Strategy Simplified

Today on Market Outsiders, Namaan and Jenny Rae unpack Kimberly-Clark’s surprising move to sell its international tissue business - and what it signals about strategy, cash flow, and global growth.Plus, a rare rate cut from the European Central Bank raises deeper questions about inflation, energy, and the future of innovation in Europe.Join Market Outsiders live every weekday at 9:15AM ET on LinkedIn and YouTube - and now, episodes are also available on Strategy Simplified every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday.Want the full daily experience? Follow the new Market Outsiders podcast to get every episode, Monday through Friday.Follow Management Consulted on LinkedIn and subscribe on YouTubeConnect with Namaan and Jenny Rae on LinkedInFree Consulting Prep Just Got a Whole Lot BetterCreate a free MC account for access to step-by-step learning pathways, a brand new case prep course, and more. Download the MC app to prep anywhere.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

McKinsey just announced the deadline for its Sophomore Summer Business Analyst internship - and it’s only 6 days away. If you're a sophomore or second-year undergrad (Class of 2028) in the U.S. or Canada aiming for a consulting role, now is the time to act.In this episode, Namaan breaks down what the deadline means, why it's so competitive, and how you can put your best foot forward before June 10.Additional ResourcesApply to McKinsey's Sophomore Summer Business Analyst internshipLast day to purchase a resume edit ($350) is Thursday, June 5th - add the 48-hour expedited turnaround to your package at checkout to get your resume back by June 10Free Consulting Prep Just Got a Whole Lot BetterCreate a free MC account for access to step-by-step learning pathways, a brand new case prep course, and more. Download the MC app to prep anywhere.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

Namaan and Jenny Rae dive into Hims & Hers' bold expansion into Europe, exploring its recent acquisition of Zava and what it means for telehealth's future. They dissect customer loyalty and retention tactics, emphasizing the importance of privacy and trust in healthcare. The conversation takes a light-hearted turn as they discuss consumer habits, showcasing their personal shopping quirks. Finally, they advocate for verbal processing as a powerful tool for analyzing business dynamics and enhancing customer appeal.

In the 5th episode of our 10-part “Intro to Casing” series, we explore a market study case in BCG's style. The client, Plastic Co, is a major straw supplier to fast-food chains across the U.S., facing increasing pressure from lower-priced Southeast Asian competitors.Follow along as Ed dissects the financials, evaluates customer trust dynamics, and weighs strategic pricing decisions to protect market share. This case highlights the nuanced interplay between cost analysis, customer perception, and competitive strategy.Key Takeaways:How to evaluate pricing strategy amid rising competitionWhy trust and reliability often outweigh price in B2B marketsHow to structure and lead a market study case effectivelyAdditional ResourcesConsulting prep programs: Black Belt (8+ hours of structured interview coaching, optional resume edit); SuperPrep (20+ hours of end-to-end strategy + coaching, optional resume edit)Free consulting application deadlines trackerDownload a step-by-step Case Prep Plan Free Consulting Prep Just Got a Whole Lot BetterCreate a free MC account for access to step-by-step learning pathways, a brand new case prep course, and more. Download the MC app to prep anywhere. MBB Undergrad Timelines Are This MonthApplication deadlines are the earliest we've ever seen; join Black Belt for an accelerated, MBB-led prep programConnect 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

Dr. Soren Kaplan, a Wall Street Journal bestselling author and co-founder of Praxie.com, discusses the sweeping changes AI is bringing to the consulting industry. He highlights the flaws in traditional consulting models and reveals how AI transforms project delivery and creates new client value. Soren emphasizes the blend of technical and interpersonal skills necessary for future consultants, stressing the evolving role of leadership and the need for adaptive mindsets in a tech-driven landscape. His insights are invaluable for anyone looking to thrive in an ever-changing field.

Dive into the fascinating interplay between technology and agriculture. The discussion highlights NVIDIA's impressive earnings and its critical role in the tech landscape. There's a surprising twist as California avocado growers thrive, showcasing that competition can enhance market strength. The hosts explore how these seemingly unrelated sectors connect through pricing power and supply chain dynamics. From AI's accessibility to the unexpected significance of guacamole, this conversation weaves engaging insights into modern market behaviors.

This discussion dives into the truth behind misleading headlines about McKinsey's alleged layoffs. It highlights how voluntary attrition and performance standards are reshaping the firm. The hosts shed light on how consulting firms can serve as economic indicators, particularly in relation to AI market developments. They also analyze technology's impact on financial indices and tease the implications of NVIDIA's earnings report. Expect a fresh perspective on the consulting landscape and emerging market trends that matter.

Boston Consulting Group's unexpected quietness raises eyebrows as competitors announce their recruitment plans. The discussion dives into the implications of this silence for 2026 hiring, analyzing BCG's unconventional approach. Insights into insider opinions highlight evolving school strategies and a shift towards limited experienced hires. Also, the Bridge to Consulting program's role is examined, adding another layer to this intriguing recruiting landscape. Perfect for those tracking the consulting industry's dynamics!

Dive into the competitive world of Best Boots as they face off against Cuffee Shoes in the work boot market. Explore strategic options—should they defend their turf or pivot to casual styles? Learn about customer demographics, market size, and the importance of adaptability in modern marketing. Hear insights on case interview techniques and the necessity of a structured approach. Uncover data-driven strategies for evaluating threats and the role of practice in landing consulting jobs. It's a strategic showdown you won't want to miss!

Booz Allen Hamilton stuns the industry with plans to cut 2,500 jobs, marking a major shift in its workforce. The discussion reveals a steep decline in federal civilian contracts and tightening consulting budgets. Namaan Mian analyzes the company’s strategic pivot towards defense and AI as new growth opportunities. Financial concerns bubble up with stock prices plummeting 15%, prompting reflections on the consulting sector's future. It's a tight race between efficiency demands and maintaining quality service.