The iDeas Podcast

Tom McDowall
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In each episode, Tom McDowall, Chief Learning Geek at Evolve L&D, sits down for a chat with a learning and development professional to discuss their big idea for our industry. We discuss instructional design, eLearning development, EdTech, accessibility and all things relating to workplace learning and development.

  1. Want to Revolutionise Learning? Start with Product Thinking!

    01/28/2025

    Want to Revolutionise Learning? Start with Product Thinking!

    Send us a text In this episode of the Ideas Podcast, we sit down with Greg, founder of Two Circle Studio, to explore a bold vision for the future of learning and development. Greg dives into the idea of applying a "product mindset" to L&D, challenging traditional approaches and advocating for a shift towards standardisation, clear requirements, and defining genuine needs before diving into solutions. We also discuss the unique power dynamics of being an external consultant and how adopting a consultant’s perspective can help internal teams ask tougher questions and deliver more impactful results. If you’ve ever wondered how the L&D industry can evolve to meet the rapidly changing demands of the workplace, this conversation is packed with insights, practical tips, and fresh perspectives. Tune in for thought-provoking discussions and actionable advice, and check the episode notes for resources to help you get started on embracing a product-focused approach to L&D! Connect with Greg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-arthur-flpi-736b288/ Two Circles Studio: https://www.twocirclesstudio.com/ Connect with Tom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-mcdowall/ Evolve L&D: https://www.evolve-ld.com/ Join this channel on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3aJ3fsB-TlLLU8O7f8B6fw/join Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEiSpring: Start creating eLearning today!Design courses like a pro. Create interactive online courses and assessments.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    36 min

  2. 01/08/2025

    Making Data Work for You: Overcoming the Fear and Finding Meaning

    Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Alaina Szlachta shares her thoughts on overcoming the fear and overwhelm often associated with data. She explores how to use data strategically to make informed decisions, the importance of asking the right questions, and how to build a strong foundation of baseline data. Dr. Szlachta offers practical insights for making data accessible and useful, even without deep technical expertise, to drive meaningful change in learning and development. Connect with Dr. Alaina Szlachta LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drszlachta/ Website: https://dralainaszlachta.com/ Connect with Tom McDowall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-mcdowall/ Website: https://www.evolve-ld.com/ Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEiSpring: Start creating eLearning today!Design courses like a pro. Create interactive online courses and assessments.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    42 min

  3. 01/08/2025

    Low Fidelity, High Impact - Live from LN Connect 2024 with Heidi Kirby

    Send us a text Can instructional designers create impactful learning experiences using low-fidelity modalities? This is the central question Tom and Heidi discuss in this episode of the iDeas Podcast. They also explore: - If podcasting is an effective modality for workplace learning, - What we consider to be impactful, - How we can 'sell' low fidelity solutions to organisations - The best low-fidelity solutions we can start using today This episode was recorded live at  @thelearning-network 's annual conference, Connect, on 15th November 2024. Thank you to everyone who joined us in the audience and Evolve L&D for sponsoring the event. iSpring: Start creating eLearning today!Design courses like a pro. Create interactive online courses and assessments.Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    37 min

  4. 11/19/2023 · BONUS

    Looking to the Future: Live at LN Connect 23 with Helen Marshall

    Send us a text This episode of the iDeas Podcast was recorded live on 17th November 2023, at LN Connect 23, The Learning Network's annual conference. I am joined by the fantastic Helen Marshall, CLO at Thrive Learning who I first met at LN Connect 2019. In this episode, I ask Helen about her journey from senior instructional designer back in 2019 to CLO in 2023, and what the future of learning might look like. Helen also fielded several audience questions covering metrics, AI, and human connection. As always, we wrap up with Helen's big idea for L&D. You can connect with Helen on LinkedIn And listen to her podcast, Diary of a CLO Also, check out Thrive if you are considering a new platform! DISCLAIMER: As of April 2023, I began working at Thrive as a product manager. This episode was NOT sponsored by Thrive and full editorial control for this recording sits with me. Instructional Design Tips, and by extension, the iDeas Podcast, did sponsor the LN Connect 23 conference. If you have any questions regarding any of this, please contact me directly, transparency is important. Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEiSpring: Start creating eLearning today!Design courses like a pro. Create interactive online courses and assessments.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    26 min

