The Learning & Development Podcast

In this episode of The Learning & Development Podcast, David James is joined by Rob Peacock, Director of Leadership & Learning at Merlin Entertainments, to discuss the transformation journey of the global learning function. They look at the disconnect between legacy training methods and the "hands-on" reality of managing a commercial P&L, while tackling the question of how to select and deliver "power skills" that genuinely serve a young, frontline workforce. They also explore how senior leaders are being embedded as active role models across the organization, the friction encountered when transitioning from local teams to global academies and the specific metrics needed to remain accountable and valued in 2026. Take your L&D to the next level Take advantage of thousands of hours of analysis. Hundreds of conversations with industry innovators and 25+ years of hands-on global L&D leadership. It's all distilled into one framework to help you level up L&D. Access the L&D Maturity Model here - https://360learning.com/maturity-model KEY TAKEAWAYS Merlin shifted from fragmented, locally driven L&D to global academies to build consistent leadership, enterprise capabilities, and democratised learning at scale. Including academies that target specific roles or departments e.g. engineers. A sharp focus on a few power skills, including storytelling, great conversations and  business partnering drives frontline performance and long‑term careers far more than catalogues of courses. Those soft but powerful skills work for a lifetime. Storytelling is treated as a core power skill because it makes everything else work better: presentations, influencing, leadership, and guest experience all become more effective when people can tell simple, human, memorable stories. A shared high‑performing team model combined with diagnostics drives systemic change and shows you where you need to focus next. L&D leaders must lean into discomfort, own their expertise with executives, and relentlessly tie learning to business impact.   BEST MOMENTS “The goal is great leaders, not great leadership development.”   “If you identify the right levers, you can make a very very substantive difference.” “Data informs people. Stories move people.”   “Leadership is the cornerstone of any successful organisation. It´s a cornerstone of any transformation.”   “You have to stay laser focused on the things that make the single biggest difference.”   Rob Peacock Bio Rob Peacock is a senior learning and development leader with over 15 years of experience building capability across global organisations. He currently serves as Global Director of Leadership and Learning at Merlin Entertainments, having joined in 2024. Before Merlin, Rob held senior L&D and talent roles at The Very Group, Samsung Electronics, and Virgin Media, where he led the company's L&D Academy. His career began at Tesco, where he spent nearly a decade across recruitment, HR business partnering, and learning roles spanning 22 countries. https://www.linkedin.com/in/robpeacockuyl/ VALUABLE RESOURCES The Learning And Development Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-learning-development-podcast/id1466927523 L&D Master Class Series: https://360learning.com/blog/l-and-d-masterclass-home ABOUT THE HOST David James  David has been a People Development professional for more than 20 years, most notably as Director of Talent, Learning & OD for The Walt Disney Company across Europe, the Middle East & Africa.  As well as being the Chief Learning Officer at 360Learning, David is a prominent writer and speaker on topics around modern and digital L&D.  CONTACT METHOD  Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidinlearning LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjameslinkedin L&D Collective: https://360learning.com/the-l-and-d-collective Blog: https://360learning.com/blog L&D Master Class Series: https://360learning.com/blog/l-and-d-masterclass-home This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, David James is joined by Larry Durham, President of St. Charles Consulting Group, and Jonathan Eighteen, Global Head of Consulting and Advisory Services at NIIT, to explore the findings of the 2026 Learning Transformation Benchmark. Together, they examine why L&D is entering a period of structural rebuild as the environment it was originally designed for ceases to exist. Larry and Jonathan reflect on the growing gap between organizational ambition and actual system readiness, highlighting how AI intensifies the need for learning to operate as enterprise infrastructure. They discuss the shift toward "invisible L&D," the necessity of moving skills from static taxonomies to active tools for workforce planning, and how L&D must evolve from a delivery engine into a strategic architect of performance to have a real business impact in an AI-accelerated world.   KEY TAKEAWAYS ·      Currently, the real gap is misaligned systems, governance, and funding. ·      As AI takes over declarative and procedural work, L&D must shift from compliance and content to performance, judgement, and stakeholder capability. ·      AI collapses design and development effort; the opportunity is to reinvest at the edges in performance consulting, measurement, and capability architecture. It gives us more impact. ·      Owning the organisation’s capability operating system is L&D’s path to lasting relevance in an AI‑driven workplace. BEST MOMENTS “The ambition is really clear. It's just the execution, the systems, and the governance that are holding people back.” “I think it (AI) inverts it, and it maybe even flattens the bell curve.” “If we don't have a seat going forward, it's because we didn't either take it or we didn't show up.”   