Talent Talks
Talent Talks explores the rapidly changing world of work, focusing on L&D, HR, and the evolving challenges professionals face. Hosted by TalentLMS, the podcast features expert insights on AI, people-first mindsets, and the future of learning. Each episode offers a space to pause, learn, and unlearn what L&D can look like today.
Episodes
35. Skills Visibility: Why Capability Is Now a Business Metric with Shannon Tipton
Why do most companies lack real skills visibility even after investing heavily in training? In this episode, learning strategist and skills-mapping expert Shannon Tipton joins us to explore why most organizations still can't connect the skills they're building to the outcomes they need. We dig into where skills mapping falls apart in practice — from onboarding and internal mobility to the metrics
34. The Manager Multiplier: Bringing Development Into the Flow of Work with Al Dea
Why do so many managers feel unprepared to develop their teams when it's a core part of their role? In this episode, we sit down with leadership expert Al Dea to explore why managers are the missing link in developing talent and how we can equip them to make sure learning happens organically in the flow of work. From simple practices like "bullpen" sessions to building a culture of everyday develo
33. The L&D subtraction strategy: Why simplification wins with Lavinia Mehedintu
What if the biggest problem in L&D right now isn't a lack of learning but too much of it? In this episode we chat to Lavinia Mehedintu, co-founder of Offbeat, to explore why more content doesn't always lead to better performance. From challenging the "content creation factory" model to making the case for saying no, we unpack what it really takes to simplify learning without losing impact. Along t
32. Solving the Training Impact Mystery with "L&D Detective" Kevin M. Yates
In this episode, we sit down with self-described "L&D Detective" Kevin M. Yates to uncover what it really takes to prove the impact of learning. We explore why traditional L&D metrics only tell part of the story, how to design training around business performance, and why L&D professionals need to think like performance consultants rather than order takers. Kevin also shares practical questions th
31. AI in L&D: Beyond the Buzzwords and Gimmicks with Donald Taylor
In this episode, we talk to Donald Taylor, one of the most influential voices in global L&D and a long-time authority at the intersection of learning and technology. From the dangers of the "AI efficiency trap" to why L&D teams need to move beyond being a content house, we explore where AI genuinely adds value, where it creates risk, and how learning leaders can stay relevant as expectations shift
30. L&D in 2026: Learning Debt, AI, and Transformation with David Kelly
As work continues to transform, L&D in 2026 is being forced to rethink how it supports people on the job. In this episode, we sit down with David Kelly - longtime industry analyst and influential L&D thinker - to dig into our Annual TalentLMS Benchmark Report. We unpack why learning debt is rising, why legacy L&D models are breaking under modern work demands, how AI should raise the ceiling of hum
29. Quiet Cracking: The Hidden Crisis in the Workplace with Lia Garvin
You've heard of Quiet Quitting—but what about Quiet Cracking? We talk to leadership expert Lia Garvin about the growing number of employees who are still showing up but quietly coming undone. Drawing on data from the TalentLMS survey that coined the term, we explore what's driving this pressure — from AI disruption to economic instability — and how companies can respond. Plus, Lia shares practica
28. Knowledge mapping: Surfacing employee strengths with Julia Phelan
What if your team's most valuable skills aren't written down and the people who have them don't even realize it? In this episode, learning strategist Julia Phelan joins us to unpack knowledge mapping — a practical way to uncover hidden employee skills. Learn how mapping your organization's knowledge can streamline onboarding, open avenues for internal mobility and create a more transparent company
27. Lean L&D: Maximum Impact, Minimum Resources with Michelle Parry-Slater
When resources are tight but the demand for learning is high, strategy matters more than spend. In this episode, we're joined by Michelle Parry-Slater, author of The L&D Practitioner's Handbook and Director at Kairos modern learning. We explore how L&D teams can build learning programs that actually drive business results. By focusing on context over content, building relationships through 'strate
26. Onboarding Beyond Compliance: Designing Moments That Matter with Amin Fard
Most onboarding processes focus on paperwork over people. Amin Fard, CEO at Preppio and co-author of The Onboarding Playbook, explains how to design backward from "wow" moments that turn new hires into company advocates. We explore why hybrid onboarding can outperform in-person, measuring what actually matters, and creating connection from day one. We also draw insights from TalentLMS's latest onb
25. Why We Don't Learn at Work: The Psychology Behind Great Training with Julie Dirksen
Why do so many workplace training programs fail to drive real change? In this episode, we sit down with Julie Dirksen, Learning and Design Consultant and author of Talk to the Elephant, to explore why people often can't learn or struggle to apply what they've learned. We unpack the psychology of behavior change and dig into what makes instructional design truly effective — from the role of social
24. Turning Change Into Opportunity: Keeping Employees Engaged, with Rob Catalano of WorkTango
