What does it take to build a business that survives crisis, reinvention, and growth — all while pursuing an MBA and raising a family?
In this episode of In The Know, host Danny Xue speaks with Rani Khodijah (MBA ’25D), entrepreneur and founding partner of Ambiz. From selling handmade goods as a child to leading a consulting firm today, Rani shares how her entrepreneurial spirit has shaped every stage of her journey. She reflects on the realities of scaling a company, navigating near-bankruptcy, and transforming setbacks into opportunities for renewal.
Learn more about how the INSEAD MBA can support your entrepreneurship goals.
Rani also reveals how the INSEAD MBA is helping her strengthen governance, sharpen her leadership, and scale with purpose across markets. Her story is a candid look at what it means to build with resilience and lead with heart — proving that entrepreneurship is as much about people and purpose as it is about growth.
“The things we learn in business school may be similar everywhere, but the way we learn at INSEAD through global cases and discussions gives you inspiration to make your company meet global standards.”
Episode Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
02:00 Early sparks of entrepreneurship
08:26 Start of Rani's company Ambiz
11:56 Facing bankruptcy as an entrepreneur
15:06 Managing employee health as a business owner
18:40 Job fulfilment and performance levels
19:15 Rani's goals for Indonesia and South East Asia
21:06 Managing work and studies as an INSEAD MBA student
25:25 Why INSEAD
26:50 Advice to INSEAD MBA prospects
30:49 Motivating factors
32:58 Managing family when doing the INSEAD MBA
35:08 AI as a business tool
Speaker’s recommended reads
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The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Timeless principles for leadership and personal effectiveness.
Mastering the Market Cycle
Read cycles, avoid noise, and make rational long-term decisions.
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Strategy
A broad, engaging history of strategic thinking from war to business.
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