L&D Experts who inspire us to Grow

L&D Experts who light up our growth journey

The modern and ever-evolving area of Learning and Development involves a group of exceptional individuals whose zeal, originality, and intelligence encourage other specialists to develop and grasp new ideas. They succeed in their fields and are capable of stirring the curiosity and changing the attitude of others while promoting personal growth and professional development. The following article is devoted to the visionaries of L&D whose ideas, tactics, and determination make it possible for others to embark on their own journeys and get inspired. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring learner, join us as we explore the insights and wisdom of these influential figures who shape the future of learning.

Jonathan Chapman, M.S.Ed.

L&D Expert Jonathan Chapman, M.S.Ed.

Learning and Development Manager at Kryterion, Inc.
As a leader in learning and instructional design, Jonathan expresses a passion for building, implementing, and managing learning strategies centered on leadership development, organizational training, and change management.

L&D Expert Rita Azevedo

Strategic Learning Partner Manager at Sana Labs
Rita is among the leaders renowned for their practical expertise in innovating L&D with AI. Any event graced by Rita’s presence guarantees invaluable insights and practical insights.

L&D Expert John Helmer

Owner and Senior Consultant at John Helmer Consulting
John Helmer is a writer, podcaster, and strategist who focuses on education, training, and learning – but with a tech twist. Forget outdated methods, Helmer’s interested in how digital innovation can reshape the entire field.

Podcast: The Learning Hack podcast

L&D Expert Lavinia Mehedințu

Co-Founder & Learning Architect at Offbeat
Lavinia brings a wealth of experience to her role as a co-creator of Offbeat, the premier platform where L&D professionals accelerate their careers. As a mentor, host of live programs, and prolific contributor to knowledge sharing within the L&D community, she plays a vital role in shaping the future of professional development.

Podcast: Offbeat on Air

L&D Expert Dr. Nigel Paine

Co-Presenter of Learning Now TV
Nigel Paine, a veteran in corporate learning with over two decades of experience under his belt. He has produced learning software and award-winning multi-media materials and has offered development and support to public and private sector companies, large and small.

Books:
WORKPLACE LEARNING
Building Leadership Development Programmes
The Learning Challenge

L&D Expert Zsolt Olah

Senior HR Data Measurement Analyst at Intel Corporation
With over 15+ years of experience at the intersection of workplace technology, data analytics, digital learning, and gamification (done right), Zsolt’s led teams and implemented innovative strategies resulting in a measurable impact on the job.
Book: Engage the WORL&D!

L&D Expert Diana Oliveira

Training Manager at Vodafone
Driven by a genuine fascination with human behaviour and a passion for leveraging L&D to empower individuals, Diana brings over 15 years of professional experience. Proficient in process optimization tools and technology, she derives great satisfaction from boosting efficiency.

L&D Expert Lior Locher

Senior Learning Consultant at NIIT
With over 17 years of L&D and change management experience, this seasoned leader consults on learning transformation and her expertise spans diverse industries and continents, and they’re recognized for their contributions to industry publications. As a speaker, Lior addresses personal and career change, nonbinary experiences, and overcoming binary thinking. She’s authored books and offers coaching to individuals seeking practical, transformative guidance.

Book: The DIY Phoenix

Stella Lee, PhD

L&D Expert Stella Lee, PhD

Director of Paradox Learning
As a consultant, startup advisor, writer, speaker, community organizer, educator, and researcher, Stella is passionate about sharing her insights and expertise on e-learning, edtech, AI, learning analytics, adaptive and personalized learning, and more.

L&D Expert Devlin Peck

Founder of Devlin Peck Professional Training and Coaching
Devlin built and led a team to carry forward all aspects of the Devlin Peck operation: helping people transition from education into remote, high-paying instructional design roles.

YouTube channel: Devlin Peck

L&D Expert Tim Slade

Founder of The eLearning Designer’s Academy
Tim Slade is a distinguished speaker, author, and award-winning freelance eLearning designer. As the creator of The eLearning Designer’s Academy, Tim has dedicated the past decade to empowering others in enhancing their eLearning and visual communications content.

Book: The eLearning Designer’s Handbook

YouTube channel: The eLearning Designer’s Academy by Tim Slade

L&D Expert Sarah Sterner, M.Ed
Learning And Development Specialist at NVIDIA Experienced instructional designer skilled in crafting engaging educational experiences, Sarah provides expertise in Articulate 360, LMS administration, adult learning principles, compliance, technical education, and skill development.
L&D Expert Cara North

Learning, Performance and Customer Experience Manager at Medical Mutual, Adjunct Professor at Boise State University
With extensive experience in learning and development across diverse sectors, Cara specializes in eLearning development and instructor-led training, finding fulfillment in continuous learning and improving job performance for others. As the author of “Learning Experience Design Essentials” and an adjunct professor at Boise State University’s OPWL program, she offers expertise in facilitation, curriculum design, assessment, and workforce development.

