Shows
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 31: Beyond Learning Styles: Designing for Context, Not Labels with Dr. Kuva JacobsThis episode explores a simple but powerful shift: learning modes, not learning styles. Vidya sits down with Dr. Kuva Jacobs to unpack why certain learning myths persist, what they reveal about unmet needs, and how reframing them opens more practical paths for design. They discuss metacognition, mode-shifting, environment as a design variable, and how AI is changing what learning designers focus on. Rather than debunking and moving on, this conversation looks at what comes next… and how we design learning that helps people think better, adapt, and apply skills with confidence.Connect with Kuva ...
2025-11-2439 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 30: Beyond Learning: Navigating the Space Where Work Actually ChangesIn this solo episode, Vidya dives into the real work of performance consulting… beyond courses, content, and completion rates. She explores why most behavior change dies in the “messy middle”, where systems, workflows, incentives, and culture collide. This is a practical, honest look at how L&D can move from delivering training to shaping conditions where performance actually improves. No buzzwords. No grand transformation speeches. Just grounded ways to remove friction, partner with managers, design for real work, and measure change where it matters most… on the job.Connect with VidyaLin...
2025-11-0329 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 29: Showing Up Authentically in a Noisy World with Connie MalamedIn this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, Vidya speaks with Connie about what it really means to be visible in today’s professional world. Together, they unpack why visibility is no longer vanity but service, and how consistency, authenticity, and self-awareness shape lasting credibility. Connie shares practical ways to overcome imposter thoughts, start from your strengths, and define success on your own terms. A grounded, insightful conversation on showing up with purpose… not for attention, but for impact.Connect with ConnieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conniemalamed/
2025-10-1351 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 28: All Thinking Is Feeling: A New Lens on Learning with Nick Shackleton-JonesWhat if learning isn’t about knowledge at all, but about what people care about? In this episode, Vidya speaks with Nick Shackleton-Jones, author of How People Learn and one of L&D’s most provocative voices. Nick argues that learning is an affective process - memory and behavior are shaped by emotion, not logic. They explore why compliance training often fails, why arguments rarely change people but experiences do, the difference between real resources and disguised modules, and how AI might both eliminate and transform learning.Connect with NickLi...
2025-09-2854 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 27: Rethinking Training Through a Performance Lens with Guy WallaceIn this episode of the Learning+ Podcast, Vidya sits down with Guy Wallace, a pioneer who has been championing performance-first thinking in L&D for over four decades. Guy shares why most performance problems aren’t training problems, why only 5-15% of people can learn out of context, and why pilot testing should be designed to break your training, not validate it. He also explains why top performers often know the truth better than leadership, and why sometimes the smartest move is to cancel a training project altogether. Packed with sharp insights and practical wisdom, this conversation challenges us to...
2025-09-081h 04
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 26: From Credibility to Impact in L&D with Mark SheppardIn this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, Vidya sits down with Mark Sheppard, senior learning advisor and respected voice in the L&D community. Mark brings sharp insights into why L&D so often becomes a band-aid for broken systems - and what it takes to break free of that cycle. From the danger of chasing credibility over impact, to the emotional labor L&D silently absorbs, to why real change starts with diagnosis instead of deliverables, this is a candid conversation about courage, systems, and the future of learning. If you’ve ever wondered whether L&D is so...
2025-08-251h 03
Learning for Good | L&D Solutions and Leadership Development for Nonprofit OrganizationsHow to Design Realistic Training Scenarios that Actually Work with Srividya KumarGet ready to change the way you think about designing training scenarios in this episode of Learning for Good. I have used scenarios myself, and I really do think this is a skillset that we all need to get better at because scenarios are such a helpful tool in learning. That's why today I'm talking to Srividya Kumar, a learning design leader and co-founder of Learnnovators.She makes designing scenarios approachable and shares what we need to know to create training scenarios that truly engage and allow the learner to navigate the situation and learn from their...
2025-08-1130 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 25: From Resistance to Alignment: Navigating Stakeholders with Caner AkovaIn this episode, Vidya speaks with Caner Akova about what it really takes to drive performance in the workplace, and why delivering content isn't enough. They explore why L&D needs to design for friction, not just information, and how influence and stakeholder alignment can make or break learning efforts. From rethinking how we run pilots to tying outcomes to business metrics, the conversation cuts through the noise to focus on what actually creates change. They also discuss what AI can’t do… and why the human side of L&D still matters.Connect with...
