Talent Talks

In this episode, we sit down with self-described "L&D Detective" Kevin M. Yates to uncover what it really takes to prove the impact of learning. We explore why traditional L&D metrics only tell part of the story, how to design training around business performance, and why L&D professionals need to think like performance consultants rather than order takers. Kevin also shares practical questions that help uncover real performance gaps and explains why training is sometimes only one part of the solution. For further resources and the full transcript visit https://www.talentlms.com/podcast

In this episode, we talk to Donald Taylor, one of the most influential voices in global L&D and a long-time authority at the intersection of learning and technology. From the dangers of the "AI efficiency trap" to why L&D teams need to move beyond being a content house, we explore where AI genuinely adds value, where it creates risk, and how learning leaders can stay relevant as expectations shift. A grounded, honest conversation about using AI in L&D with purpose, not hype. For further resources and the full transcript visit https://www.talentlms.com/podcast

As work continues to transform, L&D in 2026 is being forced to rethink how it supports people on the job. In this episode, we sit down with David Kelly - longtime industry analyst and influential L&D thinker - to dig into our Annual TalentLMS Benchmark Report. We unpack why learning debt is rising, why legacy L&D models are breaking under modern work demands, how AI should raise the ceiling of human work, and why skills matter more than job titles. For further resources and the full transcript visit https://www.talentlms.com/podcast

You've heard of Quiet Quitting—but what about Quiet Cracking? We talk to leadership expert Lia Garvin about the growing number of employees who are still showing up but quietly coming undone. Drawing on data from the TalentLMS survey that coined the term, we explore what's driving this pressure — from AI disruption to economic instability — and how companies can respond. Plus, Lia shares practical ways managers can spot the signs, support their high performers, and stop Quiet Cracking before it starts. For further resources and the full transcript visit https://www.talentlms.com/podcast

What if your team's most valuable skills aren't written down and the people who have them don't even realize it? In this episode, learning strategist Julia Phelan joins us to unpack knowledge mapping — a practical way to uncover hidden employee skills. Learn how mapping your organization's knowledge can streamline onboarding, open avenues for internal mobility and create a more transparent company culture. For further resources and the full transcript visit https://www.talentlms.com/podcast

When resources are tight but the demand for learning is high, strategy matters more than spend. In this episode, we're joined by Michelle Parry-Slater, author of The L&D Practitioner's Handbook and Director at Kairos modern learning. We explore how L&D teams can build learning programs that actually drive business results. By focusing on context over content, building relationships through 'strategic lattes,' and turning your best performers into learning resources, Michelle shares how to create real impact even when budgets are lean. For further resources and the full transcript visit https://www.talentlms.com/podcast

Most onboarding processes focus on paperwork over people. Amin Fard, CEO at Preppio and co-author of The Onboarding Playbook, explains how to design backward from "wow" moments that turn new hires into company advocates. We explore why hybrid onboarding can outperform in-person, measuring what actually matters, and creating connection from day one. We also draw insights from TalentLMS's latest onboarding research. For further resources and the full transcript visit https://www.talentlms.com/podcast

Why do so many workplace training programs fail to drive real change? In this episode, we sit down with Julie Dirksen, Learning and Design Consultant and author of Talk to the Elephant, to explore why people often can't learn or struggle to apply what they've learned. We unpack the psychology of behavior change and dig into what makes instructional design truly effective — from the role of social learning to making compliance training relevant, and, surprisingly, the similarities between AI and mozzarella cheese. For further resources and the full transcript visit https://www.talentlms.com/podcast

How do you keep employees engaged when everything's in flux? Rob Catalano, Co-Founder and Chief Engagement Officer at WorkTango, joins us to unpack the secrets behind effective employee engagement — especially during times of change. Drawing on original Organizational Change research from TalentLMS x WorkTango, we explore how L&D can steady the ship, why communication is your best retention tool, and what it takes to turn disruption into drive. For further resources and the full transcript visit https://www.talentlms.com/podcast

The future of workplace training is here — so how can L&D pros prep for new challenges on the horizon? Brent Skinner, future of work expert, joins us to reveal what to expect in the new year and beyond. Informed by the past, we'll explore learning in the flow of work, how to unify silos, and why in the age of breakneck technology, age-old human skills are more in demand than ever. Bonus: key insights and cross-generational divides from TalentLMS's annual training benchmark report. For further resources and the full transcript visit https://www.talentlms.com/podcast