Every Day's a School Day

In this episode, Hannah and Nicki sit down with Tonia Mamai, Commercial Director at Make Real, an immersive learning studio at the forefront of VR, AR and emerging tech. Witha career spanning innovative content partnerships across publishing and global media brands, Tonia has spent years helping organisations harness new technology to accelerate business outcomes and transform how people learn. She’s also collaborated with leading tech platforms such as Meta, Google and Microsoft, and has delivered award-winning learning solutions across sectors from finance and healthcare to energy, utilities and education. Together, Hannah and Nicki explore what Tonia enjoys most about bringing VR into organisations and why immersive, experiential learning continues to reshape workplace training. They dive into real use cases that showcase the power of VR for L&D and how organisations are measuring ROI. Tonia also discusses evolving learner behaviours, accessibility expectations, and how Make Real’s tech-agnostic approach ensures the right solutions are deployed to solve real business problems. Looking ahead, Tonia shares her predictions on where VR will make the biggest impact and the emerging trends she expects to accelerate in the next 1–2 years.  If you're curious about the impact and future of immersive learning, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Schools in session!

In this episode, we’re joined by Dan Harris, an inspiring new L&D leader who’s just embarked on an exciting journey as Head of Finance People Capability at BAE Systems, shaping learning, development, and early careers across the Finance function.After exploring our immersive learning experiences, including virtual reality and AI-powered roleplays, Dan shares his fresh perspective on what it’s like to experience these tools for the first time. We dive into:The "wow" moments that reshaped how he thinks about learning and capabilityThe opportunities (and realities) of introducing innovation in a highly regulated industryHow emerging tech like VR and AI could transform how BAE develops its peopleAnd what the future might hold for new L&D leaders stepping into the world of learning technologyTune in for an honest, curious, and forward-looking conversation about what it means to learn as a leader in today’s fast-changing world. Schools in session!

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Ashwin Mehta, the founder of Mehtadology, a leading consultancy in AI-powered Human Capital Management and Learning. With a unique blend of academic depth and real-world experience, Ashwin joins us to explore the future of Learning & Development in the age of AI. With over a decade of leading large-scale technology transformations, and holding both a PhD and MBA, Ash brings rich insights into how organizations can harness AI, not justto automate, but to elevate learning experiences. He shares how L&D professionals can navigate the complexities of AI implementation, avoid common misconceptions, and start small without being overwhelmed. We also dig into thebalance between AI-driven personalization and the human touch in learning, discuss the future of roles and tackle the ethical concerns L&D leaders need to stay mindful of.Whether you're just beginning your AI journey or leading the charge, this episode is packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking insights to help you and your learnersthrive. School's in session!

On this episode of Every Day’s A School Day, we sit down with leadership coach and business consultant Sarah Clayton-Jones, the visionary behind READ TO LEAD®—a game changing approach to learning that goes far beyond the traditional book club.With a rich background as an accredited coach, NLP and Neuroscience Practitioner, and DiSC trainer, Sarah shares how she’s helped global businesses transform their teams and leaders through curated reading, intentional discussion, and actionable insights. We explore how books become catalysts for meaningful change, why reading is still one of the most powerful tools for growth, and how READ TO LEAD® is reshaping the future of peer learning and corporate development.In this episode:The evolution of the Read to Lead® programmeWhy reading still matters - and how to overcome resistance to itHow social learning and coaching fuel long-term growthQuick-fire insights from Sarah on books, leadership and staying sharpSchool's in session!

In this post-Learning Technologies Conference edition of EDASD, hosts Nicki Finnigan (Director of Learning Development) and Hannah Frame (Social Learning Tech & Innovation Manager) are joined by two brilliant guests to unpack their biggest takeaways, behind-the-scenes moments, and reflections from the event. Returning to the pod is Josh Ellick, Immersive Technology Manager at SJP, sharing insights on scaling VR in workplace learning and what it really takes to make immersive tech land with impact. He’s joined by Sam Marney, People Development Lead at People’s Partnership and a passionate advocate for peer learning, coaching, and keeping things human in a digital world. Together, they explore:The mic-drop moments and game-changing insights from LT 2025What’s next for VR, AI, and immersive learningThe power (and myths!) of peer learningTips for speaking at L&D conferences when it's your first timeAnd a round of “Would You Rather: L&D Edition”School's in session!