2025-08-0446 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 24: Making L&D Matter: A Maturity Model Conversation with David JamesMaking L&D Matter: A Maturity Model Conversation with David JamesWhat does real L&D maturity look like in 2025? In this episode, Vidya speaks with David James (CLO of 360Learning and host of the Learning & Development Podcast) about his L&D Maturity Model - and what it takes to move from reactive training to strategic, business-aligned learning. They explore how to earn credibility, partner with stakeholders, close skills gaps, and harness AI to drive performance. If you’re rethinking your learning strategy or aiming to increase L&D’s organizational impact, this episode is f...
2025-07-211h 03
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 23: Rediscovering Curiosity and Connection in Learning with Goutham YegappanIn this episode of Learning+, Vidya speaks with Goutham Yegappan - educator, data scientist, and question-asker - about reimagining education beyond systems, silos, and standardization. They explore why curiosity fades, how the teacher-student divide holds us back, and why passion isn’t something to find, but a way of seeing. This isn’t a conversation about quick fixes… but about slowing down, asking better questions, and rethinking what it means to truly learn.Connect with GouthamLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gouthamyega/Website: https://www.reeducated.org/
2025-07-071h 06
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 22: Behavior, Motivation, and the Role of Learning with Julie DirksenWhy doesn’t learning always lead to action? In this episode, Vidya sits down with Julie Dirksen - author, designer, and one of the clearest thinkers on behavior change in L&D. They explore why systems thinking can sometimes overwhelm us, how to design for motivation dips, what to do when learners don’t see themselves as part of the problem, and why behavior design needs ethical boundaries. If you’re trying to bridge the knowing-doing gap in your work, this conversation offers sharp insight… and plenty to reflect on.Connect with Julie
2025-06-231h 17
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 21: The Quiet Power of Community with Erin ChancellorWhat does it really take to build a thriving learning community - one where people feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow? In this episode, Erin Chancellor joins Vidya to share how she co-manages the Useful L&D Community with care, clarity, and intentional structure. They explore what “lurker love” looks like in action, why creating space matters more than pushing content, and how community skills can reshape how we do L&D. It’s a quiet, reflective conversation - full of practical wisdom and gentle provocations. Whether you lead learning, design it, or just care about how people connec...
2025-06-091h 06
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 20: Experiment First, Design Later with Tom McDowallIn this episode, Tom McDowall joins us for a deep dive into learner autonomy, performance-focused design, and the real role of L&D in a fast-changing world. We unpack what it means to give learners control, how to balance autonomy with compliance, and why experimentation - not training - is often the better answer. From Dungeons & Dragons to chatbot-driven learning, Tom shares sharp insights and practical ideas for rethinking how we support performance at work.Connect with Tom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-mcdowall/ Website: https...
2025-05-261h 12
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 19: Improving Value, Not Just Proving It with Michelle OckersWhat does it really take to build a learning strategy that sticks? In this episode, Michelle Ockers helps unpack the difference between tactical execution and strategic clarity. From shifting the conversation from skills to capability, to evaluating learning as a tool for improvement, and not just as proof, Michelle shares practical, grounded advice for L&D leaders. We talk about working with culture (not against it), why deep consultation beats quick fixes, and how to use data for improvement, not just for validation. If you’re thinking about how learning creates value for your business, this conversation will meet yo...
2025-05-121h 12
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 18: Building Service Cultures That Power Organizations with Ron KaufmanWhat if service wasn’t just a department, but a way of thinking across your entire organization?In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, Ron Kaufman - global expert on service culture and best-selling author of Uplifting Service - joins us to break down what it really takes to build a culture of continuous service improvement. We explore why mindset can't be taught in a day, how tools and actions shape culture, and why service is about creating value for everyone you interact with - not just customers. Practical, powerful, and yes, even a little funny - yo...
2025-04-2853 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 17: Creating Impactful Practice ScenariosIn this solo episode, Srividya Kumar explores the power of practice in learning and why it's a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of effective training. She discusses how focusing too much on theory can hinder learners from applying their knowledge. Drawing on real-world examples, Srividya shares how practice scenarios can help learners gain confidence by simulating real-life challenges. She also unveils her personal framework for designing impactful practice scenarios that foster skill application and build confidence. Tune in for practical insights on enhancing your training programs through effective scenario design.Connect with Learnnovators
2025-04-1609 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 16: The Ripple Effect of Learning with Dr. Nigel PaineIn this episode of the Learning+ Podcast, Dr. Nigel Paine explores what it truly means to build a learning culture. He challenges the obsession with perfect courses, emphasizing the need to focus on impact instead. From the power of psychological safety to the role of leadership vulnerability, Nigel shares how organizations can create lasting change. Plus, we discuss how AI can go beyond content creation to enhance learning in the flow of work. If you’re ready to rethink learning, this conversation is a must-listen.Connect with Nigel...