How do you keep employees engaged when everything's in flux? Rob Catalano, Co-Founder and Chief Engagement Officer at WorkTango, joins us to unpack the secrets behind effective employee engagement — especially during times of change. Drawing on original Organizational Change research from TalentLMS x WorkTango, we explore how L&D can steady the ship, why communication is your best retention tool,
23. The future of workplace training in 2025, with human capital management strategist, Brent Skinner
The future of workplace training is here — so how can L&D pros prep for new challenges on the horizon? Brent Skinner, future of work expert, joins us to reveal what to expect in the new year and beyond. Informed by the past, we'll explore learning in the flow of work, how to unify silos, and why in the age of breakneck technology, age-old human skills are more in demand than ever. Bonus: key insig
22. What most leaders get wrong—and how to do it right, with Neena Newberry
What's the secret that separates an accidental manager from an inspiring leader who uplifts the workplace? We sit down with trailblazing former Deloitte Exec and Leadership Coach, Neena Newberry, to unravel the biggest myths holding future leaders back—and how to avoid falling into the same traps. Discover why more training isn't always the answer, how to deliver feedback that lands, and what busi
21. L&D Stories from the Field with Training Trailblazers Kim Bellini and Randy Schumacher
Excessive employee turnover, looming deadlines, and tight budgets. Common business challenges that great L&D programs can tame. In this special episode, we hear first-hand from training trailblazers Kim Bellini and Randy Schumacher, both TalentLMS Training Excellence Awards recipients. We cover the unique ways that L&D can be your business' biggest champion, learn their secrets to an effective tra
20. Supercharging your workplace learning culture with Andy Lancaster, Chief Learning Officer and author.
A strong learning culture fuels knowledge sharing and personal development. But how? Andy Lancaster, CLO of Reimagine People Development and award-winning author, helps us uncover the path to creating a workplace where employees are inspired to own their growth journey. Plus: from NASA to killer whales, we look at the power of community learning and how it will transform today's workplaces. For
19. The building blocks of reskilling employees, with Boston Consulting Group MD, Sagar Goel
Is reskilling the solution to the rapid decline in skill longevity? If so, how can both organizations and employees flip negative mindsets to ones of curiosity and optimism? Boston Consulting Group MD, Sagar Goel, reveals his strategies to combat a progressive skill deficit and win the game of talent. Plus: Goel gives SMBs his top tips to keep their employees' skills current. For further resourc
18. Mastering a growth mindset and cultivating it in your workforce, with Nikhil Arora
How can we escape the fear of failure and celebrate experimentation rather than just the result? In this episode, Nikhil Arora, shares his tips on how to commit to a growth mindset in both personal and professional life. He opens up about the importance of depersonalizing failure and why he thinks vulnerability is an essential leadership quality. We also learn what organizations can do to keep a c
17. Training in the world of the hybrid workplace with Gary Cookson
Are we witnessing the end of in-person training in real time? And why is the best learning content similar to the conversations we have with our friends? Gary Cookson, L&D expert, author, and consultant, joins us to answer these questions and more. We dive into what training in the hybrid workplace means for L&D pros, the importance of building social ties into learning, and why the model calls fo
16. The benefits of a multigenerational workforce, with Dr. Eliza Filby
Is the secret to embracing business change an all-age workforce? And what are the skills that Gen Z need to outpace AI? We get the answers with generational expert, historian, and business advisor, Dr. Eliza Filby. Plus, we talk declining attention spans and their effect on training, whether age-based stereotypes hold any truth, and why we need to rehumanize ourselves at work. For further resour
15. Making L&D a business priority with Dr. Keith Keating
How can L&D overcome the 3 biggest challenges facing companies today? Why is L&D failing to get approval from the C-suite? Dr. Keith Keating, the award-winning author of "The Trusted Learning Advisor" joins us to answer these questions. Plus, we cover how to create a culture where L&D's value isn't just a number and the critical importance of positioning yourself one step ahead of tech trends. F
14. Hiring from within: The abundant talent that's under your nose with HR expert, Edie Goldberg
What's the number one strategy to tap into existing skills—without spending on outside help? And are you overlooking internal talent? Edie Goldberg, consultant to Fortune 500 companies, HR expert, and author of The Inside Gig, joins us to share some insightful truths about the world of internal mobility. Together we cover what goes into creating successful pathways for your people and how open-min
13. Hitting the mark: How to create top-tier training with L&D consultant, Dr. Heidi Kirby
What are the 5 key elements of relevant training? And what's the 1 training metric that could lose L&D pros their jobs? In this episode we invite L&D consultant, Instructional Designer, and fellow podcaster, Dr.Heidi Kirby to share her experience and give us actionable advice on course creation. Plus, Heidi reveals why training should be on point, not just on trend, and, surprisingly, why sometime
12. The evolution of eLearning with AI strategist, Stella Lee
