The Learning+ Podcast

Learnnovators
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This podcast brings you conversations with experts from within the field of L&D and beyond, uncovering innovative ideas from unexpected places. Discover fresh approaches to learning and development that challenge the status quo. Brought to you by Learnnovators, your one-stop-shop for all things L&D.

  1. Ep. 40: Where Learning Science Meets Real-World Design with Dr. Kripa Sundar

    APR 26

    Ep. 40: Where Learning Science Meets Real-World Design with Dr. Kripa Sundar

    What does it really take to use learning science in the real world? In this episode, Srividya Kumar speaks with Dr. Kripa Sundar about the gap between research and practice. They explore why research often enters too late, how “learning science-based” products oversimplify evidence, and why balance matters more than blindly applying principles. The conversation also dives into seductive details, the limits of meta-analyses, and the importance of context. You’ll hear why measurement isn’t an endpoint, but an ongoing loop, and what it takes for learning scientists to influence real decisions inside organizations. References Used On seductive details: https://www.aft.org/ae/fall2020/sundar How to find, read and use academic literature: https://www.cultofpedagogy.com/academic-research/ Guide to read meta-analyses: https://pdf.retrievalpractice.org/MetaAnalysisGuide.pdf Role researchers and learning scientists can play: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-do-we-call-were-feeling-naming-dr-kripa-sundar-ecjzc/ AI decision field guide: https://www.edtechrecharge.com/ai-decision-field-guide Connect with Kripa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kripasundar/ Website: https://www.edtechrecharge.com/ Connect with Learnnovators Website: https://learnnovators.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/ Connect with Vidya LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

    57 min
  2. Ep. 39: Designing for Impact in Non-Profit Learning with Heather Burright

    MAR 29

    Ep. 39: Designing for Impact in Non-Profit Learning with Heather Burright

    In this episode, Vidya speaks with Heather Burright about what it really takes to design learning in complex, mission-driven environments. They explore how L&D shifts when authority is limited and influence becomes essential, especially in federated nonprofit structures. The conversation touches on designing learning as a conversation, building from learner experience to enable inclusion, and rethinking measurement when post-training access is limited. Grounded in real practice, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how context shapes learning strategy, design, and impact. Connect with Heather LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-burright/ The Non-Profit L&D Collective: https://www.skillmastersmarket.com/nonprofit-learning-and-development-collective The Learning for Good Podcast: https://learningforgood.buzzsprout.com/ Podcast Episodes About Measurement - https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/how-to-measure-behavior-change-and-impact-in/id1621971310?i=1000684674477&l=zh-Hans-CN - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-position-training-as-an-investment-from/id1621971310?i=1000742300016 Connect with Learnnovators Website: https://learnnovators.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/ Connect with Vidya LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

    27 min
  3. Ep. 38: Using Storytelling Thoughtfully in Learning Design with Ajay Jacob

    MAR 16

    Ep. 38: Using Storytelling Thoughtfully in Learning Design with Ajay Jacob

    In this episode, Srividya Kumar and Ajay Jacob explore storytelling as a strategic skill in learning design. Their conversation moves beyond the usual advice about making learning “engaging” and looks more closely at what stories actually do for understanding and behavior change. They discuss when stories support learning and when they become distractions, the idea of a “Minimum Viable Story”, why emotion plays a role in meaningful learning, and where the line lies between influence and manipulation. It’s a thoughtful conversation about how stories shape the way people see their work and the choices they make. Connect with Ajay LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajaytj/ Storytelling Course on Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/course/storytelling-foundations-unlocking-the-power-of-stories/?referralCode=91BDA7E8C30712E28687 Connect with Learnnovators Website: https://learnnovators.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/ Connect with Vidya LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

    1h 22m
  4. Ep. 37: Learning, Systems, and the Design of Work with Michael Snelgrove (Part 2)

    MAR 1

    Ep. 37: Learning, Systems, and the Design of Work with Michael Snelgrove (Part 2)

    In Part 2 of this two-part conversation, Vidya and Michael Snelgrove explore how organizational systems shape behavior. They discuss structural stupidity, incentives, and the hidden priorities that influence decisions in workplaces. Michael shares how small signals can reveal deeper systemic patterns, why evidence alone rarely drives change, and what it takes to translate research into practice. The conversation also touches on apprenticeship, measurement, and the growing role of AI in accessing behavioral science. A thoughtful look at how capability, learning, and performance are shaped by the design of work itself. References Used Michael’s Post About Structural Stupidity: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mtsnelgrove_humanbehavior-hr-behavioralscience-activity-7397639043586396160-bzk5/ The book that refers to the brown M&Ms: The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande (the rock band is Van Halen): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312430000/ref=as_li_ss_tl Connect with Michael LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mtsnelgrove/ Website: https://www.appliedscholar.com/ Connect with Learnnovators Website: https://learnnovators.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/ Connect with Vidya LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

