The Product Design for Learning Podcast

Ep.30 A (genuinely) interesting conversation about Leadership Development.

Greg speaks with Kenny Temowo about leadership development, organizational culture, and the impact of AI on the future of work. They explore Netflix's innovative culture, traditional vs. modern leadership programs, and the evolving role of AI in leadership and organizational change.

Ep.29 SHOW. ME. THE. ROI

In this episode, Greg Arthur hosts a lively discussion with Sarah Wood and Paul Morgan on the nuances of measuring ROI in L&D. They explore why traditional metrics often fall short and how organisations can better understand the real impact of their learning initiatives. Key Topics 1. Differentiating between learning impact and financial ROI 2. The importance of measuring behaviour change, not just activity completion 3. The role of organisational culture in shaping learning outcomes 4. Practical approaches to quantifying value beyond financial metrics 5. The myth of quick ROI from isolated learning interventions 6. How to foster honest conversations about measurement challenges 7. The danger of over-complicating simple problems in L&D 8. The importance of community sharing real, transparent results 9. Strategies for starting conversations that uncover true organisational needs 10. Building pragmatic, evidence-based learning strategies aligned with business outcomes Timestamps 1. (00:00) - Introduction to the focus on ROI in learning 2. (02:39) - The challenge of measuring ROI in learning activities 3. (04:23) - How ROI in learning is tied to business impact 4. (08:00) - Beyond financial metrics: understanding emotional and cultural value 5. (12:15) - Rethinking onboarding for measurable impact 6. (16:16) - The influence of organisational culture on learning outcomes 7. (23:10) - Using simple, targeted data to measure error reduction 8. (28:00) - The significance of relevance in learning content 9. (33:10) - Practicing pragmatic measurement approaches 10. (39:20) - The importance of partnering with business teams for results 11. (45:17) - The need for community transparency in success and failure 12. (55:46) - Honest conversations about the real impact of learning initiatives 13. (60:09) - Practical tips for starting measurement conversations Additional Notes 1. Emphasise simple, practical measurement methods over complex data models 2. Cultivate honest dialogues with stakeholders about what can and cannot be measured 3. Focus on impact areas like engagement, behavior, and culture as well as financial outcomes 4. Recognize the importance of community sharing of successes and lessons learned 5. Be pragmatic: start conversations, ask “what if we did nothing,” and adjust strategies accordingly This episode challenges traditional notions of ROI and encourages learning professionals to adopt more flexible, honest, and impactful measurement practices. Let’s stop over-complicating and start focusing on what truly moves the needle.

Ep. 28 Learning Strategy is not a one-size-fits-all

Summary In this episode, Greg Arthur and Stephen Egri delve into the complexities of learning strategies within organizations. They discuss the importance of understanding what a learning strategy entails, the various components that make up an effective strategy, and the role of technology, particularly AI, in shaping the future of learning. The conversation highlights the challenges organizations face in implementing these strategies and emphasizes the need for stakeholder engagement and data-driven decision-making. As they explore trends in learning strategy development, they conclude with insights on how learning functions can evolve to better serve their organizations. Takeaways Learning strategy is often seen as a complex and evolving field. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning strategies. Effective learning strategies should be in service of organizational goals. Technology, especially AI, plays a crucial role in modern learning strategies. Stakeholder engagement is essential for successful learning strategy implementation. Learning functions should operate more like profit centers. Data-driven decision-making is vital for effective learning strategies. Testing and iteration are important in developing learning strategies. The future of learning will involve orchestration of various elements. Understanding employee needs is key to developing effective learning strategies. Titles Navigating the Complexities of Learning Strategy The Future of Learning: AI and Strategy sound bites "Learning strategy is gigantic." "AI can show up in terms of skills mapping." "The future of learning is orchestration." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup 00:12 Understanding Learning Strategy 03:00 The Complexity of Learning Strategies 05:36 Common Features of Learning Strategies 08:34 The Role of Technology in Learning 11:14 The Importance of Stakeholder Engagement 14:14 The Future of Learning Strategies 21:13 Understanding Learning Strategies 24:38 The Importance of Employee Feedback 27:14 Testing and Experimentation in Learning Strategies 30:39 The Role of Learning Functions in Organizations 35:05 AI's Impact on Learning Strategies 42:53 Future Trends in Learning Ecosystems Keywords learning strategy, organizational development, AI in learning, talent development, learning ecosystems, employee engagement, training effectiveness, learning technology, workforce development, educational frameworks