What does the surge of generative AI mean for the future of L&D? And how will the roles of L&D pros be reimagined in response? Season two of 'Keep it Simple' kicks off with Director of Paradox Learning, AI strategist, and eLearning expert, Stella Lee. Together with Lee, we'll unpack why picking the right AI tools is like shopping for a car and reveal the dos and don'ts of upskilling an AI-literate
11. Unlocking Gen Z's full potential in the workplace with generational expert, Mark Perna
What are the biggest truths and misconceptions about Gen Z in the workforce? How can managers adapt their leadership style to play to the strengths and weaknesses of the next generation? In this episode, we talk to Forbes contributor, author, and generational expert, Mark Perna. We examine how businesses can make the most out of a multi-generational workforce, why Gen Z is the 'benchmark' generati
10. The Power Skills to Future-proof Your Teams with Dr. Michelle Weise
What are the three power skills every professional needs for the future? How do the human skills employees build in their personal lives benefit the workplace? Educational expert and author Dr. Michelle Weise explains how rapid technological innovation is demanding a change in the way we approach learning and work. Together, we'll cover how we can prepare for jobs that don't even exist yet, why th
9. Defining and Decoding Company Culture with Dr. André Martin
What is company culture? Is it ping-pong tables and perks? Is it the values we talk about internally? Or is it the way the company works "on a random Tuesday in October"? With experience at Disney, Nike, and Google, Talent Exec André Martin joins the discussion. Join us and find out why authenticity and intention lie at the heart of a consistent culture. Plus: simple tools you can implement when i
8. Reclaiming Control of Our Digital Lives with Digital Wellness Expert, Amy Blankson
Can we get smarter with the devices we always have with us? And, do workplaces have the responsibility to help their employees become more intentional with the technology they use? This episode sees us discuss taking back control of our digital lives. Alongside author, consultant, and CEO of the Digital Wellness Institute, Amy Blankson, we'll cover the simple strategies that can make our tech habi
7. Empathy and Inclusivity in the Workplace with Dr. Poornima Luthra
What does it mean for an organization to be truly inclusive? How can you confront biases and become an active ally without causing conflict? We sit down with Dr. Poornima Luthra, an author, academic, educator, and consultant. Her latest book "Leading Through Bias" challenges businesses to shift their mindsets toward inclusion. From the hiring process to the c-suite to the lunch room, we look at wa
6. Preparing for the AI-powered workplace with OpenDialog AI co-founder, Ronald Ashri
What's on the horizon beyond ChatGPT? How can you prepare for AI-led digital transformation? We sit down with Ronald Ashri to discuss everything from employee privacy to rethinking how teams are trained and emerging new AI-related roles (prompt engineers?!). He's the man behind OpenDialog AI and the prophetic 2019 book 'The AI-Powered Workplace' published just before the explosive evolution we've
5. Navigating non-linear career paths with veteran Talent Exec, Rusty Rueff
What can a jack of many trades bring to the table? Join us as we explore why 'squiggly line' careers are great news for both employees and employers. Alongside Rusty Rueff, who boasts experience under Obama, at Pepsi-Co, and as Glassdoor Board Director, we're explaining what companies stand to gain from letting employees grow in a non-linear direction, instead of waving goodbye. Plus: Why matching
4. Design Thinking in the Workplace with Innovation Strategist Karen Hold
Can Design Thinking open the gateway to workplace innovation? Is empathy the thread that unravels the tangle of creative problem-solving? And can visual thinking bridge communication gaps between colleagues? Meet Karen Hold, co-author of "Experiencing Design: The Innovator's Journey" and the driving force behind Experience Labs, the consulting firm trusted by Deloitte, TikTok and Audi. Together,
3. Power Up Training: Interactive Content Design with Gamification Guru Karl Kapp
How can we make sure employees are active and engaged during training? It's time to elevate our learning game. We talk with Karl Kapp, Gamification and Instructional Design expert, professor at Bloomsburg University, and TEDx speaker. Karl reveals the secrets behind crafting effective, meaningful, and interactive content design for businesses big and small. From storytelling to escape rooms, get r
2. Squads, Scrums & Spotify with Agile Coach Henrik Kniberg
How can autonomous squads and agile principles unleash the potential of our teams and help businesses scale? We chat to Henrik Kniberg, the coder-turned-consultant, who's helped coach teams at Minecraft, Lego and Spotify. Henrik talks through the concepts of squads and scrums, taking us behind the scenes of Spotify's early days when the start-up dared to implement agile strategies at scale. We als
1. Defying Distance Using Distributed Teams with the "Oracle of Remote Work" Darren Murph
How can managers make sure their remote teams don't just survive, but thrive? We sit down with Darren Murph who's been preaching the benefits of borderless offices for almost two decades, earning him the moniker; the 'Oracle of Remote Work'. He's even proven the skeptics wrong by helping GitLab become the first fully remote company to go public, authoring their pioneering Remote Work Playbook. Tog
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