Kari Borroel,  Executive Director, Head of Operations Quality Learning and Development, GxP Learning, of AstraZeneca, shares her journey into L&D, the changes shaping the industry and her vision for the future of learning transformation. Kari reflects on the impact of AI, the importance of aligning learning with business strategy and the essential skill of flexibility in a rapidly evolving environment.

Key Takeaways:

00:00 Introduction.

02:33 Many professionals find their way into L&D through unexpected opportunities.

03:53 A passion for continuous learning is essential for long-term career growth.

05:23 AI is driving significant change in L&D, while traditional training models are shifting toward more impactful learning.

07:24 Future trends in L&D include faster content creation, automation and smarter integration with business strategy.

08:01 Senior leaders are beginning to recognize L&D as a critical driver of organizational success.

09:12 Mentorship plays a vital role in developing leadership capabilities and resilience.

11:12 Flexibility is one of the most important skills for adapting to constant change.

13:42 Leadership development requires rethinking old habits and adapting to new approaches.

Resources Mentioned:

Kari Borroel

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kari-borroel-mba-619a593/

AstraZeneca | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/astrazeneca/

AstraZeneca | Website

http://www.astrazeneca.com

Bersin

https://www.bersin.com

Harvard Business Review

https://hbr.org/

“What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith

https://www.amazon.com/What-Got-Here-Wont-There/dp/1401301304

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On this episode, Mary Beth Thornton, Director, Organizational Learning and Development of AdventHealth, discusses the evolution of L&D through the lens of skills, business partnership and the integration of AI. She reflects on her career journey, from higher education to enterprise learning, and highlights the importance of adaptability, emotional intelligence and servant leadership. Mary Beth also shares her thoughts on mentoring, the future of personalized learning and the resources she turns to for growth.

Key Takeaways:

00:00 Introduction.

01:40 L&D can drive workforce development through strategic programming.

05:00 Industry shifts are placing greater emphasis on skills and AI.

08:06 AI is reshaping how skills and personalized development connect.

10:05 Mentorship can take many forms and evolve over time.

12:22 L&D offers diverse entry points and rewarding career opportunities.

13:03 Foundational skills like agility and communication remain essential.

14:55 Staying current in L&D requires tapping into multiple learning sources.

16:56 Emotional intelligence plays a critical role in leadership and influence.

Resources Mentioned:

Mary Beth Thornton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-beth-thornton/

AdventHealth | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/adventhealth/

AdventHealth | Website

https://www.adventhealth.com/

ATD

https://www.td.org/

Harvard Spark

https://www.harvardbusiness.org/hbr-spark/

“Never Split the Difference” by Chris Voss

https://www.amazon.com/Never-Split-Difference-Negotiating-Depended/dp/0062407805

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

Tom Lahoud, SVP, Learning Advisor Senior Lead, HR of Citi, discusses his career path in learning and development, the evolving relationship between L&D and HR, and emerging trends shaping the future of workplace learning. He shares his perspectives on adaptive and experiential learning, workforce reskilling and the critical skills learning professionals need to become trusted advisors.

Key Takeaways:

(00:00) Introduction. 

(01:34) Early experiences in L&D helped build a foundation for creating engaging learning programs.

(05:17) Closer alignment between L&D and HR strengthens support for business and talent needs.

(07:24) Adaptive learning, experiential learning and reskilling are emerging as core priorities in L&D.

(08:27) Personalized learning paths in L&D better address varied skill levels and learner needs.

(09:36) Immersive, simulation-driven learning boosts engagement and application in L&D initiatives.

(10:33) Reskilling within L&D must target both technical skills and interpersonal effectiveness.

(12:21) Mentorship, including insights from mentees, can enhance L&D leadership development.

(14:28) Advisory capability, combining change agility, stakeholder management and strategic thinking, is vital for L&D professionals.

(16:11) Performance-focused strategies in L&D should be prioritized over default training approaches.

