The Kirkpatrick Podcast

How is government policy influencing workforce training and efficiency? In this episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, we explore DOGE and its impact on training, learning effectiveness, and business outcomes. With government efficiency in the spotlight, we discuss how organizations can align their training strategies to stay ahead. Key Topics Covered: The role of DOGE in shaping workforce developmen...

Level 1 evaluation—often dismissed, frequently misunderstood. But is it really as useless as some claim? In this episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, Vanessa breaks down why Level 1 reaction surveys aren't just about "happy sheets"—they provide critical insights into learner experience, engagement, and relevance. The problem isn't the metric itself; it's how we use (or ignore) the data. In this epi...

Are your learning assessments actually measuring what matters? In this episode of The Kirkpatrick Podcast, we dive into why traditional pre- and post-tests often fail to reflect real learning and behavior change. From ineffective multiple-choice questions to the illusion of knowledge retention, we break down the common pitfalls and explore alternative methods like scenario-based learning and real-...

In this episode of The Kirkpatrick Podcast, Vanessa Alzate, Jordan Rawlinson, and Sarah O'Connor dive deep into Level 3 evaluation—arguably the most crucial yet overlooked stage of the Kirkpatrick Model. How do we ensure that training translates into real behavior change? What are the biggest obstacles learning professionals face when trying to measure workplace application? And why is Level 3 whe...

In this episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, hosts Vanessa and Jordan break down the complexities of Level 4 evaluation—often considered the most challenging aspect of training impact measurement. But what if Level 4 is actually the easiest to measure? Join us as we explore: ✅ Why Level 4 impact isn't just about ROI ✅ How leading indicators help you prove value faster ✅ The biggest misconception...

In training and learning and development, the Kirkpatrick Model is one of the best known models up there with Bloom's Taxonomy and ADDIE.   Yet, evaluation is one of the pieces of the ADDIE model that is still not done right.   Join Vanessa Alzate and Jordan Rawlinson as they kick off the March Madness series, focusing on simplifying evaluation and getting back to the core principles of measuring...

In this aspirational episode of  The Kirkpatrick Podcast , Vanessa Alzate and Dr. Jim Kirkpatrick welcome Jian Liu, a Training Specialist at a federal agency within the Department of Homeland Security and a Gold-Certified Kirkpatrick Professional. Jian shares his journey of applying the Kirkpatrick Model to create a Culture of Evaluation™ in his organization and the transformative impact it's had...

In this moving episode of The Kirkpatrick Podcast , Vanessa sits down with Pamela Heisler and Cassy Miller from Oregon Child Abuse Solutions, winners of a Blended Evaluation Plan of Excellence at the 2024 Kirkpatrick Summit. Together, they explore how a comprehensive, data-driven evaluation transformed their forensic interview training program, OC FIT, into a powerful tool for protecting children...

In this episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast , we're diving into the dynamics of Learning & Development (L&D) and evaluation teams. Host Vanessa Alzate sits down with Jordan Rawlinson , Learning and Performance Strategist at Kirkpatrick Partners, to explore the key skills and roles needed to build an effective evaluation team. With the upcoming "Defining the Relationship" webinar on February 13th ,...

In this insightful episode of The Kirkpatrick Podcast , Vanessa sits down with Dr. Amy Heaton to explore the intersection of human-centered design and the Kirkpatrick Model. They dive into the complexities of creating sustainable change in organizations, tackling challenges like retaining institutional knowledge, supporting learners post-training, and building systems that drive transformation. Di...

Many L&D professionals strive to build trust and credibility within their organizations, but the journey to becoming a trusted advisor can feel elusive. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Keith Keating, Chief Learning Officer at BDO and author of The Trusted Learning Advisor , to explore what it truly means to be a trusted partner in learning and development. Dr. Keating shares actionable strat...

What if the Kirkpatrick Model could transform not just learning, but entire public programs? In this episode, hosts Vanessa Alzate and Jim Kirkpatrick sit down with Ted Kniker, co-founder of IMPACT Paradigm Associates and a pioneer in using the Kirkpatrick Model to drive high-stakes impact. From shaping the U.S. State Department's evaluation capacity to breaking new ground in areas like natural re...

