Future-Focused with Christopher Lind

In this deeply engaging conversation, I'm talking with the brilliant Katy Conway from Resources Global Professionals. It's conversations like these that truly spark a deeper understanding of the vast landscape of global HR and the professionals that navigate it. In this chat, we navigated through some rather intriguing topics. Katy brings her sharp perspective to illuminate subjects that we often hear about, but rarely delve into. And as always, she demonstrates her knack for deconstructing complex ideas into digestible concepts. We explored the realities of the global human resource industry, the ongoing trends that are transforming this landscape, and the impacts on professionals within this space. Katy shared some insights that not only shed light on the state of HR but also on the professionals that are making waves in the industry. And let me tell you, you don't want to miss her take on this. It's unique, it's refreshing, and it’s insightful! If you're someone interested in the latest developments in HR, or just looking to gain a richer understanding of the industry, this conversation is for you. There's a wealth of knowledge packed into this video, and Katy's perspective is truly enlightening. It's conversations like these that remind me why I love doing what I do! Don't want to give too much away, but we also discussed something particularly fascinating, something Katy referred to as the "silent revolution." What does that mean? Well, you'll have to tune in to find out! So grab a cup of coffee, sit back and prepare to dive into an enlightening conversation that promises to stretch your understanding of the HR landscape. Trust me, you're going to want to stick around for this one. Can't wait for you to watch the video and hear your thoughts! Let's continue the conversation in the comments below. 🕒 03:22 - Unpacking the Global Resource Landscape Tune in as Katy Conway demystifies the global resource industry. Her lucid explanation unveils the intricacies and interconnections that shape the world of resources as we know it. 🕒 08:45 - Understanding the Professionals Behind the Resources This is where we peel back the curtain to reveal the professionals that keep this massive wheel turning. Katy lends her expertise to provide a rare peek into the lives and roles of the people who drive this industry. 🕒 16:30 - The Transformative Trends Wondering about the trends redefining the industry? Katy breaks down some of the most impactful ongoing trends in the global resource sector. These insights are vital for anyone looking to keep their finger on the pulse of this ever-evolving industry. 🕒 25:15 - Impact Assessment: Then and Now Here, Katy illuminates the evolving impact of global resources on businesses and society at large. It's a profound segment that beautifully encapsulates the journey and the transformation of this industry over the years. 🕒 33:55 - The Silent Revolution This is where things get particularly fascinating. Katy discusses something she calls the "silent revolution." What is it exactly? You'll have to join us at this timestamp to unravel the mystery! 🕒 43:10 - Looking Ahead: The Future of Global Resources We conclude the conversation by casting our gaze into the future. Katy shares her vision for the future of global resources and the professionals within this space. A not-to-be-missed segment for anyone interested in the future trajectory of the industry.

This was an incredibly engaging conversation with Mike Parks from Inkling, and you won't want to miss this one. Mike brings a level of insight and candor to the discussion that takes it to a whole new level, whether you're a seasoned learning professional or just starting out in the world of L&D. This chat gets into the nitty-gritty of how we approach learning and development in a digital era, and how we need to be adapting to the ever-evolving landscape. Mike brings a unique perspective to the table, emphasizing the importance of leveraging the technology that's already at our fingertips. His take on "forced compliance vs. embracing technology" is something that I think everyone needs to hear. We also dove deep into the concept of the "curve of disruption" and the imperative of focusing on the right problems to drive innovation. The analogy of the horse and buggy vs. EV that Mike references is a game-changer, and it's going to make you think twice about how you approach problem-solving. But that's not all. If you've been pondering on how to kickstart your digital transformation journey, you're in luck. Mike shares a practical roadmap, and trust me, it's one you'll want to follow. But here's a teaser - it all begins with having clearly defined metrics. We wrap up with a word of caution on the haphazard implementation of AI. Hint: It's not always the magical solution it's often made out to be. I won't spill all the beans here; you'll have to watch the full video for that nugget of wisdom. So, if you're ready for some serious insight into the world of learning and development, click that play button. I guarantee it'll be worth your while. And hey, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe. We've got plenty more enlightening conversations coming your way! Introduction and Backgrounds (00:00 - 10:00): Christopher Lind and Mike Parks introduce themselves, share their professional backgrounds, and set the stage for their conversation. Changing Generational Expectations (10:00 - 20:00): Christopher and Mike delve into the shifting expectations of today's workforce, focusing on the impact of technology and generational differences. Workplace Compliance vs. Influence (20:00 - 30:00): The two discuss the concept of compliance in the workplace, contrasting it with the idea of influence as a more productive and respectful approach. Disruption and the Evolution of Work (30:00 - 40:00): Mike introduces the concept of disruption and how it has historically transformed various industries, drawing parallels with the current state of the workforce and learning platforms. Strategy for Digital Transformation (40:00 - 50:00): They dive into a strategic conversation about how organizations can begin their digital transformation journey, emphasizing on the importance of clearly defined metrics and gradual disruption. Closing Thoughts and Next Steps (50:00 - 60:00): Mike and Christopher wrap up their conversation with insights on how to approach digital transformation effectively and the implications for the future of work and learning.