Read the 2026 Learning Transformation Benchmark report for yourself, here: https://www.niit.com/en/learning-outsourcing/news-details/niitmts-stcharles-announce-2026-global-learning-transformation-benchmark-survey-report/   Larry Durham Bio  Larry Durham has spent 30 years helping organizations strengthen talent development, partnering with global professional services firms and Fortune 500 companies to deliver measurable business outcomes. He has worked in more than 30 countries as a consultant, facilitator, and speaker. Larry is President of St. Charles Consulting Group and previously led PwC's Learning Practice within Human Capital Advisory Services. His recent work includes developing AI strategies for learning organizations, redesigning learning operating models, and aligning learning with business, diversity, and performance goals. Larry hosts The HIVE podcast, co-authored The Talent-Fueled Enterprise, and is currently co-authoring The Judgment Void: How AI is Dismantling the One Human Capability It Cannot Replace. https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrydurham   Jonathan Eighteen Bio   Jonathan Eighteen is a transformation expert who helps leading organizations evolve learning, leadership, and talent strategies to improve performance. He has worked across complex public and private sector organizations in the UK, US, and globally, with deep expertise in learning operating models and organizational transformation. He has led large-scale learning function transformations, including strategy, governance, restructuring, technology modernization, and managed services transitions. Jonathan also helped lead Deloitte's research on skills-based organizations and later commissioned NIIT research on skills. He has since advised multiple organizations on designing and implementing skills-based talent strategies.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-eighteen-5293396/   VALUABLE RESOURCES ·      https://twitter.com/davidinlearning ·      https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjameslinkedin ·      https://360learning.com/the-l-and-d-collective ·      L&D Master Class Series: https://360learning.com/blog/l-and-d-masterclass-home   This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/ 

Recorded live at The Learning Conference in Stockholm, David is joined by Elliott Masie, Bob Mosher and Jennifer Florido to explore the forces reshaping workplace learning. From lasting shifts versus failed fads, to performance-first strategies, AI’s real impact, and rising stakeholder expectations, the panel cuts through the noise to share what matters most for L&D leaders right now. Packed with bold predictions and practical advice from three of the field’s most influential voices, this live episode captures the energy of where L&D is heading next. Take your L&D to the next level Take advantage of thousands of hours of analysis. Hundreds of conversations with industry innovators and 25+ years of hands-on global L&D leadership. It's all distilled into one framework to help you level up L&D. Access the L&D Maturity Model here - https://360learning.com/maturity-model KEY TAKEAWAYS L&D must evolve its methodologies from delivering “learning” to enabling performance—shifting focus from courses and content to real‑time support, experimentation, and impact on workflow and business performance. Chase fewer “shiny penny” technologies and treat AI as a useful tool only when it’s anchored in real workflow performance. L&D’s own risk aversion is now one of the biggest barriers to shifting from training to true performance. BEST MOMENTS “Only around 25% of L&D teams are involved in their company's skill strategy. I think that speaks to we're not relied upon.” “Branding and wording matters, when we try to explain what we do and get the buy in for what we do.” “There is a really important role for L&D at coordinating this and working on behalf of the organisation to future proof, it for skills tomorrow.” Elliott Masie Elliott Masie is an internationally recognised futurist, analyst, and learning advocate whose work has shaped the profession for more than four decades. Founder of The MASIE Center, he has been at the forefront of innovations from CBTs and LMSs to MOOCs, VR, and now AI. He also created the long-running Learning conference series, bringing leaders together to explore how workplace learning must evolve. With his trademark mix of curiosity, candour, and foresight, Elliott challenges L&D professionals to question assumptions and embrace the future with confidence. https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliottmasie/ https://masie.com/ Bob Mosher Bob Mosher is a pioneering voice in workplace learning, best known for championing performance-first approaches that put support in the flow of work at the centre of L&D. With decades of experience advising global organisations, he has helped leaders move beyond traditional training to solutions that deliver measurable impact where and when employees need it most. As Chief Learning Evangelist at APPLY Synergies, Bob continues to shape how organisations think about workflow learning, change management, and scalable performance support, earning a reputation as one of the most trusted figures in modern L&D. https://www.linkedin.com/in/bmosher/ https://applysynergies.com/ Jennifer Florido Jennifer Florido is Group Head of Talent & Growth at Telia Company, leading strategy to develop, engage and enable talent across one of the Nordics’ largest telecommunications providers. With experience in leadership development, organisational growth and workforce transformation, she brings a practical, business-focused view of how L&D can drive measurable impact. Jennifer is passionate about creating environments where employees can thrive, adapt and grow, aligning learning with both performance and culture. