Conghao Tian shares how he landed a Chief of Staff internship at Zenblen while studying for his MBA at Chicago Booth, starting with a background in music and art history. He talks about building KPI systems for the startup’s robotic smoothie kiosks, managing UChicago interns, and balancing intense work hours alongside full-time school. The episode gives real insight into what a Chief of Staff intern does in a startup and how Conghao is using both his coursework and hands-on experience.

Free Resources:

• Strategic Planning Checklist
• Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist
• A Day in the Life of a Chief of Staff
• Chief of Staff Toolkit

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If we haven’t yet before - Hi👋 I’m Emily, Chief of Staff turned Executive Leadership Coach. After a thrilling ride up the corporate ladder, I’m focusing on what I love - working with people to realize their professional and personal goals. Through my videos here on this channel, books, podcast guest spots, and newsletter, I share new ideas and practical and tactical tools to help you be more productive and build the career and life you want.

Time Stamps:

01:00 From Arts to Business: Conghao Tian's Background
02:24 The MBA Experience at Chicago Booth
03:29 Landing the Chief of Staff Internship
04:50 Balancing MBA and Internship
09:47 Role and Responsibilities of a Chief of Staff Intern
15:34 Introduction to the Michelin Star Chef
16:53 Balancing School and Work
18:05 Applying Classroom Knowledge in Real Life
20:31 Part-Time Challenges and Solutions
27:46 Internship Management and Advice