Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders

On this episode, John Constantine , SVP US Consulting Services, and Orchestrall Care Network (US) of Orchestrall, Inc. , discusses shifts in regulated industries, the power of AI in training delivery and how business partnerships can elevate the impact of learning teams. He also reflects on career-defining mentorship, key skills for L&D professionals and the importance of concise communication...

Nicole Poole-McGill , Senior Vice President, Talent Development of Digitas North America , shares how her team delivers L&D through coaching, consulting and curriculum. She also leads her own coaching practice, Coach Me, Coach, focused on empowering professionals through authenticity. In this conversation, Nicole reflects on how L&D is evolving, the growing impact of coaching and the impor...

On this episode, Joe Leslie , Vice President Global AI, L&D, of Golin , discusses his unconventional journey into L&D, his leadership in AI integration and the evolving role of human skills in an increasingly tech-driven workplace. Joe reflects on how AI is reshaping learning strategies, how performance engineering is becoming the new north star for L&D teams, and why adaptability will...

Dr. Keith Keating , Chief Learning and Development Officer of BDO Canada , joins us to share insights from his decades-long journey in L&D and his new book “Hidden Value: How to Reveal the Impact of Organizational Learning.” With a career that began unexpectedly and evolved into a lifelong calling, Keith reflects on the transformational power of learning, both personally and organizationally....

Geoffrey Roche , Director of Workforce Development (North America) of Siemens Healthineers , shares how his unconventional path through hospital administration, higher education and consulting shaped his L&D philosophy. He discusses how learning functions must become central to organizational strategy, especially in sectors like healthcare, where workforce readiness and culture directly impact...

Rachel Bolton , Advisory Board Member of Corporate Learning Network and Director of Enterprise Leadership Development of Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. , joins us to discuss how coaching, facilitation and scalable programs are reshaping how companies grow leaders. With over two decades in the field, Rachel brings a sharp lens to the shifting needs of modern L&D organizations, the impact of A...

Mat Winer , Senior Director of Learning and Talent Development at Rheem Manufacturing , discusses her approach to building a global, competency-driven leadership development strategy. She outlines how Rheem has revitalized learning initiatives post-pandemic, with a focus on scalable programs for every level of leadership. Mat also examines the evolving role of AI in L&D, the importance of main...

Chantelle Nash , Director of Functional Training and Enablement of BAE Systems, Inc. , shares her approach to evolving corporate learning, the multidisciplinary skills driving change and the increasing intersection of L&D, marketing and technology. With 15 years of experience, Chantelle explores how learning teams can become embedded partners in operational excellence within highly regulated i...

Adolph Escobedo , Sr. Director of Commercial L&D of Vizient, Inc , shares his approach to aligning workforce development with business strategy, drawing from his military background and extensive corporate experience. He discusses the evolving role of L&D in driving performance, the importance of adaptability, and how to position L&D as a shared business responsibility within organizat...

Kimber Hanrahan , Head of Learning and Development of GoDaddy , joins us to share how L&D can evolve by aligning closer to business outcomes while maintaining a people-first mindset. She talks about leveraging AI, promoting experimentation and driving change through inclusive leadership. Drawing on decades of experience across industries, Kimber highlights how running L&D like a business c...

Aria Elsezy-Young , Director of Talent Development of Morgan Properties , joins us to discuss her journey into L&D, the evolving trends in talent development and how organizations can empower employees through competency-based learning and re-skilling initiatives. Key Takeaways: (01:22) Talent development roles often encompass training, leadership development and professional growth initiative...

On this episode, Brian Hughes , Vice President Talent Management of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals , joins us to discuss his role in L&D and organizational development. He shares insights into the evolving landscape of talent management and learning development, highlighting key shifts post-COVID and the increasing importance of corporate learning as a competitive advantage. Key Takeaways:  (01:35)...

