The EdUp Learning and Development Podcast, hosted by Holly …
Welcome to The EdUp Learning & Development Podcast—where learning is personal, practical, and never just about checking a box. Each week, we sit down with instructional designers, learning leaders, educators, and innovators who are reshaping the way people learn and grow in the workplace. Through honest conversations, real-world stories, and actionable insights, you'll discover ideas you can put into practice right away. 🎙️ Here's what you can expect: Inspiring conversations with leaders in instructional design, learning & development, and EdTech Practical tools, strategies, and technology to help you create better learning experiences Real talk about how AI is transforming our industry—and how to use it to enhance your work, not replace it Fresh perspectives that move beyond traditional training to create learning experiences that truly make an impact Whether you're exploring the latest AI tools, navigating changes in the L&D landscape, or looking for practical ways to grow as a learning professional, this podcast is here to help you stay informed, inspired, and ready for what's next. Hit play, join the conversation, and let's build the future of learning—together.
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EdUp L&D, Hosted by Holly Owens
Welcome to The EdUp Learning & Development Podcast—where learning is personal, practical, and never just about checking a box.
Each week, we sit down with instructional designers, learning leaders, educators, and innovators who are reshaping the way people learn and grow in the workplace. Through honest conversations, real-world stories, and actionable insights, you'll discover ideas you can put into practice right away.
🎙️ Here's what you can expect:
Inspiring conversations with leaders in instructional design, learning & development, and EdTech
Practical tools, strategies, and technology to help you create better learning experiences
Real talk about how AI is transforming our industry—and how to use it to enhance your work, not replace it
Fresh perspectives that move beyond traditional training to create learning experiences that truly make an impact
Whether you're exploring the latest AI tools, navigating changes in the L&D landscape, or looking for practical ways to grow as a learning professional, this podcast is here to help you stay informed, inspired, and ready for what's next.
Hit play, join the conversation, and let's build the future of learning—together.
Recent 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. NOTE: This was previously recorded as a LinkedIn Live session What We Talked About: No fluff—just practical insights you can use right away. What WCAG 2.1 really means Why LMS accessibility scores aren’t enough Common mistakes institutions are making Simple, high-impact fixes you can st
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
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Recent Blog Posts
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…
Aug. 14, 2025
Redefining Success: Dr. Carter's Journey Beyond Burnout
In today's fast-paced world, the pursuit of success often leads to burnout, especially in demanding professions like education. Dr. Jarrett Carter experienced this firsthand, and his journey to redefine success on his own terms is both inspiring and…
About the Host
Holly Owens
Host/Educator/Instructional Designer/Marketer
Holly Owens is the Director of Growth Marketing at Yellowdig where she leads strategic marketing initiatives to drive brand awareness, engagement, and customer acquisition. With over 17 years of experience in education, instructional technology, and marketing, Holly specializes in creating inclusive and engaging learning experiences that leverage technology to solve complex challenges.
Before joining Yellowdig, Holly built an extensive career in eLearning and instructional design, transitioning from teaching to instructional technology in 2011. She held roles at Northern Virginia Community College, Coppin State University, and the University of Maryland, Baltimore Countybefore serving as a Senior Instructional Designer at RisePoint (formerly Academic Partnerships). She also worked as an Instructional Designer at Touro University, where she remains an Adjunct Instructor in the Graduate School of Technology, teaching instructional design courses since 2012.
Holly holds two master’s degrees from the University of Maryland, Global Campus—one in Instructional Technology and another in Distance Education—along with a certificate in Distance Education Leadership. Her passion for education extends beyond the classroom as the host of the EdUp L&D podcast, where she explores emerging trends in learning and development, featuring industry experts who share insights on the future of education and workforce training.
Recognized for her expertise in marketing, UX, and project management, Holly has worked closely with executive leaders, including CEOs, VPs, and Public Affairs teams, to refine brand messaging, drive engagement, and support data-driven marketing strategies. She has also collaborated with sales teams—including the Land and Expand and Enterprise teams—to attract and convert new customers across higher education and online learning platforms.
Currently residing in Wilmington, NC, Holly shares her life with her partner, Will, their daughter, Juniper, and their furbaby, Berkley. She is dedicated to empowering learners, fostering innovation, and making education more accessible and impactful worldwide.
Our Supporters
New to The EdUp Learning and Development Podcast, hosted by Holly Owens?