In this session, I had an exhilarating chat with the insightful Shaunak Roy from YellowDig, and you've got to hear this! We dive deep into the world of Learning and Development (L&D), exploring the rapid changes and unique challenges we're all facing in this era of digital transformation. Shaunak shared his vision of companies needing to evolve into learning organizations, a concept that has been rapidly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical changes, and the relentless march of AI. And let me tell you, his perspective is a game-changer. We also had a lively debate on the age-old analog vs. digital learning discussion. But guess what? We both agreed that this is the wrong question to ask. Intrigued yet? You should be! Shaunak and I grappled with the pace of change, which is so fast that keeping up might seem impossible. But folks, this is where we flip the script! Instead of trying to keep up, we discuss the idea of strategically choosing where to focus our efforts. Now, don't get me wrong, this transformation isn't an option anymore – it's a necessity. But the big question is: what does this mean for us? For L&D leaders? For CEOs? For the VP of Sales or Marketing? Trust me, you'll want to hear our thoughts on this! Towards the end, we reflect on how this seemingly overwhelming environment is actually an exciting opportunity for us, talent leaders. We have the power to shape the future of our organizations and make a real difference. And that, my friends, is the real thrill of it all. So what are you waiting for? Dive into our conversation and gain some serious insights on the future of L&D. I can promise you this – you won't look at your role the same way again! Hit that play button, and let's go on this journey together. Catch you on the inside! Time Stamps: [00:03:45] The Necessity of Learning Organizations Shaunak and I start off by diving deep into the concept of learning organizations and why they're no longer a choice, but a necessity in this digital age. Expect some mind-blowing insights that will challenge your understanding of the corporate world. [00:15:23] Analog vs. Digital Learning: The Wrong Question Here's where we tackle the much-debated topic of analog vs. digital learning, and come to a surprising agreement. This section will make you rethink how you approach learning in your organization, and perhaps even in your personal life. [00:28:12] The Pace of Change: Not Keeping Up, but Choosing Where to Focus We talk about the unprecedented speed of change, and how the key to navigating it isn't keeping up, but strategically choosing where to focus. This segment is sure to resonate with anyone who's ever felt overwhelmed by the pace of the modern world. [00:40:54] The Transformation: A Necessity, Not an Option Shaunak and I discuss the urgent need for transformation in companies and how it impacts various roles, from L&D leaders to CEOs to VPs of Sales and Marketing. This part is a must-listen for anyone in a leadership position. [00:53:22] The Exciting Opportunity for Talent Leaders We end on a high note, reflecting on the unique opportunities that this environment of change presents for talent leaders. Listen in to get inspired about the incredible difference you can make in your organization. [01:05:33] Reflection and Takeaways In the final minutes, we wrap up our conversation with some personal reflections and key takeaways. You won't want to miss the nuggets of wisdom we've gleaned from our deep dive into the future of L&D.

