Unlocking The Secrets: Season 1 Highlights Of The Secrets Of Learning And Development The Secrets Of Learning & Development podcast

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If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Julia and Valerie welcome Nicole Posner, an expert mediator and executive conflict coach. With a background in PR and psychology, Nicole shares how her early experiences in a toxic work environment inspired her to specialise in workplace conflict resolution and leadership coaching. Nicole discusses the importance of proactive communication, the role of listening in preventing misunderstandings, and the unseen factors that drive conflict. Drawing on years of experience, she introduces her Co-Founder Alignment Programme, a structured approach to helping business leaders and founders navigate tensions and foster collaboration before issues escalate. Through her blend of mediation, coaching, and conflict archetype analysis, Nicole offers practical tools to help leaders address challenges, build stronger workplace relationships, and create healthier organisational cultures. Whether you're a leader, a founder, or a professional navigating workplace dynamics, Nicole’s insights provide actionable strategies for meaningful change. Key Takeaways The Power of Active Listening and Acknowledgment in Resolving Conflict One of the most critical skills in conflict resolution is genuine listening. Nicole emphasises that many people hear but do not truly listen. Active listening involves acknowledging the other person’s perspective, avoiding dismissive phrases like "yes, but," and demonstrating understanding before responding. This approach not only diffuses tension but also fosters clearer communication and stronger relationships in the workplace. The Importance of Proactive Conflict Prevention in Leadership and Partnerships Nicole highlights the need for leaders and founders to anticipate potential sources of conflict rather than reacting to issues once they arise. She introduces strategies such as having "what if" conversations, aligning values and goals early on, and fostering a culture of open communication. Proactive conflict prevention, such as through her Co-Founder Alignment Programme, helps build resilient and cohesive teams, reducing the risk of escalations that could damage relationships or businesses. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleposner-conflict/ https://www.nicoleposner.com/ nicole@posner.london For her Book: https://amzn.eu/d/jcxMRK7…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Bonus Episode: Bespoke Training – Why It’s More Than Just ‘How-To’ 6:13

for 8 dage siden6:13

6:13

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this special fireside edition of The Secrets of Learning and Development, Julia hands the mic to co-host Valerie Merrill for an expert deep dive into the world of bespoke training. If you’ve ever been involved in rolling out a customised system, you’ll know it’s far from straightforward. Valerie unpacks what really goes into training for bespoke software – from understanding unique business processes to designing tailored learning experiences while the system is still being developed. You’ll hear why effective bespoke training isn’t just about showing people which buttons to press. It’s about managing change, adapting in real time, and ensuring the learning sticks long after the session ends. Whether you’re planning a rollout or already mid-way through, this episode offers practical insights and reassurance that you’re not alone.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Brad Borkan - Decisions Under Pressure: What Antarctic Explorers Teach Us About Leadership and Resilience 32:33

for 18 dage siden32:33

32:33

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E7 In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development , hosts Valerie and Julia welcome Brad Borkan, an author and decision-making expert with a unique approach to leadership inspired by history. Brad’s career spans from roles at tech giants like SAP and Oracle to becoming a published author, exploring how historical figures navigated complex decisions under extreme conditions. Brad shares his journey from the corporate world to writing, driven by a fascination with the decision-making processes of early Antarctic explorers. He delves into lessons from his books, including insights from Ernest Shackleton’s pivotal choices and the remarkable achievements of figures like the Wright Brothers, Teddy Roosevelt, and Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Through these examples, Brad illustrates timeless strategies relevant to modern leaders and individuals facing challenging decisions today. In addition to discussing his career shift, Brad reveals practical strategies for making tough choices, such as embracing course correction over perfection and building effective small teams. His latest book, It Takes Two or Three: The Superpower of Small Teams , examines how close collaboration fuels innovation and impact, using examples from history and popular culture. Key Takeaways Decision-Making Without Perfect Information : Brad discusses the importance of making decisions even when all information isn’t available. He highlights that in high-stakes environments, such as the Antarctic expeditions, waiting for perfect information wasn’t an option. Instead, explorers learned to take action based on what they knew and relied on their resilience to adapt. This approach encourages modern leaders and individuals to act decisively and course-correct as needed, rather than falling into analysis paralysis. Setting Achievable Milestones Even if Goals Aren’t Reached : Brad shares a powerful lesson from Ernest Shackleton's Antarctic expedition, where Shackleton, realising he couldn’t reach the South Pole without risking his team’s survival, chose to pivot and set a new milestone within 97 miles of the goal. This taught the importance of acknowledging progress and setting achievable milestones, even when the ultimate goal isn’t feasible. This approach is valuable in personal and professional pursuits, where focusing on incremental achievements can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradborkan/ https://extreme-decisions.com/ brad.borkan@gmail.com…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Cyber Security Essentials with Valerie Merrill: How to Stay Safe Online 11:32

