The Learning+ Podcast

In this episode of Learning+, Vidya speaks with Goutham Yegappan - educator, data scientist, and question-asker - about reimagining education beyond systems, silos, and standardization. They explore why curiosity fades, how the teacher-student divide holds us back, and why passion isn’t something to find, but a way of seeing. This isn’t a conversation about quick fixes… but about slowing down, asking better questions, and rethinking what it means to truly learn.Connect with GouthamLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gouthamyega/Website: https://www.reeducated.org/ Connect with LearnnovatorsWebsite: https://learnnovators.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/Connect with VidyaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

Why doesn’t learning always lead to action? In this episode, Vidya sits down with Julie Dirksen - author, designer, and one of the clearest thinkers on behavior change in L&D. They explore why systems thinking can sometimes overwhelm us, how to design for motivation dips, what to do when learners don’t see themselves as part of the problem, and why behavior design needs ethical boundaries. If you’re trying to bridge the knowing-doing gap in your work, this conversation offers sharp insight… and plenty to reflect on.Connect with JulieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliedirksen/ Website: https://usablelearning.com/ Books: https://usablelearning.com/the-books/ Connect with LearnnovatorsWebsite: https://learnnovators.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/Connect with VidyaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

What does it really take to build a thriving learning community - one where people feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow? In this episode, Erin Chancellor joins Vidya to share how she co-manages the Useful L&D Community with care, clarity, and intentional structure. They explore what “lurker love” looks like in action, why creating space matters more than pushing content, and how community skills can reshape how we do L&D. It’s a quiet, reflective conversation - full of practical wisdom and gentle provocations. Whether you lead learning, design it, or just care about how people connect and grow… this one’s for you.Connect with Erin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chancellorerin/Connect with LearnnovatorsWebsite: https://learnnovators.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/Connect with VidyaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

In this episode, Tom McDowall joins us for a deep dive into learner autonomy, performance-focused design, and the real role of L&D in a fast-changing world. We unpack what it means to give learners control, how to balance autonomy with compliance, and why experimentation - not training - is often the better answer. From Dungeons & Dragons to chatbot-driven learning, Tom shares sharp insights and practical ideas for rethinking how we support performance at work.Connect with Tom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-mcdowall/ Website: https://tommcdowall.com/ The iDeas Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRvjaaAi-H8MW_yYwpqgtKXgL15cFaKhd Instructional Design Tips YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/InstructionalDesignTips Connect with LearnnovatorsWebsite: https://learnnovators.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/Connect with VidyaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

What does it really take to build a learning strategy that sticks? In this episode, Michelle Ockers helps unpack the difference between tactical execution and strategic clarity. From shifting the conversation from skills to capability, to evaluating learning as a tool for improvement, and not just as proof, Michelle shares practical, grounded advice for L&D leaders. We talk about working with culture (not against it), why deep consultation beats quick fixes, and how to use data for improvement, not just for validation. If you’re thinking about how learning creates value for your business, this conversation will meet you right where you are - strategic, practical, and refreshingly honest.Connect with MichelleLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleockers/ Websites: https://michelleockers.com/ and https://learninguncut.global/ Book: The L&D Leader - Principles and Practice for Delivering Business Value: https://www.koganpage.com/hr-learning-development/the-l-d-leader-9781398620278Referenced MaterialFuture of Jobs Report 2025, The World Economic Forum: https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/ Articles: - CLO LIFT: The Skills Accelerator: https://learningforum.substack.com/p/clo-lift-the-skills-accelerator - Feedback culture: Great learning design as a bridge to culture building: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/people-in-progress/feedback-culture-great-learning-design-as-a-bridge-to-culture-building Podcast Episodes:- McKinsey’s Feedback Skills Surge – Lisa Christensen: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/163/ - Playbook – Your First 90 Days in an L&D Leader Role: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/138/ - Building Learning Culture – Nigel Paine: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/elevate-05-building-learning-culture/ Connect with LearnnovatorsWebsite: https://learnnovators.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/Connect with VidyaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

