Bring Out the Talent: A Learning and Development Podcast Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen

In an era where knowledge becomes obsolete almost overnight, the continuous investment in learning and development has proven essential for organizational agility and growth. In fact, a LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report revealed that 51% of companies globally are increasing their spend on learning and development, reflecting a widespread recognition of its critical role in achieving business success. As we navigate this era of rapid change, the strategic integration of instructional design into corporate learning initiatives has never been more important.
 In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we are joined by Dr. Kate Hixson. With over 15 years of experience, Kate has crafted learning experiences for an impressive array of clients, from multinational corporations to global non-profits and tech giants. She has a Ph.D. in learning design, with a remarkable dissertation completed with NASA, focusing on teamwork training for the Astronaut Corp. From boardrooms to space stations, her expertise in learning design is truly out of this world.
Together we discuss instructional design strategies for organizational growth, including captivating corporate learners, leveraging AI, and strategically scaling learning teams. Kate will also offer her insights on integrating new technologies, measuring learning effectiveness, and pinpointing the critical skills needed for the future workforce.
So, tune in if you're looking to inspire your team, innovate your learning programs, or navigate the future of work, this episode is filled with invaluable insights.

According to recent studies, a staggering 70% of employees report struggling with work-life balance. This statistic highlights the pressing need for leaders to address this issue and create supportive environments for their teams.
In this episode “Bring Out the Talent,” we discuss effective strategies to help leaders navigate the delicate balance between work and personal life with our guest, Phil Cicio. Phil, a certified high-performance coach with over 20 years of experience from small companies to fortune 500, brings his expertise to shed light on the challenges and opportunities associated with work-life balance. We will explore practical strategies that leaders can implement to foster a healthier and more harmonious integration of work and personal life because achieving work-life balance is not solely an individual pursuit but a collective effort that starts with leaders.
Tune in for a compelling conversation that will equip you with strategies for fostering a healthier work-life balance.

A recent study by Udemy revealed an interesting fact: 80% of employees feel more engaged at work when they're learning new skills. Yet, despite this clear desire to learn, keeping learners truly engaged remains a significant challenge for L&D professionals. It's not just about providing learning opportunities - it's about making those opportunities engaging and relevant, so that learning becomes not just a task, but a meaningful part of every employee's work life.
 In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we welcome Adam Weisblatt, a learning strategist known for his dedication to crafting learner-centered experiences. With an incredible background spanning 20 years in various facets of workplace learning, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the table. His journey, which has led him from being an instructor to an eLearning designer and programmer, has equipped him with unique insights into the creation and implementation of engaging projects.
 Tune in as we discuss a range of topics, from harnessing AI to tailor learning experiences to navigating the intricate balance between digital and in-person training environments.

Imagine a workspace filled with the colorful, familiar shapes of Lego bricks. Now, imagine these aren't just for play, but powerful tools for learning, communication, and problem-solving. This is the world of Lego Serious Play, a methodology that harnesses the power of play to unlock creativity, foster collaboration, and solve complex problems in corporate settings. Lego Serious Play has evolved into a widely used tool in workshops and team-building sessions across various industries. It's not just about building models; it's about constructing ideas, sharing stories, and building a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing teams and organizations.
In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we are joined by Lynn Turner, a Lego Serious Play facilitator, who will share insights and experiences from her journey in bringing this innovative approach to organizations. Whether you're a skeptic of unconventional learning methods or a believer in the power of play, today's episode is bound to offer you some valuable insights.
So, tune in and explore how Lego Serious Play is more than just play, it's a serious tool for learning, development, and transformation in the adult world.
 

A workplace culture rooted in dignity is not merely "a nice to have" but a critical component for attracting and retaining talent, enhancing engagement, and boosting overall performance. The significance of dignity within the corporate landscape is undeniable, with 93% recognizing its critical importance for organizational success.
Although dignity and respect are often considered synonymous, they each play a distinct and vital role in shaping our interactions at work. Understanding the differences between them can profoundly transform our communication, leadership styles, and teamwork.
In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we're joined by Ralph Campbell, an expert in organizational behavior and the creator of the Dignity Index Assessment. We will explore the differences between dignity and respect, and why these distinctions matter. We'll discuss the challenges leaders face in fostering a culture of dignity and learn how organizations can genuinely integrate these values into their everyday practices. Additionally, we'll dive into how these principles can lead to better communication, stronger teams, and an improved company culture.
Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on nurturing a culture of dignity in the workplace.

Most of us are familiar with the term IQ (intelligent quotient) and EQ (Emotional Quotient) – but how familiar are you with your MQ or Motivational Quotient? MQ is the driving force behind our ambitions and growth, influenced by factors like goals, confidence, personality, and attitude. But while many leaders pay special attention to IQ and EQ, ones MQ can differentiate a truly successful leader from the rest.
This episode of ‘Bring Out the Talent’ welcomes Sam Caballero, a seasoned Talent Development expert, Pivotn co-founder, CEO, and Coach, and a key figure in talent cultivation at the Air Force Reserve Command and the International Coaching Federation. Together, we'll discuss the pivotal role of personal purpose and motivation in steering impactful leadership, the significance of MQ in navigating leadership challenges, and how aligning personal values with professional responsibilities can elevate leadership effectiveness. So, tune in to elevate your leadership game by harnessing your motivational intelligence.