The Secrets of Learning & Development

Valerie & Julia
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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. The Emotional Intelligence Renaissance: EQ over IQ in the Age of Automation

    4D AGO · 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
  2. Following the Spark: Jo Cook’s Journey into Learning and Leadership

    SEP 19

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

    SEP 11

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

    SEP 4

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

    AUG 28

    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
  6. Cheers to One Year: Curiosity, Connection and Conversations

    AUG 22 · 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
  7. Bonus Episode: Reinvention Isn’t Just a New Job It’s an Emotional Shift

    AUG 14 · BONUS

    Bonus Episode: Reinvention Isn’t Just a New Job It’s an Emotional Shift

    If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! What if career change isn’t just about your next role, but who you’re becoming? In this bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, Valerie Merrill and Executive Career Transition Coach Julia Bend uncover the hidden emotional load behind career change the identity shifts, quiet questions and inner work that rarely make it onto LinkedIn. They share real experiences and insights on what it feels like to lose your footing, why emotions like grief, doubt and guilt surface, and how to start rebuilding without rushing the process. Expect honest stories, practical ways to ease the uncertainty, and a reminder that reinvention isn’t loud. Sometimes it’s a slow, reflective process that shapes not just your career, but how you see yourself. Whether you’re in transition or supporting someone through one, this conversation will help you recognise the invisible workload of reinvention and why it matters.

    10 min
  8. The Message Behind the Brand: Laurie Kozan on Clarity and Connection

    AUG 7

    The Message Behind the Brand: Laurie Kozan on Clarity and Connection

    If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S3 E:5 In this episode, we’re joined by Laurie Kozan, founder of Own Source Marketing Studio, whose career spans PR, branding, design and digital strategy, all anchored by a single golden thread: shaping how people experience information. Laurie talks about navigating transitions, from international moves to career pauses and pivots, and how each phase deepened her understanding of meaningful communication. She shares powerful insights into the often-overlooked nuances of brand identity, particularly for solopreneurs translating deep expertise into something their audience can actually connect with. We explore how curiosity drives her strategic approach, why she believes in saying yes before self-doubt kicks in, and what she learned from stepping onto the stage at Speak and Shine. With refreshing honesty and wit, Laurie unpacks the messy beauty of building a business that truly reflects your voice, while reminding us that clarity often begins with simply paying attention. Whether you're rethinking your brand, wondering how to present yourself after a career break or just love hearing how others turn curiosity into impact, this one’s for you. Key Takeaways Clarity in Communication Begins with Perspective-Shifting Laurie emphasises that effective communication isn’t just about what you want to say, but how the audience will receive it. Whether you’re building a brand, pitching expertise or writing copy, success lies in understanding and bridging the gap between your own knowledge and how others perceive the problem. This shift in perspective is especially crucial for solopreneurs moving from corporate roles to consultancy. Your Brand Identity Should Be a Daily Tool, Not a Decorative Asset Laurie introduces the idea of a “source book”  a practical, strategic framework that anchors every brand decision, from messaging to offers. She makes a compelling case that brand identity isn’t about colours or logos, but about clarity of purpose, values and consistent language. When done well, your brand strategy becomes something you actively use to shape decisions, not just a static set of assets. Guest Information: https://www.sourcemarketingstudio.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriekozan/ lauriekozan@gmail.com

    40 min
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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/

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