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The Learning + Performance Podcast

The show that explores key ideas, strategies, tools, and techniques for enhancing human learning and performance.

Patrick Healy

In this episode, I talk with John W. Sigmon, a Master Certified Coach (ICF), leadership activist, and author of Wild Leadership, about what nature can teach us about learning, decision-making, performance, and leadership. John shares how growing up in nature shaped his view of learning and life—and how returning to it later helped him find balance, clarity, and purpose. We explore what happens when we treat nature as both teacher and mirror, and how reconnecting with it helps us reconnect with our own instincts and intuition. It’s a conversation about slowing down to move forward, learning to trust the inner compass, and finding alignment between how we live, lead, and learn.About the GuestJohn W. Sigmon, MCC is a Master Certified Coach, leadership activist, and author who helps leaders harness intuition and authenticity to drive meaningful impact. As CEO of Sigmon Leadership Solutions, John partners with global leaders and organizations to develop future-ready leadership rooted in mindfulness, courage, and compassion.He also serves as Program Director for The Conference Board’s Senior HR Executives Councils, and as an adjunct professor and advisory board member at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.Connect with John:🌐 Website:⁠ johnsigmon.com⁠💼 LinkedIn:⁠ linkedin.com/in/johnwsigmon⁠📺 YouTube:⁠ @wildleadershipKey Topics & InsightsA fuller definition of performance as the integration of efficiency, effectiveness, and fulfillment.Curiosity as the engine of learning and the idea of letting questions guide exploration.The connection between nature and learning, and how growing up outdoors shaped John’s sense of wonder and resilience.Nature as a teacher, offering clarity, calm, creativity, and perspective.Themes from Wild Leadership and the lessons nature provides about growth, change, and interdependence.Adaptability and natural cycles as models for resilience, recovery, and renewal.How modern life disconnects us from nature through constant busyness and artificial environments.Intuition as a trainable skill, grounded in experience, reflection, and pattern recognition.Testing and calibrating intuition through journaling, feedback, and small experiments.Using natural metaphors in coaching to unlock insight and shift perspective.The power of coaching in nature for reducing mental chatter and opening new awareness.Two essential questions for intentional leadership: What is your intention? What impact do you want to have?Simple daily practices to reconnect with nature and reset the mind.A three-step noticing process—What do you notice? What are you wondering? What does it remind you of?The importance of honoring values and seeking clarity in work and leadership.Mentions and Additional Resources:Wild Leadership – John W. SigmonLetting Questions Be Your Guide (MBE Framework)Shinrin Yoku / Forest Bathing researchMindset: The New Psychology of Success – Carol DweckThe Power of Intuition – Gary Klein, Harvard Business ReviewShinrin Yoku: The Art and Science of Forest Bathing – Dr. Qing LiThe Learning-Performance Connection – Harvard Business ReviewBrené Brown on “Clear is Kind, Unclear is Unkind”The Biophilia Hypothesis – research on humans’ innate affinity with natureAdaptive Leadership Framework – Ronald Heifetz and Marty LinskyTranscript & Show NotesTranscriptShow NotesConnect with PatLooking to elevate your own learning and performance? I help individuals and organizations learn faster and perform better through coaching, consulting, and learning design. Connect with me here and let's start making a difference in your learning and performance today:Website: patrickjhealy.comEmail: pat@patrickjhealy.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-healy-95924543/

25 - John Sigmon on Nature for Learning, Intuition, and Leadership

Episode OverviewBurnout isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a chronic condition that can drain energy, cloud purpose, and leave us feeling isolated or ashamed. In this episode of The Learning and Performance Podcast, I speak with Jim Young, Director of Organizational Development at Keiter Corporation and author of Expansive Intimacy: How Tough Guys Defeat Burnout.After hitting burnout himself in 2018 and stepping away from corporate life, Jim went on a journey of recovery, reinvention, and reconnection. Today, he helps individuals and organizations pursue sustainable performance — balancing short-term demands with long-term health and purpose. Together, we explore what burnout really is, why it happens, and what it takes to recover and thrive.About The GuestJim Young is the Director of Organizational Development at Keiter Corporation in Western Massachusetts. He previously built a career in IT leadership and project management before experiencing burnout in 2018, which led him into coaching, writing, speaking, and teaching others about sustainable performance. Jim is also the author of Expansive Intimacy: How Tough Guys Defeat Burnout and a trained improv comedian. Connect with Jim:Website: ⁠thecenteredcoach.com⁠LinkedIn: ⁠Jim Young⁠Book: Expansive Intimacy: How Tough Guys Defeat Burnout (⁠Amazon⁠)Key Topics & InsightsPerformance, Learning, and Purpose — Jim’s view of high performance as doing work you love, that you’re good at, and that serves something larger than yourself.What burnout really is — not momentary tiredness, but a chronic condition involving loss of purpose, confusion, isolation, comparison, and shame.Common myths about burnout — why throwing the term around too loosely can downplay its seriousness.Root causes — including isolation, unrealistic social ideals, and cultural pressure to always achieve more.Identity and masculinity — how socialized expectations of men as “providers” and “tough guys” contribute to burnout.Pillars of recovery — therapy, recovery programs, intimacy, support groups, community, and service.Balancing resources and demands — the shift from reactive to creative modes when we’re resourced enough to meet life’s challenges.Boundaries and balance in practice — Jim’s decision to step back from a stressful executive role into organizational development work that better aligns with his strengths.Leadership lessons — how distributed leadership and autonomy help organizations sustain high performance.Improv wisdom — why acceptance, presence, and partnership on stage — and in life — can lead to better outcomes.Resources Mentioned:Expansive Intimacy: How Tough Guys Defeat Burnout by Jim Young (Amazon)The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk (Amazon)4000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman (Amazon)Fried: The Burnout Podcast with Kate Donovan (Podcast)Research on burnout: Christina Maslach & Michael Leiter’s work on the Maslach Burnout InventoryNonviolent Communication: A Language of Life by Marshall Rosenberg (CNVC)Transcript & Show NotesTranscriptShow NotesConnect with PatLooking to elevate your own learning and performance? I help individuals and organizations learn faster and perform better through coaching, consulting, and learning design. Connect with me here and let's start making a difference in your learning and performance today:Website: patrickjhealy.comEmail: pat@patrickjhealy.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-healy-95924543/

24 - Jim Young on Beating Burnout and Achieving Sustainable Performance

We all want to believe we’re tackling the right problems in our work — but too often, we skip straight to solutions without understanding what’s really going on. In this episode of The Learning and Performance Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Tom Brush, Professor of Instructional Systems Technology at Indiana University Bloomington, to explore why needs assessment is the overlooked key to effective performance improvement.With decades of experience teaching and conducting needs assessments across K–12, higher education, the military, and grant-funded projects, Tom blends academic expertise with real-world know-how. Together, we unpack the difference between needs assessment and needs analysis, why training isn’t always the answer, and how to approach performance problems with an open, systematic, and evidence-based mindset.You’ll hear practical steps for conducting an assessment (even on a tight budget), stories that illustrate why rushing to solutions can backfire, and advice for making the case for analysis to leaders who just want to “get on with it.” Whether you’re a designer, educator, leader, or consultant, this episode will help you stop wasting time on the wrong fixes and start solving the problems that really matter.About the GuestDr. Tom Brush is a Professor of Instructional Systems Technology at Indiana University Bloomington. Over the past two decades, he has trained hundreds of master’s and doctoral students in instructional design, needs assessment, and program evaluation, while leading research on inquiry-based learning, collaboration, and real-world problem solving.Tom has authored more than 70 publications and served as PI, co-PI, or evaluator on numerous projects funded by the National Science Foundation, the Google Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. His work spans K–12, higher education, the military, and large-scale educational initiatives.Faculty Profile: education.indiana.edu/about/directory/faculty/brush-thomas.htmlEmail: tbrush@iu.edu Key Topics CoveredWhat a “need” really isThe difference between needs assessment and needs analysis.The two types of needs assessments: general vs. training.Why training is not always the right solution to a performance problem.How to approach assessments with an open, unbiased mind.A systematic process for identifying problems, collecting data, and prioritizing causes.The role of both people-related and environment-related factors in performance.How to present findings when they’re politically sensitive or unpopular.Common mistakes to avoid (bias, rushing, skipping the process entirely).How to start small with minimum viable data collection.Tools and Practices MentionedAnalyzing Performance Problems — Robert Mager & Peter Pipe (Amazon)A Practical Guide to Needs Assessment — Sleezer, Russ-Eft, Gupta (Amazon)Cathy Moore’s Action Mapping (Blog)David Wile (1996), “Why Doers Do” (PDF)Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)Inquiry-based learning approachesDetailed Show Notes and TranscriptFull Show NotesTranscript🎧 Related EpisodesAlaina Szlachta on Harnessing Data Learning and Performance Improvement (Episode 17)Heidi Kirby on Making L&D More Strategic (Episode 11)Connect with PatLooking to elevate your own learning and performance? I help individuals and organizations learn faster and perform better through coaching, consulting, and learning design.Website: patrickjhealy.comEmail: pat@patrickjhealy.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-healy-95924543/

