Insight Exchange by L.E.K. Consulting

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Oct 2025

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About the show

Join us as we swap ideas with thinkers, innovators and doers from around the world and around L.E.K. Presented by consulting powerhouse L.E.K. Consulting (www.lek.com), Insight Exchange™ is a new forum dedicated to the free and open exchange of the most interesting, important, and urgent ideas in the world of business. From the farthest-reaching environmental issues to innovations in retail, industrials, and healthcare, every installment of Insight Exchange™ invites luminaries to tell us what they’re working on, what they’re worried about, what they’re excited about, and what’s coming next. Join us on an intrepid journey of discovery as we take nothing for granted, pull no punches, and follow the research no matter where it leads. In its 30+ year history, this is what L.E.K. has done better than anyone in the world. And that’s why Insight Exchange™ is the podcast only L.E.K. could have produced. If you’re a growth investor, an advanced student, an employee, a researcher, an executive, an entrepreneur, an inventor, or a board member, we invite you to join us for Insight Exchange™. If you’d just like to keep your finger on the pulse of what’s happening in business, retail, education, healthcare, industrials, energy, media, or life sciences, we invite you to join us for Insight Exchange™.

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57 recent

October 13, 2025Episode 5742 min

Opportunities for Vehicle Electrification

The accelerating shift toward vehicle electrification and the wide-ranging opportunities it presents for the automotive services sector and investors are explored by Ashish Khanna (Partner, Financial Services Co-leader L.E.K. Consulting) and Will Chamberlain (Principal at L.E.K. Consulting with a focus in the automotive services sector). They discuss how the transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles is unfolding across the UK and Europe, examining the opportunities and challenges for manufacturers, financial services, infrastructure providers, and consumers alike. The conversation highlights:Market adoption trends: EV registrations now account for 20–25% of new car sales in leading European markets, with adoption varying by geography and customer segment.Government incentives and tax policies: How different policies shape EV uptake and where gaps remain.Financing, leasing, and risk: The impact of electrification on car financing models, residual values, and fleet operations.Aftersales and maintenance: New requirements for technician training, battery health monitoring, and emerging service business models.Infrastructure and insurance: The challenges of scaling charging networks, managing higher repair costs, and establishing a robust used EV market.Packed with insights from L.E.K. Consulting, this episode offers a practical look at how electrification is reshaping the automotive value chain, and what it means for industry players, policymakers, and investors. Visit L.E.K. Consulting at https://www.lek.com/

July 11, 2025Episode 5623 min

How a Strategic Pricing Overhaul Boosted Growth at Education Perfect

In this episode of Insight Exchange, Principal and Strategic Advisor Jade Kahn is joined by Jonathan Morgan, CEO of Education Perfect, to discuss the transformational journey of undertaking a strategic pricing review for one of Australia’s leading edtech companies. The conversation delves into the importance of aligning pricing with holistic business strategy, the complexities of managing growth across multiple markets, and how collaboration with L.E.K. Consulting created lasting impact. Jonathan shares his experiences and insights on the partnership with L.E.K., detailing both the rationale and outcomes of the project, and reflecting on the vital role of expert guidance in establishing future-proof pricing architecture.Key Points/Topics Covered:The critical role of pricing as part of an integrated go-to-market and business strategy, rather than a standalone initiativeEducation Perfect’s shift towards a simplified and future-proof pricing structure, yielding increased retention rates and team cohesionThe value of external expertise and a broad, rigorous fact base in developing effective pricing strategies for global expansionThe significance of thorough implementation support, with L.E.K. actively participating in Education Perfect’s internal processesLessons and advice for other technology leaders considering pricing reviews as a lever for growth and sustainable competitive advantage Visit L.E.K. Consulting at https://www.lek.com/

July 2, 2025Episode 5533 min

Navigating the Shifting Landscape of Sports Fandom, Media Rights, and Fan Engagement

Sports fandom is evolving -- and fast. Jeff Koloski, LEK partner in media and entertainment practice, talks with Alex Evans. a partner with LEK Consulting, and Jeff McQueen, also a partner (together, they lead LEK's sports and live entertainment practice, working with leaders across the sports industry, from leagues to teams to investors to service providers). They break down exclusive insights from L.E.K. Consulting’s in-depth sports survey to reveal how changing fan behaviors, shifting demographics, and media innovation are transforming the entire ecosystem.From the rise of women’s sports to the disruption of traditional media rights and the surge in private equity interest, the panel explores what’s driving the next era of growth, and what it means for leagues, teams, broadcasters, investors, and brands.Key Themes Covered:The evolution of fandom: Who's watching, and how it’s changingYouth-driven consumption shifts: Highlights, gaming, and social media over live gamesThe rise of women’s sports: Demographics, investment, and momentumLocal vs. national dynamics: Why the NFL and MLB still shine locallyDisruption in media rights: The fall of RSNs and the rise of streamingPrivate equity’s growing role and the long-term opportunity in youth sportsOutlook for MLS vs. international leagues, especially post-World Cup Visit L.E.K. Consulting at https://www.lek.com/