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferflorido/ VALUABLE RESOURCES L&D Master Class Series: https://360learning.com/blog/l-and-d-masterclass-home https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjameslinkedin This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Craig Friedman, author of Enterprise Skills Unlocked, joins David to explore what it really means to build a skills-based organisation, and why now is the critical moment for change. Together, they unpack the macro forces reshaping work, the difference between skills-based and role-based approaches, and the most compelling business cases driving adoption. Craig shares where organisations should start, the role (and pitfalls) of technology, and how governance and measurement come into play when scaling globally. He also offers practical advice for leaders feeling overwhelmed by the scale of transformation, with clear steps to move from ideas to action. If you’re curious about how skills can unlock new ways to manage, develop, and empower talent, this episode is essential listening. Take your L&D to the next level Take advantage of thousands of hours of analysis. Hundreds of conversations with industry innovators and 25+ years of hands-on global L&D leadership. It's all distilled into one framework to help you level up L&D. Access the L&D Maturity Model here - https://360learning.com/maturity-model KEY TAKEAWAYS It is now possible to manage and develop skills at a truly granular level, enabling real-time, targeted learning pathways tailored to each employee or business need instead of just for broad roles. An integrated ecosystem of HR technology - including talent marketplaces, skills intelligence tools, and performance and learning management systems - enables true skills-based talent management. You can match the right person to the right project or task, instantly and precisely. To have real impact, organizations must ground skills initiatives in urgent business objectives. BEST MOMENTS “This is a technology driven HR transformation, essentially …. we have access to a new level of skills data that we actually can manage.” “It shifts talent from being a headcount management exercise to a capability management exercise, a giant step closer to business alignment.” “No matter what anybody tells you, there is no one system that does it all.” Craig Friedman Craig Friedman has 30 years of experience as a human capital and talent advisor, executive, and entrepreneur. He specializes in skills-based talent strategies, learning operating models, change management, and performance consulting. A Senior Talent Strategist at St. Charles Consulting Group, Craig partners with CHROs and CLOs to align global talent strategies, supporting Fortune 500 companies and four of the five largest professional services firms. He spent 15 years at Deloitte, leading talent development for the U.S. Tax practice and earning several national and international learning awards. Craig also co-led Deloitte’s clinician change adoption practice and helped establish corporate universities for regional health systems. Craig’s background includes launching two eLearning start-ups and earning two U.S. patents for innovations in online education. He holds an M.A. in Learning Sciences from Northwestern University and dual undergraduate degrees from Tufts University in Human Factors Engineering and English. Craig is the author of the new book Enterprise Skills Unlocked: A Blueprint for Building a Skills-Based Organization. https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-w-friedman-8950841 Book: https://stccg.com/enterprise-skills-unlocked-2/ [email protected] https://stccg.com/ HOST RESOURCES https://twitter.com/davidinlearning https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjameslinkedin https://360learning.com/the-l-and-d-collective L&D Master Class: https://360learning.com/blog/l-and-d-masterclass-home This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Egle Vinauskaite joins David to discuss the very latest AI in L&D report, The Race for Impact, and why L&D is at a pivotal moment. They explore the shift from AI experimentation to implementation, the barriers holding teams back, and the new models of impact outlined in her “Transformation Triangle.” With case studies from Leyton and TTEC, Egle shows how L&D can move beyond content creation to workforce enablement and lasting business value. If you want to understand how L&D can harness AI, adapt with confidence, and stay relevant in a fast-changing landscape, this episode is essential listening. Get Ready For What Comes Next L&D isn't ready for what's next, but you will be - the L&D Performance Academy is a free 9 course certification that gives you the playbook to stay essential in the age of AI agents and rising expectations. Learn how to align learning with business goals, measure real impact and lead with confidence alongside a global community of L&D pros. Don't just ask for a seat at the table, show up with the agenda – enrol here - https://bit.ly/488gT5w KEY TAKEAWAYS Standing still in today’s landscape is risky, L&D needs to go beyond producing content and become an indispensable partner in workforce performance. Egel shares and explains the 3 future models L&D can use to evolve and become invaluable within their business - Skills Authority, Enablement Partner, and