23 - Tom Brush on Needs Assessment for Learning and Performance Improvement

🌟 Episode SynopsisWe all like to believe we’re self-aware—but what if we’re not as clear-eyed as we think? In this episode of The Learning and Performance Podcast, I sit down with Charles Evan Smith (known to most as Evan), a seasoned coach, consultant, and change architect, to explore why self-awareness is the hidden foundation for personal and organizational transformation.With more than 25 years of experience helping Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations, Evan brings a rare blend of systems thinking, neuroscience, and deep empathy to his work. Together, we discuss why self-awareness is so rare (spoiler: 90% of people think they have it, but only 10% actually do), how blind spots can derail performance, and what leaders can do to foster change from the inside out.You’ll hear stories of organizational turnarounds, powerful coaching questions like "And what else?", and research that shows how behavior monitoring can spark real growth. Whether you’re a leader, coach, or simply someone striving to grow, this episode is packed with insights and practical tools to help you raise your own self-awareness and make meaningful change.👤 About the GuestCharles Evan Smith is a coach, consultant, and facilitator with more than two decades of experience helping individuals, teams, and organizations navigate meaningful change. As the founder of Metamorphosis Management Group, Evan partners with leaders to translate self-awareness into measurable business results and lasting personal growth.He also works with Box of Crayons to deliver curiosity-led leadership programs and with Empactful Advisors to align leadership, culture, and performance. Certified in tools like the Leadership Circle Profile and ICF Team Coaching, Evan brings a unique combination of systems thinking, behavior change theory, and deep empathy for the human side of work.Website: metaMG.comLinkedIn: Charles Evan Smith🧠 Key Topics CoveredWhat self-awareness is and why it’s the foundation for personal and organizational changeThe surprising gap between perceived and actual self-awarenessHow leaders can model “learning out loud” to energize changeThe neuroscience of habits and why patterns are hard to changeTools and practices for cultivating self-awareness, from feedback loops to habit trackersCommon barriers to self-awareness and why it’s often dismissed as a soft skillPractical ways to deepen your own self-awareness and apply it to learning and performance🛠️ Tools and Practices MentionedThe Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay StanierLeadership Circle 360 RallyBright Team AssessmentHabit tracking and journalingMorning intention-setting practices📝 Detailed Show Notes and TranscriptCheck out the full recap with show notes hereRead the full transcript here📚 Learn More – Further ResourcesInsight by Tasha EurichEmotional Intelligence by Daniel GolemanThe Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay StanierWhat You Don’t Know About Making Decisions (HBR) by David GarvinAmy Edmondson on Psychological SafetyHawthorne Effect🎧 Related EpisodesJon Walker on Self-Compassion for Learning, Performance, and Joy (#21)Nicole L’Etoile on Accessibility and Inclusive Design (#20)Amy Edmondson on Psychological Safety in Teams (#9)📬 Connect with PatLooking to elevate your own learning and performance? I (Pat Healy) help individuals and organizations learn faster and perform better through coaching, consulting, and learning design.Website: patrickjhealy.comEmail: pat@patrickjhealy.comLinkedIn: Patrick HealyConnect with me and let’s explore how we can improve your learning and performance today!

22 - Charles "Evan" Smith on Self-Awareness for Learning, Performance, and Change

What if your inner critic is the biggest thing holding back your learning and performance? In this episode, I speak with Dr. Jon Walker—retired physician, self-compassion teacher, and founder of Modestly Mindful—about why self-compassion isn't just self-care, but a powerful tool for improving our ability to learn and perform at our best. Jon and I discuss what compassion is, why it's important, and how to bring it into your work and life. Whether you’re a teacher, manager, student, or anyone navigating pressure, struggles, or setbacks, Jon makes the case for being kinder to yourself—and shows you how.👤 About the GuestDr. Jon Walker is a retired physician and certified mindful self-compassion teacher. He has completed training at UCLA’s Mindfulness Awareness Research Center and holds credentials from the International Mindfulness Teachers Association. Through Modestly Mindful, Jon offers free courses and resources that make self-compassion accessible, practical, and powerful for everyday life. His past experience in high-stress clinical settings brings real credibility to his teaching.🧠 Key Topics Covered:In this episode, we explore:What self-compassion really is (and isn’t)The 3 core components of self-compassion: mindfulness, common humanity, and self-kindnessThe difference between “tender” and “fierce” self-compassionCultural myths around self-compassion—especially for menJon’s personal journey from burnout to renewalWhy high performers often resist self-compassion—and need it mostHow trauma and childhood messages shape our self-talkA guided self-compassion break practice (starting around 46:00)Research on self-compassion and PTSD, healthcare, education, and moreTips for applying self-compassion in daily life, even in 30-second burstsThe concept of “backdraft” and why things sometimes get harder before they get better🧰 Tools and Practices MentionedSelf-Compassion Break (3-step real-time practice)Supportive Touch (ways to activate your body’s calming system)The Question: “What do I need right now?”Reframing the inner critic as a caring coachThe importance of practicing at “turtle speed” and customizing practices📚 Further Resources⁠Center for Mindful Self-Compassion⁠ – Home of the model developed by Dr. Kristin Neff and Dr. Chris Germer⁠Kristin Neff, Ph.D.⁠ – Research, books, and talks⁠Paul Gilbert’s Compassion-Focused Therapy⁠ – Especially for those with a trauma background⁠Stanford’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education⁠🗣️ TranscriptHERE

21 - Jon Walker on Self-Compassion for Learning, Performance, and Joy

In this episode of the Learning and Performance Podcast, I speak with Nicole L’Etoile—learning experience designer, accessibility advocate, and founder of L’Etoile Education—about how to design digital learning experiences that are accessible, inclusive, and equitable for all learners.Nicole brings deep experience as a former educator, LMS administrator, accessibility auditor, and course creator. In our conversation, she shares actionable strategies to help learning designers and organizations create accessible content that supports every learner—not just some.Whether you’re new to accessibility or a seasoned learning pro looking to go deeper, this episode is packed with practical advice, frameworks, and resources to support your work.Topics Covered:In our conversation, we cover a range of topics relevant to learning and performance, including:What accessibility is and why it mattersThe POUR framework: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, RobustWhy accessibility is often overlooked or treated as an afterthoughtCommon accessibility barriers in online learning and how to avoid themMyths about accessible learning being "less engaging"Tools, techniques, and workflows for building accessible contentHow to conduct an accessibility auditNicole’s own journey—from educator to accessibility advocateHow accessibility work shaped her as a learner, leader, and professionalAdvice for learning designers and L&D teamsThe future of accessibility and the role of AIThe value of safe, inclusive, and equitable learning environmentsConnect with Nicole🌐 Website: letoile-education.com📧 Newsletter + Cohorts: Making Online Content Accessible for All🔗 LinkedIn: Nicole L’EtoilePeople MentionedCrystal Scott – Certified Professional in Web Accessibility (CPWA) and designer of Nicole’s websiteTaylor Arnt – Accessibility and assistive tech advocate who created WCAG and AT-focused ChatGPT botsLuke Hobson – Instructional designer and founder of Instructional Design Institute; collaborator with NicoleMolly Huddle – Former Olympian and coach of Nicole’s racing teamTools and Tech Mentioned:Storyline, iSpring – E-learning authoring toolAmara – Open-source captioning and subtitling toolHemingway App – Writing tool for improving readability and plain languageFlesch-Kincaid Readability Test – Tool to assess reading level of contentChatGPT / Claude / Google Gemini – Used to interpret WCAG guidelines and assist in accessibility practicesWCAG GPT Bot by Taylor Arnt – Available hereAssistive Tech GPT by Taylor Arnt – Chatbot to simulate screen reader experienceFrameworks and Guides:WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) – Quick Reference GuidePOUR Framework – Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, RobustW3C (World Wide Web Consortium) – https://www.w3.orgWebAIM – https://webaim.orgUniversal Design for Learning (UDL) – CAST GuidelinesAccessibility Shield – https://www.accessibilityshield.comOrganizations and Platforms:L’Etoile Education – Nicole’s consulting business: https://www.letoile-education.comInstructional Design Institute by Luke Hobson – Nicole's course is hosted hereBrightspace / D2L – LMS used to deliver Nicole’s flagship accessibility courseTranscript

