The Secrets of Learning & Development

Valerie & Julia

Our podcast is designed for business leaders, managers, consultants, industry experts, and individuals who are passionate about driving change and promoting growth in their organisations or personal development. Each episode will delve into crucial topics such as mindset recalibration, visibility, and strategic planning. We will have insightful conversations about change management and innovative initiatives that can transform your approach to learning and development.  Our aim is to equip you with valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance your leadership skills, business acumen, and personal growth.  We are focusing on our leaders and professional guests' unique journeys and the key moments that have shaped their careers.   We are passionate about sharing stories that inspire, educate, and ignite a spark within our listenersJoin us on this journey as we unlock the secrets to success in the dynamic world of learning and development. Stay tuned and get ready to be inspired!Host Information:Julia BendExecutive Career Coachhttps://www.premier-coaching.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-bend-premier-coachingValerie MerrillLearning & Development Trainer & Advisorhttps://www.merrillconsultants.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/merrillvalerie/

  1. Angela De Souza: From Unqualified to Unstoppable – Building Business on Her Own Terms

    2 DAYS AGO

    Angela De Souza: From Unqualified to Unstoppable – Building Business on Her Own Terms

    If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S3 E10 In this rich and revealing episode, we’re joined by Angela De Souza – serial entrepreneur, author of over 30 books, and founder of Women’s Business Club, a global platform championing women in business. Angela’s story is anything but conventional, beginning with a childhood snail-breeding venture and evolving into a purpose-led business movement that spans continents. We explore her unshakable belief that business can – and should – be human. Angela shares powerful reflections on building with integrity, leading from lived experience, and why success must be self-defined. She opens up about shifting from pastoral care to profit, unpublishing her past to tell a new story, and how nature influences her approach to growth and sustainability. From pricing with confidence to redefining leadership and letting go of imposter syndrome, this episode is packed with honesty, encouragement and grounded business insight. Key Takeaways Profit isn’t a dirty word  it’s proof of a sustainable business. Angela challenges the discomfort many women feel around money, emphasising that making a profit should be seen as a strength, not something to apologise for. A healthy business isn’t just about passion, it must also be financially viable. Success should reflect your values, not social expectations. Rather than chasing a polished image of success, Angela encourages defining it on your own terms. For her, success is found in daily balance, meaningful impact and making time for what brings joy not just what brings revenue. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelacdesouza/ https://www.angeladesouza.com/ https://womensbusiness.club/ https://www.muffinandpoppy.co.uk/ Support the show

    41 min
  2. From Audience Seats to Centre Stage: Our Speak and Shine Experience

    2 OCT · BONUS

    From Audience Seats to Centre Stage: Our Speak and Shine Experience

    If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, Julia and Valerie share their personal journey from sitting in the audience to stepping onto the stage at the Speak & Shine Summit. Speak & Shine is a platform that helps women build confidence, raise their visibility, and share meaningful messages on stage. After watching from the sidelines, both Julia and Valerie decided to take the leap and discovered just how powerful it feels to step up and truly own your voice. They open up about the nerves, the preparation, the unexpected challenges, and the standout moments that made the experience unforgettable. From the writing process to the reactions in the room, this conversation is a candid look at what it really takes to move from “I could never do that” to “I did it and I grew from it.” If you’ve ever wondered what might happen if you said yes to being seen in a bigger way, this episode might be the encouragement you need.

    17 min
  3. The Emotional Intelligence Renaissance: EQ over IQ in the Age of Automation

    25 SEPT · BONUS

    The Emotional Intelligence Renaissance: EQ over IQ in the Age of Automation

    If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! What if the real leadership advantage in the AI era is not about IQ at all, but EQ? In this bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, Training Consultant Valerie Merrill and Executive Career Transition Coach Julia Bend explore why emotional intelligence is emerging as the defining trait for leaders in a world shaped by automation. They share real examples of leaders who used empathy and openness to ease anxiety around AI, highlight the five traits that make EQ practical rather than abstract, and touch on the rise of SQ (social quotient) in building stronger teams. Expect clear insights, relatable stories from the field, and practical ways to start developing your own emotional intelligence, even if it does not come naturally. Whether you are leading through change, working in a team that is adapting to new technology, or curious about the future of leadership, this conversation shows why EQ is no longer optional, it is essential.

