Building a world-class learning program on a shoestring budget isn’t just possible—it can be transformative. In this dynamic episode, host Mickey Fitch-Collins, Ph.D., welcomes Carla Nesbitt-Stokes, a certified talent development professional, to the Learn It Lounge for a refreshingly practical conversation. Together, they explore actionable strategies for designing high-impact L&D initiatives when resources are tight, including leveraging internal talent, fostering a culture of mentoring, and embracing creative mindset shifts. Carla shares the inside story behind her organization’s Leadership Academy, discusses the power of relationships, and opens up about how tools like AI are quietly revolutionizing learning efficiency. Whether you’re an L&D leader, manager, or simply determined to make an impact with limited means, this episode is brimming with tips, inspiring stories, and wisdom you can use right away. 

In This Episode, You’ll Learn: 

• How to align L&D strategy with organizational goals, even on tight budgets 
• Carla’s blueprint for building a high-engagement Leadership Academy using internal subject matter experts 
• Why relationships—and identifying hidden talents—are the secret weapons for transformative learning 
• Practical ways to leverage AI to save time and streamline communication in L&D 
• Key tactics for getting leadership buy-in when budget is scarce 
• The most uncomfortable truths about shortcuts in leadership development—and why repetition matters 



Timestamps: 

00:00 – Welcome to The Learnit Lounge with Mickey Fitch-Collins 

00:42 – Introducing Carla Nesbitt-Stokes and today’s episode topic 

03:07 – Carla’s first steps: Aligning L&D programs with organizational goals 

04:29 – Mindset shifts for constrained L&D environments 

05:46 – Tapping internal subject matter experts for maximum impact 

07:10 – The “scrappy” tactic: Internal leadership academies 

08:44 – Designing the virtual Leadership Academy: Cohort model and engagement strategies 

10:54 – The human resource advantage: Culture and relationships 

12:32 – The evolving role of AI in L&D 

14:11 – Practical AI applications for lean L&D teams 

15:27 – Building relationships to drive leadership buy-in 

16:44 – Thinking about budget as your “own” money—decision strategies 

18:24 – The power of simple questions to uncover L&D needs 

18:47 – Key leadership lessons: From “heads-down” work to building connections 

20:41 – The big myth: There are no shortcuts in true learning & development 

23:16 – How to connect with Carla Nesbitt-Stokes

23:33 – How to subscribe, review, and follow The Learn It Lounge 

About Carla Nesbitt-Stokes

Carla Nesbitt-Stokes is a passionate educator, mentor, and certified talent development professional with a diverse background spanning higher education, technology, and financial services. With a Master’s in Human Resource Management and a CPTD from the Association for Talent Development, Carla has designed and led staff training, leadership, and onboarding programs that drive measurable results. She is renowned for her strengths-based, people-first approach and her unwavering commitment to helping others grow in their careers. Today, Carla shapes learning strategy in a virtual-first organization, leading innovative initiatives like the Leadership Academy to develop leaders from within. 

Resources Referenced 

• Carla Nesbitt-Stokes’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cnesbitt-stokes-tdleader/ 
• Association for Talent Development (ATD), CPTD Certification: https://www.td.org/certification/cptd/introduction 
• Learnit Website  
• Connect with host Mickey Fitch-Collins, PhD. 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

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