#20 – Nicole L’Etoile on Designing More Accessible and Inclusive Learning Experiences

In this episode of The Learning and Performance Podcast, I interview Tom McDowall, an experienced learning and development professional and the founder of Evolve Learning Design about the importance of upskilling and reskilling—both for the broader workforce and for L&D teams themselves. We discuss why many traditional models in the field are outdated and no longer serve us and how to skill better. Tom has worked across almost every L&D role—from facilitator to digital designer to head of learning design—and now focuses on helping L&D teams improve how they think, operate, and deliver impact. This conversation is packed with insight and honesty, and I think you’ll walk away with a sharper perspective on how to help people—and yourself—learn and perform better.Key Topics:In the conversation, we hit on a number of interesting topics relevant to learning and performance, including:What performance is and why it depends just as much on systems as it does on peopleWhy L&D often solves the wrong problemsThe difference between capability and opportunity—and how learning only supports oneTom’s journey into L&D and his critique of self-made success narrativesWhat a product mindset looks like in practiceWhy upskilling is uncomfortable—but necessary—and how to support it without overwhelming peopleHow to measure the success of upskilling initiativesPractical strategies for internal L&D teams to do more with lessThe importance of context awareness and system thinkingAnd more.Connect with Tom⁠Evolve ⁠– Tom’s learning consultancy⁠⁠⁠⁠IDTx Conference - Tom's conference for IDersLinkedInYouTubeNotes, Mentions, and Resources:Performance = where capability (internal KSAs) and opportunity (external environmental supports) meetW. Edwards Deming – “A bad system will beat a good person every time.”Learning = cognitive process of knowledge and skill developmentDesigning “learning” vs. designing training and resources for learning to occurSpaced practice, dripped contentInformal learning occurring all the timeThrive – LXP platform Tom worked withColossyan – AI avatar video platform Tom consulted withWhy luck is a big element of careersTaking a “product mindset” in L&D—viewing L&D as a provider of internal productsThomas Gilbert – Human Competence ModelGuy Wallace – Performance-based instructional designGreg Arthur – Learning experience design podcast guestEvolve – Tom’s learning design consultancyThe myth of the learner—people don't necessarily want to learn, value learning, or feel comfortable doing itGoal = more performant employees/professionals, not satisfied learnersUpskilling and reskilling as a form of change managementReskilling as uncomfortable but a kind/human thing to doWEF Jobs Insight Report (2025) – Human-only jobs declining, high churn/mobility, growing demand for physical laborImportance of L&D upskilling itself and practicing what it preachesChallenges of upskilling L&D: budget, assumptions, discomfort, outdated models, resistance to changeAddressing those challenges: be flexible, communicate value, use dataDelivering outcomes > outputsMeasuring upskilling impact: connect skills to KPIs, observe behavior change, avoid self-assessments, explore genAI roleplays, consider environmental variablesCore L&D skills today: resilience, tech elasticity, mental health awarenessThe Learning Network (UK) – Peer-driven L&D communityPixar’s Brain Trust – Honest, iterative creative feedbackBeing nice vs. being kind – Hard truths help people growKim Scott – Radical Candor – Clear, caring feedbackInvesting in contextual intelligence—reading widely and understanding learner environmentsAdam Savage’s principle of first-order retrieval – Reduce friction and increase flowAdam Grant – WorkLife Podcast – Making work betterWhy you shouldn’t always ask older professionals for advice firstGordon Brown – Seven Ways to Change the World – Insight into global systemic changeSTOP Technique – Stop, Take a Breath, Observe, Proceed

#19 - Tom McDowall on Upskilling and Reskilling L&D

In this episode of The Learning and Performance Podcast, I speak with the late Cathan Kabrelian, a leading expert in compassionate communication. Cathan was a trainer, speaker, retreat leader, and mentor, known for integrating compassionate communication into a wide range of fields, from education to corporate environments. Through her work as a trauma-informed Needs-Awareness Trainer, Certified Mindfulness Instructor, and Breath Coach, Cathan brought a unique depth to understanding and teaching not only effective communication skills but the self-awareness skills to transform conversations and relationships at work, at home, and in all those third spaces. Together, Cathan and I discussed why compassionate communication matters and how you can use it to live a more self-aware, wonderful, and connected life.Key TopicsIn the conversation, we hit on a number of interesting topics relevant to learning and performance, including:What is compassionate or non-violent communication, and why is it importantThe importance of feelings and needs awareness to life and relationshipsThe OFNR framework of observation, feelings, needs, requestsHow to translate thoughts and judgments into needsFeelings as a “radar” for detecting what we needShifting from blaming others to identifying our own values and needsWhy self-connection is necessary to connect with othersThree ways to navigate challenging feelingsTwo ways to practice compassionate communication - formal and real-lifeUsing compassionate communication at workAnd much more...Learn More About Cathan and NVCCathan's websiteIn Loving MemoryNVC by Marshall RosenbergNew York Center for NVCThe Compassion Course by Thom Bond and teamNotes,Mentions, and ResourcesIdentity - not just WHO we are or WHAT we do or believe but HOW we arePerformance - achieving tasks towards a goal with creativity, skill, and compassionate consideration of needsLearning - understanding something better than we did beforeLearning-Performance "Loops" - Learn, Practice, Perform.Compassionate/Non-Violent Communication (NVC)Needs awarenessNon-Violent Communication (NVC) by Marshall RosenbergOFNR Framework - Observations, Feelings, Needs, RequestsObservations - what we notice about ourselves, others, and the worldFeelings - sensations stimulated by met or unmet needsNeeds - universal life impulses; drivers of actionsRequests/Strategies - ways to meet our needsCompassion Course OnlineThe Compassion Book by Thom BondNY Center for NVC (NYCNVC)Effective practice is intentional, focused, awareTranslating Judgments Practice - translating judgments into feelings and needs/valuesShifting from judgment and blaming to connection, curiosity, and compassionPrinciple - everything we do we do to meet a need or valueFeelings as "radar" for needs, not something to fear or push awayApplying NVC at work - values and what matters>needs; focusing on individual self-connection leads to more curiosity, compassion, and connection with co-workersIt doesn't take two to change a conversation, only oneDealing with difficult feelings by connecting to met/unmet needs - (1) notice judgments/resistance/thinking, (2) tune into body sensations, (3) identify what you want/need and embody it, (4) think of a strategy to meet the needsFeelings and Needs listStudy by Brene Brown on average number of feelings of AmericansSelf-connect first to connect with others secondTwo types of practice for showing up better - formal and integrative/IRLCathan's website - Compassionate Thriving Types of Judgments - Value judgments, preferences, assessments vs. moralistic judgmentsHigh performance in life = showing up authentically and connecting with othersMindfulnessSomatic experiencing and breathworkCompassion vs. empathy

