Big News for the Show!

Jake shares some exciting news for the show - and provides a quick sneak peak behind the curtain on some upcoming episodes.   LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast   You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.  

We welcome Dr. Tessa Forshaw (Harvard Graduate School of Education) and Rich Braden (founder of People Rocket LLC), co-authors of "Innovation-ish," to challenge the myth that innovation belongs only to Silicon Valley geniuses. After analyzing 80+ innovation frameworks, they discovered that most people don't recognize their own creative problem-solving abilities. We explore practical strategies for helping you see yourselves as innovators, overcoming cognitive caution, and fostering innovation even in traditional organizations. Learn more about the book at https://www.innovationish.com/.   00:00 Cold Open and banter 03:08 Introducing the Book 'Innovation-ish' 03:32 The Journey of Creativity and Innovation 05:56 Improv and Design Thinking 17:22 Divergent and Convergent Thinking in Organizations 19:58 The Challenge of Innovation in Organizations 21:34 Innovation Hesitation and Cognitive Caution 24:16 Balancing Risk and Innovation 26:24 Encouraging Metacognition in the Workplace 28:27 Fostering Creativity and Collaboration 33:05 Teaching Creative Problem Solving 38:17 Conclusion and Book Recommendations   LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast   You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.  

In our Season 8 opener, we welcome Allison Horn, Head of Talent Transformation at JP Morgan Chase as our guest host for the show. We quickly reflect on eight years together and discuss the origins of the podcast. Allison leads us through a series of questions to get our perspectives on a variety of topics, including a major pop star story, how we’re using GenAI in our day-to-day work, current AI tools, the cognitive impact of AI, and our thoughts on balancing professional growth with new technology.   00:00 Cold open 01:01 Celebrating 8 years 03:33 Allison's New Role at JP Morgan Chase 04:34 Learning and Transitioning in a New Job 11:24 The Taylor Travis Engagement 13:31 Impact of GPT-5 and AI Tools 19:18 Personalizing AI for Daily Use 19:54 The Future of General Purpose Models 21:35 Custom GPTs in Instructional Design 22:56 AI in Creative Work and Education 24:20 Smaller Language Models and Cognitive Impact 25:51 Challenges and Misconceptions in AI Research 27:47 Using AI for Change Storytelling 31:25 Exploring Multi-Agent Autonomous Work 34:34 Reflecting on Professional Learning 37:27 Final Thoughts and Farewells   LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast   You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.

In our season finale, we’re tackling a question we hear all the time: How do you break into the Learning & Development field? We sit down with L&D veteran Trina Wellendorf and Lauren, a college junior exploring a future in L&D, to answer her biggest questions about: Different career paths within L&D How to land that first role or internship Whether grad school is worth it Staying current with trends like AI and learning science Tips for engaging learners and using storytelling effectively Whether you’re just starting out, making a career shift, or mentoring someone new to the field, this episode is packed with insights to help you launch a successful path in L&D.   00:00 Cold Open 00:31 Banter 02:16 Introducing the Guests: Trina and Lauren 05:36 Lauren's Background and Interest in Learning & Development 07:00 Exploring Career Paths in Learning & Development 12:10 How to Get Started in Learning & Development 15:38 Finding Internships and Networking Tips 18:00 Thoughts on Grad School and Advanced Degrees 20:29 Personal Journeys in Education and Career 21:12 Challenges and Rewards of Advanced Education 23:24 Staying Current with Trends in Learning and Development 26:43 Gaining Practical Experience in Learning Strategies 29:20 Facilitating Effective Learning 34:50 Storytelling and Relevancy in Training 37:38 Finding Companies that Value Learning and Development 41:35 Wrap up   LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast   You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.

