S21E21: Did Thrive Market Just Ditch Its Profit Engine?

Send us a textWhere do McKinsey, Bain, and BCG consultants go after they leave?We analyzed 1,600+ MBB exits to build a live map of where opportunity is compounding — and which skills the market is paying a premium for.In this episode, Namaan breaks down the 2025 MBB Exit Opportunity Analysis and the 5 trends shaping where consultants go next.You’ll learn:The top industries hiring ex-MBB in 2025Why most exits go private (not public)Which roles accelerate the move into operating leadershipHow to choose: product, capital, or CEO proximityDownload the full report for free here.Additional Resources:Download free 2025 MBB Exit Opportunity Analysis reportReach out to Namaan: [email protected] Links:Learn more about NordStellar's Threat Exposure Management Program; unlock 10% off with code SIMPLIFIED-10Connect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us ([email protected]) with questions or feedback.

Send us a textThrive Market just became the first major online grocer to drop alcohol completely, and the internet is cheering… but the business case isn’t what it seems. In this episode, we break down the real reasons behind the move, what the data actually says about drinking trends, and why households, not individuals, tell the true story.We cover:Why “54% of adults drink alcohol” is the wrong metric for retailersThe hidden logistics + regulatory friction behind alcohol shippingHow Thrive’s branding strategy earns attention, even if the business case is thinThe one customer-insight mistake we see companies make again and againA fascinating look at strategy, consumer behavior, and the storytelling behind business decisions.Partner Links:Learn more about NordStellar's Threat Exposure Management Program; unlock 20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY20Chapters:03:19 Consumer Trends in Alcohol Consumption06:23 Business Model Analysis of Thrive Market09:05 Logistical Challenges in Alcohol Sales12:07 Market Size and Consumer Preferences15:38 Branding and Business Storytelling17:30 How Great Strategists Think Past the Press Release21:00 Households, Not Individuals: Why the 54% Stat Misleads23:30 Takeaways on Strategy, Storytelling & Alcohol’s FutureListen to the Market Outsiders podcast, the new daily show with the Management Consulted teamConnect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us ([email protected]) with questions or feedback.

Send us a textWhat does it really take to break into MBB — especially if you’re starting late?In this conversation, ex-Bain manager and case coach Abi Chen breaks down the exact 2-month strategy that helped her go from “I just learned what consulting is” to landing a Bain offer. She shares the principles that top candidates consistently get right — and the myths that hold everyone else back.You’ll learn:How to diagnose your readiness (and what most candidates overlook)Why drills matter more than full casesHow top performers think like consultants from day oneThe feedback mindset that accelerates growth in recruiting and on the jobIf you need a clear, realistic roadmap to MBB — or inspiration for charting your own path — you’ll find it here.Additional ResourcesWork directly with Abi on case and behavioral prepJoin Black Belt for structured prep that covers networking, digital assessments, resumes, and interviewsConnect with AbiFollow on LinkedInFollow Abi's restaurant journey on InstagramPartner Links:Learn more about NordStellar's Threat Exposure Management Program; unlock 10% off with code SIMPLIFIED-10Listen to the Market Outsiders podcast, the new daily show with the Management Consulted teamThe Best Pizza Franchise OpportunityAnthony & Luca's Pizza Kitchen is the hottest new Cheesesteak & NY Pizza Franchise.Connect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us ([email protected]) with questions or feedback.