Resources Mentioned:

Tom Lahoud

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leadteachinspirerepeat/

Citi | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/citi/

Citi | Website

http://www.citigroup.com

Gartner L&D

https://www.gartner.com/en/articles/learning-and-development

LinkedIn Learning

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/

Training Industry Magazine

https://trainingindustry.com/magazine/

“Mindset” by Carol S. Dweck

https://www.amazon.com/Mindset-Psychology-Carol-S-Dweck/dp/0345472322

“The Speed of Trust” by Stephen M. R. Covey

https://www.amazon.com/SPEED-TRUST-Thing-Changes-Everything/dp/1416549005

“Own Your Authority” by Marisa Santoro

https://www.amazon.com/Own-Your-Authority-Confidence-Communicate/dp/126425816X

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

Vince Eugenio, Director of Learning and Development Distribution of Harbor Freight Tools, shares his journey from teaching industrial arts to leading large-scale learning initiatives. Vince discusses the skills and mindsets needed to thrive as a senior L&D leader, the growing impact of artificial intelligence, and the importance of accountability and strategic alignment in driving organizational performance.

Key Takeaways:

(00:00) Introduction.

(03:21) L&D offers opportunities beyond training, including performance support and talent development.

(04:52) Broad experience across L&D disciplines drives career advancement.

(07:12) Strategic alignment outweighs tools and processes for senior leadership success.

(08:52) Building a strategic mindset is essential for long-term effectiveness.

(10:05) AI is reshaping how L&D teams develop content, analyze data, and measure results.

(12:50) Shared accountability among leaders ensures sustainable performance improvements.

(18:11) Emerging professionals should view L&D as an interconnected system rather than isolated functions.

(24:20) Mentorship strengthens leadership development and supports organizational growth.

(30:32) Understanding performance consulting helps L&D leaders address root causes of performance issues.

Resources Mentioned:

Vince Eugenio

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinceeugeniophd/

Harbor Freight Tools | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/harbor-freight-tools/

Harbor Freight Tools | Website

http://www.hfjobs.com

Training Industry Inc.

https://trainingindustry.com/

ROI Institute

https://roiinstitute.net/

“FYI: For Your Improvement” by Korn Ferry

https://store.kornferry.com/en/product/5a377843-f45e-4b8c-9057-525aee9bacec

“Performance Consulting” by Dana Gaines Robinson

https://www.amazon.com/Performance-Consulting-Strategic-Process-Organizational/dp/1626562296

“The Integrated Surround Strategy” by Vince Eugenio and Karen Eugenio

https://trainingindustry.com/magazine/may-june-2017/the-surround-strategy-model-driving-organizational-capability-to-business-impact/

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

Tori Pauling, Sr. Manager, Program Development and Management of Marmon Holdings, Inc., leads strategic initiatives for the Business Acumen Center, supporting a diverse portfolio of manufacturing businesses. With a background in communications and executive learning, she focuses on turning complex ideas into scalable programs that drive measurable business outcomes. In this conversation, she outlines how L&D can evolve from a support function to a strategic partner by aligning learning with profitability, designing for real-world application and using frameworks like the Six Disciplines of Breakthrough Learning.

Key Takeaways:

(02:40) Combining creativity, strategy and impact in learning leads to personal fulfillment and helping others.

(03:42) Continuous, embedded learning is replacing one-off training events across L&D.

(05:08) Designing programs around defined business problems increases relevance and effectiveness.

(06:39) Viewing L&D as a strategic function starts with diagnosing root challenges, not just fulfilling requests.

(08:32) Experiential methods like simulations create lasting mental anchors and support real-world application.

(11:03) Leadership engagement and program prestige are essential to fostering a strong learning culture.

(13:58) Pre-work, in-session application and post-program follow-up create lasting behavior change.

(16:58) Applying the 80/20 principle helps focus time and resources on what drives the most value.

