Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders

The future of leadership and development is rapidly evolving, with a growing emphasis on experiential learning, mindfulness and mentorship. Renny Bloch, Director of Global Learning and Leadership Development COE at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., joins us to discuss these trends, share his journey and offer insights from over twenty years in the field. Renny explores the importance of psychological safety in creating effective learning environments and the increasing role of emotional intelligence in leadership. He also predicts a shift towards more personalized, on-demand learning experiences, offering valuable lessons for those navigating the future of leadership and L&D.Key Takeaways:(02:04) Renny discusses his role in fostering leadership development at Regeneron.(07:50) The importance of psychological safety in learning environments and its role in growth and innovation.(09:15) How mindfulness and meditation practices are becoming integral to leadership, enhancing presence and emotional intelligence.(10:37) A predicted trend towards personalized, on-demand learning experiences tailored to individual leadership needs.(12:19) The increasing complexity of multigenerational workforces with a focus on cultivating emotional and social awareness across generations.(14:51) The value of mentorship and how organic relationships can profoundly impact career and personal growth.(19:01) Basic leadership skills such as active listening and trust-building are crucial yet often overlooked areas in leadership development.(23:03) The importance of vulnerability in leadership, and how being authentic and open can build stronger connections and trust within teams.Resources Mentioned:Renny Bloch - https://www.linkedin.com/in/renny-bloch-7362174/“Emotional Intelligence” by Daniel Goleman - https://www.danielgoleman.info/books/“Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown - https://brenebrown.com/hubs/dare-to-lead/“Flawless Consulting” by Peter Block - https://www.peterblock.com/books/flawless-consulting-a-guide-to-getting-your-expertise-used-3rd-edition-enhanced-ebook/“Daily Stoic” by Ryan Holiday - https://dailystoic.com/Thanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

On this episode, we’re joined by Roger Petho, Director of Talent Management at Kyndryl. Roger discusses his journey into talent management, the significant influence of technology on HR practices and the importance of business acumen in driving successful talent strategies.Key Takeaways:(02:55) Roger shares his early interest in psychology and how it led him to a career in talent management.(04:58) The impact of technology on talent management, including the use of AI and machine learning to enhance HR processes.(07:07) The challenges posed by the current macroeconomic environment and the increased scrutiny on delivering tangible value in HR.(08:59) The value of mentorship in career development. Roger reflects on his 20-year relationship with his mentor.(13:41) The importance of business acumen in talent management and why HR professionals must understand the business to develop effective solutions.(15:30) Embracing change and ambiguity as essential skills in today’s fast-paced corporate environment.(16:10) The necessity of staying current with industry trends and continuously learning to adapt to new challenges.Resources Mentioned:Roger Petho - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerpetho/Kyndryl - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyndryl/Harvard Business Review - https://hbr.orgJosh Bersin - https://joshbersin.comThanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

In this episode, we welcome Danielle Willinger, Senior Manager of Instructional Design at GALLO. Danielle talks about her journey in learning and development, the evolution of instructional design and the future of the industry, particularly the impact of AI and agile methodologies.Key Takeaways:(01:33) Danielle’s background in L&D and her experience across various industries.(03:39) The shift from a linear ADDIE model to Agile Learning Development. (05:35) The growing impact of AI on L&D, especially in content development and process automation.(06:56) The importance of upskilling in L&D to adapt to evolving technologies and learning methods. (10:26) How managing ambiguity is a crucial skill for success in the L&D space.(15:05) The importance of continuous self-improvement for leadership success. (16:45) Balancing personal and professional life as a female leader in L&D.Resources Mentioned:Danielle Willinger - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-willinger-83442476/GALLO - https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatgallo/"Lean In" by Sheryl Sandberg- https://leanin.org/bookThanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

In this episode, Kevin Farrell, Director of Learning Experience Design of US Retail Markets at Liberty Mutual Insurance, joins us to talk about his journey into learning and development, the evolving role of data and AI in the field and the future of L&D.Key Takeaways:(01:33) Transitioning from the business side to L&D at Fidelity Investments.(04:18) Being drawn to L&D by natural ability and opportunity.(05:24) The importance of liking people in the L&D industry.(05:36) Significant changes in L&D, particularly in the role of data.(07:50) The potential of AI to democratize executive-level coaching.(09:22) Kevin envisions hyper-realistic simulations enhancing training.(10:55) Real-time, dynamic support in the workplace driven by AI.(13:37) The necessity of clean data for effective AI implementation.(16:07) Essential skills for future L&D professionals, focusing on adaptability.(19:23) The impact mentors had on Kevin’s career.(23:00) He recommends “Make It Stick” for those aspiring to be learning leaders. Resources Mentioned:Kevin Farrell - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-c-farrell/Liberty Mutual Insurance - https://www.linkedin.com/company/liberty-mutual-insurance/“Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning” - https://www.audible.com/pd/Make-It-Stick-Audiobook/B00M0EO7EYThanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

