Designing with Love

AI can feel like a runaway train in classrooms and training programs—powerful, fast, and a little scary. We take the controls and show how to turn generative tools into true co-pilots: clear roles, simple guardrails, and small pilots that free us to focus on coaching, feedback, and real human connection.You'll hear role-based examples across K-12, higher education, and corporate learning: differentiated reading passages and exit tickets, outcome-aligned case prompts and quiz banks, and realistic scenario practice plus microlearning nudges for on-the-job performance.Want to put this into action? Grab the pilot checklist from the show notes, try one workflow this week, and tell us what changed. If this helped, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a review so more educators and L&D pros can build ethical, effective AI co-pilots.

What if a fifth grader could turn a pile of ideas into a clear, grounded paragraph—every time—without leaning on AI? We bring back dyslexia researcher Russell Van Brocklen for part three of our series to show exactly how: start with a hero, a universal theme, and a villain; distill three good reasons into one-word themes; and anchor everything to a real quote. The result is a body paragraph that's honest, teachable, and repeatable—plus a writing process students can explain step by step.We also address integrity in the AI era: students must show their process or redo the work, then later use AI as a research coach rather than a shortcut. By the end, you'll have a clear path to scale from one body paragraph to three, then add a thesis and conclusion that help students pass state tests and feel proud of their writing.If this helped, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a review. Grab the free resources in the notes, and stay tuned for part four, where we break down concrete, classroom-ready examples.

Forget the headset hype: real learning impact starts with a clear problem, a focused outcome, and a modality that actually fits the job. We dig into how to choose between VR for safe practice, AR for in-the-flow guidance, and MR for complex 3D collaboration—then show exactly how to design the actions, decisions, and feedback loops that change behavior on the job. No fluff, no jargon, just a practical roadmap for building immersive experiences that matter.If you've been looking for a practical playbook to design with purpose, not pixels, this one's for you. Subscribe, share with a teammate, and leave a quick review to tell us your top takeaway—and which modality you're testing next.

Want to design learning that actually sticks—and gets you hired? Jackie sits down with Connie Malamed, publisher of The eLearning Coach website and podcast, author of Visual Design Solutions and Visual Language for Designers, to unpack how newcomers can skip the noise, master the essentials, and build a portfolio that proves real instructional design skill. We dive into the mindset shift from “make e‑learning” to “design for how people learn,” then get tactical: reducing cognitive load with white space and alignment, using dual coding without redundancy, and making accessibility a default through color contrast and non‑color cues.Whether you're transitioning from K‑12 or pivoting into corporate learning, this conversation gives you a focused path: design with empathy, keep visuals purposeful, and ship polished work that respects learners' time. If this helped you, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so others can find the show. What's one change you'll make in your next project?

Projects stall when one expert carries the content, decisions, and approvals. We flip that script with a clear, usable playbook for building a stakeholder highway—bringing sponsors, learners, frontline leaders, operations, tech, and compliance into the right moments so training actually lands in the real world. You'll hear why SME-only pathways create bottlenecks and blind spots, how to map the roles that matter, and when to loop each voice in across discovery, design, development, implementation, and evaluation.Roadblocks happen: the ghost SME, conflicting leader feedback, or last-minute compliance asks. Jackie shares practical responses, from clarifying who decides versus who advises to offering trade-off options that protect timelines without sacrificing quality. A quick scenario shows the reset in action—expanding beyond one overbooked SME to include a frontline manager, operations, tech, and a learner pilot—so the course is accurate, feasible, and ready for day one performance. Close with one task: sketch a one-page stakeholder highway for your next project, add two new partners, and watch momentum return. If this approach helps you, subscribe, share it with a colleague, and leave a review so more designers can build learning that sticks.

What if your classroom could adapt to each learner without handing their data to the cloud? That's the promise we dig into with technologist and founder Sebastien Fenelon, whose journey from scarce resources in Haiti to building privacy-first, edge AI tools reframes what “future-ready” really means for educators and instructional designers.We start with the power of resilience—how self-taught coding, late-night study sessions, and community support can outpace limited infrastructure—and move into practical strategies for teaching code with clarity and context. Sebastien shares why AI should compress project timelines, not critical thinking, and offers a simple “100-hour” ramp to acquire new languages fast. From K–12 to higher ed, we outline how to design small, visible wins that build confidence while using AI to scaffold learning rather than replace it.We close with a playbook for staying adaptable: keep learning in focused sprints, plug into communities that share what works, and seek mentors who reveal the path behind the skills. If you're ready to personalize learning, protect student data, and keep your curriculum uniquely yours, this conversation offers a clear blueprint. If it resonates, follow and share with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more educators find thoughtful, practical guidance on AI in the classroom.

Short doesn't automatically mean effective. We dig into the craft of microlearning that actually changes behavior on the job, moving past buzzwords to a clear blueprint you can use this week. You'll hear the green‑yellow‑red fit test, a tight scoping method, and five delivery patterns that make small learning moments do real work without bloating your course catalog.Ready to ship something meaningful in seven days? Try the micro sprint, share your results, and help a teammate build their first win. If this conversation sparked ideas, follow the show, leave a review, and pass it to a colleague who's drowning in long courses and craving lean learning that sticks.

