Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders

Leigh Anne Lankford
  • 5.0 (14)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders — the podcast where we learn from leading minds in the L&D space. Each week, we’ll dive into the details of what it takes to thrive in learning and development, as guests from different corporate contexts and sectors share their expertise and experience. If you’re dedicated to staying on top of optimized growth, transformative industry technologies and all things training, then this is the show for you!

  1. Driving Business Impact Through L&D Metrics with Karen Massey of AWP Safety

    2D AGO

    Driving Business Impact Through L&D Metrics with Karen Massey of AWP Safety

    AI, agility and business alignment are reshaping the role of L&D. Karen Massey, Senior Director of Training and Qualification of AWP Safety, joins us to discuss how L&D teams can create measurable business impact. She shares how organizations are embedding AI tools into everyday workflows, why L&D must operate as a strategic partner, and how leaders can use data and metrics to connect learning initiatives to real performance outcomes. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:40 L&D is shifting toward proving business value through metrics that connect learning to performance outcomes. 03:30 AI is acting as a performance accelerator, helping employees upskill faster and become more productive. 04:15 Changing performance through learning requires a holistic organizational approach aligned with business goals. 05:30 L&D teams are moving from order takers to strategic partners who diagnose business needs before recommending solutions. 07:00 Organizations are embedding AI tools like Copilot to help employees access information and insights directly. 08:10 L&D must help employees learn how to use AI tools effectively rather than simply deploying the technology. 18:05 Agility and resilience are essential skills for talent development professionals in a rapidly changing environment. 20:10 Resistance to change often comes from habits of thinking and behavior that leaders must first recognize. 25:05 L&D leaders should proactively connect learning initiatives to performance metrics before executives ask for proof of value. Resources Mentioned: Karen Massey https://www.linkedin.com/in/masseykaren/ AWP Safety https://www.linkedin.com/company/awpsafety/ Microsoft Copilot https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/copilot Bend, Don’t Break: A Modern Guide to Thriving in Times of Change https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FXLSS93G Association for Talent Development (ATD) https://www.td.org Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlig ht: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations. #LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment

    29 min
  2. Preparing L&D Teams for Agentic AI with Adrienne Smith of Samsara

    MAR 17

    Preparing L&D Teams for Agentic AI with Adrienne Smith of Samsara

    We’re joined by Adrienne Smith, Manager of Global Learning and AI Development at Samsara, to discuss how AI is reshaping L&D and what the rise of agentic AI means for learning teams. Adrienne explains the shift from generative AI tools to agentic AI systems that can take action across multiple tools and workflows. She shares practical advice on where L&D teams should start, how to identify the right tasks for automation and why governance and ethics will become one of the most important responsibilities for learning leaders. We also explore how L&D roles may evolve into learning or agent architects, ensuring AI-driven learning experiences remain aligned with organizational goals, sound learning science and responsible data use. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 05:02 L&D’s shift from order taking to being a strategic business partner that’s aligned with organizational goals. 06:15 The difference between generative AI and agentic AI; moving from prompt-based responses to goal-driven systems that take actions across tools. 08:10 Why agent building is becoming more accessible as new tools reduce the need for extensive coding. 11:55 Start with high-friction, low-variability tasks when identifying opportunities to build AI agents. 14:10 Departments may begin deploying their own agents, requiring L&D to rethink its role as a learning architect or agent architect. 16:45 Ethics and governance will become a defining capability for L&D professionals working with AI. 18:10 Teams must slow down initially to learn AI tools, and experimentation is essential for adoption. 21:00 Building an AI agent to automate weekly onboarding communications. 23:05 AI should augment human expertise, not replace foundational L&D skills and learning science. Resources Mentioned: Adrienne Smith http://www.linkedin.com/in/adrmsmith/ Samsara http://www.linkedin.com/company/samsara/ "Co-Intelligence" by Ethan Mollick https://www.amazon.co.za/dp/059371671X Ethan Mollick Newsletter "One Useful Thing" https://www.oneusefulthing.org ROI Institute (Jack & Patti Phillips) https://roiinstitute.net The Kirkpatrick Model https://www.kirkpatrickpartners.com/the-kirkpatrick-model/ Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations. #LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment

    32 min
  3. From Live Training to On-Demand Learning with Kimberly Hill of Nielsen

