Voices of the Learning Network – Details, episodes & analysis

What if learning design is standing at a real crossroads - one path toward a golden age of human impact, the other toward machine-paced irrelevance? That’s the provocative question Jonathan Hill, award-winning learning designer and evidence-first practitioner, helped Bill Banham tackle as they dug into how to make digital learning change behavior.

Bill and Jonathan get specific about strategic storytelling and why it’s more than a pretty wrapper. Jonathan explains the difference between illustration and demonstration, showing how multi-perspective scenarios move learners from visceral first-person decisions to reflective third-person analysis. The litmus test is sharp and usable: if you can remove the story and nothing breaks, it wasn’t strategic. From compliance to performance, those stakes matter. We pair that creative rigor with practical production: PowerPoint as a vector engine, Pixabay and Unsplash for visuals, Free Sound for audio, Pixlr for edits, and Camtasia for fast, polished outputs. Budget constraints stop being blockers when every asset points at a clear operational goal.

Working across time zones and cultures, Jonathan shares how to build trust and quality in distributed teams. He sets up virtual spaces for water cooler moments and learning clubs anchored in books by Julie Dirksen and Karl Kapp, using those shared anchors to surface different interpretations and sharpen decisions. Then we tie it all to outcomes that leaders care about: error rates, audits, rework, call waits, CSAT trends, and the qualitative signals inside complaints. Jonathan walks through A/B testing strategies that compare trained teams with control groups and highlights the valuable secondary effects—better morale, lower turnover, cleaner handoffs—that show up when friction drops on the front line.

If you want learning that earns its seat at the performance table, this conversation offers a usable playbook: craft stories that do real work, ship with scrappy tools, and prove the change on the dashboard. Enjoyed the episode? Follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more learning pros find us.

Connect with Jonathan Hill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonhill123/

Connect with Bill Banham: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-banham-a932a0b/

Voices of the Learning Network is the Learning Network podcast connecting the learning and development community. https://thelearning-network.org/

What if L&D stopped counting completions and started multiplying impact?

In this episode, Bill Banham chats with Paul Matthews, renowned author, speaker, and long-time L&D practitioner about how learning teams can move beyond activity metrics and drive real behavior change that moves the business.

Paul unpacks the real leverage in learning: defining key behaviors, designing for application, and involving managers before and after training to ensure learning transfer sticks.

 They also explore how AI and technology can amplify - or derail - impact in learning, from AI copilots and job-embedded nudges to the risk of producing low-value outputs when design discipline is skipped. 

Key takeaways:

• Focus on behavior change, not completion rates
• Engage managers to reinforce learning transfer
• Use AI to scale what already works—spaced prompts, job aids, feedback
• Pilot small, measure what matters, and codify wins

Paul also shares insights on cultural differences in learning, why some AI projects fail, and how L&D leaders can stay credible in a rapidly changing world.

Connect with Paul Matthews: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmatthews100/

Connect with Bill Banham: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-banham-a932a0b/

Voices of the Learning Network is the Learning Network podcast connecting the learning and development community. https://thelearning-network.org/

In the realm of education and development, the myth that quality learning requires a hefty investment is being dismantled, one innovative solution at a time. "Voices of the Learning Network" delves into the art of crafting rich, impactful learning experiences without breaking the bank, proving that creativity, not capital, is king. This episode explores the treasure trove of tools, techniques, and technologies that make learning accessible to all, highlighting how open-source platforms, collaborative content creation, and the leveraging of digital communities can amplify educational opportunities. We unravel the strategies for maximizing resources, from repurposing existing materials to harnessing the collective knowledge of a global network. Join us as we demonstrate that with a dash of ingenuity and a commitment to inclusivity, creating transformative learning experiences on a budget is not just possible—it's a pathway to pioneering educational frontiers.

Join Erin and Bob Price, from United Welsh Housing, as Erin gets way too excited about these real-world solutions to real learning needs.

Connect with Bob:

• Bob Price FLPI, LiFITOL - Cardiff, United Kingdom, United Welsh Housing , South Glamorgan Institute of Higher Education | about.me
• Bob's Rail Relics - YouTube

Don’t forget to follow and like this podcast on your favourite podcast provider and of course check-in with the Learning Network: https://thelearning-network.org/

Voices of the Learning Network is the Learning Network podcast connecting the learning and development community. https://thelearning-network.org/

In the symphony of success, collaboration is the melody that elevates a simple tune to a masterpiece. "Voices of the Learning Network" brings to light the unparalleled value of teaming up, showcasing how the fusion of diverse minds, talents, and perspectives doesn’t just add to the equation—it multiplies it. In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of collaboration, exploring how coming together in a spirit of mutual growth and shared goals can transform challenges into opportunities and individual achievements into collective triumphs. Join us as we celebrate the power of teaming up, where the sum is indeed greater than its parts, and discover how fostering strong partnerships and networks can lead to innovative solutions, enhanced learning experiences, and a more inclusive path toward success. In the world of learning and development, we’re not just sharing insights; we’re multiplying impact by uniting voices.

Join Erin as she speaks with Tim and Natalie from Make Real about the concept of team and how it is supporting the future of learning.

Tim - Principal Immersive Learning Designer

Tim has worked at Make Real for three years, with 10 years experience in digital design and 10 years in teaching before that. He holds an MSc in Learning Technologies from Birkbeck / Institution of Education in London. He's worked on a range of projects with Make Real, including CityZen, a team-based game that won gold in  Learning Technologies 2023's Best Learning Game. He's interested in how interactions between people can make learning better and will talk about some of the projects he's worked on that bring in group learning. 