Thunder cracked over San Cristóbal as Queen Michele told us how a retired teacher, armed with a suitcase and a stubborn sense of purpose, found her soul in Mexico and a mission for the most connected generation on earth. What followed is a story of reinvention, caregiving, and building a mindfulness curriculum that teaches middle schoolers to center before they swipe.We unpack Generation Alpha—kids born into a 24/7 feed—whose attention is shaped by platforms that never power down. Queen shares how 52 Insights for Gen Alpha blends self-awareness, self-management, relationship skills, social awareness, and conscious decision-making into a year-plus sequence that fits alongside math and reading. The anchor is disarmingly simple: 4-4-6 breathing. Inhale four, hold four, exhale six—paired with words like calm, peace, focus, while releasing anger, fear, anxiety. Students lead it. Teachers get their minutes back. Classrooms find a tone that supports learning instead of firefighting.There's a deeper arc, too: rewriting your personal narrative. Queen explains how stepping off the survival treadmill—and moving ego to the backseat—opened the door to work that actually heals. If you've ever wondered how to meet today's students where they are, build calm into your class in 60 seconds, or bring AI into SEL without losing the human core, this conversation is your map. Subscribe, share with a colleague who needs a sustainable strategy, and leave a review to support more soul-forward learning. What's the one ritual you'll try this week?

Want learners to finish training, remember it, and use it on the job? We walk through a no-fluff approach to gamification that starts with clear outcomes and ends with measurable behavior change. Instead of throwing points at problems, we show how to pair decision-based practice, tight feedback, and meaningful rewards to build real skill.The heart of the episode is a practical toolkit: five common pitfalls and exactly how to flip them, plus the metrics that prove impact. We cover mastery rate, attempts to mastery, two-week retention checks, opt-in rates for competitive features, branch diversity, and decision quality. Then we map it to a real-world compliance scenario—recasting a static security course into short, branching missions with mastery badges, a mission board, and optional replays that improve outcomes. To help you start fast, we share a lightweight one-week A/B plan and the key events to instrument so you can call success with confidence.Ready to test without a rebuild? Try the simple pilot: add a progress bar, a mastery-tied badge, and a narrative intro with role, mission, and stakes—then compare completion, time on task, and decision accuracy. If this playbook helps, subscribe, share with a teammate, and leave a review so we can spotlight your results next time.

Most training fails not because the storyboard is weak, but because the learning lands in an environment full of competing priorities and fuzzy signals. That's the tough-love truth James Gilchrist brings to our mic as we unpack how people-first design—and authentic leadership—turns content into real performance. James's winding path from actor and musician to L&D leader sharpened skills we often overlook: presence, narrative, and connection. Those talents power the “lightbulb moments” when knowledge becomes action, and they shape the way he builds programs that remove roadblocks and align teams.If the phrase people first, tools second resonates with you, this conversation will give you the language, tactics, and confidence to design for impact and lead with clarity. Enjoy the episode, and if it sparks ideas, share it with a colleague—and leave a review so others can find us. Want more? Connect with James on LinkedIn and tell us your biggest blocker to removing obstacles for your team.

Ever try to squeeze a desktop course onto a phone and wonder why learners bounce? We reframe the challenge and share five essentials that make mobile learning fast, clear, and genuinely useful in the moments people actually have. From finding mobile moments to building microlearning mile markers, we walk through patterns that turn scattered minutes into meaningful progress and show why one crisp outcome per lesson is the antidote to overload.A practical case study ties it together: a 45‑minute compliance module reborn as five six‑minute micro lessons for nurses in the field. With thumb-friendly navigation, fast media, and printable field cards, completion moved into the workday, and documentation errors dropped within a month. We close with ten evidence-backed strategies inspired by SHIFT eLearning, plus a simple five-by-five rule to keep scope sane. Grab the Glove Box Guide checklist to apply these patterns right away. If this helped you design smarter for mobile, subscribe, share with a teammate, and leave a review—what will you redesign first?

What if your greatest creative potential isn't something you need to find, but something you simply need to remember? As a creativity expert, Patrick Williams joined me to reveal how we've all been born with incredible creative abilities that often get suppressed as we grow older.The conversation offers surprisingly simple yet powerful practices anyone can implement: connecting with nature, practicing intentional breathing, keeping creativity journals, and experiencing different art forms monthly. These activities help break through creative blocks and spark innovation in unexpected ways. Patrick emphasizes that creativity extends far beyond traditional artistic pursuits—it's essential for relationships, professional growth, and navigating everyday challenges.For educators, business professionals, and instructional designers feeling creatively stuck, this episode provides both philosophical insights and practical tools to transform your approach to innovation. You'll walk away understanding how to access your creative potential not just for specific projects, but as a way of experiencing your entire life.Ready to reclaim your creative superpower? Listen now and discover how small shifts in perspective and daily habits can unlock extraordinary creative potential you never knew you had.

