How SharePoint Transforms Collaboration And Productivity The Secrets Of Learning & Development podcast

46:04

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E9 In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Valerie and Julia are joined by Ashley Brice, a former military police officer, police negotiator, and now a highly sought-after communication and leadership expert. Ashley’s journey spans from handling covert police operations and life-or-death hostage negotiations to transforming businesses with his innovative approaches to communication. Ashley reflects on his progression from building trust in high-pressure situations to teaching negotiation mastery in the business world. He shares key moments in his career, including his transition to becoming a national instructor for UK police negotiators and his personal mission to turn life’s adversities into a force for good. Ashley discusses the principles behind his company, Polaris Resolutions, where he simplifies complex negotiation methods to empower business leaders to thrive under pressure. Throughout the episode, Ashley provides invaluable insights into effective listening, emotional intelligence, and building authentic connections. He offers actionable techniques for improving communication, avoiding escalation, and developing meaningful relationships in any context. With a unique perspective shaped by his military and police experience, Ashley explains how these skills translate seamlessly into improving business outcomes. Tune in for a fascinating and heartfelt conversation packed with practical strategies, powerful anecdotes, and Ashley’s unwavering dedication to helping others succeed in even the most challenging circumstances. Key Takeaways The Power of Active Listening and Emotional Intelligence Ashley emphasised the importance of truly listening to understand rather than listening to respond. He highlighted techniques such as emotional labeling, mirroring, and using effective silences to build trust quickly in high-pressure situations. These skills, honed during life-or-death negotiations, are equally transformative in business for fostering stronger connections and resolving conflicts. Turning Adversity into Strength Ashley shared how personal and professional challenges, including overcoming a tragic accident, shaped his mission to help others. His dedication to saving lives and teaching negotiation mastery underscores the value of resilience and using one’s experiences to empower others to succeed, whether in crisis management or professional growth. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-brice-32a60010b/ ashley@polarisresolutions.com Polaris Resolutions Ltd: Posts | LinkedIn www.polarisresolutions.com (website live as of May 2025)…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Is Your Story Landing? Why Perception Shapes Opportunity 6:43

8天之前6:43

6:43

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this reflective bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , Valerie Merrill is joined by co-host and executive career transition coach Julia Bend to unpack the real impact of perception during times of change. It’s not just about your experience, it’s about how others interpret it. Julia shares practical insights on spotting blind spots, reframing your narrative and making sure your CV, LinkedIn profile and interview presence reflect where you're going, not just where you’ve been. If you’re navigating a transition or considering your next step, this episode will help you take control of how your story lands. A useful listen for anyone in transition or supporting someone who is.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Mastering Workplace Harmony: Proactive Conflict Resolution with Nicole Posner 32:24

16天之前32:24

32:24

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E8 In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Julia and Valerie welcome Nicole Posner, an expert mediator and executive conflict coach. With a background in PR and psychology, Nicole shares how her early experiences in a toxic work environment inspired her to specialise in workplace conflict resolution and leadership coaching. Nicole discusses the importance of proactive communication, the role of listening in preventing misunderstandings, and the unseen factors that drive conflict. Drawing on years of experience, she introduces her Co-Founder Alignment Programme, a structured approach to helping business leaders and founders navigate tensions and foster collaboration before issues escalate. Through her blend of mediation, coaching, and conflict archetype analysis, Nicole offers practical tools to help leaders address challenges, build stronger workplace relationships, and create healthier organisational cultures. Whether you're a leader, a founder, or a professional navigating workplace dynamics, Nicole’s insights provide actionable strategies for meaningful change. Key Takeaways The Power of Active Listening and Acknowledgment in Resolving Conflict One of the most critical skills in conflict resolution is genuine listening. Nicole emphasises that many people hear but do not truly listen. Active listening involves acknowledging the other person’s perspective, avoiding dismissive phrases like "yes, but," and demonstrating understanding before responding. This approach not only diffuses tension but also fosters clearer communication and stronger relationships in the workplace. The Importance of Proactive Conflict Prevention in Leadership and Partnerships Nicole highlights the need for leaders and founders to anticipate potential sources of conflict rather than reacting to issues once they arise. She introduces strategies such as having "what if" conversations, aligning values and goals early on, and fostering a culture of open communication. Proactive conflict prevention, such as through her Co-Founder Alignment Programme, helps build resilient and cohesive teams, reducing the risk of escalations that could damage relationships or businesses. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleposner-conflict/ https://www.nicoleposner.com/ nicole@posner.london For her Book: https://amzn.eu/d/jcxMRK7…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Bonus Episode: Bespoke Training – Why It’s More Than Just ‘How-To’ 6:13