Are you ready to revolutionize your approach to HR and People Strategy? In this eye-opening conversation, I had the pleasure of discussing the power of skills in today's fast-paced business world with Kristy McCann Flynn from SkillCycle who has worked with some of the most innovative companies out there. We dove deep into the crucial role HR plays in shaping a company's culture, retaining top talent, and driving growth. Throughout our talk, we explored how an effective talent strategy can create a highly motivated and skilled workforce, unlocking the true potential of your employees. We shared real-life examples of innovative approaches to programs and connected them to the emerging trends that are shaping the future of the industry. But that's not all! We also tackled the challenges that HR professionals face in this ever-changing landscape and offered actionable insights on how to stay ahead of the curve. From developing a growth mindset and fostering psychological safety to embracing technology and continuous learning, we covered it all. If you're passionate about creating a thriving workplace, fostering collaboration, and maximizing the potential of your team, this conversation is a must-watch! So, grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and join me on this exciting journey to unlock the secrets of skills in today's business world. You won't want to miss it! Show Notes: 05:23 - Unleashing the Power of Skills Discover the true impact of Skills on employee performance, engagement, and company growth. Learn how the right strategy can transform your organization. 16:14 - The Role of Psychological Safety in L&D Understand the importance of creating a safe and supportive learning environment for your employees, and how it can lead to breakthroughs in innovation and collaboration. 27:45 - The Future of HR: New Trends and Technologies Dive into the latest trends and tech that are shaping the world of HR, and how they can help your company stay competitive and agile. 38:59 - Designing programs for Maximum Impact Get insights into crafting programs that resonate with your employees, providing them with the skills and mindset they need to thrive in their roles. 49:24 - Overcoming Challenges in a Rapidly Changing World Explore the hurdles HR professionals face in adapting to the evolving landscape, and how to navigate them with confidence and foresight. 56:00 - Actionable Tips for Implementing a Successful Strategy Practical advice on how to put your plans into action and create a culture of continuous learning and growth within your organization.

In this episode, David James and I explore the future of learning and development. We unpack the role of technology in the ever-evolving landscape of L&D, from traditional learning management systems to new collaborative platforms that promote engagement and interaction. We also dive into the importance of aligning cultural and technical elements when transitioning into new roles or skills, and the impact of generative AI on the field. This conversation challenged me to rethink my own approach to learning and development and consider how I can better support the teams I work with. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in staying ahead of the curve in the fast-paced world of L&D. Don't miss out on the insights and ideas shared in this thought-provoking discussion. Show Notes: 05:50: Addressing burnout and mental health - Discuss the importance of prioritizing employee wellbeing and how organizations can support their employees in managing burnout and mental health. 17:35: The value of collaborative learning - Discuss the limitations of traditional learning models and the benefits of collaborative learning in improving engagement, retention, and performance. 26:40: The role of AI in learning and development - Discuss the potential impact of generative AI on the future of learning and development and how it can be used to create more personalized and effective learning experiences. 42:15: The importance of accountability in learning and development - Discuss the need for learning and development to hold themselves accountable for the effectiveness of their programs and the impact on the organization's performance. 50:10: The role of learning tech in supporting workforce transitions - Discuss how learning technology can be used to support employees through periods of change and transition, and the importance of aligning technical solutions with cultural change.