Want a smarter way to stay current without spinning your wheels? In this episode, Jackie walks through a practical playbook that helps instructional designers and learning leaders filter hype, design for real performance, and ship small wins that scale. It's a clear path from “interesting idea” to measurable impact, built around five practice trends, a lean trend filter, and a two-week micropilot you can start right away.We begin by shifting to skills-first, evidence-driven design: define a lightweight skills dictionary for a key role, tag existing content to three to five skills, and track time to proficiency, error rates, and on-the-job application notes. Then we move learning into the flow of work with in-tool nudges, searchable help, and quick walkthroughs, instrumenting help moments to see time-to-solve improvements and ticket deflection. Accessibility and Universal Design for Learning step out of the “bolt-on” category and into the definition of done, with captions, alt text, headings, contrast, multiple representations, and testing with assistive tech and mobile-only users.We close with burnout guardrails to protect your energy: no weekend pilots, a “done for now” checklist to end endless tweaks, and one evidence hour each sprint dedicated to review. If you're ready to turn ideas into impact, pick one practice trend, identify one measurable problem, and start your micropilot. Subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review to help more designers find this playbook—and tell us what you'll test first.

Victoria Pelletier never planned to become a C-suite executive. With childhood dreams of practicing law, her path took an unexpected turn when a temporary banking job led to rapid promotions and a cross-country relocation. That detour became a 30-year journey through corporate leadership, culminating in her current role at the intersection of business transformation and technology at Kindrel.What makes Victoria's story particularly compelling is her philosophy on resilience. Signing her social media posts with #unstoppable and #noexcuses, she views resilience as both innate determination and a muscle that can be developed through conscious choices. This mindset has carried her through over 40 corporate mergers and acquisitions, teaching her that while we can't control challenges, we can control our responses.Everything you've ever wanted lives on the other side of fear. Victoria's parting advice reminds us that growth happens in discomfort zones. Whether pursuing leadership opportunities or embracing technological change, our greatest professional achievements often begin with one brave step beyond our familiar boundaries. What opportunity might be waiting for you just beyond your comfort zone?

Five new tools are reshaping how we design for real skill: spatial computing, generative AI co‑pilots, learning analytics with xAPI, adaptive learning, and immersive simulations. In this episode, Jackie walks through practical use cases, tiny starter activities, and simple design rules so you can test what works without overbuilding or overspending. The goal is clarity over flash—short experiences that improve a behavior you can measure and explain.Subscribe for more practical learning design strategies, share this episode with a teammate who builds content, and leave a review with the one metric you'll track next. Your feedback helps us decide what to prototype next.

What if everything we've been taught about teaching dyslexic students to read and write is backward? In this eye-opening second installment of my conversation with Russell, we discover how the dyslexic brain's unique wiring demands a completely different approach to literacy.Russell reveals the science behind his revolutionary method, showing us brain scans where dyslexic students have 2.5 times more activity in the front part of their brains compared to typical students. This neurological difference explains why traditional teaching methods often fail—and points to a solution that plays to dyslexic strengths rather than weaknesses.Ready to transform how you support the dyslexic learners in your life? Download Russell's free resources mentioned in the show notes and join us for the next episode, where we'll explore how to develop these foundational skills into high school and college-level writing abilities.

Good design starts with a clear goal and ends with a real-world result. We walk you through a practical, human-centered approach to data-driven instructional design that turns scattered metrics into confident, ethical decisions. From writing a sharp creative brief and instrumenting your learning ecosystem to analyzing patterns and testing targeted fixes, you'll get a repeatable playbook built to reduce risk and improve outcomes without burning time or trust.Ready to turn evidence into impact? Follow the flow, try one small experiment this week, and tell us what you learn. If this guide helped, subscribe, share with a teammate, and leave a review so more designers can build learning that truly works.

In this bonus episode of the Designing with Love podcast, host Jackie Pelegrin reflects on the accomplishments of Season Three, including the release of 56 episodes, and shares insights on her experiences with PodMatch. She also discusses her plans for Season Four, highlighting her proactive approach to content creation and the importance of time management and project planning in achieving success. Jackie expresses gratitude for listener engagement and encourages feedback for future episodes.Key TakeawaysThere have been a total of 56 episodes released in Season Three.Jackie interviewed 15 individuals through PodMatch and 5 outside of it.Jackie recorded 32 solo episodes for Season Three.The series on different models and theories sparked her future book.Jackie has 29 episodes already recorded for Season Four.Good planning and time management are crucial for success.Jackie appreciates listener engagement and the sharing of episodes.You can support the podcast through Buy Me a Coffee.Feel free to leave a voicemail on the website.Jackie looks forward to staying engaged with listeners in 2026.Send Jackie a TextJoin PodMatch!Use the link to join PodMatch, a place for hosts and guests to connect.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

The fear of AI taking over jobs has dominated headlines, but what if we're missing the opportunity to harness this technology as a powerful ally? In this enlightening conversation, T. Renee Smith reveals how artificial intelligence became her unexpected partner in navigating the challenges of raising a neurodiverse child and eventually led to her book, "She Leads with AI."Whether you're an instructional designer, educator, entrepreneur, or simply curious about integrating AI into your life with confidence and purpose, this episode delivers practical strategies wrapped in genuine warmth and wisdom. Press play to discover how to make technology work for you while staying true to your values, passion, and purpose.