In this episode, Eunice Njeru , Director of HR Learning Solutions at Morgan Stanley , speaks about her journey in learning and development, her insights on the evolving role of LMS in organizations and the impact of AI on the future of learning. Key Takeaways: (01:44) Eunice explains her role as a subject-matter expert for Morgan Stanley’s learning management system (LMS). (05:32) How leadership i...

On this episode, Carrie Berg , Vice President of L&D of Teladoc Health , shares her journey from a sales background in the medical device industry to leading global L&D and talent initiatives in healthcare. Soon to earn her doctorate, Carrie reflects on the evolving landscape of L&D, emphasizing the importance of integrating learning strategies early in organizational development to fo...

Dr. Haley Harbaugh , Director of Learning at Bloom Healthcare , joins us to discuss her insights on learning and development trends. She emphasizes the importance of resiliency and adaptability in the evolving L&D landscape. Key Takeaways: (01:43) L&D roles often involve multiple responsibilities, including education, evaluation and talent development. (02:37) Many L&D professionals en...

Terri Maske , Vice President of Client Education at Vyne Dental ®, with over 20 years of experience in learning technologies and customer education, shares insights on selecting, implementing and optimizing a learning management system (LMS).  Key Takeaways: (01:29) Terri shares her background and expertise in customer education, learning technologies and team building. (04:07) Key factors or...

In this episode, Lawrence Price , Vice President of Global People and Culture at Brink’s Inc ., shares insights on organizational development, the evolving landscape of talent development, and the growing need for in-person training to drive behavioral change.  Key Takeaways: (02:10) Lawrence’s background, from his experience in the Army to his transition into the corporate talent development...

In this episode, Topher Olsen , Vice President of Training and Enablement at RealPage , shares his journey from classroom teaching to leading global training teams, offering insights on leveraging AI, creating impactful learning moments and driving performance through innovative L&D strategies.  Key Takeaways: (01:51) A passion for lifelong learning from education to corporate training. (06:...

In this episode, Molly Fields , formerly Senior Director of Learning and Development at Verizon Authorized Retailer, TCC *, and currently Director of Human Resources Information Technology at Willow Bridge Property Company , discusses the power of creativity, personalization and humor in learning experiences and how to leverage technology to enhance L&D. She debunks common misconceptions about...

In this episode, Jennifer Budveit , Senior Director of Talent Development at PVH Corp. , discusses her journey from professional ballerina to a leading role in learning and development. Jennifer shares her insights on creating impactful L&D strategies and the importance of continuous learning. Key Takeaways: (01:46) Jennifer’s role at PVH and her focus on leadership development. (04:21) Profes...

In this episode, Cherie Aplin , Senior Director of Leadership Development at Edwards Lifesciences , highlights the importance of creative problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration skills, data-driven learning, psychological safety and deep reflection in leadership development. She also shares insights on how organizations can foster effective learning experiences while ensuring meaningful...

Kristi Owens , Vice President of Talent and Leadership Development at Southwest Airlines , joins us in this episode. Kristi shares how Southwest is developing an internal talent marketplace by identifying skills the company will need in the future and offering upskilling programs to its employees. Kristi emphasizes the evolving role of leadership and the skills leaders must develop to support and...

In this episode, Brian Harkins , Director of Training at Topgolf , shares his unique journey into Learning and Development, his vision for the future of training and the innovative ways Topgolf incorporates fun and engagement into its learning programs. Key Takeaways: (02:44) Topgolf’s mission is “selling fun,” which they integrate into their learning programs through gamification. (04:01) Technol...

On this episode, John C. Torres , Senior Vice President, Academy Executive at Bank of America , shares his perspective on the critical skills and knowledge learning and development professionals need to succeed. He emphasizes the importance of acquiring business and functional acumen to understand how L&D impacts the company’s business model, the necessity of leadership and communication skill...

In this episode, Paul Holba , Senior Director of Organizational Development and Training at AAF International , discusses his extensive experience in learning and development and how his team addresses challenges in the evolving workplace.  Paul explores the roles of technology, adaptability and managing generational differences to create a forward-thinking L&D strategy. Key Takeaways: (0...