Are you ready to transform how you think about blending technology and people in the workplace? In this conversation, Justin Lake from Skyfull and I explore the power of empathy and human-centric approaches to work and digital transformation. We'll unpack how prioritizing the employee experience leads to better outcomes for both employees and businesses. The data is clear but we'll unpack stories about companies that harnessed digital tech to gain insights into improving the right employees work behavior, ultimately boosting their performance and satisfaction. We also highlight how personalized learning experiences that empower employees to excel in their roles. But wait, there's more! Find out how investing in technology that supports employees' well-being and mental health can have a profound impact on their lives, while also improving business performance. It's time to challenge the false dichotomy between focusing on people or performance, and embrace a new way of thinking that benefits everyone. This conversation is packed with insights, stories, and practical advice for anyone interested in the future of work, learning, and technology. If you've ever struggled with balancing the needs of your employees with the goals of your organization, you won't want to miss this episode. So, hit play, and let's reimagine the possibilities together! Timestamps: The Importance of Human-centric Technology (08:34) Delve into the significance of focusing on the human aspect when designing technology and its impact on performance and user experience. Empathy and the User Experience (14:52) Learn about the importance of empathy in creating user-centered learning experiences and why it's a game-changer for employee satisfaction. Personalizing Learning through Data (27:18) Discover how leveraging data can provide tailored learning experiences, empowering employees to improve and grow in their roles. Harnessing Mobile Technology for Better Insights (37:45) Hear an intriguing anecdote about a company that used mobile tech to optimize employee training, improving performance and productivity. The False Dichotomy between People and Performance (53:27) Address the common misconception that organizations must choose between focusing on people or performance, emphasizing that the two are interconnected and can benefit each other. The Burden of Change (57:31) Discuss the burden of change employees face in both their work and personal lives and how organizations can help ease the adoption of new technology and processes.

You know what's fascinating? Digital academies. They're fast, dynamic, and impactful, and if you're not using them, you're missing out. I just had a fantastic conversation with someone who gets it. We talked about how digital academies can help you solve tough business problems and shift your company's thinking. We dove into how to get started, the importance of finding a tough business problem, and why marketers make such a tough audience for learning content. We even touched on the beauty of making iterations, and why certainty only happens in reverse. If you're looking for a way to take your learning and development to the next level, this is it. You won't want to miss this episode; it's packed with great insights and actionable advice. So, give it a listen and let me know what you think. Show Notes: [00:03:00] - The Benefits of Digital Academies: Matt explains why digital academies are an effective way to upskill employees and the advantages they offer compared to traditional training methods. [00:14:30] - Overcoming Challenges with Digital Learning: Matt discusses the challenges companies may face when implementing digital learning and how to overcome them. [00:28:15] - Developing a Learning Culture: Matt explains the importance of creating a learning culture in organizations and the role that leadership plays in this process. [00:36:45] - Measuring the Success of Digital Learning: Matt discusses the various metrics companies can use to measure the success of their digital learning programs and the importance of aligning those metrics with business objectives. [00:45:00] - Designing Effective Learning Content: Matt shares his insights on what makes for effective learning content and how companies can create engaging and impactful digital learning experiences. [00:53:00] - Iterative Learning: Matt explains the benefits of iterative learning and how it allows organizations to adapt and evolve their training programs based on feedback and results. [01:00:30] - Starting with a Tough Business Problem: Matt offers advice on how to get started with digital learning by identifying a real business problem that is connected to a defined audience, and how to approach that problem with a learning mindset.

In this podcast, I'll dive into the topic of advanced AI and the risks and ethical concerns that come with it. Now, before you run off thinking that I'm completely against it, hear me out. I truly believe that this technology has the potential to do so much good, but we need to approach it with wisdom and discernment. You see, the pace of change is moving so quickly that it's easy for people to blindly cling to AI without thinking through the potential consequences. On the flip side, others may avoid it altogether, which isn't necessarily the best approach either. We need to find a balance. I'll discuss tangible ways to mitigate the risks of advanced AI while still leveraging its potential, like building jobs for the future, not just for today, and prioritizing digital acumen. As a learning leader, it's crucial to prepare the workforce and prioritize critical thinking skills. And for parents out there, don't wait for your kids to get into a mess - have conversations with them now about the risks and benefits of advanced AI. So, while there are certainly risks and ethical concerns to consider with advanced AI, I'm cautiously optimistic about its potential. Let's work together to use this technology for good while being mindful of the potential consequences. I hope this episode challenges your thinking and encourages you to approach advanced AI with a human-centered perspective. Show Notes Introduction (0:00) The powerful potential of AI technology and the need for caution in its use. Environmental Risks (3:57) The environmental impact of AI's energy consumption and how it can exacerbate climate change. The importance of considering the environmental impact of AI development and use, and mitigating these risks. Well-being Risks (11:57) The risks to mental health and well-being from overreliance on AI technology. The importance of using AI in a way that promotes well-being and mental health, and not relying too heavily on it. Diversity and Equity Risks (19:43) The potential for AI to perpetuate or worsen existing biases and inequalities. The importance of designing and using AI in a way that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion. Societal & Workplace Readiness (29:40) The need for society and workplaces to be prepared for the changes and challenges brought about by AI. The importance of thinking ahead and building jobs and skills for the future, rather than just the present. Conclusion (37:00) The importance of using AI technology with wisdom and discernment, and being aware of the risks involved. The need for everyone to be part of the conversation and be involved in finding solutions, rather than avoiding or blindly accepting the changes brought about by AI. #AdvancedAI #AIRisks #EthicalAI #TechEthics #HumanCenteredAI