    MAR 10

    From Live Training to On-Demand Learning with Kimberly Hill of Nielsen

    In this episode, Kimberly Hill, Senior Director of Global Client Learning at Nielsen, joins us to explore how global client education drives business impact.  Nielsen’s learning strategy has evolved alongside shifting media consumption habits. We dive into in-person training, virtual delivery, microlearning and digital credentials, and discuss how modern L&D must balance accessibility, accountability and measurable impact. We also explore leadership, mentorship and why grit may be the most essential workplace skill today. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 05:05 Effective client learning goes beyond software training to teaching data storytelling. 07:20 Empathy and patience are foundational skills for trainers working with customers. 12:25 The shift from live-only delivery to virtual and on-demand learning accelerated during the pandemic. 14:10 Microlearning and short-form content meet modern attention spans. 15: 00 Certification, knowledge checks and digital badges increase accountability and retention. 17:25 Digital credentials create FOMO and drive product adoption and engagement. 19:15 Internal certifications should influence promotion and career mobility. 23:10 Perseverance is one of the most critical workplace skills today. 29:05 Angela Duckworth’s work on grit underlines how determination outperforms raw talent. Resources Mentioned: Kimberly Hill https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-hill-b4881215/ Nielsen https://www.linkedin.com/company/nielsen/ "Grit" by Angela Duckworth https://angeladuckworth.com/grit-book/ Kolbe Assessment https://www.kolbe.com Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations. #LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment

    33 min
  4. Balancing Learning Science and AI Innovation with Laura Dermody of Boston Consulting Group

    MAR 3

    Balancing Learning Science and AI Innovation with Laura Dermody of Boston Consulting Group

    Laura Dermody, Ph.D., Director of Platform and Solutions of Boston Consulting Group, joins us to discuss the accelerating pace of change in L&D and how organizations must balance foundational learning science with emerging AI capabilities. Drawing from her experience across K–12, higher education, ed tech and global consulting, Laura shares how workforce upskilling, AI literacy, personalization and data architecture are reshaping corporate learning. This episode reinforces that while tools evolve rapidly, human-centered design and critical thinking remain essential. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 11:10 Context matters in learning — content becomes valuable when it meets an immediate need. 12:15 AI may not be the most fundamental shift, but the pace of change in learning and design is exponential and overwhelming. 13:05 While tools evolve, foundational learning science and frameworks like backward design and Kirkpatrick remain relevant. 15:10 Organizations investing heavily in AI tools are not seeing ROI without workforce upskilling and human-centered implementation. 16:15 The half-life of skills is shrinking, reinforcing the need for continuous workforce development. 17:05 Personalized learning at the n-of-1 level is aspirational but requires strong data architecture and ethical data use. 19:10 The future of learning lies in embedding development into the flow of work rather than isolating it inside an LMS. 25:25 AI literacy is becoming essential across roles — understanding what AI can and cannot do is now foundational. 27:30 Critical thinking and liberal arts–based skills remain crucial in navigating rapid technological change. Resources Mentioned: Laura Dermody https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurawdermody/ Boston Consulting Group https://www.linkedin.com/company/boston-consulting-group/ MIT Article on AI ROI https://mitsloan.mit.edu/ideas-made-to-matter/scaling-ai-results-strategies-mit-sloan-management-review TLDR AI Newsletter https://www.tldr.tech/ai Nate’s Substack https://substack.com/@natolambert?utm_source=global-search ASU+GSV Summit https://www.asugsvsummit.com/ Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations. #LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment

    33 min
  5. Engaging What Matters in Modern L&D with Adam Morettin of U.S. Renal Care

    FEB 24

    Engaging What Matters in Modern L&D with Adam Morettin of U.S. Renal Care

    Adam Morettin, Group Vice President of Learning and Development of U.S. Renal Care, joins this episode to explore how L&D leaders can create meaningful, measurable impact in highly regulated healthcare environments. He shares how personal purpose fuels his work, why AI and snackable learning are reshaping the learning and development space, and how targeting behavior change is more important than content completion. From microlearning to engagement metrics, Adam explains how L&D must evolve from creative storytelling to measurable business outcomes. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 05:30 AI accelerates content creation and reshapes L&D workflows. 06:20 Snackable learning meets the need for fast, targeted development. 07:30 Five-minute learning moments can replace hour-long sessions. 08:00 AI-powered coaching introduces conversational learning experiences. 11:20 Learning must be personal, emotional and targeted to stand out. 14:30 Learning experiences must burn lasting impressions, not just transfer information. 19:00 Leadership programs tied to engagement data drive measurable results. 27:00 Real ROI shows up in sustained behavioral change. 30:00 Innovation often comes from peer networking and vendor collaboration. Resources Mentioned: Adam Morettin https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-morettin-887240b5/ U.S. Renal Care | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-renal-care-inc./ U.S. Renal Care | Website https://www.usrenalcare.com Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations. #LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment

