The L&D Challenges Podcast

In the second podcast episode recorded at the Learning Futures event by iVentiv, Adam chats with Charles Jennings, Sina Melder, Leon Jacob about embracing collaboration and different learning cultures to foster learning development. Topics include: Demonstrating value to the organisation through L&D with Charles JenningsAI beyond content creation with Sina MelderTransforming soft skills into leadership skills with Leon JacobCharles Jennings is a prominent figure in workplace learning and performance, co-founding the 70:20:10 Institute and pioneering the 70:20:10 model for learning and development. With experience as a Chief Learning Officer, author, and consultant, he has transformed organizational learning strategies globally. Sina Melder is the Senior Global Organisation Development Manager at chocolate brand Lindt & Sprüngli. With extensive experience in digital learning and organisational development from her previous roles at PepsiCo and Procter & Gamble, she focuses on creating impactful global learning experiences. Leon Jacob, Director of People Experience at Medbase Gruppe, is transforming HR into a cohesive, digital-first team focused on employee experience. He is developing a robust Learning & Development function with innovative leadership programs and cross-functional learning initiatives in the healthcare sector.Thank you to our Sponsor iVentiv for supporting the L&D Challenges podcast.iVentiv is the market leader in events for Global Heads of Learning and Talent. You can join an iVentiv Executive Knowledge Exchange in cities around the world, hosted by businesses including Novartis, Visa, Metlife, ASML, Microsoft, Bosch, and Axa. Find out more:Heads of Learning: iVentiv.com/eventsLearning providers: iVentiv.com/sponsorsLooking for a content library to help your team develop their productivity, communication, leadership skills and more? Check out assembleyou.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

In this special podcast episode, Adam interviews Sam Zalcman of ST Microelectronics, Priyakumar Nair of Roche, and Peter Fischer of HEC Paris at the Learning Futures event in Basel, Switzerland, hosted by iVentiv.Adam dives into data-driven decision-making, personalisation, and measuring impact to enhance learner engagement with Sam Zalcman, Priyakumar Nair, and Peter Fischer. Topics include:Leveraging data to shape L&D decisions with Sam ZalcmanUsing data to help learners maximize their time with Priyakumar NairPersonalising training through AI with Peter FischerSam Zalcman is the Global Head of Learning and Leadership Development at STMicroelectronics. A leader in workforce transformation, Sam brings experience from Deloitte Switzerland in talent strategy and from Philip Morris International, where he built a culture of learning and agility. Priyakumar Nair, Head of Global Learning Services at pharmaceutical company Roche, focuses on impactful learning solutions that help employees thrive. With over 25 years in HR services, he has driven transformative initiatives in HR digitalization, shared services, and governance.Marketing professor Peter Fischer researches AI’s potential for positive social impact at HEC Paris. Peter aims to improve decision-making and address global issues like polarisation and short-termism through his work. His recent research explores creativity in analytics and AI's role in marketing, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge in these areas.Peter’s Academic profile: https://www.hec.edu/en/faculty-research/faculty-directory/faculty-member/fischer-petermathias Thank you to our Sponsor iVentiv for supporting the L&D Challenges podcast.iVentiv is the market leader in events for Global Heads of Learning and Talent. You can join an iVentiv Executive Knowledge Exchange in cities around the world, hosted by businesses including Novartis, Visa, Metlife, ASML, Microsoft, Bosch, and Axa. Find out more:Heads of Learning: iVentiv.com/eventsLearning providers: iVentiv.com/sponsorsLooking for a content library to help your team develop their productivity, communication, leadership skills and more? Check out assembleyou.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

This episode features Ket Patel, the founder of Change Agitators and a Change Management Institute Accredited Master Change Practitioner. With over 20 years of experience helping organisations as they scale, grow and modernise, Ket chats with Adam on how to support others through change and how to not be victim to organisational change. Adam and Ket discuss how to build the capacity to handle these shifts and confront change head-on. They’ll explore tools to reframe the problem, creating the space needed to engage teams authentically and lean into the conflict of change. This is where the path to a nimble, adaptable organisation begins. Note: This episode is taken from a recorded webinar. You can watch the full webinar here: [Insert link to AY website with webinar on it] Connect with Ket on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ketpatel-changeagitator/Looking for a content library to help your team develop their productivity, communication, leadership skills and more? Check out assembleyou.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