What if reviews felt collaborative instead of confrontational? In this episode, I walk through a practical, five-pour framework to collect and use feedback from peers, stakeholders, SMEs, QA and accessibility reviewers, and—most importantly—learners, so your projects move faster and land stronger. You'll get short scripts, simple prompts, and a clear structure to keep conversations focused on outcomes instead of opinions.If you want feedback to become fuel, not friction, this guide gives you the tools to make it happen. Subscribe for more practical instructional design tactics, share this episode with a teammate who reviews your work, and leave a quick review telling us which script you'll try first.

Karen Nix's journey from journalism to instructional design showcases how diverse backgrounds can create exceptional instructional designers. After stumbling into professional development as an administrative assistant, Karen discovered her passion for transforming complex information into engaging educational experiences. Now, working as a Design Strategist and Communications Lead at Orbis Education, her recent master's degree from GCU has added theoretical foundations to her practical expertise.For those considering a master's in instructional design, Karen offers encouraging advice: "Come as you are and be prepared to work hard." Her experience demonstrates that diverse backgrounds enrich the field and that practical experience combined with theoretical knowledge creates powerful learning designers. Whether you're transitioning from another field or deepening your expertise, Karen's story reminds us that instructional design offers endless opportunities for creative problem-solving and meaningful impact.

Scope creep doesn't arrive with a siren; it shows up as “just one more” request and quietly doubles your workload. In this episode, I break down a practical, humane way to protect your timeline and still make room for good ideas—so you ship value now and again soon, without burnout.We start by drawing clean edges around the work: a one‑page scope brief, an explicit out‑of‑scope list, and a shared definition of done. From there, we name one final approver to end circular edits, set a simple change path, and design feedback rounds that serve the build instead of stalling it. Then we move into team dynamics. You'll hear how to build a working alliance with your SME—align on behavior‑based outcomes, co‑create a must‑keep vs nice‑to‑have list, agree on response norms, and use a one‑page feedback guide to keep comments focused at the right stage.You'll leave with ready‑to‑use scripts for out‑of‑scope requests, late feedback, and conflicting SME guidance; a checklist of common pitfalls to dodge; and a steady cadence to deliver learning products on time without gold plating. If this helped you tame scope creep, subscribe, share with a teammate, and leave a thoughtful review so more designers can find it.

Dr. Norina Columbaro brings nearly three decades of instructional design wisdom to this thought-provoking conversation about performance-focused learning. Drawing from her extensive experience across 60+ organizations worldwide, she reveals how the most successful learning initiatives prioritize measurable performance outcomes rather than just creating training materials.Whether you're new to instructional design or a seasoned professional, you'll appreciate Dr. Columbaro's practical insights about influencing stakeholders, working with subject matter experts, and maintaining focus on performance outcomes in your learning initiatives. Her passion for connecting people with knowledge shines through in every aspect of this enlightening conversation.

Ever wish SME reviews didn't drag on forever? We map a simple route for turning expert knowledge into learner performance—without meetings that sprawl or feedback that never lands. We're talking clear roles, crisp outcomes, and a steady cadence that keeps momentum high and stress low.Grab the one-page route card at the end: destination, three must-do tasks, two artifacts, a short cadence, and an alpha–beta–gold review plan. If the framework helps you ship faster and teach better, subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review—then tell us which mile marker helped you most.

What happens when a tech industry veteran gets frustrated with complicated video editing software? They build something better. In this captivating conversation, Jeremy shares his journey from early-2000s startups like Sling Media to leadership roles at media giants before launching his AI-powered video editing platform.Whether you're an instructional designer looking to enhance learning materials, a marketer seeking to increase your content output, or an entrepreneur considering your next venture, this episode delivers actionable insights on harnessing AI's creative potential. Ready to experiment with the future of video creation? This conversation is your starting point.

What makes a learning experience stick long after the course ends? We pull back the curtain on the “secret sauce” of Learning Experience Design, also known as LXD, and break it into five essential ingredients—empathy, storytelling, interactivity, accessibility, and feedback—that you can apply right away to elevate any course, workshop, or training program.In this episode, you'll get practical reflection prompts, examples you can copy, and a focused action step to build momentum this week. Along the way, we highlight related episodes on UDL and accessibility for deeper dives, and we end with a reminder inspired by Maya Angelou: people remember how you made them feel. If this conversation helps you design with more heart and impact, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a short review—what ingredient will you tackle first?

What happens when passionate curiosity meets unconventional research methods? Dr. Sheldon Greaves reveals the power of "guerrilla scholarship," which is a creative approach to intellectual work that flourishes outside traditional academic walls.For instructional designers, educators, or anyone seeking to pursue intellectual work without institutional backing, this episode provides both practical guidance and inspiring possibilities. Dr. Greaves reminds us that meaningful learning thrives in community, where diverse perspectives come together to explore questions academia might overlook.