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
181
Sept. 15, 2025
181: From Stage to STEM: Dr. Jennifer Berry on Designing Delight, Doing Hard Things, and Driving Real-World Skills
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
180
Sept. 8, 2025
180: Disney World & Taylor Swift on L&D: How to Spark Magic, Build Community, and Turn Learners into Superfans
In this episode, Holly Owens explores the intersection of Learning and Development (L&D) with the engaging experiences offered by Disney and Taylor Swift. She emphasizes the importance of creating loyal learners by designing immersive and emotionally connected learning experiences. By drawing parallels between the fandoms of Disney and Taylor Swift, Holly discusses how storytelling, community building, and authenticity can enhance learner engagement and retention. The episode encourages instruct
179
Sept. 3, 2025
179: Democratizing Content Creation: Shivali Goyal on Trupeer’s AI-Powered Magic for L&D
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 professiona
178
Sept. 1, 2025
178: Teachers, You Already Have What It Takes: Kim Scott on Navigating the Transition from Classroom to L&D
In this episode of EdUp L&D, host Holly Owens interviews Kim Scott, a former teacher who transitioned into the Learning and Development (L&D) field. Kim shares her inspiring journey from teaching to entrepreneurship, discussing the importance of identifying transferable skills, building a professional network, and documenting career achievements. She emphasizes the need for teachers to recognize their value and explore new career opportunities, especially in the evolving landscape of education a
177
Aug. 27, 2025
177: Lead It Like Lasso, Live It Like You: Marnie Stockman & Nick Coniglio on Becoming Your Own CEO
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, resil
176
Aug. 25, 2025
176: Audit Your Life: Leena Saleh on Turning Teacher Skills into Strengths for Corporate, EdTech, and Beyond
In this episode of EdUp L&D, host Holly Owens welcomes back Leena Saleh, a former teacher and current content strategist at Canva. They discuss the emotional journey of transitioning from teaching to corporate roles, the importance of networking, and actionable tips for educators considering a career change. Leena shares her experiences at Canva, the impact of educators in corporate environments, and the significance of building a personal brand. The conversation emphasizes the value of leveragi
175
Aug. 20, 2025
175: Visible, Valuable, Hired: Stephanie Yesil on Career Pivots, Growth, and Why Your Next Job Won’t Be Your Last
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 im
174
Aug. 18, 2025
174: Making the Invisible Visible: Nicole L’Etoile on Building Inclusive Futures—Starting Now
In this episode, Holly Owens and Nicole L'Etoile discuss the critical importance of accessibility in education and corporate environments. They explore the need for proactive approaches to accessibility, the challenges faced by organizations, and the upcoming federal regulations that will impact compliance. Nicole shares insights from her accessibility cohorts and community initiatives, emphasizing the importance of networking and continuous learning for educators transitioning into accessibilit
173
Aug. 13, 2025
173: Stop Selling Yourself Short: Quantify Your Impact and Land Your Next Role with Josh Czupryk
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: JO
172
Aug. 12, 2025
172: The Future Is Built, Not Found: Dr. Jarrett Carter on Designing Equitable Careers with Purpose
In this episode of EdUp L&D, Holly Owens welcomes back Dr. Jarrett Carter to discuss his journey since their last conversation, including his experiences with burnout, redefining success, and launching his own business, Collaboratix. They explore the importance of authentic leadership, networking, and building trust in remote teams, while also providing valuable advice for transitioning educators. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-advocacy, the complexities of personal identity in pr
171
Aug. 6, 2025
171: Stop Waiting for Permission—Start Leading with Joy: James Gilchrist on Finding Work That Fits You
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 c
170
Aug. 4, 2025
170: Don’t Just Apply—Align: What’s Actually Hiring Now (And Why Clarity Matters) with Chelsea Maude Avirett
In this episode of EdUp Learning and Development, Holly Owens and Chelsea Maude Avirett discuss the evolving landscape of learning and development (L&D), focusing on career transitions, job market saturation, the impact of AI, and strategies for standing out in job applications. They emphasize the importance of networking and community in L&D, as well as future trends in the industry.
