Talk Learning With Me

Joseph Diaz
  • 5.0 (5)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to Talk Learning With Me! I’m Joseph Diaz, an instructional designer passionate about connecting with others and exploring the exciting field of learning and development. This podcast is for instructional designers, lifelong learners, and anyone eager to grow their skills and knowledge. Together, we’ll dive into topics like education, learning science, facilitation, behavior change, and other essential skills that help you thrive in your career and beyond. If you’re ready to talk learning, explore new ideas, and grow with me, this podcast is for you!

Episodes

  1. Why You Should Network with Learning Professionals (Even if You Don’t Need a Job)

    SEP 12

    Why You Should Network with Learning Professionals (Even if You Don’t Need a Job)

    Most people think networking is only for job hunting. But here’s the truth—by the time you need a job, it’s already too late. In this solo episode of Talk Learning With Me, Joseph Diaz shares why networking matters in Learning & Development, even if you’re not looking for a job. From his awkward freshman-year networking story to lessons learned in book clubs and LinkedIn, Joseph breaks down four key reasons to build your network and how it can shape your career. This episode is packed with personal stories, practical tips, and recommendations for people and communities that can help you sharpen your skills, stay current, and grow your professional reputation. ⸻ 🔑 Key Takeaways • Networking is about relationships, not just transactions. • Building a network early sharpens your skills. • Stay updated on industry trends through networking. • A strong reputation can lead to opportunities. • Giving back to your network is crucial for growth. • Engaging with communities enhances learning. • Networking can transform your career path. • Start with the connections you already have. • Small acts of kindness in networking compound over time. • Networking is a continuous process of learning and sharing. ⸻ ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 — The Importance of Networking Beyond Job Hunting 02:45 — Transforming Networking into Meaningful Relationships 05:13 — Building Skills and Staying Current through Networking 07:52 — Establishing a Reputation and Giving Back 10:39 — Practical Steps to Enhance Your Networking Skills 11:40 — Challenge: Easy, Medium, or Hard Mode ⸻ 💡 Resources & Recommendations (not sponsored) People to follow on LinkedIn: Ross Stevenson Luke Hobson Heidi Kirby Communities to join: L&D Collective by 360Learning Useful L&D Community ⸻ 🎙️ Sound Bites • “Stay in the loop on trends and opportunities.” • “Build a reputation before you need it.” • “Nurture the seeds of your current network.” ⸻ 🎙️ Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me for more conversations like this! ✅ Subscribe to the podcast ✅ Leave a review – your feedback helps us grow! ✅ Share this episode with your network Thanks for tuning in—and we’ll talk soon!

    12 min
  2. Designing for Culture: Why Accessibility Means More Than Alt Text - Talk Learning & Culture with Maryam Abdulkadir

    JUL 31

    Designing for Culture: Why Accessibility Means More Than Alt Text - Talk Learning & Culture with Maryam Abdulkadir

    Most conversations about accessibility focus on alt text, captions, and color contrast—but what if the real barrier is culture? In this episode, Maryam Abdulkadir shares how her background as a UK-born, Nigerian learning designer reshaped how she thinks about accessibility, learning, and design. Her story begins with developing educational materials for children in conflict-affected areas and leads to a powerful insight: learning isn’t truly accessible if it’s not culturally relevant. We dive into what “contextual accessibility” means, how language and cultural nuance shape comprehension, and why empathy—not just creativity—is key to inclusive design. Whether you’re creating global training, supporting a diverse workforce, or rethinking your own approach to accessibility, this conversation will expand your perspective and offer ideas you can apply right away. 🔑 Takeaways Accessibility isn’t just about impairments—it’s about cultural relevanceCultural context impacts how learners interpret and retain informationLanguage carries emotion, not just meaning—translation needs to reflect thatLiteracy and comprehension are not the sameLearning cultures don’t emerge by accident—they’re designed (or neglected)Assumptions about what learners need can derail your designExposure to different cultures builds empathy and insight for inclusive designSelf-reflection helps instructional designers avoid bias and oversights 📚 Resources Mentioned We Make Change – Global volunteering platform Why Western Humanitarian Designs Fail Maryam Abdulkadir on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryam-abdulkadir/ ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 Cultural Influences on Learning Design 06:32 The Importance of Contextual Accessibility 14:42 Understanding Learning Needs 21:50 Creating a Culture of Learning 24:55 Understanding Cultural Perspectives in Learning 25:46 How to Stay Connected with Maryam 🎙️ Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me for more conversations like this! 📢 If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to: ✅ Subscribe to the podcast ✅ Leave a review – your feedback helps us grow! ✅ Share this episode with your network Thanks for tuning in—and we’ll talk soon!

