The Talent Development Hot Seat podcast - The Top podcast for L&D Professionals

In this episode, host Andy Storch welcomes Julie Rodda, SVP and Head of Culture and People at iRhythm Technologies, to the Talent Development Hot Seat Podcast. Julie’s career path is a compelling story of curiosity, adaptability, and embracing unexpected opportunities—starting as an organizational psychologist, moving through consulting and internal talent development leadership roles, and ultimately stepping up to lead all of HR at a fast-growing medical technology company.Together, Andy and Julie explore what it really means to pivot from being a specialist in talent development to overseeing the entire people function, especially in an environment of rapid organizational growth and change. Julie candidly shares her personal uncertainties about taking on the head of HR role, how she navigated steep learning curves—working with the board, tackling executive compensation, and more—and why her passion for creating real impact fueled her willingness to say “yes” to new challenges.The conversation digs deep into the nuts and bolts of scaling culture and leadership development while doubling organizational size and offshoring critical functions. Julie lays out practical strategies for listening-driven culture transformation, rolling out new company values, and activating them across a remote and global workforce. She also discusses building foundational leadership development programs that bring managers together virtually from around the world, and how iRhythm measures the retention impact of these investments.Whether you’re an L&D practitioner aspiring to broader HR leadership, wrestling with engagement survey strategy, or leading change in a global, distributed company, this episode is packed with useful tactics, reflections, and framework-level thinking. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to enable both business success and human growth during times of transformation.In this episode, Julie shares:How she transitioned from an organizational psychologist and strictly talent-focused leader to head of HR role, including the emotional “identity shift” and the importance of embracing new challenges as learning opportunities.What she’s learned from years of engagement survey work, including why action—rather than just listening—is the real differentiator for building trust and culture.The story of orchestrating a company-wide culture transformation at iRhythm: resetting core values, designing a focused activation campaign, and weaving values into hiring, recognition, and performance management—even across a largely remote workforce.Lessons and hurdles from leading HR at a public company, like managing executive compensation and navigating board relationships, plus real talk about lessons learned when public “say on pay” votes don’t go as planned.How to successfully integrate offshore teams, foster inclusivity across continents and time zones, and develop leaders to thrive in a matrixed environment—supported by targeted education on leading dispersed teams.The design and measurable impact of iRhythm’s “Ignite” leadership development program, which blends virtual, cohort-based learning for new and mid-level managers and is already showing significant retention benefits.Foundational work in career development, such as implementing quarterly check-ins, leveraging HR tech nudges, and building job architecture frameworks from the ground up to support employee progression in a scaling company.Julie also opens up about the challenges and opportunities emerging from rapid tech advances, especially AI, and the sometimes-daunting realities of keeping pace with new tools and the practicalities of implementation in partnership with IT.This episode is a must-listen for anyone leading people strategy in dynamic, high-growth environments, or considering making the leap from specialist to enterprise HR leader. Julie’s journey offers honest insights, confidence-building advice, and actionable blueprints for building cultures of learning, inclusion, and meaningful growth.Tune in for practical lessons, inspiration, and an empowering reminder: your career may not follow the path you imagined—and that’s often where the most meaningful opportunities await.Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this content are my own and do not necessarily represent the views of iRhythm Technologies.Connect with Andy Storch here:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Connect with Julie Rodda here:LinkedIn

