The EdUp Learning and Development Podcast (EdUp L&D)
The EdUp Learning and Development Podcast (EdUp L&D)
EdUp L&D is where learning, technology, and humans come together. Hosted by Holly Owens, a higher education professor, instructional designer, entrepreneur, and proud helper of humans with nearly 20 years in the L&D space, this podcast explores instructional design, learning and development, AI, technology, careers, and the stories behind the work. Along the way, Holly brings in friends and industry experts to share their experiences, insights, and expertise. Real people. Real stories. Real learning.
The EdUp Learning and Development Podcast (EdUp L&D)
Over 1 Million Downloads Network-Wide!

EdUp L&D, Hosted by Holly Owens

The EdUp Learning and Development Podcast explores the intersection of learning, technology, and human potential, featuring insights from industry experts and real stories from the field. Join Holly Owens as she dives into the dynamic world of L&D, providing actionable advice and inspiration for professionals at every level.

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Latest Episodes

190
May 1, 2026

190: WCAG Without the Overwhelm: Practical Accessibility for L&D

In this episode, Holly Owens is joined by Nicole Poff (EDCARTA) and Nicole L’Etoile (L’Etoile Education) to break down WCAG 2.1 in plain English and talk about what actually works in real courses.
Feb. 25, 2026

189: How I Landed 3 Jobs Without Even Applying

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 Holly shares why the “spray and pray” approach to job searching is outdated and often ineffective, especially in Learning & Development.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
188
Oct. 27, 2025

188: Navigating L&D Interviews: What Hiring Managers Are Asking Right Now

In this engaging conversation, Holly Owens and Chelsea Maude Avirett discuss the evolving landscape of learning and development, particularly focusing on the interview process and job searching strategies. Holly shares her journey from teaching to instructional design, highlighting the importance of resources for job seekers. They explore trends in interviews, the impact of AI, and the differences between corporate and higher education interviews. Networking strategies and the significance of co
187
Oct. 20, 2025

187: Ask Holly: Where Do I Start?

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 epis
186
Oct. 1, 2025

186: The 3 Things You Need to Break Into L&D (Hint: It’s More Than a Strong Resume) with Ashley Lonie

In this episode, Holly Owens interviews Ashley Lonie, CEO and founder of Teamed. They discuss Ashley's journey from being a teacher to leading a platform that connects professionals in learning and development with job opportunities. The conversation covers the importance of understanding career paths in L&D, the significance of bridge jobs, the dynamics of the job market, and how to leverage AI in job searches. They also emphasize the need for upskilling, building a strong portfolio, and the va
185
Sept. 29, 2025

185: Stop Teaching Like It’s 1999: Rebecca Barnes on Preparing Learners for an AI World

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 a
184
Sept. 24, 2025

184: How Do I Stand Out? — Be the Candidate They Remember in L&D

In this episode of Ask Holly, host Holly Owens dives deep into the essential strategies for standing out in the Learning and Development (L&D) field. She discusses the importance of crafting a compelling portfolio and resume, emphasizing storytelling and impact over mere tasks. Holly also shares insights on how to excel in interviews by showcasing authenticity and personal narratives. The episode concludes with a recap of key points and a bonus tip for leveraging video recommendations to enhance
183
Sept. 22, 2025

183: Ask Holly

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 episo
182
Sept. 17, 2025

182: “Smarter Than the Machines”: Andy Shean on AI Literacy, Human Ingenuity, and the Future of Learning

In this episode of EdUp L&D, Holly Owens interviews Andy Shean, the Chief Learning Officer of Penn Foster Group. They discuss the transformative power of technology in education, the need for reimagining traditional educational pathways, and how Penn Foster is making education accessible and career-aligned for working adults. The conversation also delves into the role of AI in education and offers valuable advice for aspiring learning and development professionals

Recent Blog Posts

Sept. 10, 2026

Decodifying WCAG 2.1: Plain English Guidelines for L&D Professionals

Welcome back to the EdUp L&D blog! If you are an instructional designer, trainer, or learning and development (L&D) professional, chances are you have heard the acronym WCAG tossed around quite a bit. Maybe you have even broken out in a cold sweat t…
Sept. 24, 2025

Human Ingenuity vs. the Machines: Finding Balance in the Age of AI in Education

Welcome to a deeper exploration of the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and human ingenuity in education. In an era where technology is rapidly transforming the learning landscape, it’s crucial to understand how we can leverage AI to enh…
Sept. 11, 2025

Unlocking Learner Loyalty: Lessons from Disney and Taylor Swift

Have you ever wondered what makes people so incredibly loyal to certain brands or personalities? What is it about Disney that keeps generations returning for more magic, or about Taylor Swift that inspires such a dedicated fanbase? The answer, as we…

About the Host

Holly Owens Profile Photo
Holly Owens

Host/Higher Ed Prof/Instructional Designer/Micro influencer

Holly Owens is a higher education professor, instructional designer, entrepreneur, podcaster, and proud helper of humans with nearly 20 years of experience in learning and development, instructional technology, higher education, and corporate learning.

Throughout her career, Holly has worked across higher education, corporate L&D, marketing, and instructional design, helping organizations and individuals create better learning experiences, embrace technology, and navigate the ever-changing world of work and learning. She is passionate about making learning more accessible, practical, engaging, and human.

Holly is also the host of EdUp L&D, where she shares insights, ideas, tools, and real-world conversations about instructional design, learning and development, AI, technology, careers, and the people behind the work. Through the podcast and her online community, Holly brings together industry professionals and friends to share their stories, experiences, and expertise.

An entrepreneur and lifelong learner, Holly holds a B.A. in American Studies from UMBC and two master’s degrees from the University of Maryland Global Campus in Instructional Technology and Distance Education, along with a certificate in Distance Education Leadership.

Whether she's teaching, designing learning experiences, exploring AI and emerging technology, building her business, or having conversations with people doing meaningful work, Holly's mission is simple: help humans and share what she knows.

Speak It. Build It. Land It.

Reviews

Super Practical

"Love how this podcast provides super practical technological solutions to educational problems! Holly does an amazing job of highlighting the key takeaways for the listeners! I learn something ne…"

Elvin Freytes | Feb. 12, 2021

Bring the tech to ed tech!

"Holly Owens and Nadia Johnson of the Edup EdTech Podcast are a dynamic duo, seamlessly blending expertise and enthusiasm to make every episode a captivating journey into the world of educational tech…"

Anonymous | Jan. 8, 2024

Grad School of Tech students love it!

"Shared the podcast with the MS in Instructional Technology staff and students and they had rave reviews. It's become a must-listen for many of them and should be for anyone in the EdTech world!"

James Shafer | Feb. 25, 2024