for 24 dage siden11:32

11:32

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this special bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, Julia and co-host Valerie Merrill dive into the crucial topic of cyber security awareness for end users. With cyber threats evolving rapidly, understanding the risks and how to safeguard yourself is more important than ever. Valerie, an expert in workplace technology training, breaks down key cyber security threats including phishing, malware, ransomware, and insider threats while sharing practical, actionable steps to protect your data and stay secure online. From password security best practices to the dangers of public Wi-Fi and zero-day exploits, this episode is packed with essential advice for anyone looking to strengthen their digital defences. Stay safe, stay informed, and tune in to learn how to protect yourself from cyber threats.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Breaking Barriers, Leading Change: I.Stephanie Boyce on Resilience, Leadership & Social Mobility 34:43

for 5 weeks siden34:43

34:43

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this powerful episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, we welcome I. Stephanie Boyce, a trailblazer in the legal profession and a relentless advocate for social justice, equality, diversity, inclusion, and social mobility. As the first person of colour to become President of the Law Society of England and Wales, Stephanie's journey is one of resilience, leadership, and breaking down systemic barriers. She shares her deeply personal story, from her family's migration to the UK to her experiences navigating leadership, overcoming setbacks, and challenging long-standing traditions. Stephanie reflects on the power of perseverance, the importance of social mobility, and how we can all play a role in driving positive change. This episode is filled with invaluable lessons on leadership, advocacy, and resilience, making it a must-listen for anyone striving to create meaningful impact in their career and beyond. Tune in to hear: • The driving force behind Stephanie's advocacy for social mobility • How she overcame rejection and self-doubt to rise to the top • The role of networks, mentorship, and coalition support in leadership Her vision for a fairer, more inclusive society "Speak my name in rooms that I'm not in" - a powerful call to action from a leader who continues to pave the way for others. Key Takeaways Resilience and Determination Shape Leadership Success I. Stephanie Boyce's journey to becoming the first person of colour to lead the Law Society of England and Wales was far from straightforward. Her story demonstrates the power of persistence-facing rejection multiple times but using each setback as a learning opportunity. She reminds us that leadership is not about fitting a mould but about having the courage to challenge the status quo and push for meaningful change. Social Mobility and Equity Matter More Than Ever Stephanie emphasises that privilege extends beyond race and gender, it's also about access, networks, and opportunities. She champions the idea that talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not, and calls for a shift in how leadership and success are defined, focusing on ability rather than background. Her advocacy work highlights the urgent need to ensure legal rights and opportunities are accessible to all, not just the privileged few. Guest Information: stephanie@istephanieboyce.com https://www.istephanieboyce.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/i-stephanie-boyce-fkc-frsa-a4757062/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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From Experience to Opportunity: Julia Bend on Making Your Skills Work for You 9:08

for 5 weeks siden9:08

9:08

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this special bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , hosts Valerie Merrill and Julia Bend explore one of the most critical yet overlooked elements of career success, leveraging transferable skills. Whether you're considering a career shift or looking to elevate your leadership potential, recognising the skills that transcend job titles is key to unlocking new opportunities. Julia shares her transition from Process Analyst to Executive Career Coach, breaking down how her EXECUTE Framework became the bridge between industries. This structured approach empowers professionals to identify, articulate, and apply their skills in new ways, transforming self-perception and career possibilities. Through insightful discussion and practical steps, this episode sheds light on why so many professionals struggle to see the value in their own experiences and how reframing skills can open unexpected doors. If you’ve ever doubted how your expertise translates beyond your current role, this conversation is a must listen.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Glen Williamson Reveals the Secret to Building Unbreakable Client Bonds 36:56