In this episode, Christopher McCormick, Senior Director of Talent, Development and Inclusion at Gilead Sciences. Christopher discusses his journey from theater to talent management, the impact of the pandemic on learning and development and the future of personalized employee experiences with AI.Key Takeaways:(01:27) Introduction to Christopher and his role at Gilead Sciences.(02:42) The importance of balancing business, company and employee needs.(03:24) How his background in theater influenced his career in corporate training.(07:21) The pandemic’s impact on traditional learning development programs and the shift to virtual formats.(12:12) The future of personalized employee experiences and the role of AI.(18:01) Finding skilled data scientists who can turn data into actionable insights is challenging.(23:22) Understanding the business is crucial for an effective L&D leader.(25:16) Recommends “Flawless Consulting” by Peter Block for anyone in a consulting role.(26:40) Seeking mentors and being proactive in professional development is vital.Resources Mentioned:Christopher McCormick - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-mccormick-sfb/Gilead Sciences - https://www.linkedin.com/company/gilead-sciences/Talent Development Think Tank - https://tdtt.usI4CP (Institute for Corporate Productivity) - https://www.i4cp.comFierce Pharma - https://www.fiercepharma.comGartner - https://www.gartner.com/McKinsey - https://www.mckinsey.comThanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

In this episode, Suneeta Mishra, Senior Director of Learning and OD at Equifax, joins us to talk about her extensive career in L&D, discussing significant changes, the future of L&D and the role of AI.Key Takeaways:(02:30) Suneeta’s journey from HR generalist to L&D professional and her passion for skill development.(03:44) Suneeta’s passion for creating learning cultures that nurture a growth mindset.(04:05) The impact of digital transformation and blended learning platforms on L&D.(06:12) The shift to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic and the role of AI in future learning.(07:16) Suneeta predicts AI will revolutionize learning by making it more personalized.(08:49) The growing importance of right-brain skills like critical thinking and storytelling.(13:36) The value of people and networking for industry news.(15:39) Book recommendations: “Hidden Potential” by Adam Grant and “Brave New Words” by Salman Khan.Resources Mentioned:Suneeta Mishra - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneetamishra/Equifax - https://www.linkedin.com/company/equifax/“Hidden Potential” by Adam Grant - https://adamgrant.net/book/hidden-potential/“Brave New Words” by Salman Khan - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/740806/brave-new-words-by-salman-khan/Thanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

In this episode, Tammy Vetter, Assistant Vice President of Learning and Organizational Effectiveness of MedStar Health, touches on the significant contributions to leadership development and organizational effectiveness, discussing the transformative impact of AI and the importance of human-centered leadership.Key Takeaways:(01:27) Leadership development and the rollout of a new platform for 3,800 leaders. (02:28) The upcoming launch of a new mentoring platform and physician development work. (04:26) Tammy’s passion for learning and the impact of helping individuals reach their potential. (06:36) The staggering prediction that 70% of business activities will be automated by 2030. (10:58) Replace communication with connection, especially in leadership. (14:17) Skill development is vital to retain talent. (17:09) Partnering with other functions shares the cost and risk of piloting new technologies. (19:23) Allow teams time for serendipity and relationship-building. (20:15) Finding project managers who can handle large-scale projects and scope creep is challenging. (22:48) Defining success at the start of a project is crucial.Resources Mentioned:Tammy Vetter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammy-vetter-sphr-shrm-scp-2b0b052/MedStar Health - https://www.linkedin.com/company/medstar-health/McKinsey & Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/mckinsey/ATD (Association for Talent Development) - https://www.td.orgHarvard Business Review - https://hbr.orgThanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

On this episode, Jennifer Padilla-Lewis, Senior Director, Learning Portfolio of Infor, discusses her journey in the learning and development sector, evolving methodologies in corporate education and the transformative impact of technology on learning delivery.Key Takeaways:(01:40) Infor's focus on industry-specific solutions. (02:01) Jennifer’s team curates a prescriptive learning journey across hundreds of products and various platforms. (03:05) The shift to modular, blended and asynchronous learning due to advancements in technology and the attention economy. (04:03) Jennifer shares her passion for improving processes and her accidental entry into the L&D field. (06:06) The biggest changes in L&D include transitioning from instructor-led experiences to more flexible, technology-driven methods. (08:29) The potential impact of AI on content creation, translation capabilities, and adaptive learning. (10:12) The importance of finding strategic thinkers who can guide stakeholders and offer creative learning solutions. (12:09) Jennifer's go-to sources for staying informed about industry trends and news. (14:08) Book recommendations for aspiring learning leaders, emphasizing practical guidance for new roles.Resources Mentioned:Jennifer Padilla-Lewis - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpadillalewis/Infor - https://www.linkedin.com/company/infor/Simon Sinek (author) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpadillalewis/Brené Brown (author) - https://brenebrown.com/Adam Grant (author) - https://www.adamgrant.net/Thanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