Most training looks polished yet forgettable; this one shows how to make learning unforgettable by design. This episode breaks down five practical strategies that turn passive content into active skill-building: set laser-clear objectives, transform quizzes into decision practice with rich feedback, build shallow but meaningful branching scenarios, introduce lightweight simulations that let learners try again without fear, and bake accessibility and UDL into every step so engagement is equitable, not exclusive.Ready to design with love and deliver with purpose? Subscribe, share this episode with a colleague, and leave a quick review so more instructional designers can find the show. Your feedback shapes future topics—what would you like us to tackle next?

What if technology could actually give you back 20% of your workday instead of creating more busywork? In this illuminating conversation with Michael Toguchi, we explore how strategic technology solutions are transforming higher education institutions and nonprofits.Whether you're an educator, administrator, or technology professional interested in higher education, this episode provides practical insights on harnessing technology to create more efficient, effective, and student-centered educational experiences. Join us to discover how the right technological approach can transform frustration into empowerment.

Designing truly inclusive learning experiences requires more than good intentions—it demands practical knowledge of accessibility principles that benefit every learner. Whether you're creating content for higher education, corporate training, or digital platforms, accessibility transforms from a technical requirement into a powerful tool for equity when approached with intention and care.We dive into six actionable strategies you can implement immediately: adding meaningful alt text to images, incorporating captions and transcripts for all video content, ensuring proper color contrast, structuring documents with clear headings and formatting, providing multiple engagement options, and using accessibility testing tools to catch issues early. Each strategy comes with practical examples for both educational and corporate settings, demonstrating how accessibility enhances learning for everyone involved. Take the first step toward more inclusive design by choosing just one strategy to implement in your next project, then build from there. Your small changes today create better learning experiences for all your learners tomorrow—and that's what designing with love truly means.

What happens when the structures designed to support creativity start to suffocate it instead? Peter Swimm, project management consultant at Toilville, brings a refreshingly honest perspective to this tension that every designer faces.Ready to rethink how structure and creativity can work together in your design practice? Listen now, and then share your thoughts on how you're balancing these forces in your own work.

Ever felt stuck translating learning theories into actual instructional design practice? You're not alone. Learning theories like Behaviorism and Constructivism often remain abstract concepts rather than practical tools—until now.This episode bridges that crucial gap between theory and application, transforming five major learning theories into actionable design strategies you can implement immediately. We explore Behaviorism's power for compliance training through immediate feedback and reward systems, Cognitivism's approach to organizing information to reduce cognitive load, and Constructivism's emphasis on building understanding through authentic problem-solving experiences. We also discover how Humanism recognizes learners as whole people with personal goals and motivations, and how connectivism addresses learning in our networked, digital world.The most valuable insight? You don't need to pledge allegiance to a single theory. The art of instructional design lies in intentionally selecting the right theoretical approach—or blend of approaches—for your specific learning context, goals, and audience. As we explore in this episode, when we move beyond being mere content creators to becoming experience architects, we transform learning from information delivery to genuine transformation.

Whether you're brand new to the field or just looking for a refresher, today's episode will help you understand what constructivism is, how it's applied in instructional design, and how you can begin to incorporate it into your own practice. Constructivist Learning Theory transforms how we understand the learning process, positioning learners as active builders of knowledge rather than passive recipients of information. Whether you're new to instructional design or looking to refresh your theoretical foundation, this episode offers valuable insights into this powerful approach.Share this episode with fellow instructional designers and let us know how you're implementing constructivist principles in your work. Together, we can create learning experiences that truly transform understanding.

Ever feel like your instructional design is missing that special something that makes learning truly stick? The answer might lie in the way you're structuring your content. In this episode, we explore Elaboration Theory—a powerful approach developed by Charles Reigeluth that transforms how we sequence learning experiences.Whether you're designing for a classroom, workplace training, or online learning, this episode provides actionable strategies to implement right away. As Reigeluth himself noted, "Instruction should be elaborated in a way that makes the relationships among ideas explicit and accessible." Join us as we explore how to guide learners on a journey of discovery through thoughtfully structured content that builds naturally from simple to complex. Your instructional design toolkit isn't complete without understanding this game-changing approach!

What happens when you're thrown into a college classroom with zero preparation and told, "You start tomorrow"? Dr. Albert Bramante faced exactly this scenario when he unexpectedly became a psychology professor overnight. His remarkable journey from panicked novice to confident educator reveals powerful lessons about authenticity, intuition, and finding your teaching voice.For educators battling self-doubt, Dr. Bramante offers practical wisdom: reconnect with your "why," surround yourself with positive colleagues, and prioritize self-care. He emphasizes that teacher mindset dramatically impacts classroom outcomes - expect greatness and you're more likely to experience it. His advice on integrating AI into education is equally pragmatic, suggesting we make technology a collaborative tool rather than forbidden fruit. His creative assignment, having students "interview" historical figures through AI, demonstrates how educators can harness these tools ethically.Whether you're an experienced educator feeling burned out, a new instructional designer seeking direction, or simply fascinated by the psychology of teaching and learning, this conversation offers refreshing perspectives on finding joy and purpose in education. Let's make this academic year a "smashing success" together!