    7 min
  4. Following the Spark: Jo Cook’s Journey into Learning and Leadership

    19 SEPT

    Following the Spark: Jo Cook’s Journey into Learning and Leadership

    If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S3 E9: In this candid and engaging episode, we’re joined by Jo Cook, virtual learning pioneer, editor of Training Journal, and unapologetically curious creative. Jo shares her unconventional journey from teenage journalism dreams to discovering a passion for teaching, which sparked during a nerve-racking first classroom experience. We explore Jo’s fearless move into self-employment, her early adoption of virtual classrooms, and how creativity fuels everything she does, from glittery canvases to online facilitation. She also opens up about navigating feedback, synthesising insights across projects, and why her business is aptly named “Lightbulb Moment.” Whether you’re an L&D professional, creative thinker or someone figuring out what energises you, this episode is packed with humour, honesty and practical wisdom. Key Learnings Curiosity is a powerful compass for career growth Jo’s journey shows that following what genuinely interests you even if it doesn’t fit the conventional path  can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities. Her curiosity led her from journalism to teaching, and eventually to becoming a respected voice in virtual learning. Feedback is valuable, but boundaries matter Jo shares how learning to discern which feedback to take on board, and which to leave behind, was a crucial part of her personal and professional development. It’s not about ignoring criticism, but about knowing yourself well enough to decide what truly serves your growth. Guest Information:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocooklightbulb/ https://lightbulbmoment.info/ https://www.trainingjournal.com/ jo@lightbulbmoment.info

    26 min
  5. From Stage to Strategy: Michael Strawbridge on Confidence, Curiosity and Community in L&D

    11 SEPT

    From Stage to Strategy: Michael Strawbridge on Confidence, Curiosity and Community in L&D

    If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S3 E8: In this engaging episode, Valerie and Julia are joined by Michael Strawbridge, Global Head of Community at the Learning and Performance Institute, whose unique journey from professional actor to L&D leader offers rich insights into confidence, connection and the power of asking questions. Michael shares how his stage training continues to shape his approach to public speaking, virtual engagement and leadership presence. He reflects on the transferable skills that have allowed him to build trust with global audiences, and how he uses curiosity as a compass in both community-building and learning design. From hosting high-impact webinars to shaping global conversations, Michael reveals what makes a professional community thrive and why meaningful exchange, not job titles, builds lasting partnerships. We also explore current L&D challenges, including AI, impact measurement and leadership development, and why some conversations still haven’t moved on. A thought-provoking conversation for anyone working through the evolving learning landscape. Key Takeaways Confidence is built through preparation, not personality Michael draws on his acting background to highlight how knowing your message and treating every engagement like a performance helps overcome nerves, even for introverts. It's not about being extroverted, it's about being ready. Meaningful professional communities are built on genuine conversation – Rather than leading with job titles or sales pitches, Michael emphasises the importance of curiosity and human connection. The most valuable exchanges often come from informal, agenda-free conversations. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-strawbridge-flpi-filp-ba-hons-66793331/ mstrawbridge@thelpi.org https://www.thelpi.org/

    29 min
  6. Stella Collins: Rewiring the Way We Learn with Neuroscience and Curiosity