On this episode, Brandy Ford, AVP and Manager of Strategic Learning and Projects and Analytics at FM Global, joins us to share her journey in the Learning and Development space, her passion for education and her insights into the evolving landscape of corporate training and analytics.Key Takeaways:(00:00) The critical importance of analytics in L&D and the challenge of integrating business language with learning methodologies.(01:22) Brandy’s role and her background in L&D spanning 19 years.(03:13) Brandy’s passion for education, influenced by her family's history of educators and preachers.(05:01) Significant recent shifts in L&D, particularly the move towards digital and remote learning platforms.(07:44) Predictions for the future of L&D: personalized learning paths, greater technology integration and data-driven strategies.(11:40) Importance of building social and collaborative learning communities within organizations.(13:46) Brandy's most impactful mentor at FM Global and the crucial role of mentorship in career advancement.(15:39) The challenge of finding skilled professionals in analytics and project management with an L&D background.(17:32) Recommended resources and books for aspiring L&D leaders.Resources Mentioned:Brandy Ford - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandy-m-ford-pmp-cptm-crp-55738090/FM Global - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fm-global/ ATD (Association for Talent Development) - https://www.td.orgTraining Magazine - https://trainingmag.comThe Trusted Learning Advisor | L&D Practitioner's Guide - https://www.thetrustedlearningadvisor.com/The Business Case for Learning – ROI Institute - https://roiinstitute.net/product/business-case-learning/Thanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

In this episode, Maryna Melnik, Head of Learning and Development at DataArt, joins us to discuss her deliberate career path in L&D, the transformative impact of AI and future trends in corporate education.Key Takeaways:(01:25) Maryna’s career journey from schoolteacher to L&D leader.(05:31) The significant impact of GenAI on L&D processes and automation.(07:45) The importance of speed and adaptability in the corporate world.(09:16) The growing need for AI-savvy leaders and instructional designers.(10:21) Future trends: AI in learning, nano learning and skills-based approaches.(13:36) The importance of well-being and belonging post-pandemic.(15:18) If given a larger budget, Maryna would prioritize team building and expanding the team.(20:07) Maryna talks about the global distribution of her team.(27:36) Networking and continuous learning as key sources of industry knowledge.Resources Mentioned:Maryna Melnik - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryna-melnik/DataArt - https://www.linkedin.com/company/dataart/LinkedIn Learning - https://www.linkedin.com/learning/McKinsey - https://www.mckinsey.comCoursera - https://www.coursera.org#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

Clarissa Mitchell, Director of Talent Management of Edmentum joins us to share her extensive experience in talent management, focusing on creating environments that foster success and development. With a rich background in nurturing high-potential programs, Clarissa emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and leadership in career progression.Key Takeaways:(01:37) Clarissa introduces her role and responsibilities in nurturing talent health and culture at Edmentum​​.(05:49) The impact of career frameworks in providing clear career paths and transparency for employees​​.(10:08) The shift towards a skills-based approach in hiring, moving away from traditional title-focused recruitment​​.(13:37) The changing landscape of work and the diminishing relevance of traditional job ladders in favor of skill development and flexible career paths​​.(16:48) Integrated Human Capital Management systems to enhance learning and development efficiencies​​.(20:01) The significance of one-on-one coaching and mentorship in leadership development programs​​.(23:06) Resources for staying informed on L&D trends, including HR Executive and Talent Edge​​.(27:14) The role of learning and development in aligning talent with organizational needs, enhancing the trajectory of companies​​.Resources Mentioned:Clarissa Mitchell - https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarissa-mitchell-7761371/Edmentum - https://www.linkedin.com/company/edmentum/"The Talent Advantage" by Jeff Lupinacci - https://www.amazon.sg/Talent-Advantage-Story-Journey-Discover/dp/B0D6B4NFN7Thanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

On this episode, Tally Butler, Director of Learning at Mars Veterinary Health, shares her thoughts on the evolving landscape of learning and development within the rapidly changing business environment. She explores the critical role of L&D in facilitating business transformations, adapting to global workforce demands, and the essential skills needed for modern L&D professionals.Key Takeaways:(01:04) Tally introduces her role and mission at Mars Veterinary Health.(04:57) Importance of L&D in keeping pace with rapid business changes.(07:30) The increasing necessity for data and analytics in L&D to demonstrate value.(08:05) Predictions for future trends in L&D, including the role of AI and rapid content development.(11:24) Challenges in finding L&D professionals with a comprehensive skill set.(13:47) Potential impacts of a significantly increased budget in L&D.(16:12) Sources for industry news and staying updated in the field.(17:53) Tally’s book recommendations for someone wanting to move into learning leadership.Resources Mentioned:Tally Butler - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tally-butler/Mars Veterinary Health - https://www.linkedin.com/company/mars-veterinary-health/LinkedIn Learning - https://about.linkedin.com/coronavirus-resource-hub/online-courses“Irresistible” by Josh Bersin - https://irresistible.work“Design Thinking for Training and Development” by Sharon Boller and Laura Fletcher - https://www.td.org/books/design-thinking-for-training-and-developmentThanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