#18 - Cathan Kabrelian on Compassionate Communication with Ourselves and Others

In this episode of The Learning and Performance Podcast, I speak with Dr. Alaina Szlachta, an education entrepreneur and data and measurement "nerd," about leveraging data to improve workplace learning and performance. Alaina is the founder and Chief Measurement Architect at By Design Development Solutions, a consultancy that works with leaders and teams to create simple data collection systems that enable their programs to facilitate real, evidence-based impact and change. Together, Alaina and I discuss why measurement, assessment, evaluation, and data are so critical to learning and performance improvement, and she shares some great insights and tools for measuring and understanding the true impact of your learning and performance efforts.Key TopicsIn our conversation, we hit on a number of interesting topics relevant to learning and performance, including: The importance of collecting and utilizing data (and why data is power) Evaluation, measurement - what they are and why they matter The criticality of having feedback loops in teaching and learning The similarities and differences between measurement, evaluation, and assessment Why analysis and evaluation are so often overlooked The difference between analyzing and addressing performance gaps vs. designing learning solutions Some challenges with measuring the impact of training and other interventions, and how to overcome them How to artfully navigate questionable training requests How to evaluate intangible skills in highly tangible ways And a whole lot more!Connect with Alaina Alaina's website LinkedIn  Measurement Made Easy group Measurement and Evaluation on a Shoestring⁠⁠⁠Mentions and Resources: Learning 2024 Conference Dr. Megan Torrance - Why data is power The data pyramid and how wisdom requires data Performance - a combo of attitudes and actions, beliefs and behaviors that show up in how we work Learning - a means to an end at work, NOT the end result The importance of evaluating performance changes, not just assessing learning! Importance of constant feedback loops in teaching and learning and the lack of feedback loop in much workplace learning and performance improvement Telling Ain't Training Definition of measurement - strategic planning to collect data and collecting it Definition of evaluation - analyzing the data and determining effectiveness Importance of measurement and evaluation to decision-making The ADDIE Framework - so easy to neglect/overlook A and E Analyzing and addressing performance gaps vs. designing and delivering learning solutions The Pareto Principle - 20 percent of content providing 80 percent of value Why evaluation is overlooked - (1) lack of time, money, and people to do a comprehensive evaluation, (2) focusing on superficial aspects of learning experiences, (3) not clearly identifying the important things to value Kirkpatrick's Four Levels of Evaluation Assessment vs. Evaluation - assessments collect data on learning, and evaluations determine changes in performance Challenges with measuring impact - (1) building a training or learning solution without validating the problem is a lack of knowledge, (2) not digging into the data closely Measurement and Evaluation on a Shoestring (ATD Press 2025) Getting out of the shoestring by being strategic Aligning L&D resources with core business/organizational metrics Heidi Kirby - Useful Stuff Importance of listening to your gut when sensing red flags with requests How to sidestep training requests with strategic questions about the problem Evaluating the "intangibles" - (1) Translate intangible skills into tangible behaviors and indicators. (2) Tie it back to the problem. What would be different if the person was better at this? If they did it, would it solve the problem? Importance of using tech to automate other things and free up time for better analysis and evaluation Being clear on key indicators/criteria before making professional decision (e.g., finding a job, taking on a client)

#17 - Alaina Szlachta on Harnessing Data To Improve Learning and Performance

Overview: In this episode of the L&P podcast, I speak with Mark Sheppard, a learning architect, designer, and self-proclaimed L&D “geek" about ways that that L&D professionals and teams can innovate their products, processes, and practices. Mark is the owner and founder of 2Sphynx Innovations, an L&D consultancy serving the public and private sectors in Canada and the US. With an impressive academic background and 30 years+ in the L&D field, Mark and I discuss a wealth of principles and practices you can use to change the way you consult, design, create, and lead.
Key Topics: In the conversation, we hit on a number of interesting topics relevant to learning and performance, including:

Striking the right balance between efficiency and innovation in L&D performance
The yin-yang relationship between learning and performance
The role of emotions—both positive and negative—in impactful learning
Learning in the flow of work
Dos and don’ts of online instruction
The value of full-stack L&D consulting
Mark’s advice on being a freelancer/contractor
The value of open-ended questions and challenging assumptions when working with stakeholders
The many uses of LLMs for L&D
Why context often trumps content when it comes to learning
The crucial difference between gamification of learning and game-based learning
The shortcomings of traditional L&D frameworks and some better alternatives
Barriers to innovation in L&D and how to overcome them
And much more!


Connect with Mark:

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/marksheppard
Blue Sky: https://publictest.bsky.cz/profile/did:plc:jk4hydiju4stbfzvtamktpjq
2Sphynx: https://2sphynx.com/


Mentions and Resources:

Performance as a function of efficiency AND innovation
Role of emotion in learning
Education vs. learning
Learning and performance as yin and yang
Bob Mosher - Learning in the workflow
The roots of instructional design in the military
Online instruction: dos and dont's - (1) The importance of having a co-facilitator for live online learning, (2) the importance of videos and office hours for asynchronous online courses


Being a "full-stack" L&D professional
Tips on being a freelance L&Der- (1) Being a trusted advisor, (2) having empathy for SMEs and learners, (3) thinking like an entrepreneur/owner, (4) focusing on solving problems>providing training solutions, (5) watching out for bad contracts,  (6) engaging in regular marketing and sales and articulating your value prop


The role of powerful questions  (e.g., "how might we") in building trust, challenging assumptions, and creating better solutions
Importance of pre-boarding to successful onboarding
The value of LLMs for L&D - (1) knowledge management, (2) time saving, (3) content design and development, (4) sounding board, (5) thought partner, (6) devil's advocate, (7) needs analysis and evaluation, (8) data analysis and insights
LLM watch outs - too much focus on content production>process
The role of play and fun in learning
Performance analysis and improvement - Guy Wallace, Geary Rummler, Joe Harless, W. Edwards Deming


Microlearning
Performance support
Importance of context and activities>content and events
Iterative L&D - agile, rapid prototyping, SAM
The Kirkpatrick Framework  and its shortcomings
The CIPP Evaluation Framework (Context-Input-Process-Problem)
Will Thalheimer's Learning Transfer Evaluation Model
The ADDIE Framework - a macro doctrine, NOT a process or project plan
3 targets of innovation for L&D - (1) Product, (2) Process, and (3) Practice
Barriers to innovation in L&D - (1) fear, (2) inertia
Game-based learning/design vs. gamifying learning
Promises and pitfalls of gamificiation
The psychology of game-based learning - social learning, novelty, choice, experimentation/safety
Conditions vs. constraints in design of games
Dunning-Kruger Effect - mismatch between competence and confidence
Yerkes Dodson Curve - Moderate anxiety as a beneficial for learning
Importance of breaks and working with your brain in mind


#16 - Mark Sheppard on Innovation in L&D Products, Processes, and Practices

In this episode of the L&P pod, I speak with Noah Rasheta, a Buddhist philosopher, author, and podcaster dedicated to making Buddhist philosophy accessible and practical for everyday life. Noah's podcast, The Secular Buddhism Podcast, shares Buddhist principles and practices that modern people can use to learn, perform, and live more wisely. His book, "No-Nonsense Buddhism for Beginners," breaks down key Buddhist concepts for a Western audience and is an invaluable resource for those seeking to incorporate mindfulness and philosophical insights into their daily routines. In the conversation, Noah and I discuss some basic ideas from Buddhism and ways people from a secular background can leverage Buddhism. Noah enjoys photography, paragliding, volunteering as a school bus driver, and spending time with his wife and kids in Utah.

KEY TOPICS:
In our conversation, Noah and I hit on several topics relevant to learning and performance, including:

What is secular Buddhism
The Four Noble Truths
The difference between pain and suffering
Seeing life as a game
The power of awareness and attention for learning and performance
Common myths and misconceptions about Buddhism and mindfulness
Enlightenment as a journey vs. a destination
Unlearning as a tool for learning
Acknowledging multiple perspectives
The Middle Way of optimal performance
The power of pausing and returning to the breath
Doing things for the sake of it
Questioning the judgments and evaluations we make


ABOUT THE GUEST:
Noah Rasheta is a Buddhist philosopher, best-selling author, and podcast host. He has presented his teachings at some of the world's most renowned organizations, such as Apple®, PwC, YPO, Entrepreneurs' Organization, and many others. His teachings have been downloaded millions of times by individuals all around the world.

