From Sales to Learning: A Personal Journey

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!