for 6 weeks siden36:56

36:56

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E5 - In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Julia and Valerie welcome Glen Williamson, a visionary sales coach with nearly four decades of experience. Glen has transformed the concept of selling, introducing an approach he calls coach-based selling, which combines human psychology with cutting-edge sales techniques to create genuine connections and purpose-driven success. Glen shares his journey from corporate sales director to self-employed coach and consultant, revealing how he discovered that the essence of effective selling lies in understanding and connecting with people. He discusses his signature methodology, which emphasises authenticity, self-awareness, and building lasting client relationships. With a unique blend of insights from sales, psychology, and coaching, Glen offers practical advice on creating robust sales processes and playbooks that drive measurable success. In addition to his consulting work, Glen introduces his new app, The Art of Selling Academy, designed to support sales professionals and business owners in navigating the sales cycle with ease. This app, along with his live coaching and resources, empowers users to continuously refine their skills in an ever-evolving market. Key Learnings The Importance of Self-Awareness in Sales: Glen’s coach-based selling approach begins with the concept of “knowing yourself.” He emphasises that self-awareness is essential for any sales professional, as understanding your own motivations, strengths, and values enables you to genuinely connect with clients. By aligning your approach with your personal purpose, you build trust and authenticity, which are crucial for successful, lasting relationships. Building a Robust Sales Process: Glen discusses how having a well-defined, consistent sales process is the foundation for sales success. He highlights the importance of breaking down each stage of the process, from qualification to closing, and using playbooks to guide teams towards consistent outcomes. This structure not only provides clarity but also enables teams to learn from each stage, making improvements that drive continuous, measurable growth. Guest Information: glen@glenwilliamson.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenwilliamson1/ https://theartofselling.co.uk/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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M365 Copilot: Your AI Assistant for a Smarter Workday 7:34

for 7 weeks siden7:34

7:34

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , Julia and Valerie explore Copilot for Microsoft 365 , an AI-powered assistant designed to help professionals work smarter, not harder. Valerie explains how M365 Copilot enhances productivity by automating repetitive tasks, managing emails, scheduling meetings, and improving collaboration—all within the familiar Microsoft 365 environment. They discuss practical features like the Work and Web tabs , which help organise daily tasks and online activities, and the Agents feature , which enables users to set up automated assistants to streamline workflows. With real-world examples, Valerie breaks down how M365 Copilot can save time, improve efficiency, and support better decision-making. Tune in to find out how this tool can simplify your workday and help you focus on what really matters.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Redefining Learning: Donald Taylor on Networks, Technology, and the Future of L&D 33:38

for 8 weeks siden33:38

33:38

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E4 In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Julia and Valerie welcome Donald Taylor, Chair of the Learning Technologies Conference and a pioneering thought leader in the L&D field. With a career spanning decades, Donald reflects on how his early decisions and experiences shaped his approach to integrating technology with learning and building meaningful professional networks. Donald delves into the evolving role of L&D professionals, highlighting the shift from traditional course delivery to a broader focus on performance, knowledge sharing, and leveraging AI to transform the workplace. He shares powerful lessons on staying adaptable, the importance of giving value to professional networks, and how to tackle the overwhelm brought by rapid technological advancements. Through captivating stories, including a pivotal decision to remain in the L&D field during the dot-com boom, Donald underscores the value of experimentation, strategic thinking, and the need for L&D professionals to redefine their impact in a technology-driven world. Whether you're an L&D professional, a leader, or someone keen to understand the future of learning, Donald’s insights are sure to inspire and inform. Key Takeaways The Power of Strategic Networking: Donald highlights the importance of building and maintaining deep professional networks, emphasising that relationships require reciprocity and value creation. He shares how a pivotal moment during the dot-com boom led him to recognise the irreplaceable capital of strong, trusted connections, which ultimately shaped the trajectory of his career. Evolving the Role of L&D Professionals: Donald discusses the shift from traditional content delivery to a broader focus on enabling performance and leveraging technology. He stresses the need for L&D professionals to adapt by embracing AI, data-driven insights, and new approaches to learning that go beyond creating content, positioning them as strategic partners in organisational growth. Guest Information: https://donaldhtaylor.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/donaldhtaylor/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Feeling Stuck in Your Career? It Might Be Time to Move On 11:49

