising junior graduating Dec. 2027 through spring 2028, apply hereNot that class year? Bates White keeps a running list of openings. Submit your resume and cover letter and the firm will reach out if a role fitsGo deeper on Bates White – our full firm profileResources:Join the Black Belt program to build killer case instincts like KunalCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S24E8: Private Equity Consulting Firms Have a Sameness Problem

    Send us Fan MailNamaan talked to dozens of PE practice leaders for our 2026 ranking. Almost every one said the same three things: 1) Cross-practice integration. 2) Strategy through execution. 3) Deep sector expertise. Strip the logo off 7 of 10 firms and you can't tell them apart. That's the sameness problem.And it's expensive. Sponsors stop evaluating and default to relationships, brand, and price instead.On this episode of The Briefing, Namaan breaks down what the standout firms did differently.Resources:Management Consulted's full research is in the 2026 Top Private Equity Consulting Firms ranking – see which 10 practices stood out and whyWant your firm's perspective in our next ranking, panel, or research piece? Tell our research teamTargeting PE consulting? Work with a Black Belt coachConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  14. 718

    S24E7: MBA Case Prep in 2–4 Weeks: An Ex-Bain Interviewer's Plan

    Send us Fan MailMost 2nd-year MBA candidates have 2 to 4 weeks to get case interview-ready this cycle, not the usual 6 to 8.More cases won't close that gap for McKinsey, Bain, and BCG.Former Bain interviewer and LBS MBA Mitali Jalan compressed her prep into under 4 weeks and landed her offer. This session is her plan for doing it on a short runway.The fix isn't more volume. It's knowing what to drill, and when. Listen for:Mitali's 4-step sequence for compressing 6 to 8 weeks of prep into 2 to 4Why 30 cases with a partner can still hide the mistake that costs an offerBusiness acumen: the one skill interviewers spot instantly, and most candidates never buildResources:Black Belt pairs you with a coach who catches what a case partner can't – 80% land at least one offerCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  15. 717

    S24E6: McKinsey Solve Game 2026: What It Is and How to Prepare

    Send us Fan MailMcKinsey screens candidates with a video game – McKinsey Solve – before they ever see a case interview. Most candidates either try to copy other people's answers or panic because they don't know what it's measuring.So here's the breakdown: what Solve is, what McKinsey is testing for inside it, and how to approach it.The answer isn't Solve-specific prep. It's the same problem-solving fundamentals that carry you through the entire McKinsey recruiting process.We cover:What the Solve scenarios look like and how the timing worksThe 5 cognitive abilities McKinsey is measuring – and why they map directly to what consultants actually doHow to prepare without wasting time on things that won't transferResources:If you want coaching from an ex-McKinsey interviewer – plus access to a practice Solve simulation – Black Belt is the program that top candidates turn toNew to case prep? Start with the Case Foundations course – freeConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S24E5: McKinsey Case Interview Example: Electric Truck Market Entry

    Send us Fan MailGeorge Cary spent five years as a McKinsey EM. In this live case, he coaches candidate Harvey through a real McKinsey market entry study: should a diesel truck manufacturer build and sell electric trucks.Harvey builds a framework, runs the full cost-of-ownership math, and lands a final recommendation. George pauses after every section to break down good vs. great in real time.You'll learn:Why McKinsey calls it "problem solving," not casing – and the vocabulary that signals you already think like a consultantHow Harvey turns a good, structured framework into a great, distinctive one The full math behind pricing an e-truck – and how to talk through your logic instead of just stating the numberResources:Harvey turned 3 weeks of coaching into a case that sounded ready for the real thing – Black Belt pairs you with a coach like George who breaks down your good from your great, session by sessionCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S24E4: She Bombed MBB Her First Try – Then Landed 2 Offers the Next Time

    Send us Fan MailSharon had everything going for her. Top-tier MBA. MBB interview invites across the board. She'd done 50–60 cases – but didn't make it past a single first round.What held her back wasn't her profile. It was her approach.So she came back the next year when the stakes were even higher. This time, she did it differently – and landed McKinsey and Bain.Katie breaks down what shifted and what re-recruiters (and first-timers who want to avoid the same trap) can take from Sharon's story.Resources:If you're re-recruiting and want a real plan this time, Black Belt is where candidates like Sharon get the structure and coaching they were missing the first time aroundNot sure if Black Belt is right for your situation? Book a free 15-minute call with Katie and find outConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S24E3: 3 Questions That Kill Your Case Interview Opening