CONNECT WITH NOAH:

Secular Buddhism website
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter/X


MENTIONS and RESOURCES:

Performance vs. effort - See this and this 
Secular Buddhism	 - See this and this and this
First Noble Truth - Truth of Suffering - See this and this
Second Noble Truth - Truth of the Cause of Suffering - See this and this
Third Noble Truth - The End of Suffering	- See this and this
Fourth Noble Truth - Eightfold Path to End Suffering	 - See this and this AND this 


Pain vs. Suffering - See this and this
Groundlessness
Life as Chess vs. Tetris - 
The Myth of Having a Totally Happy Life	
Life Bingo	
Myth: Meditation as a Way to Feel Good (Catch the Butterfly) vs. a Way of Better Seeing/Feeling (Flashlight to Raise Awareness) 
Happiness as a Butterfly
Myth: Enlightenment as an End Goal vs. a Journey
Importance of awareness in learning and teaching	
Unlearning as a tool for learning
Parable of the Blind Men and the Elephant - different ways of understanding things
Learning styles vs. preferences
Secular Buddhism podcast
No Nonsense Buddhism for Beginners
The Power of the Pause
Flow experience
The Middle Way of Performance
Doing things for the sake of it	
Not tying identity to outcomes	
Parable of the Farmer and the Horse - "Who knows what is good/bad?"
Life is short, so make the most of it 


#15 - Noah Rasheta on Using Buddhism to Become a Better Person

In this episode of the L&P pod, I speak with Massimo Pigliucci, a philosopher, professor, author, and expert on Stoicism and practical philosophy. Massimo and I discuss why humans should study philosophy and how modern people can apply the ancient philosophy of Stoicism to improve our ability to learn, perform, and live well. The episode provides a toolbox of Stoic principles and practices for us all to navigate an increasingly complex, chaotic, and uncertain world.

KEY TOPICS:
In our conversation, Massimo and I hit on a number of topics relevant to learning and performance, including:

 What is philosophy and why it matters to the average person
 The two main branches of philosophy - theoretical and practical
 Stoicism as a philosophy of life
 The three main components of philosophies as ways of life
 The Origins of Stoicism
 The three aspects of human nature
 The four cardinal virtues
 Key Stoic figures like Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca and what they can teach modern people
 Common myths and misconceptions about Stoicism and other ancient philosophies
The difference between intentions and outcomes
Analytical and practical techniques devised by the Stoics to help us be wiser and flourish
A whole lot more!

ABOUT THE GUEST:
Massimo is the K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York. Massimo holds PhDs in evolutionary biology and philosophy. He conducts research and teaches classes on topics including philosophy, philosophy of science, and Stoicism. Massimo’s authored several articles and books that make ancient philosophy, especially Stoicism, more accessible and applicable to everyday life. He’s part of Modern Stoicism, a movement to help revive Stoicism that has equipped many with tools to handle life’s challenges more effectively. You can learn more about him from Wikipedia.

CONNECT WITH MASSIMO:

Website
University Page
Substack
YouTube
Stoa Nova
Modern Stoicism


MENTIONS, REFERENCES, AND RESOURCES:

Internal vs. external standards
Biological, machine, and human learning
Definition of Philosophy
Two branches of philosophy - theoretical vs. practical
Eudaimonia - flourishing in life
Plato
Stoicism
The three components of philosophies as a way of life - Meta-physics, ethics, practices
Living in accordance with nature
Zeno of Citium - founder of Stoicism
Three aspects of human nature - biology, rationality, sociality
The four cardinal virtues - practical wisdom, courage, justice, temperance
Marcus Aurelius
Stoic training/practice
How to Be a Stoic by Massimo Pigliucci
The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius
The Discourses of Epictetus
Epictetus's Enchiridion
Seneca's Letters
Stoic definition of "passion"
Stoic vs. stoic
Epicurean vs. epicurean
A Handbook for New Stoics by Massimo Pigliucci and Gregory Lopez
Contemplative exercise: Philosophical journaling
The myth of learning from experience alone
Musonius Rufus
Physical exercise: Fasting, abstaining, intentional mild discomfort
Dichotomy of control exercise
A Guide to the Good Life by Bill Irvine
Intentions vs. outcomes
Galen
Setting internal vs. external goals
Aristotle and aristotelianism
Epicureanism
The Philosophy of CBT by Don Robertson
The Role Ethics of Epictetus by Brian Johnson
Hic et nunc - "Here and now" tattoo



#14 - Massimo Pigliucci on Stoicism for Learning, Performing, and Living Well

In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with Mike Christensen, a counselor, trainer, and expert in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), about how our thoughts and beliefs influence how we feel, what we do, and ultimately, our ability to learn and perform. Mike and I discuss a range of CBT tools and techniques that are not only valuable to therapists and their patients, but can be used in any situation in which people might need to rethink things or change beliefs in order to learn or perform better. We also discuss how to use "deliberate practice" to improve at providing therapy, coaching, and beyond.

KEY TOPICS:
In our conversation, Mike and I discuss a range of topics, including:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and how what we think determines how we feel

The difference between CBT and positive thinking

David Burns’ new “TEAM” model of providing therapy and coaching

The importance of measuring outcomes

Why empathy is a necessary but not sufficient condition for change

Overcoming resistance to change

A bunch of techniques to help you untwist your thinking

The importance of deliberate practice and feedback in improving

Positive reframing

A whole lot more…



ABOUT THE GUEST:
Mike Christensen. MACP, RCC, ACS serves as the Director of Professional Development at the Feeling Good Institute. He is a Registered Clinical Counselor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counselors and holds a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology. His diverse background in business, community organizations, and family support roles has provided Mike with a wide array of experience in leadership, administration, parenting training, and team building. He is a Certified Level 5 Master TEAM CBT Therapist and Trainer and is the Director of Feeling Good Institute Canada. He provides advanced level online training with the Feeling Good Institute for therapists around the world and is the co-author of “Deliberate Practice for TEAM CBT"  with Dr. Maor Katz, Dr. Tony Roussmaniere and Dr. Alez Vaz. Mike lives in Canada with his wife and daughters. He is an avid cyclist and former swim coach.

CONNECT WITH MIKE:

Email: mike@feelinggoodinstitute.com
Website: https://www.feelinggoodinstitute.com/find-cbt-therapist/mike-christensen
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/michael-christensen-5555bb50 


MENTIONS, REFERENCES, AND RESOURCES:

The Feeling Good Institute
TEAM-CBT
David Burns
Hines Ward on talent
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy
The Cognitive Model
Cognitive appraisal: How we THINK determines how we FEEL
Cognitive distortions
Cognitive restructuring (thought challenging)
The cognitive triad (The CBT triangle)
Behavioral experiments
Exposure therapy
CBT vs. positive thinking
Two approaches to combating negative thoughts - counterattack and acceptance
Matthew May
Brian Johnson - Win or Learn
Aaron Beck
Testing (T)
Empathy (E)
Agenda-Setting/Assessment of Resistance (A)
Outcome vs. process resistance
Addictions as failed solutions
Methods (M)
"Examine the Evidence" technique
50 Techniques to Change Your Thinking
Therapy methods - behavioral, motivational, relational, cognitive, compassion-based, truth-based
The "Semantic" method
The "Best Friend/Double Standard" technique
Tools Not Schools of Therapy
The Recovery Circle
FGI Fast Track to Level 3 certification program
Deliberate practice
The Deliberate Practice of TEAM-CBT
Zone of proximal development (ZOPD)
Offering an "invitation" to a client
Sitting with "open hands"
"Multiple choice" empathy
Growth mindset - Why there's no such thing as "I can't do it."
Importance of high expectations
Facebook Live session with David Burns in which Mike failed
Learning from role models and anti-role models
Simone Biles failure
Reframing obstacles as opportunities


#13 - Mike Christensen on Leveraging Thinking To Your Advantage

In this episode of The Learning + Performance Podcast, I speak with Connie Malamed, a learning experience designer, consultant, author, speaker, and mentor to L&Ders around the world, about how to create interesting and impactful online learning experiences to promote learning and performance. 
In our conversation, we discuss a number of topics related to enhancing learning and performance, including:

Myths and misconceptions about eLearning
Why scenario-based e-learning can be so powerful
Connie’s key elements of effective e-learning
Simple visual design principles that anyone can use to design more digestible learning experiences
Common struggles instructional designers and developers face
The importance of evaluation and empathizing with your learners
Several techniques for learning effectively
And more!