Book: Learning Experience Design Essentials

L&D Expert Kamal Awwadah, MEd
Founder, Instructional Designer & Consultant, Program Manager at MKP Learning Solutions INC Specializing in adult education and corporate training, Kamal enhances learning experiences across diverse organizations through instructional design, UX/UI design, consulting, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies such as Prompt Engineering. He established MKP Learning Solutions in 2016, swiftly establishing it as a prominent player in eLearning and L&D consulting.
L&D Expert Anamaria Dorgo

Community Consultant, LXP Designer, and Facilitator at Handle with Brain; Founder, Community Catalyst & L&D Mentor at L&D Shakers community
Drawing on a decade of experience in employee experience, L&D, and community building, Anamaria passionately directs her efforts into her enterprise, Handle with Brain. She advocates for organizations to prioritize learning, collaboration, and people-centric transformation. Proficient in community building, immersive learning design, and human-centred employee experiences, she actively engages in collaborative projects.

Podcast: Mapping Ties

L&D Expert Ross Stevenson

Chief Learning Strategist at Steal These Thoughts!
Ross, a leading LinkedIn authority pioneering AI in L&D, boasts nearly two decades shaping world-class learning and performance strategies for global titans—his expertise unmatched

L&D Expert Shahaf Golan
OD Consultant & Learning Manager at Mash. With a decade of experience in development and training, specializing in organizational and business development, Shahaf is dedicated to unlocking the potential of individuals and teams. He excels in project management, group facilitation, and utilizing digital tools to enhance productivity.
L&D Expert Dr. Keith Keating

Dr. Keith Keating, a luminary in the field of learning and development, has carved an illustrious path spanning two decades at the forefront of educational innovation. As a lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania, acclaimed author of the award-winning guide “The Trusted Learning Advisor,” and a visionary Chief Learning and Talent Officer, he collaborates with top Fortune 500 firms to shape the future of corporate learning.

Book: The Trusted Learning Advisor

L&D Expert Markus Bernhardt
AI Strategy Lead at The Learning Forum, HBR Advisory Council Member, Principal Consultant at Endeavor Intelligence With a diverse background spanning strategic planning, and scientific research, Markus is a dynamic professional adept at driving innovation and growth. As a keynote speaker at Endeavor Intelligence, he delivers insightful talks on AI ethics, digital transformation, and more.
L&D Expert Egle Vinauskaite
Learning Strategist and Director at Nodes Egle helps startups build cutting-edge edtech products and support corporate L&D in creating scalable, digitally-enabled upskilling programmes and strategies.
L&D Expert David James

CLO at 360Learning / The Learning & Development Podcast host
Specializing in contemporary L&D practices, David collaborates with clients to craft and execute their digital learning strategies, encompassing both face-to-face and online modalities. He empowers L&D teams with trusted methodologies and practical digital skills. Additionally, as the Chief Learning Strategist at Looop, David contributes articles and delivers speeches on L&D topics at conferences and events.

Podcast: The Learning & Development Podcast

L&D Expert Stella Collins
Co-founder and Chief Learning Officer at Stellar Labs With a mission to teach the world effective learning methods, Stella has spent 25 years researching the psychology and neuroscience of learning, training tens of thousands in brain-based learning techniques. As the founder of two training businesses and author of the best-selling book “Neuroscience for Learning and Development,” she is committed to transforming perceptions through inspirational keynotes, articles, and whitepapers.
L&D Expert Julie Dirksen
Learning Strategy Consultant at Usable Learning As the esteemed author of the acclaimed book “Design for How People Learn,” Julie’s expertise is revered in the realm of education, e-learning, and designing learning for behavior change, with her insightful guidance, readers embark on a transformative journey through the intricacies of effective learning design, making her book a staple on any list of Best L&D books. Books: Talk to the Elephant Design for How People Learn
L&D Expert Nicole Papaioannou Lugara, PhD
Founder, Learning Strategist at Your Instructional Designer A performance-focused learning strategist and entrepreneur, Nicole is dedicated to crafting impactful learning experiences that drive tangible results for clients. With expertise in learning ecosystems, digital transformation, and collaborative learning solutions, Nicole boosts human capital through innovative approaches.
L&D Expert Inna Horvath

Learning Strategist at Elai.io and a podcast host at Elai EdTalk. Her focus extends beyond crafting content and refining training programs; she’s actively investigating the potential of AI to improve learning outcomes.

Podcast: Elai EdTalks

Terri Horton, EdD, MBA, MA, SHRM-CP, PHR

L&D Expert Terri Horton, EdD, MBA, MA, SHRM-CP, PHR
Future of Work: HR Consultant, Advisor, Corporate Trainer, Keynote Speaker at FuturePath, LLC & LinkedIn Learning Author As a future work strategist, HR consultant, and corporate advisor, Terri specializes in guiding organizations through transformation and the integration of AI. With over a decade of experience, she’s advised Fortune 500 leaders and global advisory firms, shaping organizational culture and leadership strategy for future success.

Share this post