Clark and Matt are delighted to be joined by Paige Bradbury… an expert on using LLMs— specifically for those of us novices. She is particularly expert at developing the right prompts to get useful, and more importantly, accurate responses from the LLM. We learn about things like hallucinations… prompt drift… context windows… explainable AI... xAI… and more! We talk about the work, time, and money that go into writing good and effective prompts, let alone using AI in general. And Paige shares ple...
Feb 28, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 51
Summary In this episode of AI and L&D Insights, Markus Bernhardt speaks with Sarah Mercier, CEO of Build Capable, about her patented innovations in learning technology. Sarah challenges outdated LMS models, introduces her groundbreaking XCL tool for decentralized content delivery and tracking, and reveals how AI can unlock powerful insights—provided the data is meaningful. With decades of expertise and a vision for the future, Sarah’s approach is a game-changer for modern learning. You can f...
Jan 26, 2025•46 min•Ep. 50
NOTE: This podcast was recording in November, 2024. Today, Clark and Matt are joined once again by our dear friend, Nidhi Sachdeva. We talk about Desirable Difficulties, originally coined by Robert Bjork and further explored with him and his wife, Elizabeth Bjork. A great overview paper can be found here: https://bjorklab.psych.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/13/2016/04/EBjork_RBjork_2011.pdf Of course, we talk about the five strategies to foster desirable difficulties: Spaced Learning/ Distri...
Jan 26, 2025•51 min•Ep. 49
OVERVIEW In this episode, Markus Bernhardt is joined by Kate Macartney, CEO of MVM Strategies, to explore how AI tools like Microsoft's Copilot are reshaping the way we work. From personal productivity hacks to organization-wide transformations, Kate shares practical insights and real-world examples of how Copilot integrates seamlessly into workflows, making everyday tasks faster and smarter. Discover how organizations can unlock the potential of AI tools while navigating challenges like adoptio...
Dec 12, 2024•43 min•Ep. 48
OVERVIEW In this episode, Debbie Richards and Markus dive into the cutting edge of immersive learning and the hard truths of AI policies. From navigating VR headsets to addressing the ethical challenges of AI in the workplace, Debbie shares invaluable insights for L&D professionals. Learn why a 'common sense' approach won’t cut it when managing AI, and how immersive tech is transforming the learning landscape. Tune in for practical advice on upskilling, reskilling, and making AI work for you...
Nov 14, 2024•41 min•Ep. 47
With Special Guest, Chris Pedder Think AI is all about buzzwords and breakthrough moments? Think again. Markus and Chris navigate the gritty reality of AI’s ‘messy middle’—the point where big ideas meet even bigger challenges. Grab your headset and get ready for an unexpected dive into the future of tech, where innovation truly happens after the hype fades. From ethical dilemmas to economic realities, this episode will change how you see AI’s role in our world. Links and Connections from the Epi...
Oct 18, 2024•46 min•Ep. 46
We take a break from our regularly featured programming. The following is the audio from a special, informal discussion about AI that LDA recently produced for our community. We thought it lent itself nicely to the podcast, as well. In this special discussion, Lori Niles-Hofmann and Stella Lee school Matt on the basic ins and outs of AI. We talk about what AI is. We talk about the different types of AI. Matt asks whether the world of Terminator is soon coming to pass! Stella and Lori correct tha...
Oct 08, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 45
Guest: Vince Han, CEO of Mobile Coach Summary: In this episode of AI & L&D Insights, Markus Bernhardt dives into the world of proactive AI with Vince Han, the visionary behind Mobile Coach. Together, they explore the game-changing evolution from passive chatbots to AI agents that do more than just answer questions—they engage, assist, and even anticipate your needs. Join us as we break down how AI agents are revolutionizing learning and development, from onboarding new hires to creating ...
Sep 19, 2024•21 min•Ep. 44
We are rejoined by Will Thalheimer to talk about one of his favorite topics, awards in the L&D industry. Should we have them? Should we give them out? How do we do it better… if at all? We explore a pretty exhaustive list of the general issues with using and distributing awards among industry professionals by industry professional groups. Heck, we even find a few good points to support the tradition, as well. Are these industry awards fair? Are they judged effectively and fairly? What are, a...
Sep 05, 2024•55 min•Ep. 43
Summary/Teaser: In this episode of the AI and L&D Insights Podcast, Markus sits down with Katja Schipperheijn, a pioneer in learning ecosystems and recently named a 2024 Power Woman. Katja shares her journey from traditional sales training to spearheading innovative learning environments that prioritize social collaboration and AI-driven personalization. Discover how Katja’s concept of "Learning in the Flow of Life" challenges conventional educational models and why embracing a Learning Mind...