Send us a textNetflix just shocked Hollywood with a $72B bid for Warner Bros, the biggest media deal of the decade. But behind the headlines is a fight over market share, regulation, and the future of streaming.In this episode, we break down:Why Netflix is suddenly willing to buy instead of buildHow HBO, Warner Bros, and gaming change Netflix’s strategyThe regulatory risk (and why Trump and Paramount matter)Whether this deal can ever pay for itselfWhat this means for the future of streaming bundles and pricingPartner Links:Learn more about NordStellar's Threat Exposure Management Program; unlock 20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY20 until Dec. 10, 2025Episode Links:Netflix press releaseNetflix set to buy Warner Bros. in deal valued at $83 billion (ABC News)Netflix Co-Founder LinkedIn PostChapters: 01:20 Christmas tree banter and setting the stakes 03:05 What Netflix is actually buying from Warner Bros 07:00 Why Netflix wants Warner Bros and HBO 11:45 Can this $72B deal ever pay off? 16:30 Ads, bundles and the future Netflix business model 20:50 Antitrust risk, Trump factor and hostile bids 24:30 Disney, YouTube and the real competitive set 28:10 When M&A stops being rationalListen to the Market Outsiders podcast, the new daily show with the Management Consulted teamConnect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us ([email protected]) with questions or feedback.

Send us a textUnlock the skills that set candidates apart in tech, strategy, and consulting. In this live conversation, Namaan talks with Adobe leaders Shawn Loutensock and Nick Hilton about how Adobe DX (Digital Experience) certifications help career seekers build practical, job-ready skills.If you're exploring tech, strategy, consulting, or a mid-career pivot, this episode breaks down why digital experience skills matter — and how certification can give you a real edge.You’ll learn:Why top firms (Accenture, Deloitte, IBM) hire Adobe-certified talentThe job-ready skills certification actually buildsHow to choose the right Adobe certification for your career goalsWhat hiring and salary data show about specialized digital skillsReady to stand out in a competitive market? Start here.Additional Resources:Learn more about Adobe’s DX certification programsStudents: Get 50% off with code A4AX9WJAE4 (use your university email)University admins: Click here to explore partnership and learning opportunities with AdobeQuestions? Email [email protected] Links:Learn more about NordStellar's Threat Exposure Management Program; unlock 20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY20 until Dec. 10, 2025Listen to the Market Outsiders podcast, the new daily show with the Management Consulted teamThe Best Pizza Franchise OpportunityAnthony & Luca's Pizza Kitchen is the hottest new Cheesesteak & NY Pizza Franchise.Connect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us ([email protected]) with questions or feedback.

Send us a textIn this BCG case interview, ex-BCG Principal and case coach Tauseef Charanya leads a live, candidate-led walkthrough of an airline profitability case: should the client switch to credit-card-only in-flight payments?Follow along as Bao works through clarifying questions, a customized profitability framework, structured math, and a clear final recommendation — plus hear Tauseef’s expert coaching on what “good” looks like at BCG.Learn how to:Build a tailored framework under pressureNavigate candidate-led case flow with confidenceTurn math, exhibits, and insights into a strong “so what”Whether you’re prepping for BCG or any consulting interview, this session shows how to think, communicate, and problem-solve like a top-tier candidate.Work with Tauseef:See Tauseef's coaching calendarPurchase the Black Belt case prep program for 1:1 coaching with Tauseef (8-10 hours)Connect on LinkedInAdditional Resources:Watch more MBB case demos on YouTubePartner Links:Learn more about NordStellar's Threat Exposure Management Program; unlock 20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY20 until Dec. 10, 2025Listen to the Market Outsiders podcast, the new daily show with the Management Consulted teamThe Best Pizza Franchise OpportunityAnthony & Luca's Pizza Kitchen is the hottest new Cheesesteak & NY Pizza Franchise.Connect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us ([email protected]) with questions or feedback.

Send us a textWant to land a consulting role in China? This episode breaks down what makes the 2025 recruiting process one of the most competitive and unique in the world.We cover:How applications, assessments, and interviews differ in mainland China vs. Hong KongWhy bilingual skills, academic strength, and international exposure matter more here than almost anywhere elseWhat to expect from digital assessments, group cases, and market-specific interview themes2025 salary benchmarks across McKinsey, Bain, BCG, OW, LEK, and moreFor the full playbook, download Management Consulted’s 2025 China Recruitment Roadmap – free. It includes office-by-office insights, target schools, visa info, timelines, and a complete salary table for Shanghai, Beijing, and Hong Kong.Additional Resources:Join Black Belt for coaching, CV edits, and case prep tailored to China’s competitive recruiting processFollow along on YouTubePartner Links:Learn more about NordStellar's Threat Exposure Management Program; unlock 20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY20 until Dec. 10, 2025Connect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us ([email protected]) with questions or feedback.