    31 min
  6. Learner-Centered L&D in an Always-On World with Mary Pelusi of KPMG

    FEB 17

    Learner-Centered L&D in an Always-On World with Mary Pelusi of KPMG

    Mary Pelusi, Director of KPMG, shares how AI is reshaping the learning and development sector and what it means for facilitators and leaders. She discusses the rise of generative AI, the shift toward microlearning and the role of the modern facilitator. From ethical AI frameworks to experience orchestration, Mary explains how L&D can embrace innovation while staying grounded in human connection. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 06:00 AI is not just another tool but a transformational shift across content creation and personalization. 07:30 The real opportunity is augmenting facilitators, not replacing them. 09:00 AI can streamline prep, analyze feedback and create targeted improvement plans. 11:00 Microlearning fits into the small cracks of the day and respects learner attention. 12:00 Responsible AI use requires structured frameworks like Think Prompt Check. 19:00 Modern facilitators must move from lecture style to experience orchestration. 21:00 Strategic questioning, storytelling and psychological safety drive engagement. 27:00 AI should enable creativity while human leadership remains essential. 28:00 Radical candor balances personal care with direct challenge. Resources Mentioned: Mary Pelusi https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-pelusi/ KPMG | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/kpmg-us/ KPMG | Website https://kpmg.com/ “Applying AI in Learning and Development” by Josh Cavalier https://www.amazon.com/Applying-Learning-Development-Platforms-Performance/dp/1960231529 “Radical Candor” by Kim Scott https://www.amazon.com/-/es/dp/1250235375 Training Magazine https://trainingmag.com TRACOM Group https://www.tracom.com Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations. #LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment

    32 min
  7. Microlearning and On-Demand Training Are Reshaping the Future of L&D with Liz Ramon of Castle Group

    FEB 10

    Microlearning and On-Demand Training Are Reshaping the Future of L&D with Liz Ramon of Castle Group

    On this episode, Liz Ramon, Director of Talent Management of Castle Group, joins us to discuss how learning and development continues to evolve and why L&D plays a critical role in developing confident leaders, adaptable workforces and practical learning experiences that drive performance. Liz shares her career journey into L&D, the shift toward microlearning and learning in the flow of work, and what skills matter most for leaders navigating constant change. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:10 L&D focuses on practical and relevant learning experiences that can be applied immediately. 05:35 Microlearning and on-demand content reshape how people learn, driven by learner expectations for fast, targeted information. 07:50 L&D must meet multiple generations where they are, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach. 08:15 Capturing institutional knowledge becomes critical as tenured employees exit the workforce. 08:40 Learning increasingly happens in the flow of work, supported by technology but still grounded in human connection. 08:55 Leaders are expected to coach and mentor more, especially emerging leaders who lack prior experience in people leadership. 11:10 Strong mentorship accelerates growth by developing not only skills but also confidence, judgment and empathy. 15:20 Adaptability and self-awareness are essential skills that help leaders stay relevant and build trust during constant change. Resources Mentioned: Liz Ramon https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-ramon/ Castle Group https://www.linkedin.com/company/castle-group/ Association for Talent Development (ATD) https://www.td.org Training Industry https://trainingindustry.com Training Magazine Conference https://www.trainingconference.com "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen R. Covey  https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36072.The_7_Habits_of_Highly_Effective_People Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations. #LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

    27 min
  8. Rethinking L&D as a Human-Centered Strategy in a Rapidly Changing Workplace with Alissa Weiher of UCHealth

    FEB 3

    Rethinking L&D as a Human-Centered Strategy in a Rapidly Changing Workplace with Alissa Weiher of UCHealth

    Alissa Weiher, Senior Director of Organizational Development, Engagement and Retention of UCHealth, reflects on her 20-year career in learning and development. She shares how L&D has evolved from tactical training to a strategic function shaped by AI, data and cross-functional collaboration while keeping the human experience at the center of change. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:49 Career paths into L&D often begin through hands-on training. 03:48 L&D evolves from tactical support to strategic influence. 05:15 Direct relationships strengthen learning insight and decision-making. 08:17 Learning functions as part of the total rewards experience. 09:24 AI changes how work is designed and performed. 11:14 Human judgment remains essential alongside AI. 21:02 Learning agility enables effective navigation through change. 28:28 L&D leadership requires ongoing self-development. Resources Mentioned: Alissa Weiher https://www.linkedin.com/in/alissaweiher/ UCHealth | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/uchealth/ UCHealth | Website https://www.uchealth.org/ Association for Talent Development (ATD) https://www.td.org Learning Geeks podcast https://www.learninggeekspodcast.com “Leading the Learning Function” by MJ Hall and Laleh Patel https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Learning-Function-Techniques-Organizational/dp/1950496619 Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations. #LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment

    31 min
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About

Welcome to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders — the podcast where we learn from leading minds in the L&D space. Each week, we’ll dive into the details of what it takes to thrive in learning and development, as guests from different corporate contexts and sectors share their expertise and experience. If you’re dedicated to staying on top of optimized growth, transformative industry technologies and all things training, then this is the show for you!

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