for 9 weeks siden11:49

11:49

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this special bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , Valerie and Julia shine a light on a career dilemma many professionals face but rarely discuss: the hidden costs of staying in a role for too long. What happens when comfort turns into stagnation? Julia, an Executive Career Transition Coach, shares real-life experiences of executives who came to realise, sometimes gradually, that staying put had cost them more than they expected; whether in career growth, industry relevance or financial opportunities. Valerie and Julia break down the warning signs, such as feeling uninspired, not learning anything new or sensing that your role is no longer aligned with your ambitions. They also share practical steps to regain momentum, whether through internal opportunities or making a strategic move. If you've ever wondered whether you're holding on to a role out of security rather than genuine satisfaction, this episode will help you assess, reflect and take action.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Unlocking Client Attraction: Henriette Danel on Energy Alignment and Strategic Growth 28:57

for 11 weeks siden28:57

28:57

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E3 - In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development hosts Valerie and Julia welcome Henriette Danel, an award-winning business coach, client attraction specialist, TEDx speaker, and host of the Entrepreneurial Success Podcast. Henriette shares her journey from interior design to business coaching, revealing how she transitioned from a creative industry into coaching, where she now helps entrepreneurs achieve sustainable growth through strategic client attraction. Henriette discusses the importance of energy alignment in her work and how it influences her approach to business. She introduces her distinctive four-part client attraction strategy, covering visibility, attraction, relationship-building, and transformation. This structured approach has enabled Henriette and her clients to attract high-paying clients without feeling overwhelmed by constant marketing demands. Throughout the episode, Henriette emphasizes the value of saying "yes" to opportunities that resonate with one’s goals and values, sharing pivotal moments that shaped her career. She also reflects on the power of collaboration, referencing her co-authored book Fab Collab: How Women Create Success, which celebrates the achievements of women in business and the transformative effects of collaboration. Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Henriette as she shares personal insights, practical strategies, and motivational advice for anyone looking to enhance client attraction, embrace new opportunities, and cultivate a business that aligns with their energy and purpose. Key Learnings Energy Alignment in Business Success: Henriette emphasizes the importance of energy alignment in business, encouraging entrepreneurs to channel their unique energy authentically in all aspects of their work, from client interactions to social media posts. By staying genuine and connecting with their own energy, she believes business owners can create a more compelling and positive impact, which resonates with clients and builds sustainable success. Structured Client Attraction Strategy: Henriette introduces her four-part client attraction strategy, which includes visibility, attraction, relationship-building, and transformation. By breaking down the process and working backward from the desired client transformation, she provides a clear, adaptable framework that enables entrepreneurs to attract clients strategically without becoming overwhelmed by constant marketing efforts. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henriettedanel/ https://henriettedanel.com/ https://workshop.henriettedanel.com/client-attraction-workshop https://henriettedanel.com/podcasts contact@henriettedanel.com…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Beyond the Basics, Transform Your Workflow with Excel 365 6:08

for 11 weeks siden6:08

6:08

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, I’m joined by my co-host Valerie, founder and MD of Merrill Consultants, as she reveals the untapped potential of Excel 365. Drawing on over 30 years of training experience, Valerie explains transformative features like XLOOKUP, dynamic arrays, and advanced functions. She shares how tailored Excel training can boost efficiency, streamline workflows, and enhance collaboration. Whether you’re new to Excel or an experienced user, this episode reveals why exploring beyond the basics is essential to fully utilize its capabilities.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Leading with Laughter: Em Stroud on Creativity, Impact, and Authentic Leadership 26:47

