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

    3D AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. Building Agile L&D Teams That Keep Pace With Constant Change with Adam Bocken of Margaritaville

    JAN 27

    Building Agile L&D Teams That Keep Pace With Constant Change with Adam Bocken of Margaritaville

    On this episode, Adam Bocken, Vice President of Training and Development of Margaritaville, shares how L&D teams can adapt as learning expectations shift toward speed, accessibility and continuous development. Drawing on nearly two decades with the brand, Adam discusses delivering a consistent guest and team member experience across a global hospitality organization while navigating rapid changes in technology, AI and course creation. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 01:54 Training contributes to consistent experiences. 03:48 Many careers in L&D begin through hands-on training opportunities. 07:01 Learning content creation has shifted significantly over time. 09:25 Access to on-demand learning expands how and when people learn. 10:32 AI is changing how work gets done rather than eliminating roles. 11:44 Careful judgment is required when using AI-generated information. 17:24 Adaptability supports growth in fast-changing environments. 28:12 Training is most effective when treated as an ongoing process. Resources Mentioned: Adam Bocken https://www.linkedin.com/in/abocken/ Margaritaville | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/margaritaville/ Margaritaville | Website https://www.margaritaville.com/ Harvard Business Review https://hbr.org The Predictive Index | Website https://www.predictiveindex.com/ SHRM https://www.shrm.org “Good to Great” by Jim Collins https://www.amazon.com/Good-Great-Some-Companies-Others/dp/0066620996 “Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara https://www.amazon.com/Unreasonable-Hospitality-Remarkable-Giving-People/dp/0593418573 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

    29 min
  4. From Facilitation to Business Strategy: The Evolution of a Learning Leader with Ian Stevens of Publicis Sapient

    JAN 20

    From Facilitation to Business Strategy: The Evolution of a Learning Leader with Ian Stevens of Publicis Sapient

    Ian Stevens, Director of Learning and Talent Development of Publicis Sapient, shares his 15-year journey across education and corporate learning, offering a grounded perspective on how L&D continues to evolve amid rapid change. Drawing from experience as a former teacher, facilitator and learning strategist, Ian reflects on what it takes to build resilient, business-aligned L&D functions that balance human connection, adaptability and real-world impact. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 03:05 Facilitation and coaching skills transfer effectively across learning environments. 05:00 Corporate learning shifts focus from content delivery to learner outcomes. 07:57 Disruption accelerates changes in how learning is delivered. 08:58 Digital-first approaches create fatigue without human connection. 14:11 Learning functions increasingly align more closely with business needs. 25:11 Resiliency supports adaptability during ongoing change. 31:58 Purpose-driven leadership helps guide future learning strategies. Resources Mentioned: Ian Stevens https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-p-stevens/ Publicis Sapient | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/publicissapient/ Publicis Sapient | Website https://publicissapient.com/ Harvard Business Review https://hbr.org Association for Talent Development https://www.td.org/ “Start With Why” by Simon Sinek https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/ “Leaders Make the Future” by Bob Johansen, Jeremy Kirshbaum and Gabe Cervantes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DH9DBNCB 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

    35 min
  5. Critical Thinking, Invisible Learning, and the Future of L&D with Marc Donelson of Spectrum

    JAN 13

    Critical Thinking, Invisible Learning, and the Future of L&D with Marc Donelson of Spectrum

    Marc Donelson, Director of Curriculum Development of Spectrum, discusses his path into learning and development, the evolution of technology in the field and the skills today’s learning professionals need to thrive. Marc reflects on early career moments that shaped his leadership approach and shares perspectives on the future of L&D, including AI, invisible learning and the importance of strong partnerships with stakeholders. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:29 Real-world project experience can spark long-term interest in L&D careers. 05:24 Core L&D design principles stay consistent even as tools and trends change. 07:33 Thoughtful use of AI helps L&D teams move faster while keeping quality high. 08:48 Invisible learning in the workflow supports performance without pulling people out of their jobs. 09:56 Borrowing engagement techniques from modern media strengthens L&D experiences. 14:04 Safe opportunities to fail help L&D professionals grow skills, confidence and judgment. 15:02 Strong partnering and critical thinking are essential capabilities for L&D roles. 22:28 Service-focused leadership mindsets help L&D leaders remove obstacles so others can succeed. Resources Mentioned: Marc Donelson https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcdonelson/ Spectrum | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/spectrum/ Spectrum | Website https://jobs.spectrum.com “Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek https://simonsinek.com/books/leaders-eat-last/ “The Servant Leader” by Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges https://www.amazon.com/Servant-Leader-Ken-Blanchard/dp/0849996597 “Raising a Thinking Child” by Myrna B. Shure https://www.amazon.com/Raising-Thinking-Child-Everyday-Conflicts/dp/0671534637 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

    25 min
  6. Building Learning That Fits the Pace of Fast-Moving Operations with Gregg Summers of Sysco

    12/23/2025

    Building Learning That Fits the Pace of Fast-Moving Operations with Gregg Summers of Sysco

