The Learning Experience Ops Show

Jackrabbit Learning Experience

The Learning Experience Ops Show is a series of real conversations with the people building and running the systems that make learning work—across higher education, K–12, healthcare, clean energy, corporate L&D, and beyond. Each episode explores how learning teams are adapting to massive change: what’s working, what’s breaking, and what’s next. Guests share their strategies, tools, and stories from the front lines of Learning Experience Operations (LX Ops)—the evolving discipline where design, technology, and organizational systems meet. At its core, the show is about one big idea: learning gets better when it’s built on a clear, repeatable process that’s ready for whatever comes next.

Episodes

  1. Episode 10: Turn School Into Problem Solving- Andrea Flores on Real World Learning That Sticks

    6D AGO

    Episode 10: Turn School Into Problem Solving- Andrea Flores on Real World Learning That Sticks

    Summary In this conversation, Jason Gorman and Andrea Flores explore the evolving landscape of education in the context of AI. They discuss the importance of thoughtful discourse around AI's role in education, Andrea's personal motivations and career journey, and the essential skills and mindsets needed for future challenges. The conversation delves into the need for a redesign of educational systems to better align with industry demands and the impact of education on societal outcomes. They also touch on the importance of measuring educational impact and envisioning a future where AI enhances learning experiences rather than replaces human insight. Takeaways There's a need for thoughtful discourse on AI in education. Andrea's background in engineering influences her design thinking. Improving quality of life for learners is a core motivation. AI can augment design processes but should not replace human insight. Systems thinking is crucial for understanding educational ecosystems. Project management skills are essential in learning design. Curiosity and adaptability are key mindsets for educators. AI can help identify skills gaps in learners. Rethinking education requires collaboration among stakeholders. Measuring educational impact involves both qualitative and quantitative metrics. Watch the full episode: Episode 10: Turn School Into Problem Solving- Andrea Flores on Real World Learning That Sticks

    53 min
  2. Episode 8: Governing the AI Shift- Jonathan Thayer on Architecting AI, Agile Governance, and Human-Centered Transformation

    JAN 20

    Episode 8: Governing the AI Shift- Jonathan Thayer on Architecting AI, Agile Governance, and Human-Centered Transformation

    Summary In this episode of the Learning Experience Ops show, Jason Gorman interviews Jonathan Thayer, Chief Data and AI Architect at K2 United. They discuss Jonathan's extensive career in e-learning and AI, the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in the workplace, and the importance of agile methodologies in integrating AI into business processes. Jonathan shares insights on the evolving role of AI, the significance of data access, and the need for governance in AI applications. He also emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience with AI and the value of interpersonal communication in navigating the complexities of AI transformation. Takeaways AI is rapidly changing the landscape of work, presenting both opportunities and challenges. The creative aspects of work may be significantly impacted by AI. Adopting agile methodologies can enhance project management and adaptability. Citizen developers can leverage AI tools without needing extensive programming knowledge. Monitoring AI performance is essential for ensuring quality and effectiveness. AI can assist in automating both structured and unstructured tasks. Data access is a critical factor in realizing the value of AI. There is no single solution for AI integration; a combination of tools is necessary. Passive observation can provide insights into the effectiveness of AI implementations. Hands-on experience with AI is crucial for understanding its capabilities and limitations. Watch the full episode: Governing the AI Shift- Jonathan Thayer on Architecting AI, Agile Governance, and Human-Centered Transformation

    45 min
  3. Episode 7: Beyond Optimization: Learning in Motion- Jason & James on Adaptive Leadership, AI's Limits & Designing for Human Connection

    JAN 13

    Episode 7: Beyond Optimization: Learning in Motion- Jason & James on Adaptive Leadership, AI's Limits & Designing for Human Connection

    Summary In this episode of the Learning Experience Operations Show, hosts Jason Gorman and James Altman reflect on their experiences from the previous year and outline their plans for 2026. They discuss the importance of community engagement through events, the challenges of navigating change and overwhelm in the workplace, and the balance between maintaining fundamental practices while embracing experimentation. The conversation also delves into the complexities of business operations, the role of AI, and the necessity of human judgment in decision-making. They emphasize the need for comfort with ambiguity and the creative aspects of entrepreneurship, concluding with a call to action for listeners to engage with their community.   Takeaways The importance of community engagement through events. Change fatigue is a real challenge for many professionals. Businesses are complex systems, not machines. Innovation and efficiency often conflict with each other. Embracing discomfort is essential in a rapidly changing environment. Comfort with ambiguity can be developed as a skill. Business operations require a creative approach. AI introduces unpredictability that must be managed. No two situations in business are the same. Engaging with the community is vital for growth and learning. Watch the full episode Beyond Optimization: Learning in Motion- Jason & James on Adaptive Leadership, AI's Limits & Designing for Human Connection

    49 min
  4. Episode 6: The Marginally Irresponsible Path- Jen Briselli on Risky Play, Systems Thinking & Redefining What It Means to Learn

