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How do we reach our potential in work and life? The Inside Learning podcast explores the science of learning and the future of work with expert guest speakers and research-based insights from The Learnovate Centre in Trinity College Dublin, a global research centre focused on learning technology. Hosted by author, consultant and coach Aidan McCullen. Get in touch: info@learnovatecentre.org / https://www.learnovatecentre.org
Episodes

Thursday Sep 18, 2025
Productive Failure: A New Paradigm for Learning with Manu Kapur
Thursday Sep 18, 2025
Thursday Sep 18, 2025
Productive Failure: A New Paradigm for Learning with Manu Kapur
What if the best way to learn isn’t to get it right the first time—but to fail first?
In this episode of Inside Learning, we’re joined by Manu Kapur, author of Productive Failure. Kapur introduces a radical shift in how we think about education and training: instead of shielding learners from mistakes, we should intentionally design for failure as the gateway to deep understanding.
We explore:
- Why traditional Direct Instructionoften fails even when delivered by excellent teachers.
- How novices “can’t see what they don’t yet know” — and why the first job of teaching is to prepare them to see with an expert’s eyes.
- The science behind Productive Failure — from Activationto Awareness, Affect, and Assembly.
- Evidence showing that Productive Failure can produce learning gains three times greaterthan conventional methods.
- Practical ways educators, trainers, and leaders can create safe, curated failure experiences that build resilience, creativity, and deeper transfer of knowledge.
As Kapur puts it: “Fail first, learn later.”
Join us for a conversation that challenges the way we teach, train, and even think about learning itself.
Find out more here: https://www.productivefailure.com

Tuesday Jul 15, 2025
Design for How People Learn with Julie Dirksen
Tuesday Jul 15, 2025
Tuesday Jul 15, 2025

Monday Jun 09, 2025
The Brain, Learning, and the Future of Work with Dr. Helena Boschi
Monday Jun 09, 2025
Monday Jun 09, 2025
In this episode of 'Inside Learning,' brought to you by the Learnovate Centre, Dr. Helena Boschi, author of 'Why We Do What We Do,' delves into the mysteries of the human brain and its pivotal role in learning and behavior. Host Aidan McCullen explores with Dr. Boschi the brain's function as a 'prediction machine,' its adaptation in the digital age, and the impacts of technology on cognitive abilities and attention spans. Key insights include practical neuroscience-backed techniques for enhancing learning and memory, the importance of physical exercise, and maintaining social connections for brain health. Dr. Boschi also emphasizes the power of neuroplasticity and the need for continuous learning in today's fast-changing world. Tune in to glean valuable tips for maximizing your brain's potential and fostering a thriving, adaptive workforce.
00:00 Introduction to Inside Learning Podcast
00:15 Understanding the Brain: The Prediction Machine
03:18 Impact of Technology on the Brain
06:08 Neuroscience-Backed Learning Techniques
13:43 Challenges of Remote Work and Digital Workspaces
18:13 Neuroplasticity: Adapting to Change
21:33 Conclusion and Contact Information
Find Helena: https://www.chequeredleopard.com

Saturday May 03, 2025
Contingent Leadership with Victoria Pelletier
Saturday May 03, 2025
Saturday May 03, 2025
In this episode, we discuss the concept of contingent leadership with Victoria Pelletier, author of 'Influence Unleashed' and 'Unstoppable.' We delve into Apple's history with Steve Jobs to illustrate the evolving nature of leadership and the necessity for businesses to adopt flexible, future-oriented workforce strategies. Victoria shares insights on the importance of combining talent acquisition methods, the gig economy, and the need for a mindset shift in both leadership and HR practices. Additionally, she emphasizes the role of personal branding and innovation in today's dynamic work environment. Tune in to learn how to future-proof your workforce and adapt to rapid industry changes.
00:00 The Rise, Fall, and Return of Steve Jobs
00:39 Introducing Victoria Peltier and Contingent Leadership
01:11 Exploring Contingent Leadership
02:44 The Gig Economy and Workforce Evolution
05:10 Challenges and Opportunities in Fractional Work
07:42 The Role of HR in a Changing Workforce
09:25 Education and Career Mindset Shifts
17:54 Building a Personal Brand
20:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Exploring Learning Innovation with Graham Brown-Martin
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
In this episode, we delve into the world of learning innovation with Graham Brown-Martin, author of 'Learning Reimagined'. Graham shares his journey from working on mainframe computers at the Open University to pioneering educational technology in the 1980s. We explore key topics such as the contrast between instructionism and constructionism, the evolution of the education system, the impact of neurodiversity, and the future of work in the age of automation. Graham's unique insights highlight the need for a systemic transformation in education and the crucial role of diverse thinking in driving innovation. Join us for an enlightening conversation on the transformative power of learning and technology.
00:00 Introduction to Inside Learning Podcast
00:15 Guest Introduction: Graham Brown-Martin
01:51 Early Career and Mainframe Computers
02:39 Educational Software and the Micros in School Scheme
05:12 The Shift from Instructionism to Constructionism
18:21 The Role of Neurodivergence in Innovation
23:46 The Future of Work and Education
34:15 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
Find Graham
https://www.grahambrownmartin.com
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Thursday Mar 06, 2025
AI, Skills Gaps and The Future of Work with Calum Chace
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
In this episode of Inside Learning, host Aidan McCullen speaks with Calum Chace, an expert on artificial intelligence and the author of several bestselling books, including 'Surviving AI' and 'Pandora's Brain'. They discuss the concept of two singularities: the Economic Singularity, where AI renders many jobs obsolete, and the Technological Singularity, where AI surpasses human intelligence. Calum highlights the potential impacts of these advancements on society and the necessity for proactive planning to avoid negative outcomes. They also delve into the challenges and opportunities of AI in education and the importance of developing skills for an unpredictable future. Calum further shares insights into his company, Conscium, which focuses on machine consciousness, AI agent verification, and neuromorphic computing.
00:00 Introduction to the Inside Learning Podcast
00:15 Guest Introduction: Calum Chase on AI and Singularity
03:06 The Economic Singularity Explained
04:22 The Future of Jobs and Skills
05:07 Planning for a Post-Job Economy
09:38 The Role of Education in an AI-Driven World
14:21 Calum Chase's Journey and Conscious AI
19:46 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
22:02 Where to Find More from Calum Chase
22:37 Closing Remarks
Find Conscium: https://conscium.com
Find Calum: https://calumchace.com
Calum’s books: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B00PUM096S/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=a0c6289a-6402-4e04-919b-973799060636&ref_=ap_rdr