About the Guest:
Known as the eLearning coach, Connie has spent over two decades studying and practicing the art and science of designing engaging e-learning and teaching others how to do it too. Her website, The eLearning Coach, shares actionable strategies, practical content, product reviews, and resources to help professionals design, develop, and understand learning, instructional design, and visual design. Connie's authored of two books on visual design, hosts a podcast on e-learning, has a free e-mail course on Breaking into Instructional Design, and runs a membership community, MasteringID, for people wanting to learn and build instructional design skills. Connie has a masters in Instructional Design and Technology from UT-Austin and a BA in Art Education from Penn State. She lives and works in the DC-Baltimore area and enjoys reading about all things learning, design, and the brain.

Connect with Connie:

Website: The eLearning Coach
Consulting Site: www.ConnieMalamed.com
LinkedIn
Twitter/X


Topics, Mentions, References, and Resources:

Connie's Books: https://theelearningcoach.com/my-book/ AND ⁠https://amzn.to/3EMQxDH⁠
Connie's MasteringID Community
Connie's newsletter
Connie's podcast
Connie's big List of ID programs
Assimilation vs. accommodation
Levels of knowledge and understanding: facts, concepts, processes, principles, theories, applications
User experience (UX) design
Myths and misconceptions about eLearning - the brain is a recorder, eLearning needs to be boring, learning is a one-time event
Scenario-based learning and the importance of leveraging imagination, stories, personalization, relevance
Clark Quinn on the importance of having learners make decisions
Importance of empathizing with learners
Key principles of effective online learning - interactivity, discussion/social learning after, follow-up/reinforcement, evaluation and feedback
Visual design for e-learning - the importance of white space, visual hierarchy
Connie on Why less is more in designing learning
Richard Mayer's 12 principles of multimedia design
ID vs. UI/UX vs. LXD
Differences between ID, elearning development, and training
LinkedIn group for freelance IDers
Struggles IDers face - not having a seat at the table, leaders not knowing how people develop skills, not being an order taker
Connie on What to do if you CAN'T speak with your audience
Root cause analysis
Julie Dirksen on the Importance of evaluating AI outputs
Using AI tools in ID - ChatGPT, Grammarly, Feedly
Connie on Agile ID and the importance of developing e-learning prototypes
The importance of incorporating the language of learners
Connie on Talent Stacking
Techniques for more effective learning - spacing learning, learning in short bursts/microlearning, reflection, studying things you care about, elaboration, discussion
Connie on elaboration
Connie's Breaking into ID site and email course: https://breakingintoid.com


#12 - Connie Malamed on Designing Interesting and Impactful Online Learning

In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with Heidi Kirby, Ph.D., an L&D strategy consultant, instructional designer, writer, and podcaster, about how L&D teams and organizations can be more intentional and strategic in facilitating learning and performance. With a PhD in instructional design and technology and over a decade of industry experience, Heidi possesses a unique blend of theory and practice. Over the past decade, she has built and launched learning programs, consulted with award-winning L&D entrepreneurs, and helped countless instructional designers enhance their skills. Co-founder of Useful Stuff and host of the BLOC podcast, Heidi seeks to help L&D professionals and companies around the world make learning more engaging and useful. She lives and works in Cleveland, OH, with her family and has an infectious laugh.

In our conversation, we touch on a range of topics relevant to L&D and talent professionals, including:
- Why L&D teams need a big dose of strategic thinking
- Ways to manage stakeholder expectations
- Building strong, diverse L&D teams
- Beginning L&D projects with evaluation in mind
- And so much more...

Topics, references, and other stuff mentioned in the conversation:

Designing for NASA, working in government
Challenging preconceived notions of training
Loom: https://www.loom.com/
Managing stakeholder expectations
Building and managing L&D teams
The importance of wins - big and small, short and long-term
Leveraging L&D talent and skills
Hiring for the same values and different skills
Aligning L&D strategy with business goals
Jim Collins - getting the right people in the right seats:  https://www.jimcollins.com/article_topics/articles/first-who.html
Team vision and values clarification
Evaluating learning from the start of a project


Wistia: https://wistia.com/
Borrowing resources from other departments
Kirkpatrick Framework for Learning Evaluation: https://www.kirkpatrickpartners.com/
The Six Disciplines of Breakthrough Learning: https://the6ds.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Introduction-to-the-6Ds-3.0.pdf
Cathy Moore - Action Mapping: https://blog.cathy-moore.com/action-mapping-a-visual-approach-to-training-design/
Immersing yourself in the client's culture
Field of Dreams - Build It, and They Will Come? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOPTByHw5RA
Pivoting from reactive to proactive mode
Intake process for training requests
Evaluating and choosing L&D tools
L&D toolkits>elearning authoring tools
Creating authentic learning experiences
Revising and improving learning experiences
Podcasts as learning and cultural tools
Heidi's dissertation on ID management and leadership skills: https://digitalcommons.odu.edu/stemps_etds/132/
The Dichotomy of control and controlling the controllable: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/365-ways-to-be-more-stoic/202304/the-stoic-dichotomy-of-control-in-practice
Setting personal learning goals
LN Connect - 2024 Conference https://thelearning-network.org/event/connect-2024-be-the-disruption/


Connect with Heidi:

Website: https://heidikirby.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidiekirby
Useful Stuff: ⁠https://www.getusefulstuff.com/⁠
The BLOC podcast: ⁠https://blocpod.buzzsprout.com/⁠


#11 - Heidi Kirby on Making L&D More Strategic

In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with Chris Deavin, health coach, personal trainer, and business owner, about key principles of behavior change and how to form healthy habits. With over two decades of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds to enhance their health and well-being, Chris is an expert at helping people build durable and repeatable habits and lifestyles. Chris has degrees in exercise science and certificates in nutrition, personal training, and related areas. He owns multiple health and fitness-related businesses, including MyHealthCoach, All-in-1 Health and Fitness, PT Development, and Reigate Health and Fitness. Chris lives in Reigate, UK, with his partner. He loves to travel and challenge himself by competing in all sorts of physical endurance events.

In our conversation, we touch on a range of topics relevant to anyone seeking to develop habits to promote their health, performance, and well-being, including:

The difference between knowledge and application
Why motivation is a myth
The power of consistency
Why it's so crucial to get the fundamentals right
Core values -their benefits and costs
Why mindset trumps planning
Designing your environment to reduce friction
And so much more...

Mentioned in or based on our conversation :

Knowledge vs. Wisdom - https://betterhumans.pub/the-difference-between-knowledge-and-wisdom-3ff97605287a
3 Different types of knowledge - conceptual, process/procedural, contextual - https://ice.ua.es/es/jornadas-redes-2013/documentos/2013-posters/334641.pdf
Definition of performance
Motivation vs. passion/desire
Definition of learning
The fundamentals - Sleeping, eating, exercising - https://eatmovesleep.org/
The power of values - https://www.mindtools.com/a5eygum/what-are-your-values
Simon Sinek - Start with Why - https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/
Core values - https://scottjeffrey.com/core-values-list/
The downside of core values
Readiness to change model - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transtheoretical_model
David Goggins - https://davidgoggins.com/
The motivation myth - https://www.amazon.com/Motivation-Myth-Achievers-Really-Themselves/dp/0399563768
Eliminating environmental friction - https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/09/well/mind/healthy-habits.html AND https://www.bobsutton.net/book/the-friction-project/
James Clear - Atomic Habits - https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits
"Crowding out" bad habits
Process vs. Results
Mindset before plan
The "C word" - consistency
Action planning
Experiential learning from failure
Keystone or fundamental habits - https://jamesclear.com/keystone-habits
Failure vs. feedback
Embrace the Suck - https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Suck-Navy-SEAL-Extraordinary/dp/0306846330
BJ Fogg - Tiny Habits - ⁠https://tinyhabits.com/⁠


Connect with Chris:

Coach.Me - https://www.coach.me/chrisdeavin
Over 50 and strong YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@over50andstrong
Twitter/X - https://www.twitter.com/myHealthCoach3
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/myhealthcoachuk
Email - myhealthcoachuk@gmail.com
MyHealthCoach - https://www.myhealthcoach.online/your-coach


#10 - Chris Deavin on Habit and Behavior Change

In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with Amy C. Edmondson, the Novartis Professor of Leadership & Management at the Harvard Business School (HBS), about team learning and performance. Thinkers50 #1 Management Thinker in the world, Amy is most well-known for her pioneering work on psychological safety and its key role in promoting team learning, collaboration, and innovation. She's the author of countless journal articles, books, case studies, and other content on leadership, teaming, and learning. Amy most recently published The Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well (2023), a book about how we can all leverage failure to our advantage. She lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts with her husband George and is the proud parent of two terrific young men.
In our conversation, we touch on a range of topics relevant to managers, leaders, and other professionals seeking to enhance the learning and performance of teams and organizations, including:

Psychological safety and its role in team learning and performance
Myths about psychological safety
Psychological safety vs. accountability
Can there be too much psych safety?
The three different types of failures
The 4 elements of "intelligent" failures
The role of leaders in making it safe to speak up and fail
A whole lot more!