169
July 30, 2025
169: You’re Not Just a Teacher: Lisa Harding’s Blueprint for Career Reinvention
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, emphasizin
168
July 28, 2025
168: Smarter, Faster, More Human: Fred Thompson on Designing the Future of Learning
In this episode of EdUp Learning and Development, host Holly Owens interviews Fred Thompson, founder of Thirst.io. They discuss the intersection of technology, innovation, and learning, exploring the challenges faced by L&D professionals, the importance of personalization in learning, and how AI is transforming the educational landscape. Fred shares insights on building effective teams, the future of learning, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Resources mentioned in this ep
167
July 23, 2025
167: How to Stop Losing Great People: Taresa Scott’s "Bleuprint" for Onboarding, Culture, and Manager Growth
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 develop
166
July 21, 2025
166: The Future Isn’t Flashier—It’s Smarter: Christy Tucker on Building Learning That Sticks
In this episode of EdUp L&D, Holly Owens welcomes back Christy Tucker, a seasoned expert in instructional design and scenario-based learning. They discuss Christy's journey from K-12 education to corporate training, the nuances of scenario-based learning, common pitfalls in instructional design, and the evolving role of AI in the field. Christy shares valuable insights on how to effectively implement branching scenarios and the importance of aligning practice with real-world skills. The conversa
165
July 16, 2025
165: From “Not Yet” to “Now”: Ben Erwin on Turning Rejection Into Reinvention
In this episode of EdUp Learning and Development, Ben Erwin shares his journey from being a writing instructor to becoming an instructional designer at Purdue University. He discusses the challenges of burnout in education, the importance of community and networking, and how LinkedIn played a crucial role in his career transition. Ben emphasizes the need for work-life balance and offers valuable advice for those looking to shift careers, highlighting the significance of self-reflection and the u
164
July 14, 2025
164: Create What’s Missing: Cedric Scott, Jr. on Representation, Reinvention, and STEM
In this episode of Ed Up Learning and Development, host Holly Owens speaks with Cedric Scott Jr., an educator and edtech influencer, about his journey from a background in chemistry to becoming a leader in the education space. They discuss Cedric's mission to improve STEM education for underserved communities, the importance of representation in the classroom, and the role of AI in education. Cedric shares insights on how to leverage strengths for career transitions and emphasizes the significan
163
July 9, 2025
163: Transforming Doubt into Drive: Whitney Kilgore’s Path from Educator to Entrepreneur
In this episode, Whitney Kilgore shares her inspiring journey from being a first-grade teacher to co-founding iDesign, a leading organization in instructional design. She discusses the importance of recognizing educators' skills, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the evolution of online education, especially during the pandemic. Whitney emphasizes the need for continuous learning, networking, and adapting to new technologies in the education sector. She also provides valuable advice for transiti
162
July 7, 2025
162: Action First, Always: Karl Kapp’s Blueprint for Engaged Learning
In this episode of the EdUp Learning and Development podcast, host Holly Owens interviews Dr. Karl Kapp, a prominent figure in the learning space. They discuss Karl's journey from an instructional design intern to a respected educator and consultant. The conversation delves into the concept of 'Action First Learning,' emphasizing the importance of engaging learners through action rather than traditional knowledge transfer. Karl shares insights on practical applications in instructional design, a
161
June 25, 2025
161: The Résumé That Gets You Hired in L&D
📅 Originally Recorded: June 19, 2025Live iSpring Webinar 🎧 Listen to Learn:In this packed and practical episode, Holly Owens guides transitioning educators, aspiring instructional designers, and L&D professionals through the strategies and insights behind crafting a résumé that gets you noticed by both humans and ATS bots. 💡 Key Topics Covered: ✅ What really gets your résumé traction (hint: it’s not fancy formatting) ✅ How to highlight transferable skills from teaching and HR roles ✅ Why you
160
June 18, 2025
160: L&D Career Options Beyond Instructional Design
In this session, Holly Owens discusses the transition from teaching to various roles in Learning and Development (L&D). She emphasizes that instructional design is just one of many paths available in L&D, highlighting the growth of the industry and the importance of transferable skills from teaching. The conversation covers various roles such as Learning Experience Designer, E-Learning Developer, LMS Administrator, L&D Analyst, Learning Consultant, Training Coordinator, and Knowledge Manager. Ho
158
April 9, 2025
158: Empowering Yourself: The Importance of Knowing Your Worth
Summary In this episode of EdUp L&D, Holly Owens dives into the critical topic of salary transparency, discussing its importance in the job market and how it affects individuals in learning and development. She shares personal experiences and actionable tips on negotiating salaries, advocating for fair compensation, and fostering open conversations about money. The episode emphasizes the need for transparency in job postings and the impact it has on equity in the workplace, encouraging listeners
156
Jan. 13, 2025
156: 5 Things YOU Should Be Doing to Land a Role in Learning and Development
Overivew In this episode of EdUp Learning and Development, I share my personal journey and five key strategies for transitioning into a career in learning and development. I emphasize the importance of building a strong personal brand, leveraging transferable skills, networking with intention, telling your story with confidence, and crafting a targeted application strategy. I draw from my own experiences as a teacher and instructional designer to provide actionable insights for listeners lookin
157
Feb. 25, 2025
157: Talking All about Jobs with Chelsea Maude Averitt, Founder, Skip
In this episode, I was so excited to reconnect with one of my favorite people, Chelsea Maude Avirett, founder of Skip. In this tip-packed episode, we discuss the evolving landscape of Learning and Development (L&D) careers, focusing on job opportunities, salary transparency, and the transition from teaching to L&D roles. We emphasize the importance of recognizing transferable skills, building a professional presence, and utilizing free resources for career advancement. The conversation also cove
159
June 10, 2025
159: Teach, Design, Market: A Journey Fueled by Mentorship
Note: This episode was previously recorded LIVE on Linkedin. In this conversation, Holly Owens shares her extensive journey through education and instructional design, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, self-belief, and confidence in professional growth. She discusses her transition from teaching to various roles in instructional design, highlighting the impact of a mentor who instilled in her the belief that 'talent recognizes talent.' Holly encourages listeners to embrace their unique
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