Episode #55 - Special Feature: Pregnancy and the INSEAD MBA | Student Life

Welcome to a special Student Life feature of INSEAD's In the Know podcast. 

In this episode, host Eva Laporte from the Student Life team on the Europe campus explores a side of the MBA experience that's rarely discussed: pursuing one of the world's most intense MBA programmes while expecting a baby.

Eva is joined by two inspiring MBA'25J alumnae, Sophie Delaye and Therese Langseth, who share their personal journeys through case studies, exams, recruiting and group projects, all while navigating pregnancy. From the shock of finding out, to managing morning sickness during exams, to receiving unexpected support from their cohort and their class officer, Elisa Duperry, Sophie and Teresa open up about the realities, challenges and joys of this unique chapter.

Tune in to hear how ambition, resilience and community came together to redefine what's possible at INSEAD.

Episode timestamps

0:00 Introduction: navigating MBA life while expecting 1:01 Sophie's background and finding out early in the programme 1:45 Teresa's background and an unplanned pregnancy before P2 exams 2:48 Did pregnancy make them reconsider the MBA? 4:42 Day-to-day impact in class and managing symptoms 6:36 Strategies and habits for staying on top of coursework 8:14 Navigating the social side: treks, ski trips and parties 9:20 Support from the cohort and standout moments of kindness 11:04 Practical tips: medical appointments, insurance and healthcare costs 16:02 Misconceptions about doing an MBA while pregnant 18:24 Advice for future MBA students expecting a baby 21:14 Closing thoughts: "My MBA while pregnant taught me..."