    Send us Fan Mail"Any other objectives?" sounds polite. But in a case interview opening, it costs you points.Namaan breaks down the 3 questions that kill candidates in the first 2 minutes of a case.The case opening is the first section that gets scored. And it's nearly identical every single time.So if there's one part of the case you can walk in ready for, it's this one. Get the opening right, and the rest of the case gets easier.Resources:If you struggle with case openings, Black Belt pairs you with an ex-MBB interviewer who'll help build the muscle rep by repNewer to cases? Case Foundations walks you through the fundamentals – freeConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  19. 713

    S24E2: How Consulting Firms Really Score Case Interviews

    Send us Fan MailYou can nail every case you practice and still get rejected.That's because firms aren't grading you on vibes. McKinsey scores you piece by piece – opening, structure, math, brainstorming, closing. Other firms use 3 buckets instead: structure, problem solving, communication.Either way, a 4 out of 4 in math won't save a 1 out of 4 in brainstorming. Firms want you solid across the board.In this episode, Namaan breaks down exactly what's being scored – and why doing 100 more practice cases won't fix a gap you haven't identified.Resources:Whether you're prepping for McKinsey's rubric or the 3-bucket system, Black Belt closes the gaps costing you the offerNew to case prep? Case Foundations is our free crash course on the basics – the starting point before scoring even mattersConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  20. 712

    S24E1: The Hottest Consulting Sectors to Target in 2026

    Send us Fan MailMcKinsey is making 12% more hires this year than last. But the jobs aren't going to the same profile of candidate.Energy and utilities is projected to grow 11% in 2026 – one of the least sexy practices in consulting, and one of the hottest right now. Healthcare, private equity, and consumer/retail are all shifting too.If you're aiming at the wrong sector or the wrong skill set, you're competing for the smallest slice of the market.Namaan breaks down where the hiring is concentrated, which skills firms are paying a premium for, and why specialists are starting to out-hire generalists.Resources:If you want to know exactly which firms are hiring hardest in the sectors Namaan covers, see our 2026 sector rankings before you decideIf you are serious about breaking into consulting in 2026, Black Belt pairs you with an expert coach to guide you through recruitingConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  21. 711

    S23E30: Why Retail Consulting Firms Are Losing Market Share

    Send us Fan MailConsumer and retail consulting used to be one market. Now it's 4.Each lane pulls a different lever – growth, margin, or talent. Firms that used to compete on "we do consumer and retail" are getting picked apart by specialists who can prove which lever they actually move.In this episode of The Briefing, Japheth sits down with Namaan to break down the 4 lanes reshaping a $70B market, why AI stopped being enough on its own, and why private equity's longer hold periods are turning growth and profitability into the same conversation.If you're a firm leader trying to protect market position, win the talent war, or defend margin, this one's for you.Resources:Go deeper on the data:Want to see which firms are already winning in each lane? Check out our 2026 Consumer & Retail rankingWant to hear it straight from firms already competing in these lanes? Watch our Consumer & Retail panelGo act on it:If your firm doesn't have a 10-second answer to "what do we solve better than anyone else," grab time with Namaan – MC works with firms to shape how that answer gets told to candidates and PE sponsorsIf you're a candidate trying to figure out which lane to network into, Black Belt helps you match your profile and story to the right one, and you can see who's actually hiring on our job boardConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  22. 710

    S23E29: How to Build Business Acumen for Consulting

    Send us Fan MailBuilding business judgment is learnable – most candidates just go about it the wrong way.Tauseef Charanya spent 10 years at BCG, conducted over 300 case interviews, and coached hundreds of candidates through the process. In this episode, he explains what business acumen actually looks like in a case interview, why work experience alone doesn't build it, and the 4 layers you need to hit to get an offer.Resources:If you're ready to work on your business acumen with an MBB coach, Black Belt is the program built to get you thereNot sure where you stand? Book a free 15-minute call with Katie and she'll help you figure out the right next stepIf you're earlier in your prep, Case Foundations is a free starting point for case prepCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S23E28: How to Use AI in Case Prep (And How Not To)