Are you ready to unlock the future of active learning at scale? In this thought-provoking conversation with Kyle Jackson, CEO and Co-Founder of Talespin, I dive into the limitless potential of Virtual Reality (VR) in transforming the way we learn, teach, and grow as professionals. Throughout the discussion, we unravel the misconceptions around VR, emphasizing that it's more than just headsets. We explore how cutting-edge technology can revolutionize learning experiences, transcending traditional limitations and reshaping the way we develop our workforce. By examining the core principles behind active learning and the intricacies of VR applications, we'll challenge the status quo and show you why businesses must embrace these innovative approaches to stay ahead of the curve. As we venture into the realm of prediction and evaluation, we'll uncover the massive potential of VR in quantifying learning impact and delivering tangible business value. Not only will you gain insights into how to approach VR as an investment, but you'll also discover how the right mindset and strategic partnerships can lead to game-changing outcomes. This conversation will make you question everything you thought you knew about VR and active learning. It's a must-watch for anyone looking to revolutionize their learning strategy and unlock their organization's full potential. Don't miss out on this eye-opening journey into the future of learning – you won't be the same after watching this episode! Show Notes: Dissecting the World of Virtual Reality (00:02:15) Dive into the origins and nuances of VR, dispelling common myths, and understanding its true potential in revolutionizing learning experiences. The Power of Active Learning & VR Synergy (00:12:43) Discover the core principles of active learning and explore how combining it with VR can create immersive, transformative educational experiences. Evaluating ROI and Measuring Learning Impact (00:23:07) Unveil the incredible potential of VR in quantifying learning outcomes and delivering tangible business value that justifies the investment. Overcoming Barriers to Adopting VR in Learning (00:34:52) Discuss the challenges organizations face when implementing VR, and learn how to overcome them with the right mindset and strategic partnerships. Real-world VR Success Stories (00:45:28) Get inspired by groundbreaking case studies of organizations that have harnessed the power of VR in learning, and witness the transformative results. Vision for the Future of VR and Active Learning (00:52:47) Look ahead at the exciting future of VR, how it will continue to reshape the way we learn, and the long-lasting impact it will have on businesses and society.

Join me in bonus episode where I'll dive into the world of Generative Artificial Intelligence and how it can be used as a powerful tool to enhance critical thinking, adaptability, empathy, and communication skills. I'll share practical strategies and tactics for leveraging generative AI to become distinctly more human and better equipped for success in the rapidly changing world. Show Notes: Critical Thinking and Decision Making [03:29] How generative AI can help enhance your critical thinking skills Using AI to evaluate your own thought process and decision-making Getting feedback from AI to make better decisions Adaptability [11:10] The importance of adaptability in the face of rapid change Using AI to practice situational adaptability Simulating scenarios to test your adaptability skills and learn from AI-generated outcomes Empathy [15:17] The crucial role of empathy in human interactions Utilizing AI to improve your ability to understand others' emotions and perspectives Practicing empathy with AI-generated prompts Communication [00:22:41] The challenges of effective communication in an ever-changing landscape How generative AI can help improve your writing and communication skills The importance of critically thinking about your inputs and outputs when using AI for communication Conclusion As you reflect on all this, it's important to emphasize that the combination of AI and human skills is a powerful force. AI should be used as a tool to enhance your abilities which requires you to bring your unique creativity and humanity to the table.