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing the landscape of learning and development, offering unprecedented opportunities for innovation and efficiency. But how can organizations harness the power of AI while maintaining ethical standards and a human-centered approach? In this episode, Vanessa Alzate sits down with Myra Roldan, a leading AI expert and LinkedIn Top Artificial Intelligence Voice,...

Public service training plays a vital role in building a resilient, skilled workforce equipped to meet the evolving needs of the 21st century. But how can we ensure these programs are truly impactful? In this episode, Vanessa Alzate and Dr. Jim Kirkpatrick sit down with Dr. Sydney Heimbrock, a transformative leader in public sector training, to discuss how the Kirkpatrick Model is revolutionizing...

Leadership training is a crucial component of developing leaders who can effectively guide teams and drive organizational success. However, how can you be sure your leadership development programs are making a real impact? In this episode, Vanessa Alzate and Jim Kirkpatrick explore how the Kirkpatrick Model offers a structured, comprehensive approach to evaluating leadership training at all four l...

Many organizations find Level 4 of the Kirkpatrick Model—Results—the most challenging to achieve. However, reaching this level is not only possible but can also drive significant business impact when approached correctly. In this episode, we demystify Level 4 evaluation by exploring practical strategies to link training initiatives directly to measurable results. From overcoming common barriers to...

In this third installment of our series on enhancing employee engagement, we dive into the first two levels of the Kirkpatrick Model: Reaction and Learning. We explore how these foundational levels can significantly impact employee engagement when implemented effectively. Discover practical strategies for gauging initial reactions and measuring learning outcomes to set the stage for deeper engagem...

Understanding the Kirkpatrick Model is more than just a box to check—it's a key to unlocking your potential to drive real results in your organization. In this episode, Vanessa Alzate and Jim Kirkpatrick provide a crash course on the updated Kirkpatrick Model, exploring its new features and advanced application in today's workplace. From overcoming common evaluation challenges to becoming a strate...

Self-improvement is impossible without self-awareness. But how do we create opportunities for this and, ultimately, drive our learners to behavior change? In this episode, we dive into Kirkpatrick's 3rd level of evaluation with special guest Laine Istvan , Owner and Chief Learning Designer at Sage LXD. You'll gain valuable insights on successful behavior evaluation and walk away with practical tak...

Wondering how Learning and Development (L&D) and Operations can work more closely together or even function as a separate vertical within your organization? In this episode, we dive into the crucial relationship between L&D and Operations, exploring how these two areas can collaborate to drive business success.   We'll cover the importance of using data and KPIs to make informed decisions on L&D n...

Wondering how to turn your evaluation data into a powerful tool for influence? In this episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, hosts Vanessa Alzate and Jim Kirkpatrick explore the art of presenting meaningful evaluation data to stakeholders. Who are your stakeholders, and what do they really want to know? Joining the discussion is Sophie Oberstein—author, consultant, and adjunct faculty for NYU's Lear...

Picking up where they left off in their insightful exploration of employee engagement, hosts Vanessa Alzate and Jim Kirkpatrick return for part two of this thought-provoking discussion on this week's episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. From the power of public praise to the importance of performance check-ins, part two delivers real-world examples and expert guidance for unlocking the full potenti...

Are your employee engagement initiatives working? Have you actually asked your employees what they want? In this episode of the Kirkpatrick podcast, hosts Vanessa Alzate and Jim Kirkpatrick have an insightful discussion about enhancing employee engagement to drive performance. They provide practical strategies for connecting employees to the organization's mission and goals, defining critical beha...

There is a reason we're so passionate about building communities here at Kirkpatrick Partners. Creating a community within our organizations can foster a culture of evaluation that drives real change. In this episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, hosts Vanessa Alzate and Jim Kirkpatrick discuss the importance of building a community in the practice of learning and performance evaluation. They explor...

Have you found your L&D department first on the chopping block during economic downturns? In this episode, Jim Kirkpatrick and Vanessa Alzate have an honest discussion about why learning and development departments are often the first to face budget cuts and layoffs, and what you can do to better prove and communicate the value L&D provides to the company as a whole. Join us to learn how to levera...