Ep.27 Agencies in L&D (2026 Edition)

Summary In this episode of the Product Design for Learning podcast, hosts Greg Arthur, Ashley Hinchcliffe, and Caleb discuss the evolving landscape of Learning and Development (L&D). They explore the challenges faced by internal L&D teams, the importance of external support, and the need for a shift in how L&D is perceived within organizations. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for L&D to align with business objectives, embrace change, and focus on delivering tailored learning experiences that add real value. The role of technology and the future of learning are also key themes, highlighting the importance of adapting to new methods and tools to enhance learning outcomes. Takeaways L&D is facing an identity crisis and needs to adapt. External agencies can provide valuable insights and challenge internal teams. There is a need for L&D to align with business objectives. Quality over quantity is essential in learning content. The perception of L&D as a cost center must change. Engagement and value perception are critical for L&D success. Tailored learning experiences are more effective than generic content. Technology can enhance learning but must be used wisely. L&D should focus on measurable outcomes and business impact. Collaboration between internal teams and external agencies is vital for success. Titles Reimagining Learning and Development The Future of L&D: Challenges and Opportunities sound bites "L&D is dying or has an identity crisis." "We're at the beginning of a rebirth." "We need to challenge the status quo." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 02:29 The Importance of External Perspectives in L&D 05:12 Challenges Facing L&D: Identity Crisis or Rebirth? 08:09 The Role of External Agencies in L&D 10:55 Navigating Organizational Dynamics and Value Perception 13:53 Reframing L&D's Value Proposition 16:40 The Future of L&D: Confidence and Investment 22:57 The Evolving Role of Learning and Development 24:34 Aligning Learning with Business Strategy 27:09 Rethinking Content Creation in L&D 30:23 The Challenge of Content Overload 33:01 The Future of Learning: Personalization and AI 40:45 Proactive vs Reactive Learning Strategies 43:46 Collaboration Between Agencies and Internal Teams Keywords L&D, learning and development, external agencies, internal teams, business strategy, training, education, corporate learning, engagement, value perception

Ep.26 L&D Models: Then, Now and Next

Summary In this engaging conversation, Greg Arthur and Toby discuss the current state of Learning and Development (L&D) models, the challenges posed by outdated frameworks, and the impact of ego on the industry. They explore the necessity for flexibility in learning models, the role of AI in education, and the importance of self-awareness for personal growth. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a shift in mindset within L&D, advocating for a focus on individual development rather than rigid adherence to traditional models. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of L&D and the potential for new approaches to emerge. Takeaways L&D is facing a crisis with outdated models. Ego plays a significant role in the adherence to traditional models. Self-awareness is crucial for personal and professional growth. AI is transforming the landscape of L&D. Flexibility in learning models is essential for modern education. The focus should shift from organizational needs to individual development. Challenging existing models can lead to better outcomes. The importance of questioning the effectiveness of current practices. Learning styles should not be dismissed but adapted to individual preferences. The future of L&D requires innovative thinking and adaptability. Titles Revolutionizing Learning and Development The Ego Trap in L&D Sound bites "Models need to be flexible." "Self-awareness is a skill." "The Royal Rumble of ROI." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context Setting 02:14 The State of Learning and Development Models 05:12 Challenging Outdated Models 08:12 The Role of Ego in Learning and Development 10:53 The Impact of AI on Learning and Development 13:43 Navigating Change in Learning and Development 16:34 The Future of Learning and Development 24:55 The Impact of AI on Learning and Development 27:56 The Future of L&D in the Age of AI 33:36 The Need for a Shift in Mindset 39:11 Developing Self-Awareness in Learning 43:35 Integrating AI with Human Insight 45:49 Questioning Learning Models 48:47 The Debate on Learning Styles 51:49 The Role of Learning Design 55:37 Measuring ROI in Learning 59:23 The Complexity of Development 01:05:21 The Importance of Discourse Keywords Learning and Development, L&D Models, Ego in Learning, AI in Education, Self-Awareness, Flexibility in Learning, Future of Learning, Personal Growth, ROI in Learning, Modern Learning Strategies