    Send us Fan MailUsing AI for case prep? For most candidates, it's costing them the offer.McKinsey and Bain are already grading how you use AI in interviews this cycle.Most candidates ask AI for answers, skip the hypothesis, and accept whatever it hands back. That skips the exact skill firms are testing: how you think through a problem, not just the answer you get to.In this episode, Namaan breaks down the 3 AI case prep mistakes, and the right way to use it like a directed junior analyst instead.Resources:If you want an MBB coach checking your process, not just your answers, Black Belt pairs you with oneWant the foundational skills before you loop AI in? Grab free access to Case Foundations and build the process AI should be pressure-testing, not replacingConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S23E27: Former BCG Consultant Runs a Live Higher Education Case Interview

    Send us Fan MailThis episode is presented by Bates White, one of the world's top economic consulting firms. If you're an undergraduate rising junior (Class of 2028), Bates White internship applications open in August. Learn more.Consulting firms are moving towards non-traditional cases. They want to see if you can think, not just if you've memorized a framework. This one is a BCG-style case built around two universities launching a joint degree from zero. Ex-BCG coach Yusuf Shaikh runs candidate Wasif through it live – the structure, the math behind a 240-student enrollment target, and the real-time correction when the numbers had no framework behind them.Wasif had the right answer and still lost the case on structure. Yusuf explains why – and what to do differently.Coaching:Black Belt is how you get a dedicated coach, a personalized prep plan, and coaching from experts like Yusuf who know what MBB is looking forBook a free 15-minute call with Katie to discuss your optionsResources:Create a free account and get access to our Case Foundations course, market research, and job board – no credit card requiredCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  25. 707

    S23E26: Everyone Thinks AI Is Killing Consulting. The Data Says the Opposite

    Send us Fan MailEveryone assumes AI is eating consulting alive – demand shrinking, firms pulling back. That's the narrative. The data from our July Consulting Market Outlook says something else entirely.In this episode of The Briefing, Japheth sits down with Namaan to unpack what's actually happening in the market right now. Demand is up. The bottleneck isn't leads or RFPs – it's delivery. And that changes who's winning in the second half of 2026, for firms and for candidates.We cover:Why the firms stuck in the middle are getting squeezed outThe 3 things on the podium now that AI is just the entry feeWhat candidates should be asking firms that most aren'tResources:Download the July Consulting Market Outlook Report free – the data behind everything Namaan breaks down in this episodeIf you represent a consulting firm and want your perspective shaping future MC research, rankings, or thought leadership, get on Namaan's calendarIf your profile still reads generalist in a market that's paying for sector depth, Black Belt helps you fix that before it costs you the offerCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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    S23E25: BCG HireQuotient: What It Is, How It's Scored, and How to Pass It

    Send us Fan MailBCG's HireQuotient Online Assessment is the Online Case – same test, new platform.Katie – MC's Black Belt Advisor and ex-BCG – breaks down what's on it, how it's scored, and the thing that fails candidates outright.We walk through a live demo so you can see the mechanics before BCG sends you the real thing. Finish in time, prioritize fast, rule things out. And when you get to the final video rec – you get one shot. Whatever's recorded when the clock hits zero goes to BCG.Resources:If you want chatbot cases to practice before BCG sends you the real thing – plus a coach to build your full prep plan – Black Belt is for youNew to case prep? Case Foundations is free and gets you started on the right footNot sure if your BCG profile is competitive? 15 minutes with Katie will tell you exactly where you standConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  27. 705

    S23E24: Consumer & Retail Consulting in 2026 – What the Top Firms Are Watching

    Send us Fan MailThe consumer and retail consulting market is fragmenting. Specialists are winning deals that used to go to the big firms – and the clients driving that shift aren't going back.2 partners from this year's Top Consumer & Retail Consulting Firms ranking break it down. Keith Fogerty from Advancy and Shikha Jain from Simon-Kucher share what's actually happening in the market – revenue growth pressure, AI's real role, private equity's tightening standards, and why a pretty PowerPoint that collects dust is a failed engagement.If you're building a career in consumer or retail consulting, or running a practice in this space, this is the market intelligence you can't get anywhere else.Full speaker bios and firm profiles here.Resources:See this year's Top Consumer & Retail Consulting Firms rankingReady to break into a top consulting firm? Black Belt is where serious candidates get the coaching to do itExplore top firms hiring in Consumer and Retail on the Management Consulted Job BoardConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  28. 704

