In this special live AI edition of the Learning & Development Podcast, David James brings together Egle Vinauskaite, Ross Stevenson, and Peter Manniche Riber for a candid, practical conversation about what AI really means for L&D today. The discussion explores the gap between hype and reality, the tools and applications that are starting to make a meaningful difference and how AI is already being used to improve performance, capability, and skills development.
The panel examines what L&D teams are getting right, where major opportunities are being missed and the challenges slowing progress, from security and capability constraints to mindset and organisational conservatism. They also look ahead to how AI could reshape the way L&D operates and how the function is perceived across the business.
A clear, grounded and insight-rich conversation for L&D professionals wanting to understand where AI can drive genuine value.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
AI frees up time and has the capabilities to enable L&D to move beyond courses into solving business problems and improving performance and capability. Real-world examples are shared.
AI strategy can’t sit with L&D alone; a multidisciplinary, business-driven group must shape it.
To stay relevant, L&D needs commercial acumen and tech curiosity, alongside human strengths like storytelling, influence, and relationship‑building.
BEST MOMENTS
“Too many are just bolting AI onto an existing model, rather than stepping back and saying, does that model still serve us today? ”
“We know that content does not equal skills.”
“What we really need to do is to target effectiveness. We need to solve the problem.”
Egle Vinauskaite
Egle Vinauskaite is a learning, behaviour, and technology specialist who works with global enterprises and emerging edtech innovators. With a background across AI, XR, mobile learning, and digital platforms, she brings a sharp perspective on how technology is reshaping organisational learning and the future of work. As both advisor and researcher, she helps L&D teams integrate AI into their operations and equip workforces with the skills needed for effective adoption.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinauskaite
http://nodes.works
The Race for Impact report: https://donaldhtaylor.co.uk/research_base/focus04-race-for-impact
Ross Stevenson
Ross is a leading voice in the global L&D community, known for his practical, no-nonsense approach to modern learning. Through his writing, speaking and community platform Steal These Thoughts, he explores how organisations can better align learning with performance, develop essential skills, and embrace new technologies - including AI. Ross brings a strategic yet pragmatic perspective on how L&D teams can evolve and remain relevant in an age of rapid technological change.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rstevensonuk
www.stealthesethoughts.com
Peter Manniche Riber
Peter is an experienced L&D leader who until recently served as Head of New Tech, Digital Learning Solutions at Novo Nordisk, transforming HR and learning for a global workforce of 70,000+. Passionate about using technology to simplify and enhance learning, he experiments with generative AI, machine learning, adaptive platforms, and data-driven methods to deliver timely, effective solutions. With a strong foundation in team leadership and human-centric design, Peter helps organisations solve business challenges through technology while driving meaningful collaboration and measurable impact.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermannicheriber
RESOURCES
L&D Master Class Series: https://360learning.com/blog/l-and-d-masterclass-home
HOST CONTACT
https://twitter.com/davidinlearning
https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjameslinkedin
https://360learning.com/the-l-and-d-collective
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