    4 SEPT

    Stella Collins: Rewiring the Way We Learn with Neuroscience and Curiosity

    If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S3:E7 In this episode, we sit down with Stella Collins, co-founder of Stellar Labs and a trailblazer in applying neuroscience and psychology to learning and development. From starting out as a coder to becoming an influential speaker and author of Neuroscience for Learning and Development, Stella shares how her career evolved through curiosity, frustration with traditional training, and a deep-rooted passion for making learning practical and effective. We explore her journey into entrepreneurship, her creation of the GEAR model, and her insights on how AI and data can support learning that truly transfers into behaviour. Stella also shares her experience as a keynote speaker and her ambitions to help organisations build self-directed learning cultures that actually work. Whether you’re in L&D, leadership or just fascinated by how we learn, this episode is packed with honest reflections, practical ideas and a few surprises (pirate ships included). Key Learnings Learning Transfer Requires More Than Just Content Stella emphasises that real learning happens when people apply what they've learned, not just consume information. Her GEAR model (Guide, Experiment, Apply, Retain) and collaboration with experts in learning effectiveness highlight the importance of designing learning experiences that lead to behavioural change , not just knowledge gain. AI and Tech Are Tools, Not Solutions , Without Human Understanding While Stella champions the use of AI and data in learning, she is clear that these tools are only effective when grounded in a solid understanding of how people learn. It’s the human judgement, clarity of outcomes, and relevance that determine whether tech truly enhances learning. Guest Information: http://stellacollins.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/stellacollinslearningrevolution/

    31 min
  7. Dr Seb Fox on Emergent Coaching: Rethinking What Teams Really Need

    28 AUG

    Dr Seb Fox on Emergent Coaching: Rethinking What Teams Really Need

    If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S3:E6 In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, Julia and Valerie welcome Dr Seb Fox, an experienced team coach, researcher and soon-to-be author for a compelling conversation that challenges conventional coaching models. Seb shares his unexpected journey from finance and marketing into the world of coaching, and how a curiosity about behavioural change led him to specialise in team coaching. Drawing on insights from his doctoral research into emergent coaching, he unpacks what really makes teams effective and why traditional models often miss the mark. Listeners will gain fresh perspectives on: The true purpose of team coaching and why performance isn't the goal The concept of emergence, and how it reshapes the coaching conversation Why team coaching isn't just one-to-one coaching in a group setting Navigating complexity, discomfort and transformation within team dynamics What to expect from Seb’s upcoming book on emergent team coaching Whether you're a coach, team leader or simply curious about the future of team development, this episode offers rich insights into a practice that is as complex as it is rewarding. Key Takeaways True transformation in teams begins when coaches let go of rigid models and allow what’s blocking progress to emerge. Seb challenges traditional frameworks, arguing that teams often don’t know what’s getting in their way until they’re given space to explore, and that’s where emergent coaching begins. Performance is not the coach’s responsibility, it’s the team’s. Rather than striving to drive outcomes, Seb emphasises that a coach's role is to create the conditions for insight and ownership. Sustainable performance only comes when teams take responsibility for the change themselves. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastianfox/ http://www.brownfoxconsultancy.com/ sebastian@brownfoxconsultancy.com

    27 min
  8. Cheers to One Year: Curiosity, Connection and Conversations

    22 AUG · BONUS

    Cheers to One Year: Curiosity, Connection and Conversations

    If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! It’s our podcast anniversary! One year, three seasons, and a whole lot of honest conversation later, we’re celebrating everything The Secrets of Learning and Development has become. In this special episode, we reflect on what sparked the podcast, how it’s evolved, and the moments that made it all worthwhile from the honest stories our guests have shared to the listener messages that stayed with us. We share a few behind-the-scenes memories, celebrate our award nomination, and look ahead as Season 4 begins to take shape. To everyone who’s tuned in, joined us as a guest, shared an episode, or simply listened quietly in the background, thank you.

    8 min
See All (57)

Trailers

About

Our podcast is designed for business leaders, managers, consultants, industry experts, and individuals who are passionate about driving change and promoting growth in their organisations or personal development. Each episode will delve into crucial topics such as mindset recalibration, visibility, and strategic planning. We will have insightful conversations about change management and innovative initiatives that can transform your approach to learning and development.  Our aim is to equip you with valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance your leadership skills, business acumen, and personal growth.  We are focusing on our leaders and professional guests' unique journeys and the key moments that have shaped their careers.   We are passionate about sharing stories that inspire, educate, and ignite a spark within our listenersJoin us on this journey as we unlock the secrets to success in the dynamic world of learning and development. Stay tuned and get ready to be inspired!Host Information:Julia BendExecutive Career Coachhttps://www.premier-coaching.co.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-bend-premier-coachingValerie MerrillLearning & Development Trainer & Advisorhttps://www.merrillconsultants.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/merrillvalerie/

Information