Tracy King's journey from accidental instructional designer to learning strategist reveals the transformative power of well-designed training experiences. As founder and CEO of InspirEd, they have built their career on making learning accessible and impactful for everyone—especially those whose needs are often overlooked.One in five learners is neurodivergent, yet traditional training methods frequently create barriers rather than bridges. Tracy breaks down how neuro-inclusive learning approaches can address sensory sensitivities, support executive function challenges, and reconsider outdated social norms. The innovative, entrepreneurial thinking that neurodivergent minds bring is exactly what organizations need to tackle today's complex challenges. For those entering the field, Tracy offers wisdom born from experience: approach instructional design as both art and science, embrace play and experimentation with new tools, and view feedback as an opportunity rather than criticism. Perfect accessibility doesn't exist—there's only the continuous journey of improvement that makes learning more inclusive with each iteration.

Ever wondered what separates truly effective learning experiences from those that fade from memory as soon as the lesson ends? The answer might lie in applying Merrill's First Principles of Instruction – a powerful framework that transcends delivery methods to focus on how people actually learn.This episode dives deep into Dr. M. David Merrill's five core principles that transform ordinary instruction into meaningful learning: problem-centered learning, activation of prior knowledge, demonstration, application, and integration. But we don't stop at theory. For each principle, you'll discover practical tool tips using technology you already have access to, scaffolding ideas that support learners at every stage, and concrete examples of how these principles work together in real-world training scenarios.When we integrate these principles with thoughtful scaffolding and specific feedback, we don't just teach – we empower. As Dr. Merrill himself reminds us, "Learning is promoted when learners are engaged in solving real-world problems." Join us to discover how designing with purpose leads to teaching with power, and transform your approach to instruction today.

Feeling overwhelmed by tight deadlines and shifting expectations in your instructional design projects? Discover how Rapid Prototyping can transform your approach to creating effective learning experiences.Rapid prototyping flips traditional design on its head by encouraging you to start with rough drafts—low-fidelity prototypes—instead of waiting until the end to test a final version. Through a continuous cycle of design, test, tweak, and repeat, you'll create learning products that genuinely work for your audience while saving valuable time and resources.Ready to transform your instructional design process? Start small—sketch before scripting, test early, and watch how rapid prototyping revolutionizes your approach to design challenges. Your future self (and your learners) will thank you!

In the latest episode of the Designing with Love podcast, host Jackie Pelegrin engages in an enlightening conversation with Grant Fullenbach, founder of GO First Consulting. The episode explores the fascinating intersection between construction methodologies and instructional design principles, revealing how systems thinking can transform businesses across industries.Imagine saving your business $27,000 with just one extra measurement check. That's the power of systems thinking, and it's transforming how professionals across industries approach their work. The conversation uncovers remarkable parallels between construction methodologies and instructional design principles. We explore how Grant's "Critical 19" scorecard system helps business owners identify exactly where they're succeeding, where they're struggling, and precisely what to do next – similar to how instructional designers use models like SAM (Successive Approximation Model) to create flexible, iterative learning solutions.Whether you're an instructional designer looking to incorporate construction-inspired methodologies into your work or simply fascinated by how systematic approaches transcend industry boundaries, this episode offers invaluable insights. Grant's parting advice to document your daily learnings provides a simple yet transformative practice anyone can implement immediately.

Have you ever struggled to create courses that truly engage your learners? The Dick and Carey model might be the game-changer you've been seeking. Unlike traditional linear approaches, this powerful framework views instructional design as a recipe where each ingredient affects the final outcome.For beginners, the model offers essential guidance through potentially overwhelming design processes. The systematic approach helps you resist the temptation to skip crucial planning stages. By spending quality time on front-end analysis, creating specific objectives, ensuring alignment between components, and conducting smart evaluations, you'll create learning experiences that truly resonate with your audience.Ready to transform your approach to instructional design? Listen now, and don't forget to check out the interactive resources in the show notes to deepen your understanding of this invaluable framework.

Navigating the world of instructional design can be confusing when similar-sounding concepts appear to overlap. That's exactly the challenge many ID professionals face when distinguishing between human-centered design and learner-centered design.The key differences emerge in their focus (all users versus learners only), goals (holistic experience versus learning outcomes), and methodologies. Human-centered design employs design thinking, empathy mapping, and prototyping, while learner-centered design draws from learning theories, needs assessments, and scaffolding techniques. The most effective instructional design often combines both approaches: starting broad with human-centered principles before narrowing to learner-centered strategies.Whether you're new to instructional design or looking to refine your approach, understanding when and how to apply these complementary frameworks will elevate your work. Download our interactive comparison infographic from the show notes, and share your experiences combining these approaches in your own projects. How might your current project benefit from considering both the broader human experience and specific learner needs?

