Transforming The Way The World Learns | John Baker

Transforming The Way The World Learns | John Baker

On this episode of All Aboard with Rob Belliveau, Rob talks with this month’s guest, John Baker, President, CEO, and Board Chair of D2L, about what it really means to transform the way the world learns, and how that vision led to the creation of both Brightspace and NeonTrain. They dig into John’s journey from 22‑year‑old Systems Design Engineering student at the University of Waterloo to leading one of the most influential edtech companies in the world, why taking the “hard path” can be the smartest move in your career, and how to stay focused on solving the biggest problems in education. John shares how D2L has approached major waves of change. From the early days of the internet to mobile, cloud, and now AI, while staying grounded in responsible use, data privacy, and real learner outcomes. He and Rob explore practical ways AI can cut course development time without replacing educators, why accessibility has to be a non‑negotiable in any serious learning strategy, and how the D2L–NeonTrain partnership is bringing Brightspace to smaller and mid‑sized organizations that traditionally couldn’t access this level of learning technology. You can find John and D2L here: https://www.d2l.com/ [https://www.d2l.com/] Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email the show: allaboard@neontrain.com If this episode helped you think differently about online learning, edtech, or accessibility, share it with a colleague or friend in education, L&D, or training.

Grant Writing in the Age of AI | Amanda Rogers

Rob talks with this month’s guest, Amanda Rogers, founder of iPlume Writing Inc., about how AI is reshaping grant writing and why strategy, fit, and authenticity still win over generic ChatGPT applications. They dig into the rise of AI-generated grants, how to stand out in oversubscribed funding programs, and the power of teaching people to build a live grant step by step instead of “outsourcing” everything to a tool. Amanda shares how she turned years of nonprofit leadership and nearly $50 million in secured funding into two practical online courses—iPlume Grant Essentials for nonprofits and charities, and iPlume Funding Essentials for small and diverse-owned businesses—built with NeonTrain on Brightspace. She also talks about using asynchronous courses as the backbone for in-person and virtual workshops, growing demand for arts funding training, and early plans to expand her grant education into the U.S. market. You can find Amanda here: https://iplumewriting.com/ [https://iplumewriting.com/] iPlume Courses: NeonTrain Store  [https://store.neontrain.com/catalog?pagename=iPlume] iPlume Funding Essentials – Use code AllAboard10 for 10% off. (Business Training) iPlume Grant Essentials – Use code AllAboard15 for 15% off. (Non-Profit Training)   Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email the show: allaboard@neontrain.com [allaboard@neontrain.com] If this episode helped you think differently about online learning, edtech, or accessibility, share it with a colleague or friend in education, L&D, or training.

From Zoom Fatigue to Blended Brilliance | Rozalyn Werner-Arcé

Rob talks with this month's guest, Rozalyn Werner-Arcé, about turning a legacy, instructor-led training program into a modern blended e-learning experience. They dig into choosing between fully asynchronous and blended models, keeping real-world stories alive online, and supporting instructors through the change. They also explore creative funding and partnerships, and how to scale education nationally without compromising quality. Rozalyn Werner-Arcé brings over 30 years of experience in the non-profit sector, with a career dedicated to strengthening associations, human services, and charitable organizations. Since December 2021, she has served as Executive Director of the Ontario Public Buyers Association (OPBA), where she leads efforts to advance the association’s mission, deliver innovative member services, foster growth, and develop strategies that enhance engagement and non-dues revenue. Rozalyn is recognized for building meaningful connections and driving initiatives that create lasting impact for the profession and its members. Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email the show: allaboard@neontrain.com [allaboard@neontrain.com] If this episode helped you think differently about online learning, edtech, or accessibility, share it with a colleague or friend in education, L&D, or training.

Desire to Indigenize - A Learning Odyssey Part 2

In this episode of All Aboard, Rob continues his conversation with Blackfoot elder Joe Eagle Tail Feathers - litsooahp'potah (Attacks I Battles in the Water) and Dr. Christopher Grignard to dig deeper into truth, decolonization, and real action in education. Building on their work together on the Blackfoot Odyssey course, they explore: * Why decolonization must come before indigenization * The hard truths of ongoing racism and fear faced by Indigenous communities * Why Indigenous teachings are not a threat and are meant to enrich all learners * Concrete steps educators and organizations can take, from learning the land you’re on to building genuine relationships with elders and knowledge keepers This episode is both an invitation and a challenge: move beyond fear of “getting it wrong,” listen with sincerity, and turn talk into meaningful, respectful action toward reconciliation. To learn more please visit: http://www.mru.ca/blackfootodyssey Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email the show: allaboard@neontrain.com [allaboard@neontrain.com] If this episode helped you think differently about online learning, edtech, or accessibility, share it with a colleague or friend in education, L&D, or training.

Desire to Indigenize – A Learning Odyssey Part 1

In this episode of All Aboard, Rob is joined by Blackfoot elder Joe Eagle Tail Feathers - litsooahp'potah (Attacks I Battles in the Water) and Dr. Christopher Grignard to explore what it truly means to Indigenize digital learning spaces. Together, they discuss the long-term relationship and deep trust that underpins their collaboration on the Blackfoot Odyssey course, built within the Desire2Learn (D2L) / Brightspace platform. Chris shares how together they transform the learning space into an Indigenous literary lodge, grounded in ceremony, authenticity, and respect for Indigenous knowledge. Joe reflects on his life, teachings, and the sacred tipi design that has become central to the course, emphasizing the importance of sincerity, humility, and not being afraid to make mistakes when reaching out to Indigenous communities. We are deeply grateful to both Chris and Joe for their generosity, stories, and guidance in showing how meaningful and respectful partnerships in education can be built. To learn more please visit: http://www.mru.ca/blackfootodyssey  Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Email the show: allaboard@neontrain.com [allaboard@neontrain.com] TIf this episode helped you think differently about online learning, edtech, or accessibility, share it with a colleague or friend in education, L&D, or training.