Adaptation Engine. Not adopting AI is becoming a career-limiting risk for L&D professionals. Your performance is likely to be defined by whether and how you work with AI. BEST MOMENTS “L&D can move beyond content creation, embrace new models of impact and position itself as an indispensable partner in the workforce.” "L&D can't stay a content producer or it will disappear" "First understand your starting point, what does the business come to you for? What is your value add? " Egle Vinauskaite Bio Egle Vinauskaite brings extensive expertise in learning, behaviour, and technology, working with both global enterprises and emerging edtech innovators. Her background spans AI, XR, mobile learning, digital platforms, and blended learning design, giving her a unique perspective on how technology is reshaping organisational learning and the future of work. As both an advisor and researcher, she helps L&D teams integrate AI into their operations and prepare workforces with the skills needed for effective adoption. Blending rigorous research with hands-on application, Egle has a sharp view of how AI is redefining the role of L&D and creating new possibilities for learning in the workplace. https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinauskaite http://nodes.works The Race for Impact report: https://donaldhtaylor.co.uk/research_base/focus04-race-for-impact VALUABLE RESOURCES L&D Master Class Series: https://360learning.com/blog/l-and-d-masterclass-home ABOUT THE HOST David James David has been a People Development professional for more than 20 years, most notably as Director of Talent, Learning & OD for The Walt Disney Company across Europe, the Middle East & Africa. As well as being the Chief Learning Officer at 360Learning, David is a prominent writer and speaker on topics around modern and digital L&D. CONTACT METHOD https://twitter.com/davidinlearning https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjameslinkedin L&D Collective: https://360learning.com/the-l-and-d-collective https://360learning.com/blog L&D Master Class Series: https://360learning.com/blog/l-and-d-masterclass-home This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Kevin Yates - widely known as the L&D Detective® - joins David to explore why measuring impact remains one of the most persistent challenges in Learning & Development, and how L&D can finally start getting it right. Together, they unpack why reporting on learning activity isn’t enough, what it really means to uncover evidence of performance impact, and how L&D must evolve to contribute meaningfully within the wider performance ecosystem. Kevin outlines the flaws in traditional training needs analysis, introduces his Workplace Performance Investigation Framework, and explains how business metrics—not LMS data—must become the cornerstone of meaningful measurement. Kevin also shares how L&D teams can use tools like the Performance Impact Blueprint and Instructional Design for Performance to plan for outcomes from the outset, and why embracing the identity of ‘impact investigators’ is critical for L&D’s future. If you’re serious about proving learning’s contribution to business performance, this episode is unmissable. KEY TAKEAWAYS The "village" approach is central to performance. L&D should measure collective, not isolated, impact. LMS data is easy to get, but it does not truly measure the impact on business performance. The 6 questions for business performance and 6 for human performance, in the framework, uncover the true needs behind a training request. Because improving performance involves many teams, a project management approach helps organize everyone’s roles, tasks, and contributions toward a shared business goal. BEST MOMENTS “It takes a village to impact workplace performance." “We must define impact. Before we can investigate it.” "Designing for performance is very different than designing for training." Kevin M. Yates Bio Kevin M. Yates is globally recognised as the L&D Detective®, known for investigating the impact of training and learning on workplace performance. With over 25 years of experience across major brands like McDonald’s, Meta, and Grant Thornton, Kevin brings a practical, data-driven approach to measuring learning’s contribution to business results. His work empowers L&D teams to go beyond activity metrics and uncover real evidence of performance impact. Kevin is also the founder of Meals in the Meantime, a nonprofit tackling food insecurity with the same focus on measurable outcomes. You can follow and connect with Kevin via: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinmyates/ Book: https://kevinmyates.com/detective-kit Website: https://kevinmyates.com/ VALUABLE RESOURCES The Learning And Development Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-learning-development-podcast/id1466927523 L&D Master Class Series: https://360learning.com/blog/l-and-d-masterclass-home ABOUT THE HOST David James David has been a People Development professional for more than 20 years, most notably as Director of Talent, Learning & OD for The Walt Disney Company across Europe, the Middle East & Africa. As well as being the Chief Learning Officer at 360Learning, David is a prominent writer and speaker on topics around modern and digital L&D. CONTACT METHOD Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidinlearning LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjameslinkedin L&D Collective: https://360learning.com/the-l-and-d-collective Blog: https://360learning.com/blog L&D Master Class Series: https://360learning.com/blog/l-and-d-masterclass-home This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/