When Jim Edwards graduated with a history degree in the 1980s, he never imagined he'd become a pioneer in AI-powered copywriting. After bouncing between seven sales jobs in 18 months, he discovered his talent for persuasion, eventually building a six-figure career in mortgage sales before turning to entrepreneurship. What followed was a fascinating evolution from rejected author to software developer to AI innovator.During our conversation, Jim delivered a powerful message about AI that challenges the prevailing narrative. "Most people are trying to figure out how to use AI to replace themselves," he warns, "and that is a really stupid thing to do." Instead, he advocates using AI as an accelerant that amplifies your voice and eliminates "mundane intellectual labor" while preserving the uniquely human elements that create genuine connection.The most valuable insight from our conversation is Jim's distinction between DATA (Default Answers To Anything) and SOUL content (Stories, Observations, Unique perspective, Lessons learned). While anyone can get generic information from AI, what truly engages audiences is the human experience behind the information—the stories that contextualize knowledge and make it meaningful. For educators, content creators, and professionals navigating the AI revolution, this framework offers a clear path forward: leverage AI to handle routine tasks while doubling down on the human elements that technology cannot replicate.

Struggling with designing effective learning for complex skills? The Four-Component Instructional Design Model (4C/ID) might be exactly what you need in your instructional design toolkit.Most traditional learning models start with content and theory, expecting learners to somehow piece together application later. The 4C/ID model flips this approach on its head by starting with realistic whole tasks and building support around them, making learning immediately relevant and practical. This podcast episode breaks down the four essential components: learning tasks (realistic challenges), supportive information (concepts and theories), procedural information (step-by-step guidance), and part-task practice (focused skill drills).As John Dewey wisely noted, "Give the pupils something to do, not something to learn, and the doing is of such nature as to demand thinking; learning naturally results." That's the essence of the 4C/ID model, and potentially the key to your next successful instructional design project. Ready to learn more? Check the show notes for links to additional resources, including the official 4C/ID website and an interactive infographic summarizing this episode. Your journey toward more effective complex skill development starts here!

What happens when you launch a learning experience that misses the mark despite solid content? The critical missing ingredient might be a deep understanding of your audience. In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked foundation of effective instructional design: learner needs assessment and persona creation.Drawing from years of experience, Jackie breaks down why understanding your audience is step one of truly human-centered design. She explores five practical methods for assessing learner needs. The heart of this message resonates with Steve Jobs' wisdom: "Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works." Whether you're creating corporate training, higher education courses, or K-12 curriculum, this approach transforms your work from information presentation to problem-solving that genuinely serves your learners' needs. 

Welcome to episode 50 of the Designing with Love podcast! In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Dana Goodier, an educational consultant, author, and podcast host. When the classroom feels like a battlefield, who's there to pull you through? In this illuminating conversation with Dr. Goodier, we dive deep into the concept of "educational trenches" – those challenging periods when educators question their professional path.For instructional designers and those developing professional development, she provides actionable advice: know your audience, focus on outcomes, scaffold appropriately, and respect educators' time with blended learning approaches that include meaningful follow-up. Perhaps most importantly, she encourages all educators to periodically reassess their core motivation and be willing to explore new educational contexts when needed.Whether you're currently in the trenches or supporting colleagues who are struggling, this episode offers both practical strategies and heartfelt encouragement. Subscribe now and join our community of education professionals committed to designing learning experiences with intention and care.

Welcome to episode 49 of the Designing with Love podcast! In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Shannon L. Boyer, an award-winning educator, curriculum strategist, and entrepreneur. Shannon shatters the myth of passive income in online education, revealing why high-quality courses require active engagement and student-centered design. Drawing from her 17 years of experience developing innovative college programs, she now helps purpose-driven entrepreneurs transform their expertise into meaningful learning experiences.Shannon's passion for student success shines through as she discusses the critical components many course creators mistakenly eliminate: guided practice and explicit implementation instructions. She shares a personal experience taking an online course that left her unable to implement what she'd learned, illuminating why feedback and human connection remain essential even in digital learning environments. When transitioning from one-on-one teaching to group formats, maintaining these personal touches becomes even more crucial.Whether you're creating online courses, developing curriculum, or exploring instructional design careers, this episode provides valuable insights on balancing structure with creativity, standardization with personalization, and efficiency with effectiveness. How will you apply these principles to create learning experiences that truly transform your students?

Welcome to episode 48 of the Designing with Love podcast, where I dive into a learning theory that is especially relevant in our digital world, which is Connectivism.Ever wondered why traditional learning designs feel increasingly outdated in our digital world? The answer lies in Connectivism: a revolutionary approach that's reshaping how effective learning happens today.Connectivism recognizes that in our networked age, learning isn't confined to classrooms or individual minds. Instead, it flows through connections between people, technologies, and information sources. As George Siemens wisely noted, "The pipe is more important than the content within the pipe," meaning how we access knowledge matters as much as what we know.For instructional designers, this shift demands new approaches. When learners are drowning in information and knowledge evolves rapidly, our role transforms from content creators to network guides. This episode unpacks five practical strategies to apply connectivism: designing for discovery rather than delivery, building meaningful networks between learners and experts, teaching critical digital literacy, encouraging lifelong learning habits, and leveraging real-time collaborative tools.Whether you're designing for corporate training, higher education, or online communities, understanding connectivism will transform your approach. The interactive diagram in the show notes provides additional resources to help implement these strategies in your next project. Share your thoughts and experiences - I'd love to hear how connectivism is sparking new ideas in your instructional design practice!