2025-03-3042 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 15: Unlocking Motivation in Leadership and Learning with Matthew RichterIn this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, Matthew Richter joins host Srividya Kumar to explore the powerful connection between motivation, leadership, and learning. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, Matthew discusses how fulfilling core psychological needs - competence, autonomy, and relatedness - is key to fostering lasting motivation. He shares practical insights on how to create environments that empower individuals, enhance engagement, and drive performance. Whether you're in leadership or learning design, this episode provides actionable strategies for building motivated, high-performing teams.Connect with MattLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in...
2025-03-171h 01
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 14: Bridging Neuroscience and AI for Better Learning with Margie MeachamMargie Meacham, the “Brain Lady,” has dedicated her career to understanding how our brains learn and how that knowledge can shape more effective training. A pioneer in integrating neuroscience with learning design, she’s also been a trailblazer in using AI to create personalized learning experiences. In this episode, Margie shares how neuroscience and AI are changing the landscape of learning and why every L&D professional should consider how the brain works when designing learning solutions. Tune in for practical insights that will help you take your learning strategies to the next level.L...
2025-03-031h 07
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 13: Learning Science, Engagement, and Real Impact with Clark QuinnMost workplace training falls short - not because we lack research, but because we fail to apply it well.In this episode, Clark Quinn joins us to unpack what it really takes to make learning stick. We talk about why recall alone isn’t enough, how to design practice that drives real performance, and why so many learning programs get engagement wrong. Plus, Clark shares his take on AI in learning - where it helps, where it misleads, and where we should be cautious.If you care about designing learning that actually works, this episode is...
2025-02-1752 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 12: The Power of Practice in Workplace Learning with Christy TuckerMost workplace training stops at delivering information - but does that actually help people apply what they’ve learned? In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, Christy Tucker joins us to explore how scenario-based learning bridges the gap between knowledge and action. We discuss how practice and feedback build confidence, when branching scenarios are most effective, and how to get stakeholder buy-in. If you’ve ever struggled with making learning stick, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
Christy Tucker
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in...
2025-02-031h 02
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 11: Conquering Peaks, Conquering Self with Satyarup SiddhantaIn this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, we chat with Satyarup Siddhanta, an extraordinary mountaineer and Guinness World Record holder, who defied asthma to conquer the highest peaks in the world. Satyarup’s journey is one of perseverance, mental toughness, and the relentless pursuit of personal growth. From near-death experiences to skiing at the South Pole, he shares powerful lessons on overcoming setbacks, pushing past self-limiting beliefs, and adapting to new challenges. Tune in for a conversation that proves the only real limits are the ones we impose on ourselves.
Satyarup Siddhanta
2025-01-2042 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 10: Equipping Frontline Teams for Success with JD DillonIn this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, we sit down with JD Dillon, a passionate advocate for frontline enablement and the author of the upcoming The Frontline Enablement Handbook. JD shares his unique perspective on empowering frontline employees—the 80% of the global workforce who are often overlooked in most learning strategy discussions. From involving frontline workers in decision-making to leveraging AI and personalized support, JD offers actionable insights to help organizations better equip their most vital teams. If you’re looking to rethink how you support the people who drive your business forward, this episode is a must listen!
2025-01-0656 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 9: Using Behavioral Science to Transform Work with Vishal GeorgeIn this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, behavioral scientist Vishal George shares how small, intentional experiments can spark meaningful change. From creating cultures that embrace experimentation to designing tools that make better behaviors easier, Vishal offers practical strategies that anyone can apply. He also explores why curiosity, community, and accessible insights are the real drivers of transformation in teams and organizations. If you’re ready to rethink how you learn, lead, and grow, this episode is for you.
Vishal George
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishal-george-0a707a5b...
2024-12-0949 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 8: Designing Learning for the Brain with Lauren WaldmanIn this thought-provoking episode, Lauren Waldman—scientist, learning designer, and yes, “The Learning Pirate”—takes us into the fascinating world of neuroscience. She reveals why learning professionals must stop designing for content and start designing for the brain. Discover how understanding memory, attention, and focus can revolutionize learning design and help create meaningful, lasting change.
Lauren Waldman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-waldman-learning-pirate-4666bab/
Website: https://www.learningpirate.com/
The Joining Forces With Your Brain Series: https://www.learningpirate.com/joining-forces-with-your-brain
Book Recommen...