In this excellent interview, Adam sits down with John Hinchliffe of Emirates NBD.John is a digital learning expert recognised as a Top 30 thought leader in the eLearning Industry in 2022 and 2023 and was the youngest recipient of the LPI Colin Corder award for outstanding contribution to learning. John is the Digital Learning Experience Manager at the banking group Emirates NBD. John founded the Global Learning and Development Community, which now boasts over 2,000 members and has recently launched LD MENA, an L&D focused network supporting the MENA region.In this episode, John talks Adam through how to grow and manage an L&D Community. John covers the highs and lows of organisation a community of likeminded individuals, including:Practical tips to grow your own communityHow to lead with enthusiasm Finding your structure to facilitate real connectionsTrusting the process when growing a network from scratchJohn gives practical advice on how to build and manage learning communities and highlights the common challenges of growing and maintaining these networks. If you are looking to build your own network, this is a must-listen-to episode. Connect with John on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-hinchliffe-yourskillshub/ And check out LD MENA: ldmena.com. Looking for a content library to help your team develop their productivity, communication, leadership skills and more? Check out assembleyou.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

In this fantastic episode, Adam chats with Wali Rahman of the Forestry Commission. Wali is the Diversity and Wellbeing Manager at the Forestry Commission, with over 18 years of experience in higher education, Local Government, and the Civil Service. Wali has pioneered diversity initiatives, including Wiltshire’s first Prevent Officer role and diversity training for over 700 individuals across multiple sectors. He co-founded a community group that successfully campaigned against extremism, recently graduated from the Stepping Up Diversity Leadership programme, and, in 2023, was recognised as one of the Top 50 most influential Muslims in Europe.In this episode, Wali and Adam discuss: Data-driven diversity and inclusionMaintaining a growth mindset in DEI How to embed DEI and well-being practices across your organisationReciprocal mentoringWali provides excellent insights  into the landscape of DEI today and provides practical tips into managing well-being and being an advocate for diversity in your organisation. If you’re looking to bolster inclusion in your own community, this is the episode for you. Connect with Wali on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walirahman/Looking for a content library to help your team develop their productivity, communication, leadership skills and more? Check out assembleyou.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

In this great episode, Adam chats with Neil Cunningham.Neil began his career in acting before transitioning into sales. He then moved from sales to training, where he built an L&D program for new hires. This led him to a career in Learning and Development, where he finds passion in measuring the impact that L&D has on an organisation. Founding Align Learn Do, Neil works to help others build world-class L&D solutions and is on the Board of Directors for The Learning Network.Adam and Neil Discuss: Telling a story with dataMeasuring ROI using data and desire to change AI to support and not replace humansChallenges in measuring soft skills Connect with Neil on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neiljohncunningham/and check out his website Alignlearndo.comYou can purchase Neil's book Narrative and Numbers: Proving L&D’s value in 7 steps on his website Alignlearndo.com. Listeners get 10% off with code challenge10Looking for a content library to help your team develop their productivity, communication, leadership skills and more? Check out assembleyou.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

In this fantastic interview, Adam sits down with Fred Thompson of Thirst. As a seasoned learning and development expert and CEO of Thirst, with over two decades of experience helping businesses create learning environments that level up learner engagement, Fred offers his insights on transforming L&D through skills-led practices. Fred has spearheaded numerous L&D initiatives that have empowered employees to learn and develop in the most intuitive way possible. He also provides invaluable insights into the latest learning technologies and trends to countless organisations looking to turbocharge their learning cultures with game-changing learning platforms.In this episode, Fred and Adam discuss: Transforming into a digital-led organisation Understanding the L&D space and understanding technology in the L&D spaceVision vowels: Analyse, Engage, Implement, Optimise, UniteClear cut ways to implement digital transformation in your businessDeveloping a learner-led culture Connect with Fred on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fred-thompson/ and check out his website: https://fredthompson.co.uk/ and Thirst's website http://Thirst.ioLooking for a content library to help your team develop their productivity, communication, leadership skills and more? Check out assembleyou.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

In this bonus episode, Adam and Ruth explore three of the nine leadership lessons Ruth has drawn from interviewing many CEOs and Managing Directors across the UK: Develop a Clear Intention, Actively Manage Yourself, and Deepen Your Listening Skills. These are lessons which culminated in her book, Next Level Leadership (also an Amazon bestseller).Adam and Ruth look at why these different leadership skills are so important, talk through some stories and lessons from Ruths extensive interviews with CEOs and business leaders, and then examine the lessons we can take from those lessons.Note: This episode is taken from a recorded webinar. You can watch the full webinar here: https://www.assembleyou.com/post/next-level-leadership-with-adam-and-ruthConnect with Ruth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthfarenga/ and purchase her book Next Level Leadership here: https://www.consciousleaders.org.uk/next-level-leadership-bookLooking for a content library to help your team develop their productivity, communication, leadership skills and more? Check out assembleyou.com and follow us on LinkedIn

