AI & Learning Episodes

Discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on learning environments, exploring how AI tools can enhance instructional design and learner engagement.
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 also shares insights on innovative learning approaches and offers advice for aspiring educators.
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
Guest: Andrew Shean
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 professionals. Shivali also discusses the current funding landscape for startups, offering valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Guest: Shivali Goyal
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...
Guest: Lisa Harding
84
June 13, 2023

84: Can A.I. Save Writing? A Special Collaborative Episode with Eric James Stephens, Writing Sensei & Business Intelligence Developer

In 2022, Open AI launched ChatGPT. Overnight, the company started a global conversation about the future of artificial intelligence. The emergence of AI has turned learning on its head. It has forced us to ask major questions: -How does AI fit into the future of learning? -How can AI make learning more personalized and adaptive? -What are the ethical implications of AI? This podcast will tackle these questions and more! Follow Eric on LinkedIn
53
Sept. 28, 2022

53: Frictionless Communication with an Affinity for Helping Others using Protopia to Leverage Social Capital, Max Leisten CEO & Founder

Overview In this episode, I got to chat with the humble and kind Max Leisten CEO and Founder of Protopia. We discuss how Protopia’s A.I. driven tech is helping higher education institutions connect the community to create impactful digital experiences for students, alumni, donors, and more! Grab those headphones and tune in now to episode 53. More about Max Leister, in his own words Building the smartest, simplest, and most scalable AI technology to connect higher education communities - with...
Guest: Max Leisten