for 12 weeks siden26:47

26:47

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E2 In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Valerie and Julia are joined by Em Stroud, a multi-talented leadership coach, performer, and podcaster known for her unique blend of comedy, business expertise, and authentic storytelling. Em shares her inspiring journey from a career in sales to becoming a successful coach and creator of the The Comic Coach podcast. Em reflects on how she overcame the challenges of bridging the worlds of business and performance, embracing her identity as "The Comic Coach." She highlights pivotal moments in her career, including the evolution of her work into the newly launched Leadership School of Impact and her latest podcast, The Comic Coach. Em discusses her 12 Pillars of Impact, which empower leaders to connect, communicate, and inspire with authenticity and confidence. Throughout the episode, Em shares invaluable insights on maintaining creativity, balancing multiple passions, and crafting a fulfilling career and life. She introduces her practical approach to time management, including her innovative "Rainbow Diary" system, designed to help leaders prioritise self-care, creativity, and professional growth. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with humour, wisdom, and actionable strategies on leadership, creativity, and living a life of impact, delivered with Em's trademark energy and authenticity. Key Takeaways Balancing Creativity and Leadership Enhances Impact Em Stroud highlights the power of integrating creativity and leadership, explaining how skills from the performing arts, such as improvisation and storytelling, can enhance communication, authenticity, and trust in leadership. Em embracing her dual identity as a comedian and coach demonstrates how blending diverse skills can lead to greater personal and professional impact. Purposeful Time Management Fuels Holistic Success Em's "Rainbow Diary" system illustrates the importance of consciously allocating time for self-care, creativity, work, and personal connections. By prioritising these elements and treating creativity as professionally important as business tasks, leaders can avoid burnout, maintain energy, and fuel sustainable success in both personal and professional realms. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/em-stroud/ https://emstroud.com/ em@emstroud.com…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Futurist Tom Cheesewright on Bridging the Skills Gap and Embracing Change 36:28

for 13 weeks siden36:28

36:28

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E1 - In this insightful episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, we are excited to welcome Tom Cheesewright, a futurist, author, and commentator on the future of work. Known for his compelling take on tomorrow's world, Tom helps organisations and individuals navigate a rapidly changing landscape and prepare for an unpredictable future. With experience advising companies from global giants to ambitious startups, Tom shares his unique perspective on why many businesses struggle to find the employees they need, the mistakes they are making, and what they should be doing differently. He explains the critical role of learning and development in creating a sustainable workforce and why traditional approaches to training might be leaving organisations behind. In this episode, Tom delves into the challenges of equipping ourselves and our employees for the future, offering a candid discussion on how to rethink skills development in an age of constant change. He also provides a glimpse into his exciting new projects, including his upcoming children's book and Radio 4 series, which explores the untold stories behind the products we use daily. Tom's conversation is full of thought-provoking ideas and practical insights that will inspire L&D professionals, business leaders, and anyone looking to better understand the future of work. From understanding the skills gap to encouraging adaptability and resilience, this episode offers valuable guidance for those ready to rethink and revitalise their approach to workforce development. Join us for an engaging conversation that uncovers the secrets to preparing for a future that is already unfolding. Whether you are looking to innovate your organisation's learning strategy or simply want to stay ahead of the curve, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Key Learnings: Rethinking Employee Development Organisations often struggle to find the talent they need because they are not investing in developing the specific skills required for future roles. Tom emphasizes that businesses must shift their focus from simply hiring to actively training and upskilling their current workforce to build a sustainable, future-ready team. Adapting to Rapid Change The future of work demands agility and adaptability. Tom discusses the importance of creating a culture that embraces change and encourages continuous learning. He highlights the need for leaders to provide time and resources for reflection and growth, enabling employees to navigate uncertainty and thrive in a constantly evolving environment. Guest Information Tom Cheesewright https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomcheesewright/ https://tomcheesewright.com/futurist-speaker https://tomcheesewright.com/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Season 2 of The Secrets of Learning and Development has arrived! 6:32

for 14 weeks siden6:32