Maya Watson of Manual on the Failure of Learning and Development Industry and Lessons from Working for Oprah

Maya Watson, co-founder of Manual, discusses her background working for companies like Netflix and Oprah Winfrey, as well as her experience during the rise and fall of Clubhouse. She explains the genesis of Manual and its mission to help individuals understand themselves better and create a more flexible and fulfilling work experience. Maya highlights the challenges with traditional learning and development (L&D) programs and the need for a more personalized and contextual approach. She shares the company's plans for the future and how leaders can implement Manual in their organizations. Maya also reflects on her time working for Oprah Winfrey and the lessons she learned from the media mogul. You can watch/listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple.

Takeaways

• Manual is a platform that helps individuals understand themselves better and create a more flexible and fulfilling work experience.
• Traditional learning and development (L&D) programs often lack context and fail to address the individual needs of employees.
• The future of work is shifting, and tools like Manual can help individuals navigate this transition and find meaningful work.
• Leaders can implement Manual by leading by example, creating their own manuals, and encouraging their teams to do the same.

Chapters

01:08 - The Rise and Fall of Clubhouse

03:00 - The Intersection of Factors

06:14 - Introduction to Manual

07:32 - The Genesis of Manual

10:22 - The Problem with L&D

14:09 - The Product and Company Today

24:09 - Future Plans for Manual

30:01 - Implementing Manual in the Workplace

33:43 - Working for Oprah Winfrey