Natalie - Marketing & Partnerships Manager

Natalie has worked at Make Real for just over six months and has five years experience working in and around immersive technologies. She focuses on growing partnerships with organisations looking to upskill their teams and has a keen interest in how innovative technology can add value to learning experiences. 

Check out Make Real and some of their work:

• https://makereal.co.uk/about/
• CityZen case study - the civil engineering citybuilding game: https://makereal.co.uk/work/institute-of-civil-engineers-cityzen/
• Kenes case study - using emotional recognition AI: https://makereal.co.uk/work/kenes-group-reality-check/

Connect with Tim and Natalie:

• Tim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timpowelljones/
• Natalie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-cregan-evans/

Don’t forget to follow and like this podcast on your favourite podcast provider and of course check-in with the Learning Network: https://thelearning-network.org/

Voices of the Learning Network is the Learning Network podcast connecting the learning and development community. https://thelearning-network.org/

Welcome to Voices of the Learning Network where we will talk marketing. Marketing Up addresses the crossroads of creativity and strategy, where the art of marketing meets the science of learning and development. In today’s ever-evolving digital landscape, the way we learn, teach, and grow has transformed dramatically, making it crucial for marketers and educators alike to adapt and thrive. This podcast delves into the heart of marketing learning and development, exploring how innovative strategies, cutting-edge technologies, and impactful storytelling are not just shaping the future of education but are essential tools for engaging audiences and fostering meaningful growth. 

Join Learning Network Board Member, Erin as she talks marketing with Cathy Hoy, the CEO and co-founder of CLO100: CLO100.co.uk 

Don’t forget to follow and like this podcast on your favourite podcast provider and of course check-in with the Learning Network: thelearning-network.org

Voices of the Learning Network is the Learning Network podcast connecting the learning and development community. https://thelearning-network.org/

It's time to Speak Up! with our next episode of Voices from the Learning Network.

Join Erin and Michelle Parry-Slater as they discuss the power of voice, speaking and sharing your message. Michelle provides practical tips for anyone interested in getting started with public speaking and conference submissions, as she shares her own story both the highs and lows. It's a must listen for all of us who are looking to craft a lasting message.

Michelle is one of our keynote speaker at Connect 2023. Book your tickets today!

Voices of the Learning Network is the Learning Network podcast connecting the learning and development community. https://thelearning-network.org/

Episode three of the Voice of the Learning Network looks at the softer side of learning. And by softer side, we mean the most important side of learning--the human side.

Join Learning Softer Side Guru, Fiona McBride and Erin as they talk through practical steps to implement a balance in your learning ecosystem.

Love the Minute with feature? Well you don't want to miss Andrew Jacobs, one of the Learning Network's directors and visionary behind LLARN.

Take a breath and yes... Human Up

Learn more about Connect 2023

Voices of the Learning Network is the Learning Network podcast connecting the learning and development community. https://thelearning-network.org/

Episode two of the Voice of the Learning Network is large and in charge and we are ready to pack our bags as we prep for this season of learning conferences.

Join Caleb Foster from Mindboost, and two of our Learning Network directors, Kim Ellis the CEO of Go Ginger and award wining learning designer Paula Hughes as they provide the tips and tricks of making your time matter as you navigate the overwhelming world of conferences.

We are also excited to introduce our new feature, “A Minute with…” that provides a bit of insight into the life and times of our directors.

Are you ready to plan up?

Voices of the Learning Network is the Learning Network podcast connecting the learning and development community. https://thelearning-network.org/

The Learning Network is a professional organization for people who work in the learning and development industry. It was founded in the early 2000s by a group of passionate learning professionals who wanted to create a community where people could share ideas, resources, and best practices.

The Learning Network has over 10,000 members from all over the world. Members include instructional designers, trainers, facilitators, coaches, and other professionals who work in the learning and development field.

There are many benefits to being a member of the Learning Network. Members have access to a variety of resources, including:

Networking opportunities: Members can connect with other professionals in the learning and development field through the Learning Network's online forums, events, and conferences.

Mentorship opportunities: Members can find mentors who can help them with their career development.

Professional development opportunities: Members can access a variety of professional development resources, including webinars, workshops, and online courses.

Bottomline, the Learning Network is a valuable resource for anyone who works in the learning and development industry. If you are looking for ways to improve your skills, network with other professionals, or stay up-to-date on the latest trends, then the Learning Network is the place for you.

Join us every month to celebrate the Voice of the Learning Network!

The Learning Network (thelearning-network.org)

Erin Donovan

Tom McDowall

Voices of the Learning Network is the Learning Network podcast connecting the learning and development community. https://thelearning-network.org/

The concept of voice keeps coming up in the world of learning. The ideas of story, authenticity and owning your space are lighting our collective future path.

The Learning Network is delighted to provide our very first podcast, Voice of the Learning Network. If you're interested in the idea of story voice, if you want to hear from industry partners, members, directors, and people in the field who are getting it right, check us out.

Voices of the Learning Network is bringing you its inaugural podcast and a podcast provider near you. It's time to listen to what learning really sounds like.

Voices of the Learning Network is the Learning Network podcast connecting the learning and development community. https://thelearning-network.org/