Instructional Design Episodes

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...

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...

📅 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...

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 ...

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...

In this episode of EdUp L&D, host Holly Owens and guest Bob Ertischek discuss the evolving landscape of education, emphasizing the need for a shift from traditional teaching methods to more engaging and community-focused approaches. They explore the importance of empathy, community building, and the role of technology in enhancing learning experiences. Bob shares his insights from his extensive background in higher education and instructional design, highlighting the significance of fostering co...

Summary In this episode, Holly Owens and Shaunak Roy discuss the significance of human connection, especially in the context of digital learning environments. They explore how authentic relationships can be fostered online, the barriers to genuine connections, and the importance of empathy and motivation in education. Shaunak shares insights from his experience as the CEO of Yellowdig, emphasizing the role of technology in enhancing human connections and the need for a supportive community in l...

In this episode, Holly Owens and Shaunak Roy discuss the transformative role of AI in education, exploring its evolution, implications for learning, and the importance of maintaining human connections. They delve into the ethical considerations surrounding AI, including data security and the need for a collaborative approach in higher education. The conversation emphasizes the potential of AI to enhance engagement and creativity while addressing the challenges it presents. This amazing episode ...

In this engaging conversation, Holly Owens moderates a discussion with L&D experts Tom and Heidi, exploring the latest trends, tools, and strategies in Learning and Development. They delve into effective communication tools, task management, project management, instructional design, and graphic design tools, emphasizing the importance of user-centered approaches and productivity in the L&D field. The conversation also highlights the significance of adapting to new technologies while maintaining ...

Summary In this engaging conversation, Holly Owens and Aleza Jerome explore Aleza's journey from graphic design to a successful career in learning and development. They discuss the importance of real-world applications of instructional design, the value of networking, and the impact of a master's degree on career growth. Aleza shares her insights on navigating the learning and development field, the significance of collaboration, and the evolving landscape of technology in education. In this co...