    JAN 6

    Episode 6: The Marginally Irresponsible Path- Jen Briselli on Risky Play, Systems Thinking & Redefining What It Means to Learn

    Summary In this episode of the Learning Experience Operations Show, host Jason Gorman engages with Jen Briselli, a strategist and educator, to explore the transformative potential of risky play, complexity-informed design, and transdisciplinary collaboration. Jen shares her journey from being a physics teacher to a design strategist, emphasizing the importance of enabling individuals to define their own paths to 'living well.' The conversation delves into the distinctions between teaching and facilitating learning, the role of scaffolding in design, and the challenges organizations face in navigating change. They also discuss the impact of AI on learning and the importance of sensing and responding to the needs of learners in a rapidly evolving landscape. Takeaways Jen Briselli emphasizes the importance of enabling individuals to define what 'living well' means for themselves. Facilitation is about creating conditions for learning rather than dictating outcomes. The journey from physics teacher to design strategist highlights the interconnectedness of learning and experience design. Teaching and facilitating learning are distinct but complementary practices. Scaffolding in design should be flexible and adaptable to the needs of the learners. Effective learning experiences require understanding the context and needs of the audience. AI is a tool that can enhance learning but should not replace human interaction and collaboration. Behavior change is a visible metric but should not be the sole focus of learning outcomes. Organizations should prioritize sensing and responding to the needs of their employees. The future of learning will depend on how well we integrate AI into human-centered practices.   Watch the Full Episode The Marginally Irresponsible Path- Jen Briselli on Risky Play, Systems Thinking & Redefining What It Means to Learn

    1h 18m
  5. Episode 5: Bridging Business, Branding, and the Classroom-  Ben Zugay on Disney, Startups, and Reinventing Teaching

    12/18/2025

    Episode 5: Bridging Business, Branding, and the Classroom- Ben Zugay on Disney, Startups, and Reinventing Teaching

    Summary In this episode, Jason Gorman interviews Dr. Ben Zugay, a business professor and consultant, discussing his journey into education, the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset, and the operational lessons learned from his time at Disney. They explore the challenges faced in modern education, the significance of student engagement, and the impact of AI on teaching and learning. Dr. Zugay emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and relevance in education while maintaining a focus on fundamental principles. Takeaways Dr. Zugay started his first business at 14, developing an entrepreneurial mindset early on. His experience at Disney shaped his understanding of presentation and brand in education. Teaching is about continuous assessment and checking for understanding, not just lecturing. Students should leave classes with tangible skills they can apply immediately. The importance of making learning experiences relevant to students' lives. AI presents opportunities for personalized learning but requires an entrepreneurial mindset. Higher education must adapt to teach students how to use AI effectively. Fundamentals of business remain unchanged despite technological advancements. Engagement in learning is crucial; students should not just check boxes. Change in education requires a focus on opportunities rather than challenges. Watch the Full Episode Bridging Business, Branding, and the Classroom-  Ben Zugay on Disney, Startups, and Reinventing Teaching

    42 min
  6. Episode 2: Frameworks, Not Toolkits- Brick Maier on Building 350 Courses Without Losing Your Sanity (or Soul)

    11/17/2025

    Episode 2: Frameworks, Not Toolkits- Brick Maier on Building 350 Courses Without Losing Your Sanity (or Soul)

    Summary In this conversation, Brick Maier shares his journey from being a classroom teacher to his current role as Director of Enterprise Learning and Development at HeatSpring, an online learning platform focused on renewable energy. He discusses the importance of data-driven approaches in learning design, the integration of various learning modalities, and the impact of AI on assessment and course development. Brick emphasizes the need for a balance between structure and flexibility in learning design and shares insights on the future of learning in an AI-driven world. Takeaways Brick Maier's journey began as a classroom teacher in Los Angeles. HeatSpring focuses on renewable energy education and certifications. Data-driven approaches are essential for measuring learning outcomes. Quality questions are key to effective learning experiences. AI has transformed the way assessments are created and utilized. Balancing structure and flexibility is crucial in course development. Integrating various learning modalities enhances the learning experience. The future of learning will be more dynamic and personalized. Short cycles of iteration are important for testing new concepts. Curiosity and critical inquiry will be vital for future learners. Watch the Full Episode Frameworks, Not Toolkits- Brick Maier on Building 350 Courses Without Losing Your Sanity (or Soul)

    44 min

About

The Learning Experience Ops Show is a series of real conversations with the people building and running the systems that make learning work—across higher education, K–12, healthcare, clean energy, corporate L&D, and beyond. Each episode explores how learning teams are adapting to massive change: what’s working, what’s breaking, and what’s next. Guests share their strategies, tools, and stories from the front lines of Learning Experience Operations (LX Ops)—the evolving discipline where design, technology, and organizational systems meet. At its core, the show is about one big idea: learning gets better when it’s built on a clear, repeatable process that’s ready for whatever comes next.