    S23E23: The Unsexy Habit That Landed Him a BCG Offer

    Send us Fan MailBruno had every disadvantage on paper: international student, non-target school, three internships that didn't add up to one clear story.He didn't let it hold him back, landing a full-time offer at BCG.In this episode of Recruiting Reality Check, Katie – MC's Black Belt Advisor – breaks down what got Bruno there. Spoiler: it wasn't more cases. It was a plan he stuck to even when it felt too "boring" to work. Turns out, unsexy habits get results.We cover:Why stacking cases with peers doesn't fix a weak strategyHow Bruno turned a shared home country into 3 real referralsThe unsexy habit Katie tells every candidate to copyResources:If you're stacking cases and still not landing offers, Black Belt fixes the approach, not just the repsNot sure your profile is competitive for MBB? 15 minutes with Katie will tell you where you standYour free MC account unlocks Case Foundations and the same tools Bruno used to build his planConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  29. 703

    S23E22: Case Interviews Got Harder at MBB in 2026 – Here's What Changed

    Send us Fan MailEvery McKinsey interviewee last year got at least 1 non-traditional case. Most candidates are still only prepping for standard business cases.Namaan breaks down what's actually different about case interviews in 2026, and it's not just the case types.McKinsey is piloting an AI-enabled interview round. Bain's also adding one this summer. The bar on communication and presence just went up too, because AI raised the floor on sounding prepared – but sounding ready isn't the same as being ready anymore.Resources:If you've only drilled business cases, Case Foundations will get you ready for the case types firms are actually giving in 2026Want a coach who is up to date on 2026 cases? Black Belt builds your prep around what firms are testing for right now, not two years agoConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  30. 702

    S23E21: The Real Driver Behind the Energy Consulting Boom

    Send us Fan MailEnergy consulting grew in line with the market for a decade. Flat. Unremarkable. Nobody paid attention.That changed. The market's now projected to grow 11% in 2026, and leverage for candidates with ops or technical backgrounds is higher than at any point in recent history.In this episode of The Briefing, Japheth sits down with Namaan to break down what's driving the boom. Spoiler: it's not just the data center buildout you've been reading about.Whether you're hunting for your next role or you're a firm trying to win the talent war, this one's for you.Resources:Go deeper on the data:Want the full picture from the firms themselves? Watch our Energy & Utilities panel with the leaders driving this hiring waveCurious where energy consulting firms rank for 2026? Check out our Energy & Utilities rankingThat 11% growth number comes straight from Business Insider's reporting on AI's power demand surgeGo act on it:If you're still leading with sustainability credentials, Black Belt helps you reframe your profile around the implementation experience firms wantReady to see who's hiring right now? Browse open energy consulting roles on our job boardConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  31. 701

    S23E20: The 4 Case Prep Gaps Costing You the Offer

    Send us Fan MailThe reality of MBB recruiting: 100 candidates apply. 15 get an interview. 1 gets the offer.Most of the 99 who don't get it aren't underqualified. They just had a bad plan.Kabreya Ghaderi, who coached hundreds of candidates and spent time at McKinsey, PwC, and Bridgespan, sees strong candidates still miss because their prep plan has a hole in it they can't see from the inside.In this episode, Kabreya walks through the 4 gaps that sink even candidates who are doing everything "right." What stood out:Logging more cases can actually lock in the wrong habits, fasterOne candidate did 80 practice cases and was still nowhere near readyFeeling ready and being ready are two different things, and most people can't tell which one they areResources:Get the personalized plan you need + expert coaching by joining Black BeltBook 15 minutes with Katie to get your questions answeredStart building case proficiency today with our free Case Foundations starter courseBook 1:1 coaching with KabreyaCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  32. 700

    S23E19: BCG Case Interview – Solar Energy Revenue Decline

    Send us Fan MailIsh Mawla ran a BCG case in front of a live audience. Real candidate, real pressure.The case: a solar company in an emerging market watching its revenue fall while the broader market keeps growing. Aditya has to figure out why – and what to do about it.Then Ish breaks down the whole thing – what Aditya did well and where he left points on the table.Here's what stood out:Why your framework can work against you – and the one thing most candidates build in that they shouldn'tHow to read an exhibit under time pressure without glossing over the math that's sitting right in front of youWhat it takes to brainstorm boldly when the ask is doubling revenue, not incremental growthCoaching:Want this kind of feedback on your own cases? Start with a free 15-minute call with Katie – she'll tell you where you stand and whether Black Belt is the right fitBlack Belt is how you get a dedicated advisor, a personalized prep plan, and coaching from experts like Ish who know what MBB is looking forResources:New to MC? Create a free account and get access to our Case Foundations course, market research, and job board – no credit card requiredCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  33. 699