(23:31) Decision tools, scorecards and storytelling techniques enhance learning design and transfer.

Resources Mentioned:

Tori Pauling

https://www.linkedin.com/in/toripauling/

Marmon Holdings, Inc. | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-marmon-group/

Marmon Holdings, Inc. | Website

http://www.marmon.com

“The Six Disciplines of Breakthrough Learning” by Roy V. H. Pollock

https://www.amazon.com/Six-Disciplines-Breakthrough-Learning-Development/dp/1118647998

“Leading Change” by John P. Kotter

https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Change-New-Preface-Author/dp/1422186431

“Resonate” by Nancy Duarte

https://www.amazon.com/Resonate-Present-Stories-Transform-Audiences/dp/0470632011

Learning Transfer Climate Scorecard

https://www.oreilly.com/library/view/the-field-guide/9781118648131/034_part02-chap17.html

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

Melissa Davis, Vice President of Organization Development and Communications at Pfizer, joins us to discuss the evolution of L&D across industries, the importance of intentional learning design, and strategies for building resilience during transitions. With over two decades in HR and organizational development, Melissa reflects on her journey through six companies in five industries, from her start as a systems trainer to leading leadership development at T-Mobile and now guiding organization development within Pfizer R&D. She shares how her varied experiences have shaped her leadership approach and offers insights into how the L&D field continues to transform through technology, inclusion, and continuous learning.

Key Takeaways:

(01:46) Career paths in L&D can span diverse industries and roles.

(05:19) Intentional learning design helps meet the unique needs of learners.

(07:10) In-person learning still offers distinct advantages.

(09:03) Technology is changing how learning is delivered and experienced.

(10:19) Soft skills and inclusion remain critical in L&D.

(11:40) Continuous learning supports realistic development.

(15:10) Strong mentorship can shape leadership growth.

(17:38) Focusing on what’s in your control builds resilience.

(22:53) Navigating transitions requires persistence and adaptability.

Resources Mentioned:

Melissa Davis -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissadavis8914/

Pfizer -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/pfizer/

Pfizer website -

https://www.pfizer.com/

Stephen Covey’s Circle of Control Model -

https://www.modern.works/blog/the-power-of-coveys-circle-of-concern-influence-and-control

PeopleSoft -

https://www.oracle.com/applications/peoplesoft/

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

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Matt Smith, Vice President of Learning and Development of Curana Health, shares how his team is shaping scalable learning solutions while aligning closely with business needs. With a background in consulting and a passion for coaching, Matt brings a holistic approach to L&D that balances operational value with human impact. At Curana Health, which is the largest provider of senior living primary care services in the US, Matt focuses on enabling people to work better through thoughtful, strategic learning experiences.

Key Takeaways:

(04:00) Many professionals find their way to L&D by following a passion for helping others learn.

(07:35) AI and ROI are major forces reshaping how L&D is viewed by leadership.

(13:52) L&D must be closely aligned with the organization’s strategic goals to remain effective.

(17:46) Building a diverse network of advisors supports professional development in L&D.

(21:12) Effective mentorship depends on proactive engagement from the mentee.

(29:33) L&D leaders grow their influence by expanding beyond design into broader operations.

(31:41) Online communities offer candid input on learning technologies and trends.

(34:49) Reviewing source research builds expertise beyond surface-level knowledge.

Resources Mentioned:

Matt Smith

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-smith-34289320/

Curana Health | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/curana-health/

Curana Health | Website

http://curanahealth.com

“The Unspoken Rules” by Gorick Ng

https://www.gorick.com/unspokenrules

“Mindset” by Carol S. Dweck

https://www.amazon.com/Mindset-Psychology-Carol-S-Dweck/dp/0345472322

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

Kim Troxell, Head of Commercial Learning and Development of AbbVie, shares how nearly three decades of experience across commercial, international and leadership roles has shaped her approach to driving impact through L&D. Drawing on her time leading teams in Ireland and Denmark and her passion for developing talent, Kim outlines how personalization, microlearning and AI are shaping the future of learning. She also reflects on the value of mentorship and inclusive leadership for long-term growth.

