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In this episode of Recruiting Reality Check, Katie Neff and Japheth Mast break down the real story of “PhD Phil” – a brilliant advanced degree candidate targeting consulting bridge programs who’s fallen into a common trap: confusing reading with readiness.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why reading case books creates false confidence
The 3 pieces of the case prep puzzle (theory, practice, feedback)
Why smart candidates still struggle without real application
What effective case prep actually looks like for PhDs and other APDs

Want help like Phil is getting?

The February Black Belt cohort closes Tuesday, February 10 (limited spots). Learn more and join.

Additional Resources:

Join February Black Belt
Book a free 15-minute call with Katie to map out your best path
See upcoming Bridge Program application deadlines
Download a free step-by-step case prep plan

Chapters:

01:34 – Meet PhD Phil and bridge program recruiting
03:00 – How bridge programs actually work (and why they’re competitive)
04:22 – The “reading = readiness” illusion
06:25 – The 3 pieces of the case prep puzzle
07:32 – Building business acumen as a PhD
08:49 – Why drills matter more than more cases
10:59 – The role of feedback, coaches, and blind spots
12:58 – A tale of two PhDs (start early or miss out)
14:12 – Black Belt support for APD candidates

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