Learning Uncut

In this episode of Learning Uncut, Michelle Ockers and co-host Laura Overton are joined by Lisa Christensen, Director of Learning at McKinsey, to explore the organisation's innovative approach to enhancing feedback skills. Lisa introduces the Receive to Grow program, a targeted initiative designed to help employees build the skill of receiving feedback effectively - a critical competency in McKinsey's fast-paced and high-performance culture. Lisa delves into McKinsey's broader feedback surge strategy, discussing how cross-functional collaboration, data-driven insights, and behavioural science have shaped this impactful initiative. Discover how simple, actionable learning techniques and a holistic talent strategy are transforming feedback practices at scale. Host: Michelle Ockers Transcript and related resources: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/163/ Podcast information and more episodes: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/

Michelle Ockers is joined by Dr. Cathryn Lloyd, founder of Maverick Minds, to explore how L&D professionals can shift their thinking and support others to shift their thinking. Cathryn shares how her own experiences of personal and professional transformation led to her work in helping individuals and organisations think differently. They discuss why shifting thinking is crucial for L&D professionals who are responsible for supporting learning, change, and capability-building in their organisations. Cathryn introduces practical tools and insights from her book on storytelling and creativity. Hosted by Michelle Ockers  Transcript and related resources: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/elevate-40/  Podcast information and more episodes: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/

Catherine Sharpe, a Capability Specialist at Blackmores, and Mark Eggers from Yarno, discuss their award-winning approach to enhancing financial acumen through gamification and microlearning. They reveal how their collaboration transformed training across Blackmores’ diverse workforce in 13 Asia-Pacific markets. Key topics include leveraging learner-centered design, utilizing quick quizzes for engagement, and tackling financial gaps through strategic insights. Their innovative methods effectively increased participation and learning outcomes, revolutionizing the approach to e-learning.

In this episode of Learning Uncut, Millie Law discusses a highly successful blended learning initiative at ANZ Bank that won the 2024 AITD award for best blended learning solution. The program focused on developing business development capabilities among home lending specialists. The solution combined self-paced learning, peer workshops, and practical application, with strong support from internal coaches. Through careful performance consulting, collaboration and a focus on mindset shifts, the program achieved sustained 20-25% improvements in key business metrics. Host: Michelle Ockers Transcript and related resources: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/161/ Podcast information and more episodes: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/

In this special episode of Learning Uncut, Michelle Ockers presents an AI playbook for Learning and Development professionals. Drawing from conversations with industry practitioners throughout 2024, she distills key principles and practices for implementing AI effectively in L&D. The episode explores how organizations can move beyond the hype to create real value with AI, offering practical guidance whether you're just starting your AI journey or looking to scale existing initiatives. A reflection and discussion guide is available in the show notes to help teams apply these insights in their own context. Host: Michelle Ockers Transcript and related resources: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/160/ Podcast information and more episodes: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/

In this special end-of-year episode, Michelle Ockers and Chemène Sinson reflect on the key themes explored in the 2024 Learning Uncut podcast episodes and connect them to broader trends and conversations in L&D. This year’s standout themes include moving from talk to action with AI, adopting skills-based approaches, fostering community and collaboration, and driving real behaviour change. Underpinning it all is the vital interplay between humanity and technology. From stories of professional growth to global learning insights, this episode offers rich inspiration as we step into 2025. Join the discussion on LinkedIn—find the episode post on Michelle’s profile and share your thoughts! Host: Michelle Ockers Transcript and related resources: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/159/ Podcast information and more episodes: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/  

This episode of Learning Uncut offers a rare ‘before and after’ look at the design, execution, and outcomes of a workplace learning campaign. Michelle Ockers speaks with Matthew Murray, VP of Digital Learning, and Sydney Cannon, Senior Manager of Learning Engagement at Bain & Company, about their October Skills Boost campaign. The episode starts by exploring exploration their low-resource, email-driven approach to fostering self-directed learning among functional professionals. Seven weeks later, they return to share candid reflections on the campaign's outcomes, unexpected challenges, and key lessons learned. Packed with insights this discussion is a must-listen for learning for learning professionals looking to experiment to encourage self-directed learning in their organisations. Host: Michelle Ockers Transcript and related resources: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/158/  Podcast information and more episodes: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/

In this discussion, Adrian Manning, a steward of the Australian Public Service Academy's learning community, and Adam Le Nevez, who focuses on learning evaluation, share insights on fostering collaboration among L&D teams across over 100 agencies. They tackle the challenges of building capabilities in a decentralized system with a large workforce. The conversation emphasizes creating a safe space for practitioners to connect, share best practices, and evolve organically. They also highlight the importance of community-led initiatives for effective professional development.

Cameron Hedrick, Chief Learning Officer at Citi, shares his expertise on skills portfolio management and its transformative impact on workforce planning. He discusses the shift from traditional job roles to viewing skills as organizational assets, emphasizing the need for dynamic skills taxonomies. Cameron delves into challenges of scaling skills management within large organizations, offering practical strategies for starting small and building towards effective implementation. He also highlights the critical role of data and visualization in navigating skills inventory.

In this episode of Learning Uncut, Michelle Ockers is joined by Brad Hodge, health innovator and educator at La Trobe University, to explore the role of generative AI in modern education, particularly in the rural health sector. Brad shares his journey in health innovation and how he is using AI, including chatbots, to enhance student support, drive behavior change, and foster innovation. They delve into the challenges of rural healthcare education, the potential of AI to impact learning outcomes, and how educators can harness the power of AI tools to better prepare students for real-world settings. This episode provides practical insights for educators, L&D professionals, and innovators looking to embrace AI in learning. Host: Michelle Ockers Transcript and related resources: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/155/ Podcast information and more episodes: https://learninguncut.global/podcast/