    27 min
  3. Gamification That Works for L&D - Talk Games and Learning with Garret Egan

    JUL 17

    Gamification That Works for L&D - Talk Games and Learning with Garret Egan

    Most gamification flops because it adds points without purpose. In this episode, Garrett Egan shares how to design learning experiences that actually engage learners by thinking like a game designer. We dive into what game-based learning really means, why storytelling matters, and how visual design can support (or sabotage) engagement. Garrett brings insights from the gaming industry and corporate L&D to show how to build experiences your learners want to complete, not just click through. Whether you're gamifying onboarding or rethinking compliance training, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can use right away. 🔑 Takeaways Don’t confuse gamification with engagement—points and badges alone won’t drive behavior. Games inspire learning by creating clarity, purpose, and momentum. Storytelling helps learners see themselves as the hero of the journey. Visuals should support—not distract from—the learning experience. Rewards must feel meaningful in the context of the job, not just the LMS. 📚 Resources Mentioned The Art of Game Design by Jesse Schell Game examples: Elden Ring, Minecraft, Pokémon Garrett Egan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrettegan ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:32 The Essence of Game-Based Learning 04:35 Engagement Through Storytelling 06:31 The Role of Visual Appeal in Learning 09:06 Gamification vs. Game-Based Learning 11:40 Practical Steps to Implement Game Elements 14:45 Resources for Further Learning 🎙️ Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me for more conversations like this! 📢 If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to: ✅ Subscribe to the podcast ✅ Leave a review – your feedback helps us grow! ✅ Share this episode with your network Thanks for tuning in—and we’ll talk soon!

    34 min
  4. How to Write with AI for Learning (without losing quality) - Talk AI and Writing with Matt Thomas

    JUN 19

    How to Write with AI for Learning (without losing quality) - Talk AI and Writing with Matt Thomas

    Can you use ChatGPT to help design courses without losing clarity or quality? In this episode, Joseph talks with Matt Thomas, technical writer, content creator, and author of Writing for Robots, to talk about how learning professionals can use AI tools like ChatGPT to amplify their writing without outsourcing their brain. From synthesizing SME content to structuring outlines, Matt shares how he uses AI in real instructional workflows and how you can too. Whether you’re drafting course materials, writing learning objectives, or collaborating with subject matter experts, this episode will give you practical ways to integrate AI while keeping the quality high and your voice intact. 🧠 In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why you shouldn't let AI take the first pass at your writingHow Matt uses ChatGPT to distill SME inputs into clear, structured contentThe biggest mistakes IDs and writers make with AIHow to prompt more effectively (and think like a writer before you type)Why critical thinking is more essential because of AI—not despite it ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Welcome and Matt’s origin story with AI 01:55 – The magic fades—but the usefulness grows 03:43 – Technical writing background and cross-industry lessons 05:23 – Using ChatGPT for synthesis, not just writing 07:21 – You can’t outsource your brain 09:37 – What AI can’t replace in good writing 10:43 – From prompting guide to Writing for Robots 13:32 – Why AI isn’t Photoshop: models behave differently 15:02 – Designing content that fits multiple learner styles 17:08 – Biggest mistakes new AI users make 18:30 – Instructional design meets AI: where to start 20:02 – SME communication and AI as an editing partner 21:39 – Don’t lose your voice or judgment 23:42 – Matt’s take on different AI models 25:25 – Final thoughts + where to find Matt’s work 🔗 Connect with Matt ✍️ Prompting Guide: writing4robots.ai 💼 LinkedIn: Matt Thomas 🥁 YouTube Drum Covers: @MGT81Music 🎙️ Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me for more conversations like this! 📢 If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to: ✅ Subscribe to the podcast ✅ Leave a review – your feedback helps us grow! ✅ Share this episode with your network Thanks for tuning in—and we’ll talk soon.