    S23E18: 5 Candidates Share What Actually Got Them MBB Offers

    Send us Fan Mail5 people just landed offers at McKinsey, Bain, BCG, Deloitte, and L.E.K. We got them all in one room and asked them the same question: what actually worked?The real stuff – how many cases they did, how they networked, what they wish they'd done differently, and the misconceptions that almost cost them.Aisha did 50 cases her first recruiting cycle and didn't get the offer. She did 25 the second time and got it. That contrast says more than any framework guide will.You'll learn:Why quality beats volume in case prep – and what "quality" actually looks likeHow each of these 5 built their firm lists and network from scratchThe misconception every candidate walked in with (and when they figured out it was wrong)Resources:4 of the 5 panelists worked with an MC coach – learn more about Black Belt coachingNot sure if coaching is the right fit? Book a free 15-min call with Katie – she'll tell you where you standCreate a free MC account to start building your case prep foundationCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  34. 698

    S23E17: Ex-Bain Interviewer Shares What Gets You Hired at Bain

    Send us Fan MailMitali Jalan was told she couldn't break into consulting as a chartered accountant. She was told it was unlikely she'd land Bain as an international MBA student. She got the offers anyway.She worked at Deloitte India and Bain London, then sat on the other side of the table as a Bain interviewer. She's coached over 350 candidates and knows where people lose the offer.The thing she kept seeing? Candidates who spent weeks on case prep, walked in technically ready, and still didn't get it. The gap wasn't knowledge.We cover:How to recruit for a firm in a country that isn't yoursWhy "nice" is not a soft factor at Bain – and how to train for itWhat made Mitali stop reading a CV in secondsHow to track your prep so you're fixing the right things, not just logging casesResources:Work with Mitali directlyReady to break into MBB? Black Belt is the case prep program for serious candidatesBook a free 15-minute call with Katie to map out your pathCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  35. 697

    S23E16: How AI is Disrupting the Consulting Model | Arda Ecevit, Ex-Bain & NexStrat AI Founder

    Send us Fan MailEvery week we hear the same question from candidates: Is AI going to gut consulting before I can break in?Short answer: No.Longer answer: The model is changing fast, and you need to know what's shifting and what isn't.Arda Ecevit spent over 13 years at Deloitte, Strategy&, and Bain before co-founding NexStrat AI. He sat down with Namaan to talk about what AI is doing to consulting – and the parts of the job it can't touch.What AI is taking off the junior consultant's plateThe skills that still get you hired (and promoted) at MBBWhy MBB is still worth joining, even with AI doing more junior analyst workWhere partners and clients still need humans in the roomResources:Try NexStrat AI free for 14 days, then 50% off your first month with code MC50OFF – click hereConnect with Arda on LinkedInLand your consulting offer – join Black Belt for 1:1 coaching from MBB advisorsBook a 15-min strategy call with KatieCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  36. 696

    S23E15: He Quit His Job to Break Into Consulting

    Send us Fan MailWalter applied to consulting out of undergrad and didn't get an offer. Went into investment banking, got another shot a year and a half later, and still wasn't ready – too busy, not focused enough, cramming at the last minute.So he quit his job to recruit full time.That's an extreme version of the lesson, but the lesson applies to anyone working full time while trying to break in: you have less time than you think. Consulting firms aren't running a six-month hiring cycle. They've got a project to staff and they need someone now. You could apply today and interview next week.In this episode of Recruiting Reality Check, Katie Neff, ex-BCG and MC's Black Belt Advisor, breaks down what Walter did differently on attempt #3 – how he started from scratch, built a serious plan, and landed a full-time offer with L.E.K.The June Black Belt cohort closes Tuesday, June 9 (limited spots). Learn more and join.Resources:Book a free 15-minute call with Katie to map out your best pathJoin the June Black Belt cohort for structured coaching from application to offerExplore 2,000 consulting jobs for working professionals on the Management Consulted Job BoardConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  37. 695

    S23E14: Ex-BCG Principal: Why 22 Cases Beat 100 (And What Actually Gets Offers)