February 10, 2025Episode 5427 min

Elevating B2B Digital Commerce

In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of B2B digital commerce, focusing on its critical role in contemporary business strategies. Host Gavin McGrath is joined by Corey Highfield from L.E.K. Consulting and Jared Abelson from Simpson Strong-Tie to discuss the importance of digital strategies, the common barriers to adoption, and the steps for successful implementation. Our speakers also explore the nuances of maintaining brand integrity, the significance of data management, and the essentials of internal and external communication in B2B digital commerce.Key Points/Topics Covered:The increasing importance of digital strategies for B2B commerce, driven by a shift in buyer behaviours.Common barriers to effective digital strategy adoption, including pricing integrity and digital immaturity.Importance of data management and foundational infrastructure for successful digital initiatives.The role of clear internal and external communication in rolling out B2B digital commerce strategies.Strategies for managing reseller programs and maintaining consistent product information across channels.Connect with our experts on LinkedIn:Gavin McGrath - L.E.K. Consulting, LLC https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavinmcgrath/Corey Highfield - L.E.K. Consulting, LLC https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-highfield/Jared Abelson - Simpson Strong-Tie https://www.linkedin.com/in/jabelson/ Visit L.E.K. Consulting at https://www.lek.com/

July 10, 2024Episode 5328 min

A New Generation of Drug Therapies Requires New Business Strategies

Today we look at how advanced therapeutic modalities (ATMs) are revolutionizing drug discovery, development and manufacturing, presenting both unparalleled opportunities and new challenges for businesses.Drawing from their knowledge, our experts Alex Vadas, Adam Siebert and Jeff Holder unpack how new drug therapies such as engineered cell therapies, gene therapies and nucleic acid therapies are revolutionizing patient care and treatment options. They highlight the need for innovative business strategies to navigate complex manufacturing processes and supply chain logistics, the role of regulatory engagement, and the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in the realm of drug discovery.Key points/topics covered:The transformative impact of new drug therapies on life sciences, requiring adaptations in business strategiesThe complexity of manufacturing for ATMs and its effect on the commercial viability of new treatmentsThe importance of regulatory engagement in streamlining the drug development timeline for advanced therapiesThe intersection of AI and machine learning in expediting drug discovery for cell and gene therapiesManufacturing efficiency and supply chain consistency as a key differentiator in the outcomes and success rates of ATMsInterested in learning more? Read our Harvard Business Review article, A New Generation of Drug Therapies Requires New Business Strategies.Connect with our experts on LinkedIn:Alex Vadas, Managing Director, L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexvadas/Adam Siebert, Managing Director, L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-siebert-8772b327/Jeff Holder, Managing Director, L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-holder-ph-d-7a391087/ Visit L.E.K. Consulting at https://www.lek.com/

May 22, 2024Episode 5211 min

Investment Trends and Strategic Priorities in the Specialty Chemicals and Materials Industry

In today’s episode, we will focus on the influential trends and investment priorities shaping the specialty chemicals industry. Our subject matter experts will discuss the surge in innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability in the chemicals sector and highlight the strategic responses to recent industry challenges.Key points/topics covered:Current investment trends and strategic priorities, such as innovation in alternative feedstocks and diversification in the specialty chemicals industryThe implementation and impact of digital strategies, including operational efficiency and business growth, within chemical companiesThe significance of sustainability goals and consumer demand for sustainable products, which are driving specialty chemical manufacturers to innovateActions taken by the chemical industry to promote more sustainable raw materials and leverage biosimilar opportunities and recyclingFuture directions for the chemicals industry, including addressing supply chain optimization and operational efficiencyTo provide insights on these topics, you will hear from L.E.K. Consulting Managing Directors Carol Wingard, Peter Walter, Morgan Callahan and Amanda Davis Winters.Interested in learning more? Read our Article, Key Issue Insights Into the Future of Specialty Chemicals.Connect with our experts on LinkedIn:Carol Wingard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolwingardlek/Peter Walter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterwalterlek/Morgan Callahan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganjcallahan/Amanda Davis Winters: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adaviswinters/ Visit L.E.K. Consulting at https://www.lek.com/

May 8, 2024Episode 5119 min

Scope 3 Emissions: A Strategic Imperative for Pharma Companies

In this episode of “Insight Exchange,” we explore the crucial role of Scope 3 emissions reduction in the pharmaceutical industry. Listen to L.E.K. Consulting experts Verena Ahnert and Max Cambras, who share their insights on the significance of Scope 3 emissions, the current state of commitments in pharma and how emissions reduction is both a strategic consideration and mutually beneficial to both pharma and the environment.Key points/topics covered:Explanation of Scope 3 emissions and their importance in pharmaThe current state of Scope 3 commitments in the pharmaceutical industryKey drivers of Scope 3 emissions in pharmaThe strategic co-benefits of Scope 3 emissions reduction in the pharmaceutical industryThe path to achieving strategic co-benefits through emissions reduction in pharmaTune in for a deep dive into a pressing environmental issue that’s reshaping the pharma industry’s strategies and operations.Interested in learning more? Read our Special Report, Scope 3 Emissions: A Strategic Imperative for Pharma Companies.Connect with our experts on LinkedIn:Verena Ahnert, Partner, L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verena-ahnert-7a449a2/Max Cambras, Managing Director, L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-cambras-08348411/ Visit L.E.K. Consulting at https://www.lek.com/