    29 min
  5. Building for People, Not Just Products - Talk Product Marketing with Aaron Mendoza

    JUN 5

    Building for People, Not Just Products - Talk Product Marketing with Aaron Mendoza

    Joseph Diaz and product marketer Aaron Mendoza explore what product marketing is and why it matters. From his start in product management to leading go-to-market strategy at Bill, Aaron shares how product marketers serve as strategic quarterbacks inside a business, aligning cross-functional teams, crafting messaging, and ensuring that products don’t just launch—they land. You'll hear how product marketing overlaps with sales enablement and instructional design, what it means to build with the customer in mind, and why research, not assumptions, should guide your strategy. Whether you're in L&D, sales, or product, this episode offers insights into how teams can better communicate value and meet real needs. What product marketers actually do (and how it differs from product management) The role of storytelling and research in shaping product success How to break into the field of product marketing Differences in PMM roles at startups vs. large organizations Why customer insights > assumptions Strategic alignment across teams, from sales to customer success Organizations & Communities: Product Marketing Alliance (PMA) Books: Obviously Awesome by April Dunford Make It Punchy by Emma Stratton Podcasts: Positioning with April Dunford Product Marketing Life by PMA Connect with Aaron on LinkedIn 🎙️ Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me for more conversations like this!📢 If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to:✅ Subscribe to the podcast✅ Leave a review – your feedback helps us grow!✅ Share this episode with your networkThanks for tuning in—and we’ll talk soon!

    35 min
  6. Talk Updates with Me - Catching Up: Life, Work, and New Episodes

    MAY 22 · BONUS

    Talk Updates with Me - Catching Up: Life, Work, and New Episodes

    It’s been a little while since the last episode dropped, so here’s a quick update from me. In this short solo episode, I share what’s been going on personally and professionally, why the podcast has been quiet, and what you can expect next. I’ve got three incredible guests lined up, and I can’t wait for you to hear their episodes. Here’s what’s coming soon: Aaron Mendoza on Product Marketing and how it connects product, customer, and strategy Garret Egan on Game-Based Learning and designing learning that actually engages Matt Thomas on AI + Writing for L&D and how to use tools like ChatGPT without losing your voice Thanks for sticking with me. I’m so grateful you’re here. — Connect with me on LinkedIn: Joseph Diaz🎙️ Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me for more learning conversations!📢 If you enjoy the show, make sure to:✅ Subscribe to the podcast✅ Leave a review – your feedback helps us grow!✅ Share this episode with your network Thanks for tuning in — and we’ll talk soon!

    3 min
  7. How to Make Online Content Accessible for All - Talk Accessibility with Dr. Nicole L’Etoile

    MAR 20

    How to Make Online Content Accessible for All - Talk Accessibility with Dr. Nicole L’Etoile

