Unscripted—The L&D Shakers Podcast

What do Specsavers, Boost Juice, and Back to the Future have in common? In this episode, Joost sits down with Matt Smolen, founder of Balloon Tree Productions, to explore how storytelling transforms learning into something memorable, emotional, and effective.From mini-documentaries to Trojan-horsed messages, Matt shares how L&D teams can use narrative, conflict, and creativity to drive engagement and retention. Whether you're designing onboarding or rolling out SOPs, this episode will inspire you to think beyond slides and scripts.Whether you're an L&D professional or simply curious about innovative learning frameworks, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips.If you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, ⁠⁠⁠⁠please fill out this form⁠⁠⁠⁠, and I will reach out to you.If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Stop letting great ideas die in drawers. Learn the Disney Method that transforms brainstorming chaos into immediate action.You know the drill: fantastic brainstorming session, sticky notes flying, everyone energized... then weeks later, those brilliant ideas are collecting dust, untouched in a drawer. Too vague, too wild, bogged down in details and objections.In this episode, Camilla Poli reveals Disney's game-changing approach that separates creative thinking into three distinct worlds: Dreamer (anything is possible), Realist (is this feasible?), and Critic (what's our best plan?). You'll discover why traditional brainstorming rewards the loudest voice and kills creativity, learn the specific warm-up exercises that unlock divergent thinking, and hear the incredible story of how one session transformed three siloed departments into an aligned team that implemented solutions the very next day.This isn't just theory. Camilla walks through her exact process, including the moment when 16 confused leaders couldn't recognize their own roadmaps, sparking the breakthrough conversation they'd needed for years.If you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠please fill out this form⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and I will reach out to you.If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

When organizations jump straight into "what" they want to train without understanding "why," they set themselves up for failure. In this episode, strategic communications expert Marta Novella shares how she used Simon Sinek's Why-How-What framework to transform a fragmented international team facing a leadership transition. Through candid one-on-one interviews and purpose-driven workshop design, Marta uncovered the real issues: lack of trust, poor communication, and teams operating as isolated islands. Her approach didn't just deliver training, it created a 50% improvement in trust scores and built a unified manifesto that helped the new CEO hit the ground running. Discover why starting with purpose isn't just good practice, it's the difference between compliance training and transformational learning.If you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠please fill out this form⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and I will reach out to you.If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

In this episode, we sit down with Saad Bin Tariq, a seasoned performance consultant, to explore how Human Performance Improvement (HPI) and Andragogy can transform learning interventions into real business impact.Saad shares a compelling case study involving 14 technical managers in the Middle East, revealing how a blend of diagnostic precision and adult learning principles helped tackle feedback avoidance, mentoring gaps, and conflict resolution.We unpack how HPI goes beyond skills to address systems, culture, and environment—and how Andragogy makes learning personal, relevant, and lasting.If you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠please fill out this form⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and I will reach out to you.If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

In this episode of L&D Frameworks: Applied, we sit down with Daria Rudnik—team architect and learning experience designer—to explore how she brings Sharon L. Bowman's Training from the Back of the Room to life. Daria shares how the 4Cs framework (Connections, Concepts, Concrete Practice, Conclusions) transforms passive training into active learning. From five-minute theory bursts to learner-led knowledge sharing, this episode is packed with practical insights for L&D professionals who want to design more engaging, brain-friendly learning experiences.If you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠please fill out this form⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and I will reach out to you.If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

In this episode of L&D Frameworks: Applied, Joost sits down with Gabrielle Sun, an experienced instructional designer working in a global L&D team at one of the Big Four. Together, they explore how Gabrielle blends the structure of ADDIE with the flexibility of SAM to create more iterative, feedback-driven learning experiences.Gabrielle shares how her team uses phases like Pre-Alpha, Alpha, Beta, and Gold to guide development, and how they manage stakeholder expectations while keeping the process agile. From global collaboration to piloting and evaluation, this episode is packed with practical insights for anyone designing learning at scale.Whether you're deep into instructional design or just curious about how to make your learning programs more adaptive, this conversation will give you tools and inspiration to rethink your approach.If you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠please fill out this form⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and I will reach out to you.If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