  5. 11/12/2023

    Brain Waves: The Power of Designing for the Brain with Lauren Waldman

    Send us a text Yo ho, ho ho, it's a learning life for me! In this episode, I had an absolute blast chatting with Lauren Waldman, a.k.a 'The Learning Pirate'. Lauren's a certified learning scientist who's on a mission to make brainy stuff more approachable. We kick things off by hearing about how she ended up becoming a 'Learning Pirate' and what made her venture into the fascinating world of learning sciences. We then delve into the murky waters of why so many folks in the Learning and Development (L&D) realm aren't clued up on brain matters. Trust me, Lauren doesn't hold back here! It's not all doom and gloom though. Yes, the brain can be a complex and confusing beast, but Lauren and I discuss how it's not only possible but vital, to start learning more about it. With her insights, she makes the daunting world of neuroscience feel like an exciting treasure hunt. So, ready to embark on a thrilling journey into the brain? Join us, and let's discover the hidden treasures of effective learning together. Beware, once you start exploring with 'The Learning Pirate', you might never look at learning the same way again! Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn Join forces with your brain Join this channel Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEiSpring: Start creating eLearning today!Design courses like a pro. Create interactive online courses and assessments.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    36 min
  6. Writing an Instructional Design Book, Backwards Design and Sharing Experiences with Dr Luke Hobson

    02/16/2023

    Writing an Instructional Design Book, Backwards Design and Sharing Experiences with Dr Luke Hobson

    Send us a text In this episode of the iDeas Podcast, I chat with Dr Luke Hobson about his recent (at the time of filming) book, backwards design and its role in learning design, and the importance of sharing experiences with others. Luke's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-hobson-edd-7a685622/ Luke's book - What I Wish I Knew Before Becoming an Instructional Designer: https://amzn.eu/d/9FP6Io8 iDTX 2023 is set for March. Make sure you secure your free tickets early, as the last two years filled up quick! https://hopin.com/events/idtx-2023/registration -------------------------------------------------------------------------- SUPPORT IDT Subscribe right here on YouTube. It's quick and free! Become one of our awesome Patrons for as little as £1 per month: https://www.patreon.com/IDT Buy me a Beer: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/idtips Get some ID merch at the IDT store: https://idt-store.creator-spring.com/? Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEiSpring: Start creating eLearning today!Design courses like a pro. Create interactive online courses and assessments.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    1h 1m

  7. 01/24/2023

    Getting Practical with Matt Gjertsen

    Send us a text In this episode of the iDeas Podcast, I'm joined by Matt Gjertsen from Better Every Day Studios. We discuss his career path in the L&D world and focus on the practical side of our profession. iDTX 2023 is set for March. Make sure you secure your free tickets early, as the last two years filled up quick! https://hopin.com/events/idtx-2023/registration -------------------------------------------------------------------------- SUPPORT IDT Subscribe right here on YouTube. It's quick and free! Become one of our awesome Patrons for as little as £1 per month: https://www.patreon.com/IDT Buy me a Beer: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/idtips Get some ID merch at the IDT store: https://idt-store.creator-spring.com/? Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEiSpring: Start creating eLearning today!Design courses like a pro. Create interactive online courses and assessments.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    44 min
  8. Upskilling and the Future with Darren Nerland

    11/17/2022

    Upskilling and the Future with Darren Nerland

    Send us a text In this episode of the iDeas Podcast, I chat with Darren Nerland, senior leadership development manager, speaker and co-founder of Learnapalooza. In this video, I ask Darren about his take on the current focus on skills in the learning and development industry, as well as what he thinks the future looks like. On the note of the future, we also discuss how exactly we, as instructional designers and learning professionals, should go about planning for the future needs of our organisation. This episode will be a great listen for anyone working in instructional design, performance support or a learning and development leadership role. You can connect with Darren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrennerland/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------- SUPPORT IDT AND FUTURE IDTX EVENTS Subscribe on YouTube. It's quick and free! Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/GRxNCc2eks Become one of our awesome Patrons: https://www.patreon.com/IDT Buy me a Beer: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/idtips Get some ID swag at the IDT store: https://idt-store.creator-spring.com/? -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEiSpring: Start creating eLearning today!Design courses like a pro. Create interactive online courses and assessments.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    44 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

In each episode, Tom McDowall, Chief Learning Geek at Evolve L&D, sits down for a chat with a learning and development professional to discuss their big idea for our industry. We discuss instructional design, eLearning development, EdTech, accessibility and all things relating to workplace learning and development.

Information

  • Creator
    Tom McDowall
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    45
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The iDeas Podcast
  • Show Website
    The iDeas Podcast