Aug 22, 2024•19 min•Ep. 42
In this episode, Matt and Clark are joined by the great Karl Kapp. We dive into a favorite topic… using commercial games for learning. Shameless plug… The Commercial Games Workshop with Karl Kapp and Matt on December 11-12, 2024 in Philadelphia. We talk about how to utilize games and activities for team building and ensure they become both domain specific and transfer back to the workplace. We also distinguish between cooperative and competitive gaming experiences, as well as their respective pr...
Aug 12, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 41
Summary: In this episode of the AI and L&D Insights podcast, Markus Bernhardt hosts Jon Fletcher, an AI adoption specialist, to discuss the current landscape of AI integration in people and learning functions. They explore the recent slowdown in AI adoption, the challenges of balancing individual and organizational AI use, and the critical role of ethical and regulatory considerations, such as the EU AI Act. Jon emphasizes the need for clear AI strategies, proper training, and a holistic app...
Jul 25, 2024•44 min•Ep. 40
We are delighted to have the great Koreen Pagano join the podcast for the furthering conversation on skills. We get Koreen’s perspective and definition of skills. Matt alludes to the earlier LDA Podcast, The “What the Skills” Episode with Paul Kirschner, as well as the research work he did with John Sweller and Richard Clark published in their article: Kirschner, P.A., Sweller, J., & Clark, R.E. (2006). Why minimal guidance during instruction does not work: An analysis of the failure of cons...
Jul 16, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 39
Join Markus Bernhardt and Bjorn Billhardt as they explore how AI is reshaping leadership development. In this episode, discover the role of AI-driven simulations in creating dynamic learning experiences and why social interaction remains crucial. Explore the innovative 12-week MBA program designed for today’s leaders and learn how AI can elevate L&D from a support function to a strategic powerhouse. Don’t miss this engaging discussion on blending technology with human connection to transform...
Jul 08, 2024•25 min•Ep. 38
We have the wonderful Nigel Paine back in the house for an exciting and banter-filled episode about leadership. It's a continuation of the previous Nigel show, The "Follow the Leader" Episode. Nigel and Matt continue the conversation about the nuance of leadership-- what the heck is it practically as organizations struggle to get their arms around it. A bulk of the discussion centers on the work of the wonderful historian and leadership expert, Keith Grint from the Säid Business School of the Un...
Jun 14, 2024•56 min•Ep. 37
Join Markus Bernhardt in this enlightening conversation with Sandie de la Cruz, a seasoned automation specialist and Digital Solutions Manager at Edwards Life Sciences. Dive into the world of AI and process optimization as Sandie shares her expert insights on enhancing operational efficiency and strategic implementation in learning and development, and beyond. Discover the transformative potential of automation tools and learn practical strategies to streamline your L&D operations for a smar...
May 30, 2024•48 min•Ep. 36
We welcome back Emma Weber for part II of our conversation about coaching. This episode focuses on the qualifications and requirements for what makes an effective coach. We start with how to go about finding a coach. Emma offered to provide any listeners with her Assessing Coaching Capability Grid. You can get it here: https://mailchi.mp/leverlearning.com/svcitt67nx We briefly discuss Self-Determination Theory, a motivation model widely researched and used globally. You can learn more about it h...
May 16, 2024•59 min•Ep. 35
In this episode, Markus and Jos Arets from Tulser and Partners in AI, dive into all things learning and augmented performance, and the role Large Language Models are starting to play in supporting workers as a super-colleague. Jos' also dives into the work of nurses and doctors, a fascinating use case, and an area that is particularly close to Jos' heart since his time as CLO of Maastricht University Hospital. SHOWNOTES: You can find Jos at these locations: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josarets/ ...
May 02, 2024•46 min•Ep. 34
In this episode, we asked our good friend, David Ganulin to join us to talk about marketing and how the domain of marketing can inform learning and development. Of course, that didn't stop us from deviating off topic! Of course, we still do The Best and the Worst. We have a brief conversation about the following concepts: Hard Fun, coined by Dr. Seymour Papert. You can find out more here: https://dailypapert.com/hard-fun/ Mihaly Robert Csikszentmihalyi: Flow: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flow_(...
Apr 18, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 33
In this thought-provoking episode, Markus interviews Mike Vaughan, a seasoned expert in AI applications, as well as neuroscience. Discover how AI is revolutionizing simulations, making them more accessible and cost-effective. Learn about the shift towards experience-centric learning and the potential of AI-powered personalized and adaptive learning within simulations. Mike also shares insights on the current state of AI adoption in organizations and emphasizes the importance of community for L&a...