In this episode of "L&D Frameworks: Applied," host Joost Brouwer sits down with Shaira Khidirova, a seasoned L&D lead known for her creative and impactful learning solutions. Shaira shares her expertise on the 5DI model, developed by Nick Shackleton-Jones, and how she integrates MVP (Minimum Viable Product) testing to deliver effective learning programs. Tune in to explore how Shaira's startup mindset and agile approach help in creating user-centered learning experiences that resonate and drive real business impact. Also learn how Emily Button-Lynham from EBC⁠ helped to develop people at Ogury.Whether you're an L&D professional or simply curious about innovative learning frameworks, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips.If you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, ⁠⁠⁠please fill out this form⁠⁠⁠, and I will reach out to you.If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

In this episode of "L&D Frameworks: Applied," we dive into the world of nudge learning with Toby Newman, a seasoned learning strategist known for his innovative approaches to corporate training. Toby shares his insights on how small, timely interventions can significantly enhance learning outcomes when paired with the 70:20:10 model. Discover practical tips on making learning stick, the importance of incremental learning, and how to tailor training to individual experiences. Whether you're an L&D professional or simply passionate about effective learning strategies, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.If you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, ⁠⁠please fill out this form⁠⁠, and I will reach out to you.If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠⁠⁠!

In this episode of "L&D Frameworks: Applied," Joost Brouwer sits down with Zoltán László to explore the practical application of the 70:20:10 model developed by Charles Jennings. Zoltán shares his experiences in leveraging this widely recognized framework to become a trusted advisor in the L&D space. Discover how Zoltán successfully integrated different roles within his organization, fostering collaboration and mutual learning, and how managers played a crucial role in the program's success. Tune in to gain insights on applying the 70:20:10 model to both large-scale programs and smaller initiatives.If you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, ⁠please fill out this form⁠, and I will reach out to you.If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠⁠!

In this episode of L&D Frameworks: Applied, host Joost Brouwer is joined by Arash Mazinani, an expert in learning and performance improvement. Together, they explore the 5Di model developed by Nick Shackleton-Jones, focusing on its practical application in the real world.Arash shares his journey of implementing the 5Di model at Aggreko, highlighting the challenges faced and the successes achieved. From stealthy beginnings to achieving significant buy-in, this conversation is packed with insights on creating impactful learning experiences.Tune in to discover how the 5Di model can transform your approach to learning and development. Whether you're an L&D professional or simply interested in innovative learning solutions, this episode offers valuable takeaways.You can download the 5Di toolkit here.Podcast ArashIf you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, please fill out this form, and I will reach out to you.If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠!

L&D Frameworks : Applied, a podcast by L&D Shakers where we take learning theories off the page and put them into action. Join your host, Joost Brouwer, as he dives deep into the world of employee development with Dinye Hernanda.In this episode, Dinye shares her insights on implementing the Employee Development Framework to enhance growth and engagement within organizations. Discover how this practical framework, originating from a 2021 RedThread research report, can transform your company's learning ecosystem. Dinye discusses her journey from conducting status quo analyses to benchmarking against industry standards, and how she uses this framework to map out tangible and intangible aspects of learning culture.Learn about the six key elements of the framework: Plan, Discover, Consume, Experiment, Connect, and Perform. Dinye provides real-world examples of how she has successfully applied these principles in various scale-ups, offering valuable tips on integrating learning into daily work, fostering a learning culture, and driving business impact.Whether you're an HR professional, L&D specialist, or a business leader looking to boost employee development, this episode is packed with actionable insights and strategies to help you create a thriving learning environment.Tune in to L&D Frameworks : Applied and start fostering growth within your organization today!Link to RedThread Employee Development FrameworkIf you would like share a framework on the podcast you applied, please fill out this form, and I will reach out to you. If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠⁠then join us here⁠⁠!

In this episode of L&D Frameworks: Applied, we talk with Guus van Deelen about his Learning & Development Quick Scan, a diagnostic tool designed to help organizations assess and enhance their L&D functions. Guus shares the inspiration behind the Quickscan and how it helps organizations in making strategic decisions to strengthen their learning initiatives.Tune in to learn how to transform your L&D team from concept to impact!Link to the L&D Quick Scan and other resources.  Link to form if you want to be part of the podcast.

In this episode, we're talking with Traian Bruma, the Co-Founder of The Alternative University. This fascinating learning space is where self-directedness takes the spotlight, and students craft their own learning journey without a pre-set curriculum. We also unpack Learning as a Spinning Top, a learning model Traian put together after years of observing how learning by doing takes place in the world and what the most crucial ingredients are needed to propel learners toward their development goals. If you are adding some creative and innovative flavor to your work, please share your project, no matter how small or big, in our Padlet collection, under the fourth column: Innovation Hall of Fame 🙌 If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, then join us here!

In this episode, we talked to Marco Dussin and Ivano Masiero, two L&D Shakers spicing the world of experience design with their box of curiosity and sense called Kitto. We learned how they think about experience design, where the idea of Kitto came to be, and how it can elevate an online learning journey. If you are adding some creative and innovative flavor to your work, please share your project, no matter how small or big, in our Padlet collection, under the fourth column: ⁠Innovation Hall of Fame⁠ 🙌 If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, ⁠then join us here⁠!

We took so much inspiration from this conversation with Hajira Shaheen, the Learning and Development Manager at Hireup.  We talked about Project Oxygen Mask, a 6-nudge wellbeing campaign she designed for her colleagues, and delivered it fully on Slack.  Shaheen took us back to the initial idea and what prompted it, she explained the ingredients she paid extra attention to in the design process. She emphasized the importance of sitting with the problem and listening to your audience, for a successful outcome.  If you are adding some creative and innovative flavor to your work, please share your project, no matter how small or big, in our Padlet collection, under the fourth column: Innovation Hall of Fame 🙌 If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, then join us here!

In this episode, we chat with Calen Fitzsimmons, a Technical Leader & Instructional Designer at EPRI, about what goes on behind the scenes when designing and launching an onboarding VR experience in the nuclear industry. We explored why VR is an effective tech for onboarding new nuclear plant colleagues. What are the different approaches to building VR experiences, and all the tiny little moving parts that go into making such a project a reality? Calen also highlighted the crucial role that seamless collaboration with subject matter experts and other stakeholders plays in the success of such projects. Enjoy! If you are adding some creative and innovative flavor to your work, please share your project, no matter how small or big, in our Padlet collection, under the fourth column: Innovation Hall of Fame 🙌 If you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, then join us here!

This conversation shows that you don't need a big budget, lots of time, and fancy tools to play around with an idea. We talked with Marie Krebs, a brilliant People Experience Designer. At the time of the interview, Marie was the People Experience Design Lead at Learnerbly and is now the new Head of People Experience Design at Build a Rocket Boy. Marie describes an experiment she launched several years back when the Learnerbly team was about 20. Combining the power of ritual and gamification, this experiment hit the mark for team building and practical ways to foster habits linked to company values. We discussed what made it work and why it would probably fall flat in a post-pandemic world or a big organization. Enjoy! If you are adding some creative and innovative flavor to your work, please share your project, no matter how small or big, in our Padlet collection, under the fourth column: Innovation Hall of Fame 🙌 And if you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias toward action and connection, join us here!

In this first episode of our mini-series on learning creativity and innovation, we're talking to ⁠Srishti Sehgal⁠, the Learning Design Lead at NextLeap about Learning Museums. By tuning in, you'll learn why Learning Museums are powerful tools that will make your learning visible, tangible and shareable. Srishti shared concrete ways on how to include them in our learning design and what their benefits might be. With Learning Museums you can measure: ​• Progress: Where a learner is in their learning journey ​• Achievement: what the learner has accomplished ​• Effort: How much effort the learner has put in the learning program ​• Competency: What knowledge, skills & mindsets the learner has acquired Srishti Sehgal is the Learning Design Lead at NextLeap, and an absolute 'learning geek'. She's sharing her learning nuggets and learning explorations with her audience on a weekly basis through her Learning Nerd’s Diary 👾 Newsletter. If you'd like to learn more about Learning Museums, you can: Read this article Or watch this past L&D Shakers event recording If you are adding some creative and innovation flavour to your work, please share your project, no matter how small or big, in our Padlet collection, under the fourth column: Innovation Hall of Fame 🙌 And you'd like to join a global community of Learning & Development professionals with a bias towards action and connection, then join us here!

In this episode, we sit down with Romy Alexandra, an experiential learning consultant, trainer and facilitator, to discuss the value of diversity in learning. We dive into how we can engage learners from different backgrounds and create opportunities for everyone to bring their life experiences into the mix while exploring the beauty of cross-cultural and intergenerational learning. Connect with Romy

In this special episode, we are meeting with Olga Filipova and Pablo Alvarez to discuss how data contributes to employee engagement, what are the key success indicators and common pitfalls as well as some tips for becoming better with your learning data.  Connect with Olga here  Connect with Pablo here