L&D Disrupt Live: What will actually matter in L&D in 2026? | L&D Disrupt | Episode 99

We’re excited to kick off Season 4 with our new host, Pauline Taylor, VP of People at HowNow!Join us for an engaging discussion with Ian Walker, an industry leader and expert in Learning and Development (L&D), as he explores the transformative power of L&D in driving business outcomes. In this episode, Ian highlights the crucial role L&D plays in unlocking potential, fostering collaboration, and enhancing organizational culture.The conversation covers the significance of effective onboarding, the impact of mentorship and coaching, and the emerging influence of AI on learning practices. Ian also shares his experiences in building cohesive L&D programs, the importance of continuous learning, and practical strategies for measuring the business impact of L&D initiatives.This episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to elevate learning and development within their organization.To learn more about HowNow, you can chat with the team here: HowNow Demo

🎉 Celebrating the 100th episode of L&D Disrupt Live at World of Learning!Nelson Sivalingam is joined by four forward-thinking L&D leaders—Tara (AND Digital), Stephen (So Energy), Penny (inRiver), and Joe (Centrick)—for a conversation about how Learning & Development is evolving in today’s organisations.They explore how L&D teams are moving from problem solvers to problem finders, sharing real-world strategies that work: from AI upskilling programs and centralised learning hubs to a skills-first approach that puts learners at the heart of learning.The panel dives into meeting learners where they are, using technology to create meaningful impact, and focusing on business outcomes over content creation. Packed with practical tips, this discussion is a must-watch for any L&D professional looking to make a bigger impact in their organisation.00:00 Introduction to L&D Challenges01:40 Celebrating 100 Episodes of L&D Disrupt02:21 Panel Discussion: Identifying and Solving L&D Problems03:47 Tara's Approach to Evolving Learning Solutions04:52 Joe's Strategy for a Unified Learning Ecosystem06:42 Steven's Dual Focus on Compliance and Learning Perception08:12 Penny's Certification Program Overhaul09:30 Innovative Approaches to L&D Content and Engagement15:08 AI Upskilling at And Digital23:22 Moving Towards a Skills-Based Learning Approach27:07 Engaging Line Managers in L&D29:38 Final Thoughts and Actionable Takeaways

Join us in this exciting episode of L&D Disrupt Live as we explore the latest trends, lessons learned, and predictions for the future of Learning and Development with Nelson, CEO and co-founder of HowNow, along with a panel of experts. From discussing the role of AI in L&D to the importance of evidence-based practice and the shift to performance-based metrics, this episode covers it all. Featuring Andy Lancaster, Stella Collins, and Ross Garner, this conversation delves into what worked, what didn't, and where L&D is headed in 2026. Don't miss insights on systemic thinking, the impact of AI, skills frameworks, and the crucial metrics that will define L&D success. Tune in to understand how to stay relevant and make a meaningful impact in the evolving world of L&D.00:00 Introduction 04:25 Welcome to L&D Disrupt Live06:32 Biggest Surprises of 202512:46 Biggest Winners of 202523:25 Biggest Losers of 202530:58 The Impact of AI on L&D32:59 Overhyped Trends in L&D for 202534:12 The Complexity of Skills Frameworks39:49 Challenges with AI Literacy Programs43:09 Hard Lessons for L&D in 202552:59 Looking Forward to 202601:00:58 Predictions for L&D in 2026

Join us for an engaging discussion with Lavinia, founder of OffBeat and a thought leader in Learning and Development (L&D), as she explores the future of organisational learning. In this episode, Lavinia highlights the crucial role L&D plays in fostering collaboration, trust, and adaptability within organisations.The conversation covers the impact of AI on L&D, the distinction between individual and organisational learning, and strategies to enhance sense-making, experimentation, and teamwork. Lavinia also shares her experiences in building vibrant L&D communities, the relevance of behavioural science, and practical steps for cultivating a thriving learning culture.This episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to elevate learning and development in their organisation.To learn more about HowNow, you can chat to the team here: https://www.gethownow.com/book-demo?