Key Takeaways:

(02:11) Cross-functional experience can strengthen leadership in L&D.

(05:39) Personalization plays an increasing role in L&D strategy.

(08:10) Learner engagement is influenced by evolving digital habits.

(12:05) Learning programs are becoming more aligned with career development.

(14:06) Mentorship contributes to long-term leadership effectiveness.

(16:50) Curiosity supports agility in fast-changing environments.

(18:01) Peer learning remains a valuable part of ongoing L&D.

Resources Mentioned:

Kim Troxell

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-troxell/

AbbVie | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/abbvie/

AbbVie | Website

http://www.abbvie.com

“Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0385349947

“How Women Rise” by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0316440124

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

On this episode, Ben Sieke, Director of Talent Development and Learning at Delta Dental Ins. talks about how human-centered learning strategies are evolving in the age of AI. Ben shares his unexpected path from musician to learning leader, offering insights into building scalable learning cultures, leveraging emerging technology and designing development programs that deliver measurable business outcomes without losing the human touch.

Key Takeaways:

(02:10) Ben’s role and his team's mission.

(04:47) His background as a musician cultivated Ben’s belief that most skills can be learned through practice.

(05:41) AI tools are reshaping L&D by improving efficiency and content creation.

(06:53) AI conversation simulators and adaptive learning are expanding training options beyond traditional methods.

(13:52) The future of L&D depends on proving business impact and shifting toward performance consulting.

(16:32) Ben emphasizes the importance of investing in coaching and mentoring to create richer human experiences at work.

(18:15) Technology now enables scalable mentoring programs, removing manual barriers and increasing organizational impact.

(21:30) Future-ready L&D teams need strong performance-consulting skills and up-to-date technical fluency to drive meaningful outcomes.

Resources Mentioned:

Ben Sieke

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bensieke/

Delta Dental Ins.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/delta-dental/

“Telling Ain’t Training” by Harold D. Stolovitch and Erica J. Keeps

https://www.amazon.co.za/Telling-Aint-Training-2nd-Expanded/dp/1562867016

"Hot Seat" by Jeff Immelt

https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Seat-Learned-Leading-American/dp/1982114711

HR Brew

https://www.hr-brew.com/

ATD (Association for Talent Development)

https://www.td.org/

Veeva Systems

https://www.veeva.com/

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

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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 in leadership.

Key Takeaways:

(02:06) A structured L&D strategy with defined services and metrics is essential for internal learning teams.

(04:37) L&D is moving away from document-based compliance toward practical, skills-based training.

(07:25) AI is enabling instructional designers to scale their work and increase output quality.

(08:43) Personalized learning and automated processes can significantly reduce L&D inefficiencies.

(10:12) Strong professional networks play a key role in L&D leadership development.

(11:45) Demonstrating business value helps L&D teams retain investment during financial downturns.

(12:59) Root cause analysis is critical to ensuring learning interventions deliver meaningful impact.

(15:05) Industry associations and vendor insights provide strategic input for L&D planning.

Resources Mentioned:

John Constantine

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-constantine-38458a/

Orchestrall, Inc. | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/orchestrall-inc/

Orchestrall, Inc. | Website

https://www.orchestrallinc.com

“The Trusted Learning Advisor” by Keith Keating

https://www.amazon.com/Trusted-Learning-Advisor-Techniques-Business/dp/1398612456

“The Point” by Steve Woodruff

https://www.amazon.com/Point-How-Win-Clarity-Fueled-Communications/dp/1636982387

Life Sciences Trainers & Educators Network (L-TEN)

https://www.l-ten.org/

The Association for GXP Excellence (AGXPE)

https://agxpe.wildapricot.org/

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining