The EdUp Learning and Development Podcast

In this episode, Holly Owens breaks down how she landed multiple roles without submitting traditional job applications—by focusing on visibility, trust, and relationship-building instead of mass applying.Holly shares why the “spray and pray” approach to job searching is outdated and often ineffective, especially in Learning & Development. Instead, she makes the case for showing up consistently, building genuine relationships, and becoming a known, trusted voice in your field.Drawing from her own experiences landing roles with Yellowdig, Mars, and Lindenwood University, Holly explains how hiring decisions are often made long before a job is ever posted—and how visibility plays a major role in those opportunities finding you.Why mass job applications rarely work anymoreHow genuine relationship-building (especially on LinkedIn) leads to real opportunitiesThe role visibility and trust play in hiring decisionsReal examples of jobs Holly landed without applyingPractical strategies for building an online presence that feels authentic—not performativeWhy transactional networking hurts your long-term career growthStart building visibility through consistent, authentic engagementFocus on relationships, not just résumésProtect your time and energy—connection beats cold outreachBe intentional, human, and real in how you show upYou don’t need to do everything. You need to do the right things consistently. Visibility plus authenticity compounds over time.🔗 Connect with Holly on LinkedIn

In this “Ask Holly” edition of the EdUp Learning and Development podcast, Holly Owens shares her personal journey and insights on navigating career transitions, particularly for those moving into learning and development roles. She emphasizes the importance of understanding one's direction, taking actionable steps, and building a portfolio. Holly also discusses the significance of community engagement and maintaining a positive mindset while overcoming challenges like imposter syndrome. The episode concludes with practical advice on how to approach job searching and professional growth.Ask Holly⁠⁠⁠⁠Submit Your Questions Here⁠Connect with Holly + Access Her Resources:⁠⁠⁠Holly's Coaching Services⁠⁠⁠⁠Holly's "Interview Pocket Guide"⁠⁠Holly's "Unlock Your L&D Career: The Ultimate Resource Guide"⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Holly on Linkedin⁠⁠⁠⁠Grab your official EdUp L&D merch here:⁠⁠L&D Store Link⁠___________________________________Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates

In this episode of EdUp L&D, host Holly Owens speaks with Rebecca Barnes, the program director for the business management and leadership degree program at Bellevue University. They discuss Rebecca's transition from a business background to education, the integration of AI in learning, and the unique needs of adult learners. The conversation highlights the importance of flexibility in education, the use of technology and tools, and the power of storytelling in making learning engaging. Rebecca also shares insights on innovative learning approaches and offers advice for aspiring educators.Guest Contact Information:⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Connect with Holly + Access Her Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Holly's Coaching Services⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Holly's "Interview Pocket Guide"⁠⁠⁠⁠Holly's "Unlock Your L&D Career: The Ultimate Resource Guide"⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Holly on Linkedin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Grab your official EdUp L&D merch here: ⁠⁠⁠L&D Store Link⁠___________________________________ Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates 💡

In this episode of EdUp L&D, Holly Owens introduces a new segment called 'Ask Holly,' where she addresses common questions about breaking into the learning and development field. She emphasizes the importance of standing out in a competitive job market and provides actionable advice on how to communicate one's value effectively. Holly suggests incorporating video or audio introductions in job applications to create a more personal connection with potential employers. She also teases future episodes that will delve deeper into strategies for career advancement and offers resources for listeners.Ask Holly⁠⁠⁠Submit Your Questions HereConnect with Holly + Access Her Resources: ⁠⁠Holly's Coaching Services⁠⁠Holly's "Interview Pocket Guide"Holly's "Unlock Your L&D Career: The Ultimate Resource Guide"⁠⁠⁠Holly on Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ Grab your official EdUp L&D merch here: ⁠L&D Store Link___________________________________Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates 💡

In this episode of EdUp L&D, host Holly Owens interviews Dr. Jennifer Berry, CEO of SmartLab, who shares her inspiring journey from professional dance to leading a STEM education organization. Dr. Berry discusses the importance of STEM identity in learners, SmartLab's mission to create engaging learning environments, and how they prepare students for a future influenced by AI. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring leaders and CEOs, emphasizing curiosity, learning without expectations, and staying rooted in one's values.Resources mentioned in this episode:⁠SmartLab Guest Contact Information:⁠LinkedIn⁠___________________________________ Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates 💡Thanks for tuning in! 🎧