In this fun interview, Shawn Jensen and Mallory Glessner chat with Adam about their experience at, Trainual, a cloud-based training, onboarding and SOP platform. Mallory is the Manager of Content and Product Marketing at Trainual and currently specialises in process improvement, project management, and fostering positive workplace cultures. Shawn is the Senior Success Coach at Trainual, passionate about creating effective learning environments and coaching individuals and groups in programs, products, business strategies, customer service, team building, and staff development. In their work at Trainual and as co-hosts of their podcast Inside the process, Shawn and Mallory share their insights exploring the best business practices for effective document and creating captivating content.In this episode, Shawn, Mallory, and Adam discuss: How to leave room for creative flair when building and managing your processes.Leveraging AI to create a consistent and efficient onboarding experience. How to ACE training content and policy creation by making it Accessible, Clear, and Engaging.Implementing Instructional design to build and transform content into effective training content.Connect with Shawn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnjensentrainer/Connect with Mallory on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malloryglessner/Their podcast Inside the Process: http://trainual.com/insidetheprocessThe Complete Guide to Process Documentation and Process Improvement (with Templates): https://trainual.com/manual/complete-guide-to-process-documentation-and-process-improvement-templatesHow to Improve a Process: https://trainual.com/template/how-to-improve-a-processHow to Document a Process: https://trainual.com/template/how-to-document-a-processSuper Awesome Training Design: https://trainual-2022-brasshands.webflow.io/webinar/super-awesome-training-designHow to Transform Processes into Engaging Employee Training: https://trainual.com/manual/how-to-transform-processes-into-engaging-employee-trainingLooking for a content library to help your team develop their productivity, communication, leadership skills and more? Check out assembleyou.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

In this brilliant interview, Adam speaks with Matt Jones, Head of Talent at nonbank specialist mortgage lender Pepper Money, responsible for L&D and recruitment. With 20 years of experience as an L&D professional, he champions continuous learning and a people-centric approach to business through his work at Pepper Money and by delivering talks on neurodiversity. Holding a law degree and a PGCE in adult education, Matt is skilled in coaching and helping others develop themselves in soft skills, team building, and identifying creative solutions.In this episode, Adam and Matt discuss:Building a L&D in your organisation from scratch.Providing support and adapting to change.Shifting Learning from a facilitator-led to a learner-led model.Creating reactive and proactive mental health initiatives. Providing personalised support to create future leaders.Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-jones-955989108/

In this exciting interview, Adam speaks with Avinash Chandarana, a learning strategist and proven leader in global workplace learning and performance. He is an innovative and passionate leader in the L&D space. He integrates AI into learning strategies to create personalised learner experiences on a global level. A fellow at the Learning and Performance Institute and current Learning and Development Director for MCI Group, Avinash is pushing the boundaries in L&D to create high-quality learning trajectories using various AI and other technologies. In this episode, Adam and Avinash discuss:Aligning L&D strategy with a wider vision and goal.Integrating technology and decentralising power in L&D.Implementing various branding and marketing methods in L&D initiatives.Adapting to budget constraints and organisational changes.The future of AI in L&D.Connect with Avinash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avinashc/

In this exciting interview, Adam speaks Phil Yetzes, L&D Lead in the Nuclear Business Unit at Morgan Sindall. He is passionate about leadership development and has crafted bespoke programs for senior executives and trained managers in effective communication and change management.In this episode, Adam and Phil discuss: The importance of psychological safety in L&D initiatives. Training the next generation of workers and filling the skills gaps. The benefits of implementing coaching into the workplace. Training people to be brilliant people managers. The challenges of implementing training in a fast growing organisation. Connect with Phil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillyetzes/

Liggy and Adam are back with another webinar from the Future Human series - Leading Future Humans - Unleashing the Potential in Others. Inspired by the Skills for the Future outlined by the World Economic Forum, we'll explore the essential behavioural skills that define tomorrow's leaders. From fostering Resilience to igniting Initiative, we'll equip you with the tools and insights needed to cultivate these critical competencies in yourself and those you lead. Get ready for a dynamic discussion filled with top tips, actionable strategies, and inspiring stories from both the business world and our own careers. Whether you're a seasoned leader or embarking on your leadership journey, this webinar is your gateway to unlocking the full potential of yourself and your team.