We continue our deep dive into McKinsey's latest Learning Trends Perspective Report with authors Jessica Glazer and our co-host Jake Gittleson. In Part 2, we take a closer look into the last two of the three macro trends: responsible AI adoption and developing resilient and adaptable individuals and organizations. We discuss actions and meaning for each and implications for individuals, managers, and leaders within organizations.   00:00 Introduction and Banter 02:03 Recap of Report 05:41 Diving into Responsible AI 07:48 Challenges and Considerations in AI Adoption 11:36 Higher Order Skills and AI 16:38 The Role of AI in Art and Animation 18:03 Decisions and Consequences of Using AI 18:53 Metacognition and Learning in the Age of AI 19:57 The Importance of Genuine Intelligence 23:02 Resilience and Adaptability in Continuous Change 30:37 Organizational Resilience and Sustainable Workflows 32:29 Final Thoughts   DOWNLOAD THE REPORT The team provided an overview of the findings and a link to the full report (see bottom of post) at https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/people-in-progress/reimagined-learning-and-development-in-the-future-of-work   LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast   You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.

We dive deep into McKinsey's latest Learning Trends Perspective Report with authors Jessica Glazer and our co-host Jake Gittleson. The two share an overview of the report and their deep perspective on the three key macro trends, sub trends, implications on development, and how these forces will shape the future of people development. In Part 2, we will go deeper into each area such as identifying actions and meaning for individuals, managers, and leaders within organizations. 00:00 Cold Open 00:47 Banter 02:00 Jessica Glazer's Intro and Background 04:57 Methodology of Learning Trends Report 09:03 General themes from the research 13:11 Overview of the three macro trends 13:46 Fluid development ecosystems   26:33 Responsible AI Adoption 30:54 Resilient and adaptable individuals and organizations   35:32 Wrap up and previewing Part 2   DOWNLOAD THE REPORT The team provided an overview of the findings and a link to the full report (see bottom of post) at https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/people-in-progress/reimagined-learning-and-development-in-the-future-of-work   LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast   You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.

Inspired by a recent Star Wars-themed trip to Japan, Bob leads a discussion on learning and development practices that deserve to be put to rest—and those worth bringing back from the dead. Each of us shares one of each, along with our take on why. Have a listen to hear what made our list! 00:00 Cold open 00:29 Banter – Japan trip and field trips 04:47 Panel Discussion that inspired the topic 07:36 Things we would put to rest 25:14 Things we’d bring back from the dead 40:06 Final thoughts   LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast   You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.

What if uncertainty was actually a spark for creativity? In this episode, the three of us explore how reframing ambiguity can lead to innovation, not anxiety. Inspired by the book Navigating Ambiguity, we share personal stories, practical strategies, and a reminder that sometimes the messiest moments lead to the best ideas. Referenced in this episode: Navigating Ambiguity: Creating Opportunity in a World of Unknowns by Andrea Small and Kelly Schmutte Chapters 00:00 Intro and banter 05:01 What is Ambiguity and Uncertainty 09:15 AI's Impact on Ambiguity and Uncertainty 13:33 Personal Experiences with Ambiguity 18:52 Dealing with Uncertainty and Stress 21:13 Practical Examples of Reframing Ambiguity 35:50 Final Thoughts   LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast   You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.

In this episode, we are joined by Majd Sakr, Computer Science Professor at Carnegie Mellon University and Chief Learning and Research Officer at Accenture. We learn about Majd’s transition from academia to corporate learning environments, key differences, how to measure ROI of training, the challenges of maintaining learner engagement in fast-paced environments, and experimenting with innovative learning modalities. Majd wraps up the pod with practical tips for those in academia looking to make the move into corporate. LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.

We are joined by Alex Kass from Accenture Labs to delve into the future of learning and technology. We discuss various advancements such as neurosensing, artificial intelligence, extended reality, and their implications for educational experiences. Alex shares insights on how these technologies can enhance user interaction, improve the design process, and create more personalized learning environments. We also discuss dynamic content that adapts in real-time to learners' needs and the ethical considerations of using these technologies.   Listen and Subscribe to the Learning Geeks! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast   You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.