In this episode of EdUp L&D, host Holly Owens interviews Shivali Goyal, founder of Trupeer.ai, a platform that revolutionizes content creation for learning and development professionals. Shivali shares her journey from working at Boston Consulting Group to launching her own AI-powered startup. The conversation delves into the features of Trupeer, including its ability to transform rough screen recordings into polished videos and guides, saving time and enhancing accessibility for L&D professionals. Shivali also discusses the current funding landscape for startups, offering valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.Resources mentioned in this episode:⁠Trupeer.aiGuest Contact Information: ⁠LinkedIn⁠___________________________________Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates 💡

In this episode of EdUp L&D, Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio discuss the transformative journey from education to entrepreneurship, drawing inspiration from the popular show Ted Lasso. They explore the importance of self-reflection, personal growth, and creating value in one's career. Marnie and Nick share insights from their new book, 'The Business of You,' which encourages individuals to take charge of their lives and careers. The conversation emphasizes the significance of leadership, resilience, and the challenges of leaving stability for entrepreneurial pursuits.Resources mentioned in this episode:⁠Lead It Like LassoThe Business of YouGuest Contact Information: Marnie StockmanNick Coniglio___________________________________Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates 💡

In this episode of EdUp L&D, host Holly Owens interviews Stephanie Yesil, founder of Elevated Careers, who shares her journey from education to corporate learning and development. Stephanie discusses the importance of building visibility in a competitive job market, the resources she offers to help educators transition into corporate roles, and actionable advice for those looking to pivot their careers. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support, the role of AI in L&D, and the importance of making one's expertise visible.Resources mentioned in this episode:Elevated CareersGuest Contact Information: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠___________________________________Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates 💡

In this episode of Ed Up L&D, host Holly Owens interviews Josh Czupryk, the creator of the K-12 job board blast. They discuss Josh's journey from teaching to entrepreneurship, the challenges educators face when transitioning careers, and the importance of quantifying experiences in resumes. Josh shares insights on the current education landscape, opportunities for teachers in L&D and EdTech, and practical advice for job seekers and aspiring entrepreneurs.Resources mentioned in this episode:JOSH'S K12 JOBS BOARDGuest Contact Information: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠___________________________________Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates 💡

In this episode of EdUp L&D, Holly Owens interviews James Gilchrist, an influential figure in the Learning and Development (L&D) space. James shares his unique journey from theater to L&D, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the transformative role of AI in creating engaging learning experiences. He offers valuable insights for those transitioning into L&D, highlighting the significance of networking and focusing on what brings joy in one's career. The conversation concludes with thoughts on the future of L&D and the importance of creating connections in the professional landscape.Resources mentioned in this episode:⁠DevLearn⁠Guest Contact Information: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bluesky⁠___________________________________Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates 💡

In this episode, Holly Owens interviews Lisa Harding, co-founder of the Teacher Career Transition Academy. They discuss Lisa's journey from the EdTech world to helping teachers transition into new careers. The conversation covers the importance of clarity before action, the emotional challenges teachers face when leaving the classroom, and the significance of networking and transferable skills in the job market. Lisa shares practical advice for teachers looking to make a career shift, emphasizing the need for a positive mindset and a structured approach to the transition process.Resources mentioned in this episode: ⁠⁠Teacher Career Transition AcademyTCTA PodcastGuest Contact Information: ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠___________________________________Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates 💡

In this episode of EdUp L&D, host Holly Owens welcomes back Taresa Scott, founder of Bleuprint, to discuss the critical aspects of onboarding, employee retention, and the role of middle management in organizational success. Taresa emphasizes the importance of effective onboarding experiences, the need for continuous learning, and how middle managers can significantly impact company culture. The conversation also touches on navigating job interviews, the evolving landscape of learning and development, and practical advice for educators transitioning into corporate roles.Resources mentioned in this episode: BleuprintGuest Contact Information: ⁠LinkedIn⁠___________________________________Episode Sponsor: iSpring Solutions🎙️ Huge thanks to our friends at iSpring Solutions for sponsoring this episode of the EdUp L&D podcast! 🙌If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Learning Exchange Community⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠— a vibrant space for creators, educators, and L&D pros to connect and grow.And don’t miss your chance to join the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iSpring Course Creation Contest⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ by July 25! 🚀Grateful for the support and excited to see what our community creates 💡