20天之前6:13

6:13

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this special fireside edition of The Secrets of Learning and Development, Julia hands the mic to co-host Valerie Merrill for an expert deep dive into the world of bespoke training. If you’ve ever been involved in rolling out a customised system, you’ll know it’s far from straightforward. Valerie unpacks what really goes into training for bespoke software – from understanding unique business processes to designing tailored learning experiences while the system is still being developed. You’ll hear why effective bespoke training isn’t just about showing people which buttons to press. It’s about managing change, adapting in real time, and ensuring the learning sticks long after the session ends. Whether you’re planning a rollout or already mid-way through, this episode offers practical insights and reassurance that you’re not alone.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Brad Borkan - Decisions Under Pressure: What Antarctic Explorers Teach Us About Leadership and Resilience 32:33

4 weeks之前32:33

32:33

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E7 In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development , hosts Valerie and Julia welcome Brad Borkan, an author and decision-making expert with a unique approach to leadership inspired by history. Brad’s career spans from roles at tech giants like SAP and Oracle to becoming a published author, exploring how historical figures navigated complex decisions under extreme conditions. Brad shares his journey from the corporate world to writing, driven by a fascination with the decision-making processes of early Antarctic explorers. He delves into lessons from his books, including insights from Ernest Shackleton’s pivotal choices and the remarkable achievements of figures like the Wright Brothers, Teddy Roosevelt, and Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Through these examples, Brad illustrates timeless strategies relevant to modern leaders and individuals facing challenging decisions today. In addition to discussing his career shift, Brad reveals practical strategies for making tough choices, such as embracing course correction over perfection and building effective small teams. His latest book, It Takes Two or Three: The Superpower of Small Teams , examines how close collaboration fuels innovation and impact, using examples from history and popular culture. Key Takeaways Decision-Making Without Perfect Information : Brad discusses the importance of making decisions even when all information isn’t available. He highlights that in high-stakes environments, such as the Antarctic expeditions, waiting for perfect information wasn’t an option. Instead, explorers learned to take action based on what they knew and relied on their resilience to adapt. This approach encourages modern leaders and individuals to act decisively and course-correct as needed, rather than falling into analysis paralysis. Setting Achievable Milestones Even if Goals Aren’t Reached : Brad shares a powerful lesson from Ernest Shackleton's Antarctic expedition, where Shackleton, realising he couldn’t reach the South Pole without risking his team’s survival, chose to pivot and set a new milestone within 97 miles of the goal. This taught the importance of acknowledging progress and setting achievable milestones, even when the ultimate goal isn’t feasible. This approach is valuable in personal and professional pursuits, where focusing on incremental achievements can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradborkan/ https://extreme-decisions.com/ brad.borkan@gmail.com…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Cyber Security Essentials with Valerie Merrill: How to Stay Safe Online 11:32

5 weeks之前11:32

11:32

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this special bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, Julia and co-host Valerie Merrill dive into the crucial topic of cyber security awareness for end users. With cyber threats evolving rapidly, understanding the risks and how to safeguard yourself is more important than ever. Valerie, an expert in workplace technology training, breaks down key cyber security threats including phishing, malware, ransomware, and insider threats while sharing practical, actionable steps to protect your data and stay secure online. From password security best practices to the dangers of public Wi-Fi and zero-day exploits, this episode is packed with essential advice for anyone looking to strengthen their digital defences. Stay safe, stay informed, and tune in to learn how to protect yourself from cyber threats.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Breaking Barriers, Leading Change: I.Stephanie Boyce on Resilience, Leadership & Social Mobility 34:43