    Send us Fan MailBCG interviews typically start 3–4 weeks after the application deadline – and deadlines are here. Tauseef Charanya spent 10 years at BCG – half consulting, half building AI products globally. He's done 300+ interviews and has seen strong candidates miss offers for the same reasons, over and over.In this episode, he breaks down the 3 mistakes that hurt otherwise solid BCG candidates, why doing more cases without feedback makes you worse, and the 4-step system that gets you BCG-ready.You'll learn:Why memorizing frameworks won't cut it – and what BCG interviewers are actually looking forHow BCG's candidate-led format differs from McKinsey and how to prep for itThe skill sequence that gets candidates offer-ready in 22 cases, not 100+Why the BCG internship deserves the same urgency as full-time recruitingResources:Ready to close the gap before deadlines? Book a free 15-minute consult with KatieWant the structured system Tauseef describes? Explore Black BeltBook a 1:1 session with TauseefCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  38. 694

    S23E13: How to Crush Your First 90 Days in Consulting

    Send us Fan MailMost new consultants walk in with work style blind spots they can't see – and their managers notice before they do.In this episode, Namaan – COO of Management Consulted – breaks down his framework for owning your first 90 days in consulting: how to identify your blind spots, read your manager, and carry yourself like someone who's been doing this for years.You'll learn:What your manager actually cares about (hint: it's not how hard you work)The 3 work styles that get consultants in trouble earlyHow to communicate answer-first and show executive presence from week 1Resources:Build your Excel and PowerPoint skills before day 1 with MC's flagship courseIs your team moving decisions or just moving slides? MC Executive Presentation TrainingCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  39. 693

    S23E12: Energy Consulting Is Exploding – 3 Insiders Break Down Why

    Send us Fan MailEnergy consulting is growing 11% this year – the fastest-growing sector in consulting.AI data centers are eating power faster than the grid can supply, the energy transition is still underway, and nobody has a clean answer for how to do both at once.3 insiders from MC's 2026 energy ranking join the show: Sean Jump (dss+), Charlie Sorensen (BearingPoint), and Michael Einstein (Simon-Kucher).You'll learn:Why clients are asking for things now they weren't 2 years agoHow energy firms price outcome-based work and where they draw the lineWhat hyperscalers keep getting wrong about physical infrastructureThe advice every new energy consultant actually needs to hearFull speaker bios and firm profiles here.Resources:See who's hiring – see the 2026 Top 10 Energy Consulting Firms RankingIs your team moving decisions or just moving slides? MC Executive Presentation TrainingExplore top firms hiring in Energy on the Management Consulted Job BoardReady to land the offer? Black Belt is where to startCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  40. 692

    S23E11: 400 Bain Resumes Reviewed – 3 Mistakes She Saw Every Time

    Send us Fan MailMaile Dyer reviewed 400+ resumes as a Bain Manager. She was on the recruiting team, making the decisions on who got interviews.And she kept seeing the same 3 mistakes: structure, content, and formatting. Most candidates miss at least one. A lot of them miss all 3 — and they never find out why they never heard back.In this episode, Maile breaks down each mistake and tells you exactly how to fix it. Katie Neff joins to tie it back to your full recruiting strategy.You'll learn:The structure mistake that makes reviewers skip your strongest qualificationsWhy writing responsibilities instead of impact gets you screened out fastThe formatting signals that tell a consultant you lack attention to detailResources:Have your resume rebuilt by ex-consultants who know what MBB is looking for – join Black BeltNot sure where to start? Book 15 minutes with KatieCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  41. 691

    S23E10: BCG Revamped the CCA – An Ex-BCG Consultant Breaks It Down

    Send us Fan MailBCG just updated its Consulting Career Assessment (CCA) and most candidates approach it the wrong way.In this episode, Katie – ex-BCG, Black Belt Advisor at Management Consulted – breaks down the revamped CCA across each section, so you know what to expect.What most candidates miss: this isn't just a math test. BCG is measuring who you are and whether you are consistent in your answers.You'll learn:Why consistency in the working style sections matters more than picking the "right" answerThe elimination strategy that helps you solve the math problems fasterWhat appearing neutral or inconsistent signals to BCG — and why it's a red flagResources:Join Black Belt – includes 4 CCA practice versions + full interview prep coachingBook 15 minutes with Katie – talk through your support options and whether Black Belt is right for youConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  42. 690