What if service wasn’t just a department, but a way of thinking across your entire organization?In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, Ron Kaufman - global expert on service culture and best-selling author of Uplifting Service - joins us to break down what it really takes to build a culture of continuous service improvement. We explore why mindset can't be taught in a day, how tools and actions shape culture, and why service is about creating value for everyone you interact with - not just customers. Practical, powerful, and yes, even a little funny - you won’t look at service the same way again.Connect with RonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronkaufman/ Website: https://www.ronkaufman.com/ Books: https://www.ronkaufman.com/books/ The Six Levels of Service: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iktw-KhAq-g Connect with LearnnovatorsWebsite: https://learnnovators.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/Connect with VidyaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

In this solo episode, Srividya Kumar explores the power of practice in learning and why it's a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of effective training. She discusses how focusing too much on theory can hinder learners from applying their knowledge. Drawing on real-world examples, Srividya shares how practice scenarios can help learners gain confidence by simulating real-life challenges. She also unveils her personal framework for designing impactful practice scenarios that foster skill application and build confidence. Tune in for practical insights on enhancing your training programs through effective scenario design.Connect with LearnnovatorsWebsite: https://learnnovators.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/Connect with VidyaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

In this episode of the Learning+ Podcast, Dr. Nigel Paine explores what it truly means to build a learning culture. He challenges the obsession with perfect courses, emphasizing the need to focus on impact instead. From the power of psychological safety to the role of leadership vulnerability, Nigel shares how organizations can create lasting change. Plus, we discuss how AI can go beyond content creation to enhance learning in the flow of work. If you’re ready to rethink learning, this conversation is a must-listen.Connect with NigelLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelpaine/ Website: https://www.nigelpaine.com/ Book - The Great Reset: https://ldaccelerator.com/great-resetOther Books The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of The Learning Organization, by Peter M. Senge: https://a.co/d/bHztmM7On Organizational Learning, by Chris Argyris: https://amzn.in/d/1KyaqJ5 Humble Inquiry: The Gentle Art of Asking Instead of Telling, by Edgar Schein: https://a.co/d/3rVOHl2 Connect with LearnnovatorsWebsite: https://learnnovators.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/Connect with VidyaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, Matthew Richter joins host Srividya Kumar to explore the powerful connection between motivation, leadership, and learning. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, Matthew discusses how fulfilling core psychological needs - competence, autonomy, and relatedness - is key to fostering lasting motivation. He shares practical insights on how to create environments that empower individuals, enhance engagement, and drive performance. Whether you're in leadership or learning design, this episode provides actionable strategies for building motivated, high-performing teams.Connect with MattLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-richter-0738b84/ Website: https://www.thiagi.com/ Books: https://www.thiagi.com/books The LDA Conference (April-May 2025)Register Here: https://ldaccelerator.com/eipconference Use discount code: EIP10MR (gives you 10% off)Book RecommendationsFluke, by Brian Klaas: https://www.amazon.com/Fluke-Chance-Chaos-Everything-Matters/dp/1668006529 Corruptible, by Brian Klaas: https://www.amazon.com/Corruptible-Who-Gets-Power-Changes/dp/1982154098Connect with LearnnovatorsWebsite: https://learnnovators.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/Connect with VidyaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

Margie Meacham, the “Brain Lady,” has dedicated her career to understanding how our brains learn and how that knowledge can shape more effective training. A pioneer in integrating neuroscience with learning design, she’s also been a trailblazer in using AI to create personalized learning experiences. In this episode, Margie shares how neuroscience and AI are changing the landscape of learning and why every L&D professional should consider how the brain works when designing learning solutions. Tune in for practical insights that will help you take your learning strategies to the next level.Learningtogo AI AcademyIn today's shifting learning landscape, AI skills are no longer optional - they're essential. Learningtogo AI Academy equips learning professionals with practical AI capabilities that enhance your value, future-proof your career, and open new opportunities.Weekly courses build your competence progressively, transforming uncertainty into confidence. Whether you're navigating a career transition or strengthening your position, our academy provides the tools to thrive in an AI-enhanced workplace.For a limited time, we’re offering this academy at the crazy low price of $240/year. That’s just $5 per course. This price is only available to people listening to this podcast – and it expires April 1, so please help us spread the word!Don't just survive industry changes - leverage them to advance your career and secure your professional future now.Purchase Learningtogo AI Academy SubscriptionConnect with Margie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margiemeacham/ Blog: https://learningtogo.ai/learn/ Margie’s book on Neuroscience: Brain MattersMargie’s book on AI in Talent Development Connect with LearnnovatorsWebsite: https://learnnovators.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/Connect with Vidya LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/