Welcome to The EdUp Learning and Development Podcast (EdUp L&D)—the digital space where learning, technology, and humans finally come together. Whether you are building your first instructional design portfolio, navigating a major career pivot, or trying to make sense of AI in the workplace, this is your go-to destination for real talk about the future of work and education.
About the show
Every week, we pull back the curtain on the ever-evolving world of Learning and Development. We dive deep into the messy, beautiful reality of designing educational experiences that actually stick. Instead of dry lectures or abstract theories, we explore the tangible moments that shape our careers and organizations—from breaking down digital accessibility standards in plain English to discussing how educators and leaders can prepare learners for an AI-driven world. We feature candid conversations with founders, chief learning officers, former educators, and industry pioneers who share the raw, unvarnished stories behind their work.
What you'll discover
- Actionable blueprints for successfully transitioning from a classroom teacher into a thriving corporate L&D role
- Practical strategies for landing your next job by building trust and visibility rather than submitting endless applications
- Fresh approaches to sparking magic, building community, and turning learners into superfans using unexpected inspiration
- Expert advice on what hiring managers are actually looking for during high-stakes job interviews
- Innovative ways to leverage AI-powered platforms that democratize and revolutionize daily content creation
- Real talk on navigating burnout, redefining success, and designing equitable careers with purpose
Who this podcast is for
This podcast is built for the helpers, the makers, the thinkers, and the builders. If you are an instructional designer crafting digital courses, a corporate trainer managing employee onboarding, an educator looking for your next career chapter, or a leader trying to foster a culture of continuous growth, you belong here. We speak directly to professionals who care deeply about human connection and want to design learning experiences that leave a lasting impact.
Meet the host
Your guide on this journey is Holly Owens, a higher education professor, instructional designer, entrepreneur, and proud helper of humans with nearly 20 years of hands-on experience in the L&D space. Holly brings a rare blend of academic rigor, entrepreneurial grit, and genuine empathy to every conversation. Whether she is sharing her own career journey, answering listener questions on "Ask Holly" segments, or interviewing brilliant industry guests, she is fiercely dedicated to helping you find your footing, amplify your voice, and thrive in the modern workplace.
Start listening
Ready to level up your career, humanize your designs, and join a community that gets what you do? Dive into our latest episodes, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, and start listening today. Real people. Real stories. Real learning.