Mention in the conversation:

Psychological safety
Humans as unconscious calculators
The critical role of psychological safety in facilitating learning
The 4 stages of learning
The variability of psych safety on teams in the same organization
Myths about psych safety
Psych safety vs. safe spaces
Chris Argyris on learning-oriented conversations
Can there be too much psych safety? https://hbr.org/2024/01/can-workplaces-have-too-much-psychological-safety AND https://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article/the-downside-of-psychological-safety-in-the-workplace/
Psych safety vs. accountability
Three types of failure
The 4 criteria of intelligent failures
Air Florida Flight 90 - A  basic avoidable failure
The Checklist Manifesto
Learning from mistakes
Deliberate practice
The challenges of creating psych safety on remote teams: https://psychsafety.co.uk/psychological-safety-in-remote-teams/ AND https://hbr.org/2020/08/how-to-foster-psychological-safety-in-virtual-meetings
The importance for leaders to frame work
Framing
Research on employee experience as it relates to connection to purpose and meaning, culture and community, learning and development, and material well-being, and how they relate
Ed Catmull on crappy first drafts
Growth mindset
Buckminster Fuller on naivety

Connect with Amy:

HBS page
LinkedIn
Twitter/X
Instagram


#9 - Amy Edmondson on Team Learning and Performance

In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with Todd Gerspach, former C-level executive and founder of Fortitude Executive Coaching, about how executives can enhance their performance while maintaining some semblance of balance. 
In our conversation, we touch on a range of topics relevant to current and aspiring managers and leaders, including:

Definitions of professional and personal success
Learning from experience
Leadership vs. management
Coaching
Change management
Personal mission statements and value hierarchies
Mental models of management and leadership
And a whole lot more!

Mentioned in the conversation:

8:35:00 - John Wooden on success - https://www.thewoodeneffect.com/pyramid-of-success/


12:19:00- Learning from experience - https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Experiential_learning
13:08:00 - Definition of Management - https://monday.com/blog/project-management/four-functions-of-management/
15:02:00 - CCT Trifecta - https://www.fortitudeexec.com/approach
29:07:00 - Growth mindset
https://fs.blog/carol-dweck-mindset/
29:54:00 - Management vs. Leadership - https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/leadership-vs-management
30:32:00 - Servant, transformational, and authentic leadership - https://www.fortitudeexec.com/leadership-philosophys
33:00:00 - John Kotter - https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/profile.aspx?facId=6495
35:14:00 - The learning/performance dip - https://medium.com/@simply_stef/stages-of-learning-when-are-people-most-likely-to-give-up-on-a-new-skill-6131866e4e21
40:00:00 - Internal/intrinsic vs. external/extrinsic motivationhttps://www.verywellmind.com/differences-between-extrinsic-and-intrinsic-motivation-2795384
40:40:00 - Personal values hierarchy - https://www.mindtools.com/a5eygum/what-are-your-values
44:44:00 - Alan Mulally's family mission statement - https://www.inc.com/ayse-birsel/3-lessons-i-learned-from-ford-ceo-alan-mulally-about-being-a-better-parent.html
44:49:00 - Stephen Covey on family missions - https://www.thebump.com/a/family-mission-statement
45:33:00 - DISC - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DISC_assessment
45:34:00 - EQ - https://psychcentral.com/lib/what-is-emotional-intelligence-eq
50:41:00 - ModelNetics - https://www.maineventmanagement.com/model-netics/
51:46:00 - Delegation triangle - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/three-elements-delegation-victor-roosen/
53:18:00 - The Seven Ports of Life - https://www.leedunnesoccer.com/post/the-7-ports-of-life
54:00:00 - KASH Model - https://thepeakperformancecenter.com/educational-learning/learning/process/obtaining/obtaining-information/knowledge-skills-attitudes/kash/
1:01:48 - Executive 360 Model - https://www.fortitudeexec.com/executive-coaching
1:02:48 - Opportunity Wedge - https://liveyourwage.com/the-opportunity-wedge/
1:08:07 - Job-crafting - https://hbr.org/2010/06/managing-yourself-turn-the-job-you-have-into-the-job-you-want


Connect with Todd:

LinkedIn
Website
YouTube


#8 - Todd Gerspach on Enhancing Executive Performance

In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with Dr. Jenny Woo, a Harvard-trained educator, cognitive science researcher, entrepreneur, executive coach, and mom of three. Jenny is the founder and CEO of Mind Brain Emotion, an organization dedicated to helping parents, teachers, and other adults apply research from psychology and neuroscience to build essential life skills in our kids. Jenny conducts research in social-emotional learning, emotion regulation, and resilience. She is the creator of a series of award-winning life skills games used by parents, teachers, counselors, and therapists in 50+ countries. 

In our conversation, Jenny and I discuss:

Social and emotional learning (SEL)
Emotional intelligence (EQ)
The value of essential skills in the age of AI
The importance of relationships in human development
The application of neuroscience to education
The use of games to build skills
And several others...


Mentioned in the conversation:

Psychological Safety 
Harvard Study of Adult Development
The Loneliness Epidemic
Emotional Agility


Learn more about Jenny and check out her games:

LinkedIn; Instagram
Mind Brain Emotion Website
Essential Human Skills Card Games on Amazon
52 Essential Coping Skills
52 Essential Relationship Skills
52 Essential Critical Thinking Skills
52 Essential Interview Skills


#4 - Dr. Jenny Woo on Learning to Be More Emotionally Intelligent

In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with Dr. Curt Bonk, a Professor at Indiana University's School of Education who teaches psychology and technology courses. Curt is a prolific scholar and author, a sought-after conference speaker, and a big believer in the power of online education to transform lives worldwide. He currently conducts research in the field of self-directed online learning environments (SOLEs) and open education (including massive open online courses (MOOCs)).
In this conversation, Dr. Bonk and I discuss a range of topics, including:

Self-directed online learning
Massive open online courses
The measurement of online learning
Online learning resources and support for students
The stages of technology adoption
Techniques for online Instructors to support students
How instructors can add some TEC-VARIETY to their courses
And many others...

Mentioned in the conversation:

A list of Curt's 300+ articles on self-directed online learning, MOOCs, and related topics
EdTechBooks.org - Free education technology
Curt's Books
Garrison (1997) - Self-Directed Learning Model
Bonk's TEC-VARIETY Model of Motivation
Silver Lining for Learning podcast

More from Dr. Bonk:

Curt Bonk's Open Learning World
Curt Bonk's IU Profile


#3 - Curt Bonk on Changing Lives Through Self-Directed Online Learning

In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with Michael Sweeney, Chief Strategy Officer at RallyBright and founder of SaberCoaching, about his career enhancing the capacity and performance of individuals, teams, and organizations. Formerly VP of Digital Learning at Bain & Company, Mike has over two decades of experience in operations management, L&D, learning design, leadership development, coaching, and technology training. 
A lifelong learner himself, Mike enjoys finding ways to help others perform better and master their crafts. Mike holds a Masters in Organizational Psychology from William James College and is a Co-Active Training Institute (CTI) coach. Outside of work, Mike enjoys reading, running marathons, coaching athletes, playing with his dog, and being the best dad he can be for his three teenage daughters. Mike currently lives and works in Boston, Massachusetts.

