In this special episode of The mbaMission Podcast, host Harold Simansky and mbaMission founder Jeremy Shinewald celebrate a major milestone—reflecting on standout moments, memorable guests, and the biggest lessons from the podcast’s first 100 episodes.
With more than one million views, 36,000+ hours of watch time, and a five-star rating, The mbaMission Podcast has become a trusted resource for MBA applicants navigating an increasingly complex admissions landscape.
This episode features a mix of favorite clips and fresh commentary, offering both nostalgia and forward-looking insights for future applicants.
Table of Contents
Highlights from 100 Episodes
Looking back across 100 episodes, several themes stand out. One of the most important is the idea of the “X factor,” where differentiation—not perfection—is what ultimately helps candidates succeed. The mbaMission Podcast has also highlighted the often transformative experiences candidates have while in business school, including traveling globally, building community, and forging lifelong relationships. Another key topic is the increasing use of AI in admissions, which raises important questions about how to use the technology effectively in the application process without sacrificing authenticity. The evolution of the applicant pool has also been a major focus of discussion, with more candidates coming from diverse and nontraditional backgrounds beyond the conventional banking and consulting paths. Finally, the growing emphasis on team-based assessments and emotional intelligence reflects how business schools are adapting to evaluate candidates more holistically.
Featured Voices
This milestone episode brings together insights from a wide range of voices who have contributed to the podcast’s success. Listeners will hear perspectives from mbaMission consultants such as Jessica Shklar and Gavriella Semaya, along with industry experts and successful MBA applicants. These voices collectively provide a well-rounded view of the admissions process, offering both expert guidance and real-world experiences that resonate with applicants at every stage of their journey.
Looking Ahead
As the podcast looks toward its next 100 episodes, Jeremy and Harold share their vision for the future. They are excited to expand beyond admissions topics into broader discussions about career outcomes and long-term professional growth. They also plan to feature more entrepreneurs and candidates from nontraditional backgrounds, continuing to reflect the evolving nature of MBA programs. Above all, they remain committed to delivering practical, honest, and actionable guidance to applicants around the world.
New episodes of The mbaMission Podcast are released every Tuesday on all major streaming platforms, with full video episodes available on its YouTube channel. Curious about how your story, your experiences, and your goals align with what top business schools are looking for? Sign up for a free 30-minute consultation with Harold, Jeremy, or another member of mbaMission’s admissions team.
