The Learning Geeks Podcast

Latest Episodes:

S7 E13: Learning Practices to Put to Rest—or Resurrect Jun 04, 2025

Show notes

Inspired by a recent Star Wars-themed trip to Japan, Bob leads a discussion on learning and development practices that deserve to be put to rest—and those worth bringing back from the dead. Each of us shares one of each, along with our take on why. Have a listen to hear what made our list!

00:00 Cold open

00:29 Banter – Japan trip and field trips

04:47 Panel Discussion that inspired the topic

07:36 Things we would put to rest

25:14 Things we’d bring back from the dead

40:06 Final thoughts

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Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast

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If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.

DISCLAIMER

All thoughts and views are of our own.

S7 E12: The Creative Power of Ambiguity May 14, 2025

Show notes

What if uncertainty was actually a spark for creativity? In this episode, the three of us explore how reframing ambiguity can lead to innovation, not anxiety. Inspired by the book Navigating Ambiguity, we share personal stories, practical strategies, and a reminder that sometimes the messiest moments lead to the best ideas.

Referenced in this episode:

Navigating Ambiguity: Creating Opportunity in a World of Unknowns by Andrea Small and Kelly Schmutte

Chapters

00:00 Intro and banter

05:01 What is Ambiguity and Uncertainty

09:15 AI's Impact on Ambiguity and Uncertainty

13:33 Personal Experiences with Ambiguity

18:52 Dealing with Uncertainty and Stress

21:13 Practical Examples of Reframing Ambiguity

35:50 Final Thoughts

LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast

You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.

CONNECT WITH US

If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN

DISCLAIMER

All thoughts and views are of our own.

S7 E11: Professor + CLO: Bridging Academia and Corporate Learning (with Majd Sakr) Apr 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we are joined by Majd Sakr, Computer Science Professor at Carnegie Mellon University and Chief Learning and Research Officer at Accenture. We learn about Majd’s transition from academia to corporate learning environments, key differences, how to measure ROI of training, the challenges of maintaining learner engagement in fast-paced environments, and experimenting with innovative learning modalities. Majd wraps up the pod with practical tips for those in academia looking to make the move into corporate.

LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast

You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.

CONNECT WITH US

If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.

DISCLAIMER

All thoughts and views are of our own.

S7 E10: The Intersection of Emerging Tech and Cognitive Science (with Alex Kass) Mar 27, 2025

Show notes

We are joined by Alex Kass from Accenture Labs to delve into the future of learning and technology. We discuss various advancements such as neurosensing, artificial intelligence, extended reality, and their implications for educational experiences. Alex shares insights on how these technologies can enhance user interaction, improve the design process, and create more personalized learning environments. We also discuss dynamic content that adapts in real-time to learners' needs and the ethical considerations of using these technologies.

Listen and Subscribe to the Learning Geeks!

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast

You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.

CONNECT WITH US

If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.

DISCLAIMER

All thoughts and views are of our own.

S7 E09: Exploring Behavioral Economics in Learning (with Melina Palmer) Mar 05, 2025

Show notes

In this episode we are joined by Melina Palmer from The Brainy Business to discuss the intersection between behavioral economics and corporate learning. We dive into principles of behavioral economics and how they can influence training and learning strategies within organizations. We get into choice architecture, reward structures, decision-making, and application within education.

Chapters

00:00 Cold Open

00:29 Banter

05:16 Welcoming Melina Palmer

09:45 Melina's Journey into Behavioral Economics

13:18 Understanding Behavioral Economics

14:40 Applying Behavioral Economics in Adult Learning

18:06 Choice Architecture and Decision Making

26:42 Rewards and Incentives in Learning

36:33 Wrap up

ABOUT MELINA PALMER

Website: https://thebrainybusiness.com

Podcast: https://thebrainybusiness.com/podcast/

Listen and Subscribe to the Learning Geeks!

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast

You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts

CONNECT WITH US

If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.

DISCLAIMER

All thoughts and views are of our own.

S7 E08: The Skill Code – Experts, Novices, and the Future of Learning (with Matt Beane) Feb 19, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we are joined by Matt Beane, assistant professor and author of 'The Skill Code.' We explore Matt’s research on the impact of AI and robotics on skill development between novices and experts. Matt also discusses the disruption of traditional learning methods, the effects of remote work on apprenticeship, and the need for new metrics to balance productivity and skill growth.

LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast

You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.