In this episode, Adam Horne joins the show to unpack the challenges of “accidental managers”, those promoted without proper leadership training, and the friction caused by poorly designed roles. Drawing on his experience at Open Org, Adam explains how the organisation supports HR professionals in startups through community building, content creation, and consulting.He explores the impact of AI on HR and learning, identifying common pain points facing today’s people leaders and making the case for a shift from traditional training to more experiential, on-the-job learning. Adam also discusses how AI can be leveraged to reduce workplace friction, enable experimentation, and redesign employee experiences to foster continuous learning and growth.When it comes to management, Adam highlights systemic issues in how organisations define and support leadership roles. He advocates for a community of practice approach and challenges companies to rethink career progression and growth in flatter, faster-moving structures.As the conversation wraps up, Adam outlines key priorities for HR leaders preparing for the future, particularly around AI adoption, talent development, and evolving organisational design.To learn more about HowNow, you can chat to the team here: https://www.gethownow.com/book-demo?

In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to make learning a daily habit at work. From finding that sweet spot between passion, relevance, and environment, to empowering managers and influencers to champion learning, we explore the practical side of building a true learning culture.You’ll hear how technology can reduce friction, how merging cultures can reshape development, and why redefining what “learning” looks like is key. We also unpack the shift toward skills-based growth, smarter performance metrics, and the ongoing journey of embedding learning into everyday workflows.The episode wraps up with personal reflections on keeping learning alive, through curiosity, conversation, and the power of supportive colleagues.To learn more about HowNow, you can chat to the team here: https://www.gethownow.com/book-demo? 

How do you transform a fragmented organization into one united by shared goals, values, and performance? In this episode, Emma shares her journey leading talent management at James Fisher, reflecting on the rebrand from L&D to Talent, building strategies in times of transformation, and shifting perceptions of HR’s role from “just training” to driving real business impact.We explore how to:Align talent strategies with business prioritiesUse performance management as a lever for transformationBalance global consistency with local relevanceBuild credibility and buy-in during organisational changeIf you’re navigating change, leading L&D, or looking to connect people and business strategy more effectively, this conversation is full of practical insights and lessons learned.

In this episode of L&D Disrupt, we sit down with Joe Milton, Learning and Development Manager at Centrick, to explore what it really takes to build the next generation of leaders.From his beginnings as a music teacher to shaping leadership development strategies in fast-moving businesses, Joe shares how teaching children isn’t so different from coaching adults, and why positive reinforcement, curiosity, and proactivity are critical ingredients for effective leadership today.We dive into the four essential shifts in leadership development:Why traditional leadership models no longer cut itThe growing importance of people skills alongside technical expertiseHow to spot and nurture future leaders by focusing on business gapsThe role of AI in scaling leadership development and creating safe spaces for vulnerabilityJoe also reveals practical ways L&D teams can invite change, measure impact, and shift leadership thinking from being about you to being about service.Packed with insights, examples, and actionable takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for anyone working to align leadership development with business outcomes.👉 Want to learn more about HowNow? Speak to the team here: https://www.gethownow.com/book-demo

In Part 2 of this special episode, Nelson continues unpacking the future of workplace learning—focusing on how L&D leaders can future-proof their strategies in an era of exponential change. He explores why the fastest learners—both individuals and organisations—are the ones who will thrive, and why L&D must evolve from a compliance-driven function into a true strategic lever for business performance.The conversation highlights how AI and community-driven learning will reshape workforce development by 2026, the importance of aligning learning with business objectives, and the need for rapid skill acquisition. Nelson offers practical insights for L&D leaders on cutting learning waste, fostering a culture of psychological safety for innovation, leveraging internal experts, and preparing for the wider adoption of AI agents as learning interfaces.Want to learn more about HowNow? Speak to the team here: www.gethownow.com/book-demo

In this episode, the tables are turned as our usual host, Nelson, takes the hot seat to explore the current state of L&D. The conversation kicks off with the challenge of content overload and what it means for HR and L&D leaders trying to cut through the noise. Nelson explains why shifting from a content-first to a skills-first approach is essential, and how connecting the right learning to the right people at the right time drives real impact.He also unpacks the disconnect between L&D programs and business goals, highlighting the importance of aligning learning strategies with measurable skill development. The discussion explores the growing role of AI in skills measurement, real-time feedback, and delivering hyper-personalised learning experiences.Whether you’re an L&D leader or just curious about the future of workplace learning, this episode offers practical insights on staying relevant and driving meaningful change in a rapidly evolving landscape.🎧 Listen to Part 1 now — and stay tuned for Part 2 dropping next Monday!If you’d like to learn more about HowNow, speak to the team here: www.gethownow.com/book-demo