The Learning+ Podcast

In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, we sit down with Erik Solheim, global leader in environmental diplomacy and former head of the United Nations Environment Programme. Erik shares powerful insights on how nations can balance economic growth with sustainability, offering lessons that resonate far beyond environmental policy. From fostering collaboration to driving meaningful change, his approach is a masterclass in leadership—one that L&D professionals can apply to their own work in developing people and organizations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on progress, innovation, and the power of practical solutions.

Erik Solheim

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-solheim-a9464b225/

X: https://x.com/eriksolheim

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erik_Solheim

United Nations Environment Programme: https://www.unep.org/people/erik-solheim

Learnnovators

Website: https://learnnovators.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/

Srividya Kumar

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

How accessible is your learning program? In this episode, we chat with Dr. Nicole Letoile, an expert in accessibility and inclusive design, who’s on a mission to make learning environments work for everyone. Together, we explore practical strategies to weave accessibility into your programs from day one.

Nicole shares her wisdom on creating content that truly reaches all learners, while debunking the myths around accessibility. Tune in for some fresh ideas on how small changes can lead to big impacts—and why leadership matters in making it happen.

Dr. Nicole L’Etoile

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleletoile/

Website: https://letoile-education.com/

Mentioned Links

WebAIM: https://webaim.org/

WAVE Tool: https://wave.webaim.org/

axe DevTool by Deque Systems: https://www.deque.com/axe/devtools/

Accessibility Shield: https://accessibilityshield.com/

Learnnovators

Website: https://learnnovators.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/

Srividya Kumar

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

In this episode, Heidi Kirby, PhD, brings her no-nonsense approach to learning design. We dive into her mission behind “Useful Stuff” and why focusing on solutions over tools is critical in L&D.

We also explore her transition from academia to corporate, the evolution of learning, and how AI can empower – but not replace – the skilled instructional designer. Heidi shares insights on the importance of lifelong learning and offers practical advice for professionals navigating the constant shifts in the world, and specifically, the learning industry.

Tune in for an insightful conversation full of practical tips!

Heidi Kirby

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidiekirby/

Website (connects to her Useful Stuff website and BLOC podcast): https://heidikirby.com/

Learnnovators

Website: https://learnnovators.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/

Srividya Kumar

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

In this episode, we chat with Ross Stevenson, where we break down the misconceptions surrounding generative AI tools like ChatGPT, and explain why treating them like Google Search can lead to frustration.

Ross highlights the importance of adapting our approach to these tools, focusing on effective prompting, and understanding their probabilistic nature. We also dive into the role of AI in enhancing L&D, the concept of "human in the loop," and offer practical advice on selecting and using AI tools.

Tune in to get insights on navigating the evolving landscape of AI in learning.

Ross Stevenson

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rstevensonuk/

Website: https://stealthesethoughts.com/

Courses: https://ross-site-7571.thinkific.com/

Learnnovators

Website: https://learnnovators.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/

Srividya Kumar

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/

In this episode, we dive into Human-Centered Design (HCD) with Ryan Tracey, where we unpack the concept, and talk about how it differs from and encompasses other design approaches. We discuss the relevance of HCD in the age of AI and its crucial role in designing learning solutions. Ryan offers insights on how HCD can help L&D professionals move beyond being order-takers to become true problem-solvers. Whether you're an instructional designer or a learning experience designer, this episode offers valuable perspectives on centering the human in your work.

Ryan Tracey

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryantracey/

Blog: https://ryan2point0.wordpress.com/

Human Centered Design: A Crash Course (Course on Udemy): https://www.udemy.com/course/human-centered-design/?referralCode=8CA794F1CF3D2CEA255D

Crystal Balling with Ryan Tracey (Interview with Learnnovators): https://learnnovators.com/blog/ryan-tracey-crystal-balling-with-learnnovators-2/

Learnnovators

Website: https://learnnovators.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learnnovators/

Srividya Kumar

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srividyakumar/