On this episode, John Jordan, Learning and Development Manager of Sendero, shares his approaches to empowering consultants within the rapidly advancing world of learning and development. He explores the significance of human-centered design, agile methodologies and leadership coaching, illustrating how these strategies enhance professional growth and adaptation.Key Takeaways:(01:51) The joys of leading a diverse team and empowering consultants to excel in their challenging roles.(02:51) John shares his journey from learner to leader, emphasizing the transition from academia to practical application in L&D.(05:59) A shift towards human-centered design in L&D, focusing on the needs and pain points of learners.(07:25) The application of agile methodologies in developing training programs that are closely aligned with learner feedback.(10:20) Blending traditional classroom learning with modern, interactive methods to meet diverse learner needs.(14:58) The emerging trend of leadership coaching to unlock potential and encourage independent problem-solving skills.(19:18) The changing landscape of learning preferences among professionals and the decline in traditional educational paths.(27:47) For insights on building trust and proving ROI, "The Trusted Learning Advisor" by Dr. Keith Keating is recommended to anyone moving into L&D leadership.Resources Mentioned:John Jordan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjordan05/Sendero - https://www.linkedin.com/company/sendero/The Trusted Learning Advisor by Dr. Keith Keating - https://www.thetrustedlearningadvisor.com/#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

On this episode, Dan Collier, Senior Director of Talent and Leadership Development at Suffolk Construction, shares his journey from the printing industry to spearheading talent development initiatives that integrate cutting-edge technologies like VR, AR and AI.Key Takeaways:(01:45) Dan discusses his transition from printing to leadership and talent development.(04:04) The biggest changes in learning and development over recent years, including the shift to microlearning and immersive tech.(06:10) Future directions for L&D, blending technology with traditional methods.(09:54) Why Dan would prioritize building a dedicated learning center at Suffolk's Boston headquarters to enhance in-person training.(12:02) The difficulty of sourcing talent passionate about classroom instruction.(13:20) The potential of transitioning school teachers into corporate trainers.(17:11) Dan’s recommendations for books on L&D leadershipResources Mentioned:Dan Collier - https://www.linkedin.com/in/djcollier/Suffolk Construction - https://www.linkedin.com/company/suffolk-construction/Association for Talent Development (ATD) - https://www.td.org/Training Industry Magazine - https://trainingindustry.com/magazine/LinkedIn Learning - https://www.linkedin.com/learningThanks for listening to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

On this episode, host Leigh Anne Lankford is joined by Michael Lux, Senior Director: Customer Education, Certification, Documentation and Training Services of Procore Technologies. They delve into Michael's extensive experience in the learning and development sector, exploring pivotal changes and future trends in corporate education, particularly the transformative impact of AI and digital tools.Key Takeaways:(01:32) Michael shares his extensive background in L&D, emphasizing his passion for education.(03:49) The evolution from computer-based training to modern e-learning and the impact of DVD technology.(05:02) Michael highlights the significant changes in L&D, particularly the role of AI in automating content creation.(06:23) Future directions for L&D, including content as a service and the importance of micro, tailored content delivery.(08:43) Michael outlines his vision for scaling operations with a hypothetical tenfold budget increase at Procore.(11:48) The critical role and challenges of content strategy and program management in learning environments.(13:57) Michael shares his go-to resources for staying informed in the L&D industry.(15:27) Book recommendations for aspiring learning leaders, highlighting "How People Learn" by Nick Shackleton-Jones.Resources Mentioned:Michael Lux - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lux-6a9690/Procore Technologies - https://www.linkedin.com/company/procore-technologies/“How People Learn” by Nick Shackleton-Jones - https://www.amazon.com/How-People-Learn-Designing-Performance/dp/0749484705The Content Wrangler - https://www.thecontentwrangler.com/#LearningDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LandD #LeadershipTraining

Welcome to Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders — the podcast where we learn from leading minds in the L&D space.Each week, we’ll dive into the details of what it takes to thrive in learning and development, as guests from different corporate contexts and sectors share their expertise and experience.If you’re dedicated to staying on top of optimized growth, transformative industry technologies and all things training, then this is the show for you!