Friday Jan 31, 2025
Navigating Your Career: Michael B. Horn on Job Progress
Friday Jan 31, 2025
Friday Jan 31, 2025
In this episode of the Inside Learning Podcast, brought to you by the Learnovate Center, Michael B. Horn discusses his new book 'Job Moves: Nine Steps for Making Progress in Your Career,' offering valuable advice for those feeling stuck in their careers. He delves into the importance of understanding personal progress in career choices, the concept of 'jobs to be done,' and why thinking about experiences rather than perks is crucial when assessing job opportunities. Horn also sheds light on the necessity of cataloging personal capabilities and making informed decisions based on the trade-offs in any job role. This episode is packed with actionable insights for both individuals navigating their careers and employers aiming to retain talent.
00:00 Introduction to the Inside Learning Podcast
00:15 Navigating Career Transitions
00:48 Introducing Michael Horn and His New Book
02:09 Understanding Job Progress and Choices
04:30 The Jobs to Be Done Theory
05:33 Applying the Theory to Career Choices
17:09 Evaluating Your Career Assets and Liabilities
20:43 Making Informed Career Decisions
25:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Find all sheets and information on the book here: https://www.jobmoves.com

Saturday Nov 30, 2024
Revolutionising Music Education - Moombix Founder Margret Juliana Sigurdardottir
Saturday Nov 30, 2024
Saturday Nov 30, 2024
Revolutionizing Music Education - Moombix Founder Margret Juliana Sigurdardottir
Join us for an inspiring episode of Inside Learning brought to you by the Learnovate Centre. In this episode, we dive into the future of music education with Margret Juliana Sigurdardottir, founder of Moombix. Discover how Margret is addressing the challenges adult learners face in accessing quality, flexible music lessons and how MoomBix is building a global community of music enthusiasts. Learn how the platform connects learners with expert teachers worldwide and provides innovative digital tools to enhance the learning experience. Don't miss this discussion on how COVID-19 accelerated the shift to online music education and the exciting potential of Moombix to democratize music learning.
00:00 Introduction to Inside Learning Podcast
00:15 Challenges in Music Education
01:35 Margret's Musical Journey
03:59 Founding of Moombix
05:36 Impact of COVID-19 on Music Learning
06:55 Features of Moombix Platform
10:09 Global Reach and Cultural Exchange
13:01 How to Get Started with Moombix
13:53 Conclusion and Credits
Find Moombix at https://www.moombix.com

Saturday Nov 02, 2024
Embracing the Access Economy with Sara Daw
Saturday Nov 02, 2024
Saturday Nov 02, 2024
In this episode of The Inside Learning Podcast, hosted by Aidan and brought to you by the Learnovate Center, we dive into the transformative concept of the access economy with special guest Sara Daw. Sara, the author of 'Strategy and Leadership as Service: How the Access Economy Meets the C-Suite', provides insightful definitions and real-world applications of the access economy. The discussion highlights the advance of mobile technology and the younger generation's focus on social capital, which drive the shift from ownership to on-demand access. Sara introduces the idea of psychological ownership and its pivotal role in the access economy, particularly for sharing professional C-suite services. The conversation also explores the gig economy, portfolio work, and the integration of AI in the evolving workforce. Learn how individuals and organizations can adapt and thrive in this new economic landscape. Visit LearnovateCenter.org for more insights on the future of work and the science of learning.
00:00 Introduction to the Inside Learning Podcast
00:15 Understanding the Access Economy
03:22 Psychological Ownership in the Access Economy
05:07 The Gig Economy and Portfolio C-Suite
12:23 AI's Impact on the Future of Work
16:40 Sara Daw's Research and Insights
21:49 Future of Education and Mentorship
24:05 Conclusion and Contact Information

Saturday Oct 05, 2024
Elliot Masie Live on E-Learning and Innovation at Learnovation 2024
Saturday Oct 05, 2024
Saturday Oct 05, 2024
Join us for a special episode of the Inside Learning Podcast, recorded at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, with Elliot Masie, a key innovator in e-learning since the 1990s. Elliot discusses the evolution of digital learning, the intersection of learning and innovation, and the role of creativity and storytelling in education. The conversation also covers the impact of AI on learning and work, and the need for continuous learning and adaptation in today’s fast-paced digital world. Elliot emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions, embracing failure as a path to success, and fostering a learning culture within organizations. Learn more about these insights, challenges, and opportunities for the future on this engaging episode, brought to you by the Learnovate Centre.
00:00 Introduction to Inside Learning Podcast
00:15 Welcome Elliot Masie to Dublin
01:08 Elliot Masie's Contributions to eLearning
01:55 The Role of Creativity in Learning
03:24 Impact of the Pandemic on eLearning
05:43 The Future of AI in Learning
11:16 Continuous Learning in the Corporate World
13:56 The Importance of Performance in Learning
15:06 Conclusion and Contact Information
Find Eliot here: https://www.masie.com/elliott-masie