    Accessibility isn’t just a checklist—it’s a mindset shift. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Nicole L’Etoile, a Learning Experience Designer and passionate accessibility consultant, to explore practical ways to incorporate accessibility into our workflows. We discuss why accessibility matters for everyone, how to use plain language, and essential tools to make your learning content more inclusive. If you’ve ever wondered where to start with accessibility or how to make your online content accessible without feeling overwhelmed, this episode is for you! 💡 In this conversation, we cover: Why accessibility is more than compliance—it’s about human connectionThe four key principles of web accessibility (Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust)How to advocate for accessibility in organizations that don’t prioritize itThe power of plain language and tools to simplify complex contentPractical steps for making your e-learning content, LMS courses, and videos accessibleWhy accessibility benefits all learners, not just those with disabilities Want to go deeper and apply these principles to your own work? Join the next cohort of Making Online Content Accessible for All starting April 7th! 📌 Register here → https://www.letoile-education.com/courses 📌 Follow Nicole on LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleletoile/ 📌 Subscribe to Nicole’s Newsletter & Check Out Her Resources → https://www.letoile-education.com/ Accessibility Personas Activity – https://personas-prototype.herokuapp.com/WebAIM (Web Accessibility In Mind) – https://webaim.orgW3C Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) – https://www.w3.org/WAINicole’s Curated List of Accessibility Courses & Certifications – Google DocNicole’s Full Resource Library – https://www.letoile-education.com/resourcesFollow the #A11Y hashtag on LinkedIn for accessibility insightsHemingway App – https://hemingwayapp.comGoogle Notebook LM (AI for simplifying complex language)Articulate Storyline Accessibility Guide – https://articulate.com/support/article/Storyline-360-Accessibility-Features 🔗 Follow Nicole L’Etoile on LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleletoile/ 📩 Subscribe to Nicole’s Newsletter & Check Out Her Courses → https://www.letoile-education.com/ 🎙️ Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me for more conversations like this! 📢 If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to: ✅ Subscribe to the podcast ✅ Leave a review – your feedback helps us grow! ✅ Share this episode with your network Thanks for tuning in—and we’ll talk soon!

    36 min
  8. What Motivates Real Change? - Talk to the Elephant with Me

    MAR 6

    What Motivates Real Change? - Talk to the Elephant with Me

    In this special book club episode, I’m joined by Kamye Hugley and Laura Goldstone, two incredible members of our L&D Collective book club, to reflect on Talk to the Elephant by Julie Dirksen. We dive into key takeaways from the book, share how we’ve applied its insights to our work, and discuss what we learned from our fireside chat with Julie herself. We also talk about: ✅ The role of emotional intelligence in learning design ✅ How to balance the "elephant" (emotional brain) and the "rider" (logical brain) in behavior change ✅ Why change is a process, not an event—and what that means for L&D ✅ The power of book clubs and community learning ✅ Real-world examples of applying Talk to the Elephant principles in corporate and nonprofit settings Since recording this episode, we’ve kicked off our Q1 2025 book club read: Design to Engage by Beth Cougler Blom! It’s not too late to join—our next fireside chat is on March 11, and in April, Beth will be joining us for a special session. Come be part of the discussion! 📌 Join the L&D Collective: https://360learning.com/the-l-and-d-collective/ 🔗 Kamye Hugley – LinkedIn 🔗 Laura Goldstone – LinkedIn | YourStoryHaven.com If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to: 🎙 Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me ⭐ Leave a review and let me know what you think! 📢 Share this episode with your fellow learning professionals Thanks for tuning in—and we’ll talk soon! CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to the Book Club and Participants 06:04 Diverse Backgrounds and Perspectives 08:23 Emotional Intelligence in Learning and Development 12:46 Understanding Change as a Process 16:01 Value and Perception in Learning 20:01 Collaboration and Community in Professional Development 24:35 The Importance of Community in Professional Development 26:02 Embracing Vulnerability and Learning Together 28:07 Applying Insights from Julie Dirksen 28:36 Facilitating Change in Corporate Environments 35:46 Honoring Experience and Feedback in Learning 39:50 Creating a Feedback Loop for Continuous Improvement

    45 min
  9. Bridging the Research-to-Practice Gap - Talk L&D Strategy with Alex Bingham