Send us a textBest Buy was supposed to be dead. Instead, it just raised its full-year sales and earnings outlook.In this episode, Jenny Rae and Namaan dig into why Best Buy is outperforming in a “K-shaped” economy, even as everyone keeps blaming the consumer and inflation.They break down:How Best Buy is still winning on laptops, gaming, and smartphonesWhy AI-enabled laptops and new consoles are quietly driving an upgrade cycleThe role of predictable sale moments (Prime Day, back-to-school, Black Friday)What Best Buy is doing in-store vs. online that pure e-commerce players can’t matchHow services and better execution matter more than macro excusesThey also talk about what this says about the American consumer, why sentiment and spending keep telling different stories, and what levers they’d pull if they were running Best Buy for the next five years.Partner Links:Learn more about NordStellar's Threat Exposure Management Program; unlock 20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY20 until Dec. 10, 2025Chapters:02:10 Black Friday: From Chaos Day to 2-Month Season 04:45 Best Buy’s Unexpected Earnings Beat 07:20 What’s Actually Selling: Phones, Laptops, Gaming, AI Devices 10:05 Why Best Buy Wins In-Store (When It Shouldn’t) 13:00 Digital Channel Strength: Website, Pick-Up, Inventory, UX 15:40 The Consumer Is Fine (Again): Spending vs Sentiment 18:25 Best Buy’s Revenue Declines & Store Footprint Questions 21:05 Margin Breakdown & Where Best Buy Really Makes Money 24:10 The Future: Services, Smaller Stores, and Growth LeversListen to the Market Outsiders podcast, the new daily show with the Management Consulted teamConnect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us ([email protected]) with questions or feedback.

Send us a textSophomore year feels early to think about consulting — but it’s actually the perfect time to get ahead. In this episode, MC coach Kabreya Ghaderi breaks down a simple roadmap using the 3A framework: Access, Ability, and Acceleration.You’ll learn how to:Choose the right firms and officesBuild a focused networking planAvoid the “spray and pray” approach most candidates fall intoKabreya also shares how to strengthen your resume, find meaningful sophomore-year experiences, and start building the case + fit skills firms expect.If you’re aiming for a junior-year consulting internship, this episode gives you the clarity and momentum to start today.Additional Resources:Get personalized coaching through our Black Belt program – includes MBB digital assessment practice, case + fit coaching, and a personalized prep planStart your prep with our free Case Prep Plan – a structured, step-by-step guide to build casing fundamentals.Partner Links:Learn more about NordStellar's Threat Exposure Management Program; unlock 20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY20 until Dec. 10, 2025Listen to the Market Outsiders podcast, the new daily show with the Management Consulted teamThe Best Pizza Franchise OpportunityAnthony & Luca's Pizza Kitchen is the hottest new Cheesesteak & NY Pizza Franchise.Connect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us ([email protected]) with questions or feedback.

Send us a textWant to land a consulting role in Europe? This episode breaks down the 2025 recruiting landscape across a region where language, prestige, and pay vary widely.We cover:How language requirements differ across marketsWhy school pedigree still matters in EuropeCompensation ranges across major cities and firmsKey timelines, assessments, and cultural expectationsFor the full playbook, download Management Consulted’s 2025 Europe Consulting Recruitment Roadmap – free. It includes office-by-office guidance, salary insights, and strategies to help you land an offer anywhere from Paris to Frankfurt to Amsterdam.Additional Resources:Join Black Belt for coaching, CV edits, and case prep tailored to Europe’s recruiting processFollow along on YouTubePartner Links:Learn more about NordStellar's Threat Exposure Management Program; unlock 20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY20 until Dec. 10, 2025Connect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us ([email protected]) with questions or feedback.