Apr 08, 2024•35 min•Ep. 32
Clark and Matt are joined by the wonderful Emma Weber. For those unfamiliar with Emma, she is the founder of Lever – Transfer of Learning, and developer of the Turning Learning into Action™ methodology. In this first episode of a two-part series, we explore coaching. What is it? How does it work? How should it work. And, of course, we go all over the place as we converse. We end the episode with the best and the worst. Emma and Clark reference LDA friend, Julie Dirksen and her latest book, Talk ...
Mar 21, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 31
In this episode of the LDA Podcast, we are joined by Jordan Wilson, host of the top 10 podcast "Your Everyday AI". Together with Jordan, we review the developments of Generative AI, why he started the podcast, how it is changing the way we learn and the way we work, why not to trust AI detection systems, and much, much more. Show notes: Your Everyday AI Website: www.youreverydayai.com Jordan Wilson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanwilson04/...
Mar 07, 2024•48 min•Ep. 30
Matt and Clark are so happy to have our dear friend and colleague, Elham Arabi join for the episode. In this show, we explore the nuance, and sometimes vague aspects, of culturally responsive learning and how that intricately ties to research and practice. In other words, what are the business cultural facets that affect learning initiatives. What norms, standards, values, and political schema all have impacts? Matt shamelessly references his own model for why stakeholders say no... (1) They don...
Mar 03, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 29
Join us in this insightful episode of the LDA Podcast as we delve into the fascinating world of AI with Jennifer Solberg, CEO of Quantum Improvement Consulting. Discover the cutting-edge intersection of technology and human performance, explore the real-world applications of AI in learning and government sectors, and unravel the hype vs. reality of AI in our daily lives. Jennifer brings her expertise in learning science, defense training, and AI collaboration, offering a unique perspective on th...
Feb 08, 2024•51 min•Ep. 28
In this episode, Matt is joined by the eminent educational psychologist, Paul Kirschner. Paul is truly one of the most qualified humans on the planet to talk about our topic this episode-- skills. The word skills is bandied about all over our industry. And we all agree it is important for people to develop skills. But, what do we mean by skills? Have we perhaps oversimplified this concept? During the episode, Paul and Matt hit several specific areas related to this often used, extremely importan...
Jan 25, 2024•51 min•Ep. 27
In this episode of AI and L&D Insights, Markus and Myra Roldan explore the rapid evolution of AI in learning and development. They discuss the impact of large language models and AI tools on upskilling, emphasizing the importance of ethical AI use and diverse representation in the field. Myra shares insights on integrating augmented and virtual reality with AI for immersive learning experiences and highlights initiatives like Amazon's educator enablement program and youth engagement programs...
Jan 11, 2024•44 min•Ep. 26
This episode’s topics: Is AI cheating? What is the impact on intellectual property? Learner assessment? Heck, even job replacement? These questions are both philosophical and pragmatic. What about the value of critical thinking... and does AI take that application away? We explore ways to use AI more effectively... but recognize we cannot even fathom some of the consequences, yet. In the spirit of Christmas and Santa Claus, is it ok to ever lie to your learners? What is the value of the "white l...
Dec 28, 2023•46 min•Ep. 25
In this episode, Markus and Jeroen van Hautte dive into the world of AI and L&D, but with a specific view towards the future of the Skills Based Organization (SBO). Jeroen shares his views on the future of work, the impact AI is going to have, and how it all fits in with the skills piece - in L&D, in HR, and in the wider organization. Jeroen is the co-founder and CTO of TechWolf, an AI start-up revolutionizing workforce skill management for global clients like Booking.com, GSK and United...
Dec 14, 2023•39 min•Ep. 24
Clark and Matt are joined by instruction design guru and all around fantastic human, Julie Dirksen. Julie has been in the business for over 15 years creating highly interactive and more importantly, highly effective eLearning experiences for clients all around the world. But, Julie is more than that! She is one of the those go-to people in the industry. She is an expert that many other experts in our industry turn to and call a researcher translator. Meaning she digs into core issues… practical ...
Nov 30, 2023•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 23
In this episode, Digital Creator and Instructional Designer Adrienne Thomas takes us on a personal journey through the AI tools landscape, from the front line perspective of an experienced practitioner. Adrienne shares with us her personal journey, how she deploys AI tools in her day to day work and the value she derives from them, as well as her experiences from the courses she delivers where she introduces others to these tools and their applications. You can find Adienne here: https://digital...
Nov 16, 2023•43 min•Ep. 22