    JAN 17

    Bridging the Research-to-Practice Gap - Talk L&D Strategy with Alex Bingham

    Joseph Diaz and Alex Bingham explore the world of Learning and Development (L&D) strategy, discussing how to bridge the gap between research and practice. Alex shares his journey from sales to L&D, his passion for connecting theory to real-world applications, and his insights as a PhD candidate studying organizational learning and leadership. Together, they explore how research can shape effective learning strategies, the challenges of aligning research with practice, and actionable ways for practitioners to engage with academic insights. Alex emphasizes the importance of collaboration between researchers and practitioners, offering practical steps for professionals to access, engage with, and apply research in their roles. Whether you're an L&D leader or new to the field, this conversation provides valuable strategies for aligning learning initiatives with organizational goals and making a meaningful impact. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Reflections 01:23 Exploring Learning Strategy and Leadership 01:29 Alex's Journey into Learning and Development 07:08 Defining Learning Strategy in Leadership 12:57 The Role of Research in Learning Strategies 15:22 Bridging the Gap: Research and Practice Collaboration 18:13 Engaging with Research: The Practitioner’s Role 21:18 Navigating the Academic Landscape 23:44 Getting Involved: Practical Steps for Practitioners 26:44 Translating Jargon: Finding Relevant Research 30:05 Leveraging Diverse Perspectives: Academic vs. Practitioner 31:12 Recommended Resources: Books, Podcasts, and Articles 35:20 Networking and Community Engagement in L&D 40:07 Bridging Research and Practice in Learning Strategy 40:38 Actionable Insights for Strategic Learning and Development RESOURCES Alex's Recommended Resources: 📚 Books: Strategic Learning Alignment by Rita Mehegan Smith Leading the Learning Function by MJ Hall and Laleh Patel Aligning Instructional Design With Business Goals by Kristopher Newbauer The Trusted Learning Advisor by Keith Keating The Chief Learning Officer by Tamar Elkeles and Jack Phillips 📄 Articles: Boost Alignment with L&D Strategy The Essential Components of a Successful L&D Strategy Aligning Corporate Learning With Strategy Influencing the C-Suite by Aligning L&D With Business Goals 6 Steps To Align Corporate Learning Strategy With The Business Strategy Redefining the Purpose of Learning and Development: Aligning L&D Strategy to Business Performance 🏅 Certifications: Certified Learning Strategist Learning Operations Certification 🧠 Scholarly Articles: Aligning Learning & Development Strategy with Business: Strategy to Operations L&D Professionals in Organizations: Much Ambition, Unfilled Promise 🎙️ Podcasts: The Strategic L&D Podcast Aligning Learning & Development with Business Strategy Follow Alex to learn more about his research on aligning L&D strategies with business goals, his favorite resources, and insights into bridging the research-practice gap. If you enjoyed this episode, remember to: ✅ Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me✅ Leave a review to help others discover the podcast✅ Share this episode with a colleague or friend interested in L&D strategy Let’s continue the conversation—connect with me on LinkedIn and join the community of lifelong learners!

    41 min
  10. How to Facilitate with Authenticity & Confidence - Talk Facilitation with Beth Cougler Blom

    12/19/2024

    How to Facilitate with Authenticity & Confidence - Talk Facilitation with Beth Cougler Blom