April 24, 2024Episode 5036 min

Navigating US Packaging Trends: The Current Opportunities for Brand Owners

In this discussion, we dive into the world of brand packaging, examining the responses from a thorough survey amongst over 400 brand managers. The episode is led by the expertise of L.E.K. Consulting managing directors Thilo Henkes, Jon Moss and Jeff Cloetingh, as well as Roger Zellner, who analyze the balancing act between innovative packaging solutions and the unfolding pressures of inflation. The conversation explores the far-reaching implications of protective packaging innovation, the pivot towards sustainability in the industry, the necessity of SKU rationalisation, and the nuanced impact of packaging on consumer experiences.Key Points/Topics Covered:The evolving panorama of protective packaging innovation and digital tools enhancing brand experience and supply chain efficiency.The delicate dance brand owners face in managing packaging, ingredients, freight, and transport costs during periods of significant inflation.The drive towards sustainability in packaging, with brand owners hastening investment to meet consumer expectations and industry benchmarks.The strategic considerations behind SKU rationalisation efforts, aimed at streamlining the supply chain and boosting profitability, yet still fostering packaging innovation.Interested in learning more? Read our Article, Brand Owner Sentiment Points to Attractive Opportunities for Packaging.Connect with our experts on LinkedIn:Thilo Henkes, Managing Director, L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thilohenkes/ Jon Moss, Managing Director, L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-moss-a71896158/ Jeff Cloetingh, Managing Director, L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffcloetingh/ Roger Zellner, Former Director of R&D Packaging, Mondelez International (Current Advisory Board Garlock Flexibles & Industry Consultant): https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerzellner/ Visit L.E.K. Consulting at https://www.lek.com/

April 10, 2024Episode 4921 min

Achieving Expected Value in M&A – The Integration Triangle

Throughout this episode, our experts will discuss the intricacies of merging and acquiring businesses and the importance of the Integration Triangle, a framework we have developed to ensure successful outcomes. Host Cristina Barquero is joined by Phil Roux, a partner with 20 years of experience in M&A, and Tom Marshall, a principal in L.E.K. Consulting’s Organization and Performance practice, who share their expertise in creating sustainable value for clients and driving synergy value realization. The discussion explores the criticality of taking a pragmatic stance in mergers, the elements of the Integration Triangle, potential issues if those elements are not well integrated and best practices to follow.Key points/topics covered:The critical need for a pragmatic stance in M&A to ensure value creationOverview of the Integration Triangle framework, encompassing value creation, the combined operating model and integration strategyChallenges and risks that arise when there is a lack of alignment between value creation objectives, the combined operating model and integration strategyBest practices for leveraging the Integration Triangle, including early planning, continuous refinement and comprehensive ownership of all three elementsThe expected outcomes of adopting an effective approach to integrating the elements of the Integration Triangle, such as increased value creation, broader buy-in and improved negotiation stanceConnect with our experts on LinkedIn:Phil Roux, Partner, L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgdroux/Tom Marshall, Partner, L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-marshall-1078671b/Cristina Barquero, Practice Manager (O&P), L.E.K. Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-barquero3108/ Visit L.E.K. Consulting at https://www.lek.com/

March 27, 2024Episode 4820 min

Health and Wellness: Who's Your Target Consumer?

In this episode, L.E.K. Consulting’s health and wellness experts discuss their survey of 1,800 consumers, which they conducted to understand evolving trends in health and wellness, and the seven distinct consumer archetypes they identified. From the traditionalist to the trendspotter, these archetypes each have a different attitude, preference and spending pattern in health and wellness. Discover how consumers are incorporating digital solutions into their wellness routines and how brands and retailers can leverage this consumer research to better understand and cater to their customer base.Key points/topics covered:The shifting landscape of health and wellness, including expanded perspectives beyond just fitness and nutritionThe seven distinct consumer archetypes identified, such as traditionalists, health enthusiasts and trendspottersThe incorporation of digital solutions and fitness apps into health and wellness routines, and the influence of different archetypes on digital fitness contentThe surge in the use of ingestible beauty products, particularly among millennials and womenThe expansion of consumer definitions of healthy living to include recovery, good sleep habits and mental wellness, and the implications for brands and retailers in catering to different consumer archetypesInterested in learning more? Read our Special Report, Health and Wellness: Who's Your Target Consumer?.Connect with our L.E.K. experts on LinkedIn:Alex Evans, Managing Director: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexevanslek/Geoff McQueen, Managing Director: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoff-mcqueen/ Alison Schilling, Managing Director: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-schilling/Maria Steingoltz, Managing Director: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariasteingoltz/ Visit L.E.K. Consulting at https://www.lek.com/