Strategy Simplified

Labubu dolls are the latest global craze... but what makes them so irresistible?In this episode of Market Outsiders, Jenny Rae and Namaan break down the business model behind Labubu’s rise, from blind box marketing to luxury brand tie-ins. They explore:How scarcity fuels demandWhy repeat purchases matter more than volumeHow the resale market reinforces valueIt’s a case study in novelty vs. luxury, brand strategy, and consumer psychology — all packed into one tiny doll.Links mentioned in the episode:CNBC: How luxury brands are tapping into the Labubu crazeLearn more about Corporate Training with Management ConsultedInvest in Project Management Training for your teamMore Market Outsiders content:Subscribe on YouTubeSubscribe to the Market Outsiders feed (Apple, Spotify).Connect 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. 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

Who decides what a song is worth? In this episode, Jenny Rae speaks with Prerna Rakheja – Managing Economist at Bates White – about the landmark Phonorecords IV case that set new streaming royalty rates.For aspiring consultants, this conversation is a rare look inside economic consulting: how teams structure complex problems, build models that influence billion-dollar industries, and communicate insights to lawyers and judges.Quick note: Bates White is hiring – see open roles at a firm known for its culture and impact.Connect with Bates White:Explore current openings and apply to roles at Bates WhiteLearn more about the work and culture at Bates WhiteLearn more about the case – background on the Phonorecords IV royalty decisionAdditional Resources:Subscribe 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 programEmployee Survival Guide®WELCOME TO THE EMPLOYEE SURVIVAL GUIDE® PODCASTThe Employee Survival Guide® is a...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifyConnect 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

Amex just raised the annual fee on its Platinum card from $695 to $895 — a nearly 30 percent jump. In this episode of Market Outsiders, Jenny Rae and Namaan break down what’s behind the increase, why Amex believes customers won’t walk away, and how the move fits into a broader strategy to protect its premium brand.We dig into questions like: Who really cares about the fee hike? Why didn’t Amex go even higher? And what does this say about the future of credit card perks, co-branding, and the “status symbol” game?Whether you’re a cardholder, a competitor, or just curious about how big financial decisions get made, this conversation reveals the business logic behind the headlines.Related Episodes:Amex’s Profit Jump and the Credit Card Strategy Driving It (July 18, 2025)Chase Sapphire Reserve Fee Hike: Smart Strategy or Customer Risk? (June 17, 2025)Get in TouchHave thoughts on today’s episode? We’d love to hear them. Email us at podcast@managementconsulted.comMore Market Outsiders content:Subscribe on YouTubeSubscribe to the Market Outsiders feed (Apple, Spotify).Connect with 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

Consulting hiring is up 22% year over year — the biggest surge since before the pandemic. But there’s a catch.In this episode of Strategy Simplified, Japheth breaks down 3 major shifts reshaping the consulting industry right now:The 22% hiring surge (and why entry-level roles are shrinking)How AI is transforming both client work and firm operationsWhy global performance is uneven, with some regions booming and others in declineDownload the full September 2025 Consulting Industry Report free for a deeper dive into the changes.Links:Download the Industry Report (free)Currently working in consulting? Take this month's Sentiment Survey (5min)Unlock 1,000+ consulting jobs on the Management Consulted Job BoardPartner LinksStax is hiring! See open roles and requirementsFree 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

Ram will cancel its all-electric pickup, raising questions about the EV market, the rise of hybrids, and what truck buyers really want. Was the plan ever realistic, or just peak EV hype?Jenny Rae and Namaan break down the strategy shift at Stellantis — the parent company of Ram, Jeep, Chrysler, and Dodge — and why it matters. They also highlight:The risks of chasing trendsThe limits of EV infrastructureWhy hybrids may be the more practical bridge for automakersWhy doubling down on Ram’s strengths might be less flashy but far more sustainableLinks mentioned in the episode:CNBC: Ram cancels plans for all-electric pickup truckLearn more about Management Consulted's Corporate Training programGet more Market Outsiders content in your life:Subscribe on YouTubeSubscribe to the Market Outsiders feed (Apple, Spotify).Connect 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. 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

Bain is doubling down on Canada. In this episode of Strategy Simplified, we sit down with Jed Fallis, Bain’s Managing Partner in Canada, to talk about the firm’s brand-new Montreal office.Jed shares why Bain chose Montreal, which industries the office will focus on, and what kind of candidates the firm is looking for as it grows. Importantly, Bain is actively recruiting to staff the new Montreal office. If you’re considering consulting in Canada, now is the time to prepare your application and stand out in a competitive process.Additional Resources:Explore open roles at Bain MontrealLearn more about the new Montreal officeUnlock 1,000+ consulting jobs on the Management Consulted Job BoardGet case interview ready with Black BeltFree 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

Discover how Jolie is redefining the shower experience by turning it into a subscription service. Explore innovative showerhead designs coupled with personalized water tests that elevate customer satisfaction. The conversation dives into strategic marketing techniques that challenge traditional retail models. Learn about the power of personalization in building consumer relationships and how simplicity can lead to business success. Hear insights on transforming an overlooked market with effective narratives and tailored solutions.

Looking to break into the consulting scene in Canada? Discover the unique characteristics of the Canadian market compared to its U.S. and U.K. counterparts. Learn about powerful recruiting strategies that you can implement right away. Get the scoop on top target schools and firms, along with essential hiring timelines. Plus, a sneak peek at anticipated 2025 salaries from major players like McKinsey and Bain. Equip yourself with valuable insights to boost your consulting career!

The booming sports betting industry takes center stage, with insights into companies like DraftKings and FanDuel. Discover the aggressive advertising tactics used to attract new users and boost retention. The conversation dives into state regulations and their impact on revenues and gambling addiction concerns. There's a fascinating look at user acquisition strategies, drawing parallels to rideshare companies. Finally, the hosts explore the complexities of business models in sports betting and the opportunities on the horizon.

Building a strong case framework is the foundation of consulting interview success. But most candidates sabotage themselves with simple, avoidable mistakes. In this episode of Strategy Simplified, Jenny Rae breaks down the 4 most common framework errors and shows you exactly how to fix them.You’ll learn how to:Avoid copy-pasting generic frameworksTake the right amount of time to build your structureAdd specific, data-driven pointsPrioritize and present your framework like a proMastering these skills will help you stand out in the competitive consulting recruiting process and increase your chances of landing the offer.Additional Resources:Get case interview ready with Black BeltRead our Case Frameworks GuidePartner Links:Stax is hiring! See open roles and requirementsFree 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