In this episode, host Andy Storch sits down with Fabio Sacoman, Vice President of Learning and Development at Expedia Group. Fabio’s journey into the world of learning and talent development is anything but typical—starting as a chemical engineer in Brazil, working at General Electric, and then spending 18 years building a successful consultancy before making the leap to lead L&D at a global powerhouse like Expedia.Together, Andy and Fabio dive deep into what it takes to build a thriving learning culture across a global organization, the importance of leadership development, and why authentic, people-first leadership is at the core of cultural transformation. Fabio also unpacks his approach to aligning L&D with business strategy, balancing formal and informal learning, and designing programs that resonate across diverse cultures and regions.Whether you’re managing talent development for a multinational company or looking to uplevel your own approach to learning and leadership, this conversation is jam-packed with insights, stories, and practical advice. Tune in as we explore what it really means to grow people—and businesses—through passion, clarity, and a focus on real impact.In this episode, Fabio uncovers:How a career that began as a chemical engineer in Brazil informed his systematic, process-minded approach to learning—and why passion has always been the through-line guiding his journey.The pivotal decision to leave his own thriving consultancy after 18 successful years to take on the global L&D leadership challenge at Expedia—with all the mindset shifts and opportunities that entailed.The real secrets to effective facilitation and learning design: why it’s not about the instructor’s expertise, but about driving audience impact, changing mindsets, and shifting behaviors that last beyond the session.Strategies for building a genuine learning culture—including the importance of involving everyone (from top leaders to every employee), and embedding learning into daily actions, rituals, and company processes beyond isolated programs.Fabio’s leadership philosophy, grounded in leader accountability, clarity, and authenticity—and why leaders teaching other leaders and sharing human conversations are at the heart of sustainable impact.Practical, creative approaches to talent mobility and career development, nurturing opportunities for growth, and ensuring that every person owns their career journey—regardless of titles or promotions.Fabio also shares his point of view on today’s biggest challenges—like the rapid rise of AI and the evolving role of L&D as a vital part of the business (not just HR). He sheds light on how Expedia is experimenting with AI in learning and day-to-day work, plus how these innovations are transforming onboarding and ongoing development.This conversation, recorded for the Talent Development Hot Seat Podcast, is jam-packed with actionable insights—from the nuts and bolts of global program design to leadership accountability, learning measurement, and the nuances of fostering true culture change. Fabio’s story is a masterclass in strategic L&D for high-impact, high-growth environments.Tune in for practical takeaways, fresh frameworks, and inspiration on how learning and leadership can drive results, empower talent, and knit together organizations with purpose—no matter how complex or far-flung they may be.Connect with Andy Storch here:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Connect with Fabio Sacoman here:LinkedIn

Stacey Porter, Chief People Officer at Procept BioRobotics, is a seasoned expert in HR and talent development. She shares her innovative approach to culture as a product, emphasizing empowerment over mere hiring. Discussion highlights include the '1% better' growth mindset and Procept’s leadership program, 'Spark,' which fosters collaboration and skills among managers. Stacey also reveals creative strategies for internal mobility and nurturing workplace community, inspiring lasting engagement even in fast-growing tech environments.

Today, Andy sits down with Simmer Singh, a seasoned HR leader with extensive experience spanning Fortune 500 companies across the globe. This episode dives deep into workplace culture and the concept of cultural intelligence. Simmer shares; Her journey of rebuilding her career in a new culture as an immigrantUnique insights into diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The power of cultural intelligence, how it differs from emotional intelligence, and its vital role in today's global workplace. Her thoughts on the evolving landscape of workplace culture post-pandemic, emphasizing the importance of authentic leadership and creating a culture of trust and open communication. Whether you're navigating cultural transitions, leading diverse teams, or looking to enhance your workplace environment, this episode is packed with valuable insights for talent development professionals. With a rich HR leadership background in Fortune 500 companies, Simmer has navigated complex cultural challenges and spearheaded global transformation projects. Her expertise spans cultural transformation and organizational development, having supported diverse teams across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas.As a Certified Global Leadership Coach, consultant, and speaker, Simmer empowers diverse leaders and organizations to thrive by fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, enhancing cultural intelligence, and shaping organizational culture. She works closely with clients to engage stakeholders, explore challenges thoughtfully, and deliver actionable solutions tailored to their unique contexts.As an immigrant who had to rebuild her career in a completely different culture, Simmer deeply understands the unique challenges faced by those navigating unfamiliar environments while holding onto their cultural values and is passionate about supporting immigrant moms from diverse backgrounds.Connect with Andy Storch here:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Connect with Simmer Singh here:LinkedInThanks to our sponsor, Learnit, you can get a free 45-day trial to help your people build more skills that drive success Learn more here.