In our conversation, we hit on a wide range of topics, including:

The critical role of culture, values, and behaviors in organizational effectiveness
The difference between peak performance and high performance
The neuroscience of learning and skill development
After-action reviews (AARs)
Leadership and leadership development
Coaching and feedback
Motivation vs. inspiration
Recruiting sponsors to drive organizational change
And a whole lot more!

Mentioned in the conversation:

6:28 - Values-Based Leadership
7:28 - Deliberate vs. Evolutionary/Emergent Strategy
8:18 - Values: Espoused vs. Enacted/In-Use
8:30 - Bain Values and Operating Principles
8:52 - Definition of culture
13:00 - Operationalizing values
14:02 - Edgar Schein on culture
14:59 - Humble Inquiry
17:42 - Stephen Covey's The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
20:11 - Peak vs. High Performance
21:05 - Learning in the brain
23:11 - Unlearning
23:52 - The P/PC Balance
24:58 - Atomic Habits
24:59 - The Power of Habit
25:56 - After-Action Review
26:36 - Teams that Work
28:30 - Agile retrospective
28:45 - Lean manufacturing
30:06 - John Maxwell's Leadership Law #2 - Leadership as influence
31:07 - Maxwell's Leadership Law #1 - Law of the Lid
32:12 - Feedback Model - Situation, Behavior, Impact
34:13 - Tim Ferriss on Learning to Learn
42:39 - Tim Gallwey's The Inner Game of Tennis
44:12 - Building High-Performing Teams course
48:29 - The Losada Ratio
48:55 - Designing the Coach-Client Alliance
50:25 - Alfie Kohn on the Downsides of Punishment
51:22 - Positive Intelligence
53:58 - Radical Candor
1:05:00 - The Sponsorship Spine
1:07:15 - John Kotter's Leading Change
1:07:45 - John Kotter's The Heart of Change
1:09:45 - Spaced repetition
1:11:30 - Learning moments of truth
1:16:23 - Outlive by Peter Attia
1:20:06 - CTI Fundamentals

Connect with Mike:

Michael Sweeney
Saber Coaching
Rally Bright


#7 - Michael Sweeney on L&D, Coaching, Leadership, Teams, and Beyond!

In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with ⁠Rachel Koblic, former VP of Learning Experience at 2U and co-founder of StarlingLX, a professional development startup that offers mid-level leaders the learning experiences, real-world resources, and social support they need to thrive in their roles, nurture the people around them, and create better workplaces. A generalist at heart, Rachel has held a variety of roles designing learning experiences and leading learning teams across a range of industries. She has a Masters in instructional technology from Indiana University and is a true lifelong learner. Rachel lives and works in upstate New York with her partner on a farm with a whole mess of critters!
In our conversation, we touch on a range of topics in online learning and professional development including:

Rachel’s journey into edtech and learning design

The 4 key elements of impactful online learning

Rachel’s role in developing 2U’s Learning Experience Framework

The evolution of online learning in higher education

What “quality” online learning means to learners

Rachel’s decision to start Starling and the need it serves

Starling’s unique approach to professional development for mid-level professionals

Much more!


Learn More About Rachel:

LinkedIn

StarlingLX


Mentioned in the Conversation

7:40 - Performance vs. Mastery Objectives

15:25 - Learning management systems (LMS)


LinkedIn Learning

Thinkific

Kajabi


19:01 - Ideal Customer Personas (ICPs)

19:25 - Micro-lessons and micro-learning

21:02 - 2U’s Learning Experience Framework (LXF)

22:17 - Bruce Spatz

22:35 - Clark Quinn

25:00 - Intrinsic motivation

26:13 - Learning Design Hooks

28:32 - The Power of Questions

34:15 - StarlingLX

34:38 - Disco community learning platform

36:00 - Jeff Sirroni

38:30 - Human-centered leadership

39:45 - Capacity planning

40:12 - Power to the Middle (McKinsey)

44:58 - Chris Dede’s The 60-year curriculum

45:04 - Stanford’s Open Loop University

46:06 - MasterClass

53:38 - Professional user manuals

56:25 - Self-determination theory
1:00 - Ego-centrism



1:02 - Tasha Eurich’s Insight



#6 - Rachel Koblic on Designing Online Programs and Professional Development Communities

In this episode of the L&P Podcast, I speak with John Larson, the founder and CEO of CoachAccountable, a digital coaching platform designed to make coaches better and help clients get more out of coaching. Half coach, half coder, John has dedicated his life to improving the experience of coaching for coaches and their clients. He lives in Denver, Colorado with his wife and kids.
In our conversation, we discuss: 

What is coaching
What coaches do (and don't do)
The role of coaching in facilitating learning and performance
John's journey into coaching and building CoachAccountable
The shortcomings of many coaching conversations
The importance of goals, metrics, action plans, and session notes
What makes for an effective coach
And much more...

Mentioned in the Conversation:

MacLelland (1995) - Coaching (Learn with) vs. Mentoring (Learn from)
Landmark Forum
What gets measured gets managed - Peter Drucker?
My Body Tutor
Spark by John Ratey
The Art of Learning by Josh Waitzkin
The Seventh Guest
The 11th Hour
Flow

Learn More About John:

About John
LinkedIn
CoachAccountable




# 5 - John Larson on Coaching for Learning and Performance

In this episode of the L&P podcast, I speak with Dr. Luke Hobson, an instructional designer working to build effective and engaging learning experiences for students in higher ed and beyond. Luke is also a teacher, author, and podcaster.

Dr. Hobson and I discuss a range of topics in instructional design, including:

The linkage between learning and performance
What do instructional designers do?
Working with subject matter experts 
The importance of conducting learner research and getting feedback
Integrating technology into your online courses
AI tools for IDers

Dr. Hobson also shares some of his personal inspirations and habits that keep him learning and performing at high levels.
Mentioned in the Conversation:

ADDIE
Spark by Jon Ratey


GenAI Tools: ChatGPT, Google Bard, Microsoft Bing


More from Dr. Hobson:

Website
LinkedIn, Youtube, Twitter, Facebook
Podcast
Instructional Design Institute
What I Wish I Knew Before Becoming an ID (book)


#2 - Luke Hobson on Instructional Design in Higher Ed and Beyond

In this episode of the L&P podcast, I speak with Dr. Althea Kaminske, a psychologist who studies the application of cognitive psychology to education. Dr. Kaminske and I discuss six evidence-based strategies from psychology that you can utilize to learn and remember information more effectively:

Retrieval Practice
Spaced Practice
Interleaving
Concrete Examples
Dual Coding
Elaboration

Dr. Kaminske also shares some of her research on the harmful effects of cell phone notifications on our ability to focus and the lessons she has learned about how to utilize the six strategies in her own life.

Mentioned in the Conversation:

Performance Arousal Curve
Six Strategies for Effective Learning
Distraction from Cell Phones


More from Dr. Kaminske:

LinkedIn
@Dr.SilverFox on Twitter
The Learning Scientists
Five Teaching and Learning Myths Debunked book (2018)
Ace That Test book (forthcoming, 2023)


#1 - The Science of Learning with Dr. Althea Kaminske

Are you a student, researcher, professional, leader, athlete, or simply someone looking to learn faster and perform better? Do you want to better understand the principles and practices behind effective learning and excel in every domain of your life? Then this is the show for you!
Join me, your host Patrick Healy, as I embark on a journey of discovery, where I explore the fascinating world of learning and performance and dive deep into evidence-based ideas, strategies, tools, and tactics that can enhance the way you learn and perform.
Every episode, I interview researchers, practitioners, experts, leaders, educators,  and other humans who have dedicated their lives to understanding and enhancing human learning and performance. In each conversation, guests will share relevant research, practices, stories, tips, and routines—all aimed at helping you learn faster and perform better.
The first episode will drop on July 4th, 2023, and future episodes will appear in the feed every month. Subscribe now!