In this exciting interview, Adam speaks with Shellie Le Bras, Global Learning and Development Manager at a large international drinks company.She is a passionate advocate for social justice and education and has built her career in L&D on the belief that education drives societal change. With a background in political science and HR, she now leads strategic training initiatives across Europe, Asia, and America.In this episode, Adam and Shellie discuss: Understanding who you're delivering to, and their requirements Recognising cultural differences and adapting to themCollaborating with senior leaders to get buy-in for L&D. The importance of psychological safety in training initiatives. Offer training inside the correct time zones to get maximum engagement.Connect with Shellie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellie-le-bras-hr-learning-and-development/

In this fascinating interview, Adam speaks with Ash Wedderburn, the Learning & Development Manager at GB Railfreight. Ash leads on all things training, learning and development. Previously at Showsec and before that at G4S, Ash has a background in identifying learning needs and developing, launching and managing complex learning initiatives in a variety of organisational environments.In this episode, Adam and Ash discuss:The benefits of a centralised L&D function for GB Railfreight Commercialising L&D for ROIDelving into understanding the link between what employees want to learn and how this matches with the organisations strategic objectives. How the importance of speaking to those who will be doing the training cannot be underestimated. The fact that L&D practitioners will need to do multiple iterations of their plans before getting to something that will benefit the organisation and the employee. The important questions you need to ask when designing a piece of L&D. Connect with Ash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashendenwedderburn/

In this brilliant interview, Adam speaks with Delphine Mourot, Director at HEC, Executive Coach, Teacher, and Author. A HEC graduate, Delphine also holds master's degrees in political science, international law and taxation, and European law. She recently co-authored the book Take the Lead, which is focused on developing female leaders. She now works with C-Suites, Managing Directors and Executive Directors across a variety of international organisations.In this episode, Adam and Delphine discuss:The leadership canvas in her book, Take the Lead, and the 7 C's. How everyone is creative and the links to problem-solving at work. How having women in leadership positions shouldn't be a tick-box exercise and how it can help achieve business goals. The benefits of showing women good role models in business to help with the transition from the school system to the corporate world.Buy Take the Lead. Connect with Delphine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/delphine-mourot-haxaire-007a0811/

In this fascinating interview, Adam speaks with Lars Hyland Managing Director EMEA at Totara Learning. Lars has over 27 years of experience in the design and implementation of large scale learning programs and performance improvement solutions. He's also a conference speaker and a passionate advocate for the positive impact technology has on learning and education.In this episode Adam and Lars discuss:The five key questions to ask to develop your L&D into a learning culture. The importance of L&D being at the table when discussing organisational strategies. How you can help get more employees involved in L&D.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larshyland/Totara Learning: https://www.totara.com/

What we've learned from piloting and launching audio learning in multiple organisations.Assemble You launched in 2022 with a mission to bring podcast-style learning to time-poor, screen-fatigued professionals and frontline workers. Allowing learning to be accessible and consumed at a convenient time for workers.In this session, Adam and Rich, Co-Founders of Assemble You, will take you through:The rationale for audio in L&DHow to make audio learning work in your organisation: We'll examine topics that work well for audio and the type of technology available to facilitate this.The power of audio when delivering sensitive or unfamiliar topics.

In this fascinating interview, Adam speaks with Dr Keith O'Brian, Director of Consulting at Influence at Work, about how to use persuasion and influence at work in a learning and development context.Keith currently leads a team of behavioural scientists to create innovative solutions that change behaviour and achieve organisational objectives. He is an expert in designing persuasive technology to change minds and behaviour, spanning 8+ years in tech and digital products.In this episode, they discuss:The six principles of persuasion from Robert Cialdini.Differences between learning cultures and action cultures in L&D.The need for leadership buy-in and psychological safety when creating a learning culture.Keith gives practical tips on how to use persuasion and influence effectively in L&D. If you are looking to influence, inspire and move others to take action, this is a must-listen-to episode.Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithmobrien/Influence at Work: https://influenceatwork.co.uk/

In this interview, Adam speaks with Ann O'Neill, Co-Founder and CEO of Adora. Adora is a women's health platform that focuses on helping women understand the signs of menopause and providing resources to organisations that support women in this process. Adam and Ann discuss: What the menopause is and the symptoms that can be experienced.Ann's own journey with her GP and what led to the creation of Adora. What organisations, HR, L&D, and men can do to support women going through menopause,Ann also gives some excellent tips throughout the podcast, such as creating a safe space to talk, giving flexible working hours when they're needed, and normalising the topic.Connect with Ann on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annmoneill/https://www.linkedin.com/company/adora-digital-health/BS 30416 Report: https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/insights-and-media/insights/brochures/bs-30416-menstruation-menstrual-health-and-menopause-in-the-workplace/Adora Website: https://www.adora.health/