    S23E9: The 5 Places Consultants Go After MBB

    Send us Fan MailEveryone wonders what comes after consulting, but the exits aren't talked about.In this episode of Consulting Unpacked, Jenny Rae (ex-Bain) breaks down the 5 most common exit paths – and why consulting opens more doors than almost any other career move.Resources:Create a free profile + access the Job Board (1K+ jobs)Create a free MC account to access foundational resources and start building your consulting skill set todayBook a free 15-minute call with Katie to talk through your specific situationConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  43. 689

    S23E8: Bain First Round Case: Luxury Helicopter Manufacturer Profitability Decline

    Send us Fan MailSebastian is a Purdue junior with Bain interviews coming up. He ran a full first-round Bain case live – and after every section, coach Mitali stopped and told him exactly what worked and what he missed.Mitali spent 5 years in consulting, including as a senior consultant at Bain in London. She's coached 350+ people into MBB and used to interview candidates herself – so she knows what Bain is looking for.You'll see:Why "financial vs. non-financial" is too generic for Bain – and what to say insteadHow to read an exhibit the way Bain wants it doneThe math mistake Sebastian made live – and how he recoveredHow to give a final recommendation backed by the numbers, not your gutCoaching with Mitali:Join the Black Belt case prep program for personalized coaching with Mitali and a prep strategy tailored to your goals and timelineConnect with Mitali on LinkedInResources:Create a free account to access Case Interview Foundations – a 7-day case interview crash courseWatch more McKinsey, BCG, and Bain case interview demos on YouTubeCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  44. 688

    S23E7: 30 Cases Wasn't Enough for MBB

    Send us Fan MailHe got McKinsey and Bain interviews and practiced 30 cases with friends – but didn't make it past round 1.Overconfident Ollie is a target school student with every reason to be confident. He joined Black Belt, made a plan – then mostly went at it alone. His KPI was cases completed and when MBB's first round came, his floor wasn't high enough.Katie and Japheth break down what went wrong, what's at stake if the approach doesn't change, and the specific steps Ollie is taking to rebuild before the next round of deadlines.Why casing volume without feedback builds false confidenceWhat peer casing can't tell you – and why a coach canThe "floor vs. ceiling" principle that defines where most candidates fall shortThe May Black Belt cohort closes Tuesday, May 12 (limited spots). Learn more and join.Resources:Join the May Black Belt cohort (see coaches)Book a free 15-minute call with Katie to map out your best pathCreate a free MC account to get Case Foundations, a case prep crash courseConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  45. 687

    S23E6: Steel Industry to McKinsey: What Most MBAs Get Wrong

    Send us Fan MailDaniel went from steel and automotive to McKinsey. His path wasn't conventional – and neither was his networking strategy.Instead of casting a wide net, he built 2 deep relationships at the firm – mentors who helped him at every stage. This episode breaks down what worked – and what the standard MBA playbook gets wrong.Why 2 deep relationships beat 30 surface connections in consulting recruitingHow to turn a "niche" background into a drawThe case prep habit that added depth without adding volumeResources:Coaching helped Daniel take his prep to the next level – book a 1-hour sessionNot sure where to start? Book a 15-minute call with KatieCase Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

  46. 686

    S23E5: The Summer Prep Window MBAs Miss – And How to Use It

    Send us Fan MailOnly 19% of McKinsey's new hires today are MBAs. In the mid-90s, that number was over 80%.The # of spots available for MBAs is shrinking – the competition isn't.MC coach Catherine Lee – ex-Deloitte, ex-BCG, Harvard MBA – breaks down 3 mistakes that sink most incoming MBAs before they ever reach an interview:Starting too late (fall semester is already too late)Treating prep like a sprint instead of a marathonPracticing cases without a system to track your gapsPlus: the summer prep roadmap that gets you ahead of your entire cohort before school starts.Katie Neff (Black Belt Advisor) joins with data from 250+ BB members who landed at McKinsey, Bain, and BCG – including the 22-case benchmark.Resources:Want structured support before the semester starts? Join Black BeltNot sure yet? Book 15 minutes with KatiePre-MBA program deadlines start May 3Case Competition World Cup – Fall 2026Applications are open. Free for all students. Apply by Sept. 13.APPLY HEREConnect With Management ConsultedCreate a free MC account or download the MC app (Apple, Android) to start your prep todaySchedule a free 15min consultation with the MC TeamWatch the video version of the podcast on YouTubeFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokJoin an upcoming live event – case interviews demos, expert panels, and more

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

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.

HOSTED BY

Management Consulted

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What is Strategy Simplified about?

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...

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