    1h 13m
  5. Ep. 36: Learning, Systems, and the Design of Work with Michael Snelgrove (Part 1)

    FEB 15

    Ep. 36: Learning, Systems, and the Design of Work with Michael Snelgrove (Part 1)

    In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Vidya speaks with Michael Snelgrove about how learning and performance actually work under real conditions. Drawing on experiences from high-impact settings, including work connected to bomb defusal in Afghanistan and offshore sailing, Michael challenges some deeply held assumptions in L&D and HR. They explore why training often fails under pressure, how feedback can backfire, the limits of self-directed learning, and why focusing on skills without understanding how people learn leads to disappointing outcomes. A thoughtful look at learning as a system outcome, not an individual trait. Reference(s) Used Iatrogenics (the idea that treatment or medication can cause harm): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iatrogenesis Connect with Michael LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mtsnelgrove/ Website: https://www.appliedscholar.com/ Connect with Learnnovators Website: https://learnnovators.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/ Connect with Vidya LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

    49 min
  6. Ep. 35: Making Sense of Learning Science in Practice with Dr. Alice Kim

    JAN 18

    Ep. 35: Making Sense of Learning Science in Practice with Dr. Alice Kim

    What does it really mean to say that learning “works”? In this episode of Learning+, Vidya speaks with learning scientist Dr. Alice Kim about the assumptions we often make when designing learning experiences. Together, they explore why effort is not a flaw in learning but a requirement, why engagement can mislead us, and why evidence cannot be applied without judgment. The conversation also examines learner agency, trust, and the powerful role systems play in shaping behavior. A reflective discussion for anyone designing learning and wondering what actually helps it last. Connect with Alice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicesnkim/ Website: http://alicekim.ca/ Connect with Learnnovators Website: https://learnnovators.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/ Connect with Vidya LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

    1h 5m
  7. Ep. 34: From Tools to Transformation: Making Learning Work at an Org. Level with Lori Niles-Hofmann

    JAN 4

    Ep. 34: From Tools to Transformation: Making Learning Work at an Org. Level with Lori Niles-Hofmann

    What does real transformation in learning actually look like… beyond new platforms and better interfaces? In this episode, Vidya speaks with Lori Niles-Hofmann about why so many transformation efforts stall, even with the right tools in place. They explore what happens when organizations focus on technology before clarity, why “better user experience” isn’t the same as meaningful change, and how learning teams can move from activity to impact. The conversation digs into ownership, decision-making, and the often-overlooked work of aligning people, systems, and priorities. It’s an honest look at what it really takes to move from scattered efforts to something more intentional… and why transformation is ultimately less about tools and more about how organizations choose to work. Connect with Lori LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorinileshofmann/ Website: https://www.8levers.com/ Book (The Eight Levers of EdTech Transformation: A field guide to the new future-focused L&D): https://a.co/d/8pziJzj Connect with Learnnovators Website: https://learnnovators.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/ Connect with Vidya LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

    47 min
  8. Ep. 33: From Helpful to Strategic in L&D with Jess Almlie

    12/21/2025

    Ep. 33: From Helpful to Strategic in L&D with Jess Almlie

    In this episode of the Learning+ Podcast, Jess Almlie joins Vidya for a thoughtful conversation about what it really takes for L&D to move from being a service function to a strategic partner. Together, they explore how well-intentioned habits can limit L&D’s influence, why saying “yes” isn’t always a problem, how small behavioral shifts change stakeholder relationships, and why self-reported data may be more valuable than we give it credit for. It’s an honest, practical conversation for anyone trying to create real performance impact through learning. Connect with Jess LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessalmlie/ Website: https://www.jessalmlie.com/ Podcast (L&D Must Change): https://www.jessalmlie.com/podcast Book (L&D Order Taker No More): https://www.jessalmlie.com/book References Jess' Podcast Episode with Chris Taylor (Actionable): https://www.jessalmlie.com/podcast/designing-and-measuring-on-purpose 2025 Actionable Insights Report: https://pages.actionable.co/insights-impact Book (Measurement Demystified by David Vance and Peggy Parskey): https://www.amazon.com/Measurement-Demystified-Creating-Analytics-Reporting/dp/1950496899/ Connect with Learnnovators Website: https://learnnovators.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/ Connect with Vidya LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

    1h 8m
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About

This podcast brings you conversations with experts from within the field of L&D and beyond, uncovering innovative ideas from unexpected places. Discover fresh approaches to learning and development that challenge the status quo. Brought to you by Learnnovators, your one-stop-shop for all things L&D.

Information

  • Creator
    Learnnovators
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Learnnovators
  • Show Website
    The Learning+ Podcast