    Gregg Summers, Field Director in Learning and Development of Sysco, shares how frontline-focused L&D can support complex supply chain operations while keeping people development at the center of the business. He reflects on two decades with the company, the shift from sales leadership into learning and how his team builds capability among warehouse teams, delivery drivers and frontline leaders. Gregg also discusses how virtual delivery has expanded reach, why mentoring matters for emerging leaders and why thoughtful questioning is one of the most critical skills in today’s workplace. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 01:57 Lifelong curiosity naturally leads some professionals into L&D leadership. 04:53 Virtual L&D delivery expands reach and reduces cost but still needs thoughtful design. 07:53 Future L&D success depends on flexible formats that meet people where they are. 11:33 Strong mentors help L&D leaders see beyond their own perspective. 12:29 Many emerging L&D professionals lack mentors, so proactively asking for guidance is powerful. 14:22 Asking good questions and listening deeply strengthens L&D impact across the workplace. 17:03 Following industry trends strengthens L&D credibility with stakeholders and informs relevant training. 19:31 Practical coaching frameworks support L&D leaders in building a questioning habit. Resources Mentioned: Gregg Summers https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-summers-67830134/ Sysco | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/sysco/ Sysco | Website https://www.sysco.com International Foodservice Distributors Association https://ifdaonline.org/ McKinsey & Company https://www.mckinsey.com/ Nation’s Restaurant News https://www.nrn.com/ “The Coaching Habit” by Michael Bungay Stanier https://www.amazon.com/Coaching-Habit-Less-Change-Forever/dp/0978440749/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=143152019936&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.dPcjG86ulfkU_PNcTVL4dXi-x8ZbK0-S9sZ7BO0HPsniNBl1bQbi6BhiO5qiGZtjklGah_tZij9N5LoXTjI_hs4ZCnOeuYyrIZ0Xx-muqBIxI7Vo3-bodI5HarnZcVuieFkPdo_9RqJ9oAM2EJdn-laxDequkfdaWg0bUjT2D13WKf7KsBtqiEcL90-wS0K6bj3CLSTBJQf8v_ZwmN7j45G0Cv8TDW3YIhsx3oJDPj8.qiazw-HEF5b7dB3hYEgfgTg2c2ku9LDJUynsE3SoVqU&dib_tag=se&hvadid=673571726807&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9061346&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=11244354205537039533&hvtargid=kwd-171407862763&hydadcr=27730_14726195&keywords=the+coaching+habit&mcid=eacfb6bba4b332b2a0e509652623110e&qid=1763457326&sr=8-1 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

    23 min
  7. How Modern Learning Evolves Through Microlearning and AI Coaching with Chrissy Medeck of Ascension

    12/16/2025

    How Modern Learning Evolves Through Microlearning and AI Coaching with Chrissy Medeck of Ascension

    On this episode, Chrissy Medeck, Senior Director, Organizational Development (Learning and Leader Institute) of Ascension, discusses how modern learning environments support career growth and organizational performance. Chrissy outlines the shift from classroom-based training to virtual and on-demand learning, and reflects on how the pandemic accelerated this change. The conversation also covers confidence-building and AI-enabled coaching, as well as the importance of mentors, communication and stakeholder management in navigating constant change and sustaining effective learning cultures. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:13 L&D supports employees in building skills for current and future roles. 05:13 Career pivots into L&D start with knowing strengths and passions. 06:03 L&D must keep pace with constant change and new trends. 08:02 Microlearning offers focused development for busy professionals with limited time. 10:32 Virtual L&D requires different facilitation techniques than in-person classrooms. 12:18 AI coaching provides safe spaces to practice conversations and gain feedback. 16:35 Mentors help leaders challenge self-doubt and grow strategic thinking. 30:25 Intentional gathering principles help leaders design more meaningful meetings and learning experiences. Resources Mentioned: Chrissy Medeck https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissymedeck/ Ascension | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/ascensionorg/ Ascension | Website https://www.ascension.org/ Association for Talent Development (ATD) https://www.td.org/ SHRM https://www.shrm.org/ Harvard Business Review https://hbr.org/ Gartner https://www.gartner.com/en “The Art of Gathering” by Priya Parker https://www.priyaparker.com/book-art-of-gathering Priya Parker TED Talk https://www.ted.com/speakers/priya_parker Blinkist https://www.blinkist.com/ getAbstract https://www.getabstract.com/en/ 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

    37 min
  8. Designing Learning That Feels Human and Drives Performance with Yusuf Sadrud-Din of Whistle Express Car Wash

    12/09/2025

    Designing Learning That Feels Human and Drives Performance with Yusuf Sadrud-Din of Whistle Express Car Wash

    On this episode, Yusuf Sadrud-Din, Manager of Learning and Development of Whistle Express Car Wash, shares how L&D is shifting toward learner-centered design, stronger business alignment and performance support, while reflecting on mentorship, soft skills and continuous professional growth. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 03:13 Continued professionalization of L&D places the learner at the center rather than focusing on information delivery. 04:24 Technology accelerates design efficiency and enables real-time, on-the-floor guidance at the point of need. 05:36 Training is framed as a continuous experience that is prepared, delivered and measured for transfer to the job. 06:31 Mentorship at The Home Depot shapes a measurable, story-driven approach to learning design. 08:31 Informal mentoring supports former teachers transitioning into instructional design through a learn-by-doing path. 10:26 Empathy and soft skills are positioned as essentials for translating SME and learner needs within L&D. 12:51 ATD events, LinkedIn and industry publications are primary sources for staying current. Resources Mentioned: Yusuf Sadrud-Din https://www.linkedin.com/in/yusufsadruddin/ Whistle Express Car Wash | Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/company/whistleexpress/ Whistle Express Car Wash | Website https://whistleexpresscarwash.com/ “The Fifth Discipline” by Peter Senge https://www.amazon.com/Fifth-Discipline-Practice-Learning-Organization/dp/0385517254 ATD International Conference & EXPO https://atdconference.td.org/ Chief Learning Officer Magazine https://www.chieflearningofficer.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

    17 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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