    Joseph Diaz and Beth Cougler Blom discuss the philosophy and practice of facilitation, exploring its role in creating meaningful and inclusive learning experiences. Beth shares her journey as a learning designer, facilitator, and author, offering insights into how intentional design and reflection can improve facilitation in formal and informal settings. Beth emphasizes the value of inclusivity, authenticity, and community in facilitation, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique styles and approach facilitation as a mindset, not just a skill. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Facilitation and Learning Design 02:34 The Journey of a Learning Designer 05:40 Defining Facilitation: A Philosophy and Mindset 08:28 The Role of Language in Facilitation 11:29 Experiences that Shape Facilitation Understanding 14:21 The Importance of Authenticity in Facilitation 22:43 Facilitating Inclusivity for All 23:58 The Essence of Learning and Facilitation 25:55 Exploring Informal Learning Opportunities 27:55 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Facilitation 29:53 Learning from Real-Life Facilitation Experiences 31:35 The Importance of Reflection in Growth 33:49 Feedback: A Tool for Improvement 37:37 Resources for Aspiring Facilitators 40:32 Connecting with the Facilitation Community 43:32 Understanding Facilitation and Its Importance 44:01 Creating Meaningful and Inclusive Experiences Resources Mentioned: Books: • Design to Engage: How to Create and Facilitate a Great Learning Experience for Any Group by Beth Cougler Blom • The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters by Priya Parker Communities: • Liberating Structures Connect with Beth Cougler Blom: • Website: BCB Learning Inc. • Podcast: Facilitating on Purpose (available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more) • LinkedIn: Beth Cougler Blom • Instagram: @bethcouglerblom Next Steps: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to: ✅ Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me ✅ Leave a review to help others discover the podcast ✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit from learning about facilitation Let’s continue the conversation—connect with me on LinkedIn and join the community of lifelong learners!

    45 min
  11. Unlocking the Power of Research in UX Design - Talk User Experience with Tanner Kohler

    12/12/2024

    Unlocking the Power of Research in UX Design - Talk User Experience with Tanner Kohler

    Joseph and Tanner Kohler explore the field of User Experience (UX) design, focusing on usability, research methodologies, and the psychological aspects that influence user interactions. Tanner shares insights from his role at the Nielsen Norman Group, discussing the importance of usability, the nature of research in UX, and the challenges faced in the field. Tanner emphasizes the need for a user-centered approach in design and the value of understanding user behavior through research. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:47 Understanding Usability in User Experience Design 08:55 The Role of Research in User Experience Design 16:51 The Value of Psychology in User Experience Design 28:13 Challenges in User Experience Design 32:51 Recommended Resources for Diving Deeper into UX Resources Mentioned: Nielsen Norman Group (NNG): nngroup.com Tanner's Research for NNG: Tanner Kohler | User Experience Specialist at Nielsen Norman Group Connect with Tanner on LinkedIn: Tanner Kohler | LinkedIn Books: The Design of Everyday Things: Revised and Expanded Edition: Norman, Don Tools: Dovetail - Customer Insights Hub — Dovetail Next Steps: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to: ✅ Subscribe to Talk Learning With Me ✅ Leave a review to help others discover the podcast ✅ Share this episode with someone who might benefit from learning about User Research Let’s continue the conversation—⁠connect with me⁠ on LinkedIn and join the community of lifelong learners!

    36 min

  12. SEASON 1 TRAILER

    Trailer: Talk Learning With Me

    Hi there! I’m Joseph Diaz, and I’m excited to introduce you to Talk Learning With Me. This podcast is for instructional designers and lifelong learners who are curious about the world of learning and development. In this trailer episode, I share a bit about myself and what you can expect from the show. We’ll explore topics like education, learning science, facilitation, behavior change, and other skills that can help you grow in your career and beyond. If you have a topic you’d love to hear about or discuss with me on the show, I’d love to hear from you! Send me an email at talklearningpodcast@gmail.com or connect with me on LinkedIn. My goal is to publish new episodes twice a month, so hit that subscribe button and stay tuned. I can’t wait to talk learning with you and grow together!

    1 min

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Welcome to Talk Learning With Me! I’m Joseph Diaz, an instructional designer passionate about connecting with others and exploring the exciting field of learning and development. This podcast is for instructional designers, lifelong learners, and anyone eager to grow their skills and knowledge. Together, we’ll dive into topics like education, learning science, facilitation, behavior change, and other essential skills that help you thrive in your career and beyond. If you’re ready to talk learning, explore new ideas, and grow with me, this podcast is for you!

Information

  • Creator
    Joseph Diaz
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Joseph Diaz
  • Show Website
    Talk Learning With Me