Bring Out the Talent: A Learning and Development Podcast

Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen
  • 4.3 (28)
  • MANAGEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Bring Out the Talent: A Learning and Development Podcast

Tune into The Training Associates (TTA) “Bring Out the Talent” podcast to hear from learning and development talent and partners on their innovative approaches and industry insights. In each episode, TTA’s CEO, Maria Melfa, and Talent Manager, Jocelyn Allen will chat with subject matter experts and bring you casual, yet insightful conversations. Maria and Jocelyn use their unique blend of industry experience and humor to interview the L&D industry’s most influential people, latest topics, and powerful stories. Each episode has important takeaways that will help to create a culture of continuous learning within your organization. Tune in as we Bring Out The Talent!

  1. Experts Leading Experts: Building a Culture of Teaching and Learning

    20H AGO

    Experts Leading Experts: Building a Culture of Teaching and Learning

    In this episode, we’re joined by Joel Podolny, CEO of Honor Education and the founding Dean of Apple University, for a deep dive into how organizations can build a culture where teaching and learning are embedded into everyday work. Joel shares insights from his leadership at Apple, Yale, Harvard, and Stanford, focusing on the concept of “experts leading experts.” We examine the challenges and opportunities in empowering top talent to share knowledge, the role of humility and mutual respect, and the steps leaders can take to create meaningful, peer-driven learning environments. Whether you're shaping learning strategy, driving innovation, or developing your teams, this episode offers practical guidance for cultivating a stronger learning culture at every level.

    39 min
  2. High-Stakes Performance: How to Thrive Under Pressure

    JUN 11

    High-Stakes Performance: How to Thrive Under Pressure

    In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Olympic gold medalist and keynote speaker Connor Fields for a powerful conversation on mental toughness and resilience. As the first American to win gold in BMX racing, Connor’s story is one of grit, perseverance, and reinvention, from his historic victory in Rio to the life-changing crash in Tokyo that forced a dramatic career pivot.  Connor opens up about what it really takes to build mental toughness, not just in elite sports, but in everyday life and leadership. He shares how he stayed grounded through pressure, how he reframed failure, and the mindset shifts that helped him find purpose after adversity. Whether you’re facing a personal setback, navigating a career change, or simply looking to strengthen your resilience, this episode is full of honest insights and actionable takeaways to help you bounce back stronger.

    53 min
  3. Resilience Reimagined: Navigating Change and Transformation

    MAY 13

    Resilience Reimagined: Navigating Change and Transformation

    In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we welcome Chad Foster, author, innovator, and leadership expert known for helping global organizations turn adversity into advantage. Chad shares his remarkable journey of breaking barriers, from creating the first CRM software for the visually impaired to guiding leaders at Google, IBM, and Microsoft. We explore the anatomy of resilience, strategies for navigating change, and practical tools to help individuals and organizations build lasting strength through challenges. This inspiring conversation will encourage you to rethink what’s possible and reimagine resilience in your own life and work.  Discover more of Chad’s insights here.

    50 min
  4. AI Meets L&D: Unlocking the Potential of Personalized Learning

    APR 14

    AI Meets L&D: Unlocking the Potential of Personalized Learning

    In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we explore the powerful intersection of artificial intelligence and learning and development with Margie Meacham. Margie is the renowned author of AI in Talent Development, learning consultant, and a global expert in applying neuroscience and AI to transform education and performance. Margie shares how AI is reshaping the learning landscape through personalized learning coaches, immersive simulations, and adaptive platforms. She also unpacks the ethical considerations and strategic opportunities L&D professionals must understand to leverage AI responsibly and effectively. Whether you’re just beginning to explore AI or looking to enhance your learning programs with smarter, data-driven tools, this conversation is full of forward-thinking insights and actionable takeaways.

    57 min
  5. Strategies to Enhance Your Team’s Decision-Making Skills

    MAR 11

    Strategies to Enhance Your Team’s Decision-Making Skills

    Great teams make great decisions when they’re empowered to do so. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we welcome Chris Seifert, founder of Enabling Empowerment and author of Enabling Empowerment: A Leadership Playbook for Ending Micromanagement and Empowering Decision-Makers. Together, we discuss how leaders can foster shared leadership, empower decision-makers at every level, and build a culture where creativity and ownership flourish. Chris also shares insights on avoiding common leadership pitfalls, overcoming resistance to change, and preparing for the future of decision-making in a rapidly evolving workplace. Tune in and start transforming the way your team makes decisions.

    49 min
  6. AI to Improve Learning and Development Outcomes

    FEB 11

    AI to Improve Learning and Development Outcomes

    In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we chat with Kayvon Touran, Co-Founder and CEO of Zal.AI, to explore how AI is transforming Learning & Development. Kayvon has been at the forefront of reshaping training strategies, leveraging AI to enhance personalization, engagement, and measurable business impact. Tune in as we discuss: ✅ How AI is revolutionizing L&D ✅ The challenges and opportunities of AI-powered training ✅ What the future holds for AI in corporate learning If you’re looking to elevate your L&D initiatives with AI, this episode is packed with insights and actionable takeaways you won’t want to miss!

    44 min
  7. Mental Wellness in the Workplace: Supporting Millennial and Gen Z Employees

    JAN 14

    Mental Wellness in the Workplace: Supporting Millennial and Gen Z Employees

    Anxiety has become a pervasive issue, especially among younger generations. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, nearly 62% of Millennials report feeling overwhelmed by stress, and Gen Z-ers are not far behind at 59%. These statistics highlight the pressing need to address mental health challenges in our workplaces and communities. In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we speak with Dr. Lauren Cook, author of the book, “Generation Anxiety: A Millennial and Gen Z Guide to Staying Afloat in an Uncertain World.” Dr. Cook is a therapist, consultant, speaker, and author who specializes in helping individuals and organizations improve their mental wellness. Dr. Cook's passion for mental health spans all ages and identities, with a particular focus on workplace well-being. Together, we discuss the unique stressors facing Millennials and Gen Z-ers, the impact of anxiety on learning and productivity, and practical strategies for creating supportive workplace environments. If you're looking to foster a more supportive and productive workplace, this discussion is filled with invaluable insights and actionable takeaways.

    44 min
  8. Harnessing Technology for Continuous Learning and Development

    12/10/2024

    Harnessing Technology for Continuous Learning and Development

    In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re diving into the transformative power of technology in employee learning and development. Our guest, Bonnie Anderson, Founder and President of Anderson Training and Development, brings her wealth of expertise in instructional design, project management, and technology integration to the conversation. Together, we discuss how AI and video are reshaping continuous learning, creating engaging training experiences, and driving organizational success. Whether you’re curious about the latest tech trends or seeking actionable tips to elevate your L&D strategy, this episode is filled with valuable insights you won’t want to miss!

    28 min
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4.3
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

Tune into The Training Associates (TTA) “Bring Out the Talent” podcast to hear from learning and development talent and partners on their innovative approaches and industry insights. In each episode, TTA’s CEO, Maria Melfa, and Talent Manager, Jocelyn Allen will chat with subject matter experts and bring you casual, yet insightful conversations. Maria and Jocelyn use their unique blend of industry experience and humor to interview the L&D industry’s most influential people, latest topics, and powerful stories. Each episode has important takeaways that will help to create a culture of continuous learning within your organization. Tune in as we Bring Out The Talent!

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