Welcome to episode 47 of the Designing with Love podcast, where I dive into a concept that flips the traditional design process on its head: Backward Design. Have you ever created a learning experience that left you wondering whether your learners truly understood the point? Backward Design might be the solution you've been seeking. This transformative approach flips the traditional instructional design process on its head by starting with clear learning outcomes before planning activities or selecting content.Throughout this episode, I break down each stage with practical examples, like designing customer service training where representatives learn to de-escalate complaints using a specific conflict resolution model. You'll discover how Backward Design helps you avoid common pitfalls like content overload and misaligned assessments. When we design with the end in mind, we create more meaningful learning journeys that lead to genuine understanding rather than mere content consumption.Whether you're a novice instructional designer, an experienced educator, or just curious about creating more effective learning experiences, this episode provides concrete strategies you can implement immediately. As Stephen Covey reminds us, "Begin with the end in mind." Because when we design backwards, we're truly designing forward for impact, growth, and lasting transformation. Ready to rethink your approach to design? Join me in this enlightening exploration of Backward Design.

Welcome to episode 46 of the Designing with Love podcast, where I discuss the nuts and bolts of the Kirkpatrick Model, why it matters for new designers, a practical example, and some tips for getting started.How do you know if your learning experiences actually worked? The answer goes far beyond handing out smiley face surveys at the end of training.The Kirkpatrick Model stands as one of the most trusted frameworks for evaluating training effectiveness, and for good reason. Developed in the 1950s, this four-level approach helps instructional designers measure what truly matters, from learner reactions all the way to organizational results. Whether you're creating corporate training or educational experiences, understanding this evaluation framework transforms how you approach design.For those new to instructional design, I share practical tips for implementing the Kirkpatrick Model even with limited resources. You'll discover how to start simple, partner effectively with stakeholders, look beyond the classroom to measure application, and document everything to tell the complete story of your impact. As Peter Drucker wisely noted, "If you can't measure it, you can't improve it."Ready to move beyond basic satisfaction surveys and demonstrate the true value of your instructional design work? Listen now and transform how you approach learning evaluation. Your stakeholders will thank you,  and so will your learners. Don't forget to check the show notes for an interactive infographic summarizing these concepts and additional resources to deepen your understanding.

Welcome to episode 45 of the Designing with Love podcast! In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Russell Van Brocklen, The Dyslexic Professor. What if everything we thought we knew about dyslexia was backward? Russell, who is the self-described "Dyslexic Professor," turns conventional wisdom on its head with a revolutionary approach that's changing lives and saving families thousands of dollars in specialized education costs.Russell's methodology produced remarkable results in a New York State Senate-funded program. His three-part approach starts with students' special interests (whether Disney, Theodore Roosevelt, or Ford trucks), teaches from specific to general rather than the reverse, and builds writing skills through simple, effective sentence structures that grow in complexity.The approach is particularly relevant in today's AI-driven world, where dyslexic individuals can leverage technology to handle mechanical aspects of writing while their unique cognitive strengths – often superior to neurotypical peers in analysis and creativity – shine through. It's not about fixing what's broken, but harnessing what's extraordinary.

Welcome to episode 44 of the Designing with Love podcast, where I discuss what Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is, why it matters to instructional design, three core principles, practical tips so you can start using UDL today, and a real-world example. Accessibility isn't an afterthought; it's the foundation of great instructional design. Have you ever designed a course only to realize not everyone can access it? Or did you receive an accessibility requirement that left you scratching your head? You're not alone. UDL offers a powerful framework that transforms how we approach learning design, and it's simpler than you might think.UDL isn't just for accommodating disabilities; it's about creating multiple pathways to success for every learner. Think of it as designing a building with ramps from the beginning rather than adding them later. We all process information differently, whether we're visual learners, auditory processors, or hands-on practitioners. By incorporating UDL's three core principles: multiple means of engagement, representation, and action/expression, you're creating learning experiences that are both more equitable and more effective.The episode breaks down common myths (no, UDL isn't too complicated to implement) and offers practical, actionable tips you can start using today. You'll hear a real-world example of UDL in action from an onboarding module I designed that transformed the learner experience through simple, thoughtful choices. As Dr. Shelley Moore beautifully puts it, "If we design for the margins, we actually make things better for everyone."Ready to elevate your instructional design practice? Pick one learning experience you're working on and run it through the UDL lens. Check out the CAST guidelines linked in our show notes, complete our interactive microlearning course, and share your UDL journey. Your support means the world; whether you share this episode, leave a review, or contribute financially, you're helping build a more inclusive learning community.