Today we're diving deep into one of our most popular and timeless topics: measuring impact in talent development. Many organizations still grapple with proving the tangible effects of their learning and training programs, which is crucial for securing funding, gaining support, and becoming strategic partners within companies.Our guest, Kevin M. Yates, known fondly as the L&D Detective, joins us once again to:Share his wisdom and experience in surfacing the true value of learning initiatives in organizational success. Share his journey from aspirational ideas to actionable strategiesDiscuss importance of using business metrics over surveysExplore how training, learning, and other contributors collectively drive performance within the workplace ecosystem.Although this conversation was originally recorded during a community call within our Talent Development Think Tank Community, it's packed with fresh insights, including Kevin's updated L&D Detective kit.Kevin is not just an expert in learning and development, but he also has a heart for impact through his non-profit organization, Meals in the Meantime, which provides nourishing meals to those in need. Stay tuned for a discussion that promises both practical advice and inspiration to elevate your talent development strategies!Connect with Andy Storch here:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Connect with Kevin M Yates here:LinkedInThanks to our sponsor, Learnit, you can get a free 45-day trial to help your people build more skills that drive success Learn more here.Mentioned in this episode:Learnit prerollVisit learnit.com/andy to start your free 45-day trial of their Team Pass which includes unlimited classes for up to 20 people. It's a no brainer!

In this episode, we sit down with Charlotte Evans, the Director of Global Customer Advocacy at Coursera for Business. Charlotte brings a wealth of expertise in the realm of talent development, focusing on how organizations can drive transformation through upskilling and reskilling initiatives. Together, they explore;The burgeoning trend of skills-based learningThe pivotal role of AI as both a disruptor and an enabler in the workplace. Charlotte's insights on the top skills in demand, derived from data on 5 million Coursera learners.How organizations like yours can align learning strategies with business outcomes. Dive into this episode to uncover the latest trends in AI, talent mobility, and more, as you gear up to stay ahead in the fast-evolving world of talent development.As Director, Global Customer Advocacy, Coursera for Business, Charlotte Evans collaborates with leading organizations to drive workforce transformation through upskilling and reskilling initiatives. Her focus is advising companies across industries on unlocking their potential by aligning learning strategies with measurable business outcomes. She is passionate about highlighting customer achievements to inspire action, build trust, and foster long-term partnerships.Her career began in student services in Asia, and her commitment to global education access was cemented while at Harvard Graduate School of Education where she received an Ed.M. in International Education Policy. Since joining Coursera in 2019, she has been proud to create meaningful opportunities for individuals to find opportunity and thrive in a rapidly evolving world.Connect with Andy Storch here:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Connect with Charlotte Evans here:LinkedInJob Skills Report 2025 / CourseraThis episode is sponsored by Learnit, the #1 place for live facilitated programs to elevate individual and organizational growth. Learn more. Mentioned in this episode:Learnit prerollVisit learnit.com/andy to start your free 45-day trial of their Team Pass which includes unlimited classes for up to 20 people. It's a no brainer!

Today, we are diving into an intriguing topic that is at the forefront of many minds in the talent development sphere: AI transformation in the workplace. Our episode features a keynote session by Charlotte Evans from Coursera, who serves as the Director of Global Customer Advocacy, specializing in workforce transformation through upskilling and reskilling.In this episode, originally recorded at the Talent Development Think Tank Conference back in November, Charlotte takes us through;A rapidly evolving landscape where AI is not just a buzzword, but a critical tool for future workforce readinessThe unprecedented speed at which AI tools like ChatGPT have reached global adoption Her insights on how talent development professionals can harness AI for productivity gains.The challenges of integrating AI smoothly into business models, emphasizing the importance of aligning L&D strategies with measurable outcomes, as well as maintaining a growth mindset in the face of rapid technological advancements.Join us as we explore these topics and prepare to elevate your understanding of AI's role in talent development. Whether you are part of L&D, HR, or another area keen on leveraging AI, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will help you navigate the AI transformation journey. Stay tuned for our full interview with Charlotte next week, where we will delve deeper into current skills trends and what they mean for the future of learning. Connect with Andy Storch here:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Connect with Charlotte Evans here:LinkedInCoursera 2025 Job Skills ReportThanks to our sponsor, Learnit, you can get a free 45-day trial to help your people build more skills that drive success Learn more. Mentioned in this episode:Learnit prerollVisit learnit.com/andy to start your free 45-day trial of their Team Pass which includes unlimited classes for up to 20 people. It's a no brainer!