2024-11-2637 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 7: Demystifying Engagement in LearningIn this solo episode, host Srividya Kumar (Vidya) dives into one of the most talked-about (and often misunderstood) topics in L&D—engagement. Reflecting on her early learning experiences, she shares insights on why excitement doesn’t always equal engagement, and explores how to foster emotional and cognitive connections in learners. Vidya demystifies engagement by breaking down the difference between fun and focus, behavioral and cognitive engagement, and how the right strategies can turn passive participants into active, motivated learners. Tune in for a thought-provoking episode on how to invoke and maintain learner engagement.
Sriv...
2024-11-1220 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 6: Blending Data and Insight for Better Learning with Sam RogersIn this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, we sit down with Sam Rogers—musician, performer, and instructional designer whose path into L&D has been anything but traditional. Sam shares how his journey from the stage to instructional design shaped his unique approach to building effective learning ecosystems. With experience consulting for companies like Google and YouTube, Sam talks about blending user feedback, data, and creativity to create learning solutions that drive real impact. Tune in to discover practical insights on scaling L&D without losing sight of what truly matters.
Sam Rogers
...
2024-10-281h 13
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 5: Learning from Environmental Diplomacy with Erik SolheimIn this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, we sit down with Erik Solheim, global leader in environmental diplomacy and former head of the United Nations Environment Programme. Erik shares powerful insights on how nations can balance economic growth with sustainability, offering lessons that resonate far beyond environmental policy. From fostering collaboration to driving meaningful change, his approach is a masterclass in leadership—one that L&D professionals can apply to their own work in developing people and organizations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on progress, innovation, and the power of practical solutions.
Erik So...
2024-10-1434 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 4: Inclusive Learning from the Start with Dr. Nicole L'EtoileHow accessible is your learning program? In this episode, we chat with Dr. Nicole Letoile, an expert in accessibility and inclusive design, who’s on a mission to make learning environments work for everyone. Together, we explore practical strategies to weave accessibility into your programs from day one.
Nicole shares her wisdom on creating content that truly reaches all learners, while debunking the myths around accessibility. Tune in for some fresh ideas on how small changes can lead to big impacts—and why leadership matters in making it happen.
Dr...
2024-09-3046 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 3: Crafting Useful Learning Experiences with Heidy Kirby, PhDIn this episode, Heidi Kirby, PhD, brings her no-nonsense approach to learning design. We dive into her mission behind “Useful Stuff” and why focusing on solutions over tools is critical in L&D.
We also explore her transition from academia to corporate, the evolution of learning, and how AI can empower – but not replace – the skilled instructional designer. Heidi shares insights on the importance of lifelong learning and offers practical advice for professionals navigating the constant shifts in the world, and specifically, the learning industry.
Tune in for an insightf...
2024-09-1645 min
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 2: Rethinking AI for Tomorrow’s Needs with Ross StevensonIn this episode, we chat with Ross Stevenson, where we break down the misconceptions surrounding generative AI tools like ChatGPT, and explain why treating them like Google Search can lead to frustration.
Ross highlights the importance of adapting our approach to these tools, focusing on effective prompting, and understanding their probabilistic nature. We also dive into the role of AI in enhancing L&D, the concept of "human in the loop," and offer practical advice on selecting and using AI tools.
Tune in to get insights on navigating the...
2024-09-021h 04
The Learning+ PodcastEp. 1: Embracing Human-Centered Design in L&D with Ryan TraceyIn this episode, we dive into Human-Centered Design (HCD) with Ryan Tracey, where we unpack the concept, and talk about how it differs from and encompasses other design approaches. We discuss the relevance of HCD in the age of AI and its crucial role in designing learning solutions. Ryan offers insights on how HCD can help L&D professionals move beyond being order-takers to become true problem-solvers. Whether you're an instructional designer or a learning experience designer, this episode offers valuable perspectives on centering the human in your work.
Ryan Tracey
2024-08-0914 min
pixel studiosHow we built a UX rich & successful website for Learnnovators, an e-Learning CompanyThis episode is also available as a blog post: https://pixelstudios727230243.wordpress.com/2022/02/10/how-we-built-a-ux-rich-successful-website-for-learnnovators-an-e-learning-company/
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2022-05-1605 min
pixel studiosHow we built a UX rich & successful website for Learnnovators, an e-Learning CompanyThis episode is also available as a blog post: https://pixelstudios727230243.wordpress.com/2022/02/10/how-we-built-a-ux-rich-successful-website-for-learnnovators-an-e-learning-company/
2022-05-1605 min