6 weeks之前34:43

34:43

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this powerful episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, we welcome I. Stephanie Boyce, a trailblazer in the legal profession and a relentless advocate for social justice, equality, diversity, inclusion, and social mobility. As the first person of colour to become President of the Law Society of England and Wales, Stephanie's journey is one of resilience, leadership, and breaking down systemic barriers. She shares her deeply personal story, from her family's migration to the UK to her experiences navigating leadership, overcoming setbacks, and challenging long-standing traditions. Stephanie reflects on the power of perseverance, the importance of social mobility, and how we can all play a role in driving positive change. This episode is filled with invaluable lessons on leadership, advocacy, and resilience, making it a must-listen for anyone striving to create meaningful impact in their career and beyond. Tune in to hear: • The driving force behind Stephanie's advocacy for social mobility • How she overcame rejection and self-doubt to rise to the top • The role of networks, mentorship, and coalition support in leadership Her vision for a fairer, more inclusive society "Speak my name in rooms that I'm not in" - a powerful call to action from a leader who continues to pave the way for others. Key Takeaways Resilience and Determination Shape Leadership Success I. Stephanie Boyce's journey to becoming the first person of colour to lead the Law Society of England and Wales was far from straightforward. Her story demonstrates the power of persistence-facing rejection multiple times but using each setback as a learning opportunity. She reminds us that leadership is not about fitting a mould but about having the courage to challenge the status quo and push for meaningful change. Social Mobility and Equity Matter More Than Ever Stephanie emphasises that privilege extends beyond race and gender, it's also about access, networks, and opportunities. She champions the idea that talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not, and calls for a shift in how leadership and success are defined, focusing on ability rather than background. Her advocacy work highlights the urgent need to ensure legal rights and opportunities are accessible to all, not just the privileged few. Guest Information: stephanie@istephanieboyce.com https://www.istephanieboyce.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/i-stephanie-boyce-fkc-frsa-a4757062/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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From Experience to Opportunity: Julia Bend on Making Your Skills Work for You 9:08

7 weeks之前9:08

9:08

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this special bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , hosts Valerie Merrill and Julia Bend explore one of the most critical yet overlooked elements of career success, leveraging transferable skills. Whether you're considering a career shift or looking to elevate your leadership potential, recognising the skills that transcend job titles is key to unlocking new opportunities. Julia shares her transition from Process Analyst to Executive Career Coach, breaking down how her EXECUTE Framework became the bridge between industries. This structured approach empowers professionals to identify, articulate, and apply their skills in new ways, transforming self-perception and career possibilities. Through insightful discussion and practical steps, this episode sheds light on why so many professionals struggle to see the value in their own experiences and how reframing skills can open unexpected doors. If you’ve ever doubted how your expertise translates beyond your current role, this conversation is a must listen.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Glen Williamson Reveals the Secret to Building Unbreakable Client Bonds 36:56

8 weeks之前36:56

36:56

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E5 - In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Julia and Valerie welcome Glen Williamson, a visionary sales coach with nearly four decades of experience. Glen has transformed the concept of selling, introducing an approach he calls coach-based selling, which combines human psychology with cutting-edge sales techniques to create genuine connections and purpose-driven success. Glen shares his journey from corporate sales director to self-employed coach and consultant, revealing how he discovered that the essence of effective selling lies in understanding and connecting with people. He discusses his signature methodology, which emphasises authenticity, self-awareness, and building lasting client relationships. With a unique blend of insights from sales, psychology, and coaching, Glen offers practical advice on creating robust sales processes and playbooks that drive measurable success. In addition to his consulting work, Glen introduces his new app, The Art of Selling Academy, designed to support sales professionals and business owners in navigating the sales cycle with ease. This app, along with his live coaching and resources, empowers users to continuously refine their skills in an ever-evolving market. Key Learnings The Importance of Self-Awareness in Sales: Glen’s coach-based selling approach begins with the concept of “knowing yourself.” He emphasises that self-awareness is essential for any sales professional, as understanding your own motivations, strengths, and values enables you to genuinely connect with clients. By aligning your approach with your personal purpose, you build trust and authenticity, which are crucial for successful, lasting relationships. Building a Robust Sales Process: Glen discusses how having a well-defined, consistent sales process is the foundation for sales success. He highlights the importance of breaking down each stage of the process, from qualification to closing, and using playbooks to guide teams towards consistent outcomes. This structure not only provides clarity but also enables teams to learn from each stage, making improvements that drive continuous, measurable growth. Guest Information: glen@glenwilliamson.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenwilliamson1/ https://theartofselling.co.uk/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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M365 Copilot: Your AI Assistant for a Smarter Workday 7:34