In this bonus Q&A with Ash Panjwani, she shares:Her proudest moment and biggest failure in her career so farA trend that she is following in Talent Development right nowThe biggest challenge she sees in Talent Development todayBooks that have made a big impact on her lifeOne piece of career advice she has for youAsh Panjwani's journey began with a clear vision at an unusually young age. At just 16, while immersed in an AP Psychology course, Ash discovered a fascination with interpersonal dynamics and business operations. Growing up in a family with a small business owner father and a marketing executive mother, Ash was constantly surrounded by discussions about people, management, and workplace interactions. These daily conversations piqued Ash's interest in how these elements influenced business environments, sparking a lifelong passion for understanding the human aspect of business, even before fully grasping what the business world entailed.Connect with Andy Storch here:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Connect with Ash Panjwani here:LinkedInThanks to our sponsor, Learnit, you can get a free 45-day trial to help your people build more skills that drive success Learn more here.Mentioned in this episode:Learnit prerollVisit learnit.com/andy to start your free 45-day trial of their Team Pass which includes unlimited classes for up to 20 people. It's a no brainer!

Today we're thrilled to feature Ash Panjwani, the Head of Talent Development at Procore. Ash brings her wealth of experience from companies like Twilio and VMware to share;Her transformative approach to leadership developmentHer unique Define, Drive, and Develop frameworkHow the framework aligns leadership expectations to build ecosystems that nurture leaders on a large scaleWhether you're a talent development pro, a leader, or someone keen on organizational growth, this episode is loaded with actionable insights. Don't miss out on learning how Ash and her team are revolutionizing talent and leadership development. Tune in and elevate your understanding and capabilities within your organization!Ash Panjwani's journey began with a clear vision at an unusually young age. At just 16, while immersed in an AP Psychology course, Ash discovered a fascination with interpersonal dynamics and business operations. Growing up in a family with a small business owner father and a marketing executive mother, Ash was constantly surrounded by discussions about people, management, and workplace interactions. These daily conversations piqued Ash's interest in how these elements influenced business environments, sparking a lifelong passion for understanding the human aspect of business, even before fully grasping what the business world entailed.Connect with Andy Storch here:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Connect with Ash Panjwani here:LinkedInThanks to our sponsor, Learnit, you can get a free 45-day trial to help your people build more skills that drive success Learn more here.Mentioned in this episode:Learnit prerollVisit learnit.com/andy to start your free 45-day trial of their Team Pass which includes unlimited classes for up to 20 people. It's a no brainer!

Today's episode welcomes Arno Pepperkoorn, the Chief Talent Officer at Omnicom Media Group in the Netherlands, for an insightful conversation on constructing a robust learning academy. With a wealth of experience in media and creative industries, Arno & Andy discuss;The challenges and triumphs of building the HUME Academy, a one-year program designed to develop human media and professional skills for new employees. How this innovative academy addresses critical topics such as diversity, inclusivity, mental health, and leadership, while also providing Practical insights into the global working culture, specifically comparing Dutch, US, and UK approaches. If you're looking to enhance your talent development strategies and cultivate a more inclusive work environment, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Join us as we delve into creating meaningful and effective learning experiences for the future.Arno Peperkoorn is a prominent figure in the media and creative industries, currently serving as the Chief Talent Officer at Omnicom Media Group in the Netherlands. He is recognized for his commitment to advancing diversity and inclusivity in the workplace and beyond. Peperkoorn is also the co-founder of Include Now, a foundation that advocates for creating inclusive environments and celebrates diverse perspectives.His work emphasizes amplifying individual strengths and fostering respect for diversity in professional spaces. He frequently speaks at global events, including the Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS), where he shares his insights on inclusivity and media’s role in promoting equity and Black excellenceFinally, and what is most relevant to our discussion today, Arno has built and run an in-house learning academy at OMG called the Hume Academy, short for “Human Media” that is a 1-year program for new employees to develop human, media, and professional skills.Connect with Andy Storch here:WebsiteLinkedInJoin us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!Connect with Arno Peperkoorn here:LinkedInMentioned in this episode:Learnit prerollVisit learnit.com/andy to start your free 45-day trial of their Team Pass which includes unlimited classes for up to 20 people. It's a no brainer!