9 weeks之前7:34

7:34

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , Julia and Valerie explore Copilot for Microsoft 365 , an AI-powered assistant designed to help professionals work smarter, not harder. Valerie explains how M365 Copilot enhances productivity by automating repetitive tasks, managing emails, scheduling meetings, and improving collaboration—all within the familiar Microsoft 365 environment. They discuss practical features like the Work and Web tabs , which help organise daily tasks and online activities, and the Agents feature , which enables users to set up automated assistants to streamline workflows. With real-world examples, Valerie breaks down how M365 Copilot can save time, improve efficiency, and support better decision-making. Tune in to find out how this tool can simplify your workday and help you focus on what really matters.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Redefining Learning: Donald Taylor on Networks, Technology, and the Future of L&D 33:38

10 weeks之前33:38

33:38

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E4 In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Julia and Valerie welcome Donald Taylor, Chair of the Learning Technologies Conference and a pioneering thought leader in the L&D field. With a career spanning decades, Donald reflects on how his early decisions and experiences shaped his approach to integrating technology with learning and building meaningful professional networks. Donald delves into the evolving role of L&D professionals, highlighting the shift from traditional course delivery to a broader focus on performance, knowledge sharing, and leveraging AI to transform the workplace. He shares powerful lessons on staying adaptable, the importance of giving value to professional networks, and how to tackle the overwhelm brought by rapid technological advancements. Through captivating stories, including a pivotal decision to remain in the L&D field during the dot-com boom, Donald underscores the value of experimentation, strategic thinking, and the need for L&D professionals to redefine their impact in a technology-driven world. Whether you're an L&D professional, a leader, or someone keen to understand the future of learning, Donald’s insights are sure to inspire and inform. Key Takeaways The Power of Strategic Networking: Donald highlights the importance of building and maintaining deep professional networks, emphasising that relationships require reciprocity and value creation. He shares how a pivotal moment during the dot-com boom led him to recognise the irreplaceable capital of strong, trusted connections, which ultimately shaped the trajectory of his career. Evolving the Role of L&D Professionals: Donald discusses the shift from traditional content delivery to a broader focus on enabling performance and leveraging technology. He stresses the need for L&D professionals to adapt by embracing AI, data-driven insights, and new approaches to learning that go beyond creating content, positioning them as strategic partners in organisational growth. Guest Information: https://donaldhtaylor.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/donaldhtaylor/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Feeling Stuck in Your Career? It Might Be Time to Move On 11:49

11 weeks之前11:49

11:49

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this special bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , Valerie and Julia shine a light on a career dilemma many professionals face but rarely discuss: the hidden costs of staying in a role for too long. What happens when comfort turns into stagnation? Julia, an Executive Career Transition Coach, shares real-life experiences of executives who came to realise, sometimes gradually, that staying put had cost them more than they expected; whether in career growth, industry relevance or financial opportunities. Valerie and Julia break down the warning signs, such as feeling uninspired, not learning anything new or sensing that your role is no longer aligned with your ambitions. They also share practical steps to regain momentum, whether through internal opportunities or making a strategic move. If you've ever wondered whether you're holding on to a role out of security rather than genuine satisfaction, this episode will help you assess, reflect and take action.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Unlocking Client Attraction: Henriette Danel on Energy Alignment and Strategic Growth 28:57

12 weeks之前28:57

28:57

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E3 - In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development hosts Valerie and Julia welcome Henriette Danel, an award-winning business coach, client attraction specialist, TEDx speaker, and host of the Entrepreneurial Success Podcast. Henriette shares her journey from interior design to business coaching, revealing how she transitioned from a creative industry into coaching, where she now helps entrepreneurs achieve sustainable growth through strategic client attraction. Henriette discusses the importance of energy alignment in her work and how it influences her approach to business. She introduces her distinctive four-part client attraction strategy, covering visibility, attraction, relationship-building, and transformation. This structured approach has enabled Henriette and her clients to attract high-paying clients without feeling overwhelmed by constant marketing demands. Throughout the episode, Henriette emphasizes the value of saying "yes" to opportunities that resonate with one’s goals and values, sharing pivotal moments that shaped her career. She also reflects on the power of collaboration, referencing her co-authored book Fab Collab: How Women Create Success, which celebrates the achievements of women in business and the transformative effects of collaboration. Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Henriette as she shares personal insights, practical strategies, and motivational advice for anyone looking to enhance client attraction, embrace new opportunities, and cultivate a business that aligns with their energy and purpose. Key Learnings Energy Alignment in Business Success: Henriette emphasizes the importance of energy alignment in business, encouraging entrepreneurs to channel their unique energy authentically in all aspects of their work, from client interactions to social media posts. By staying genuine and connecting with their own energy, she believes business owners can create a more compelling and positive impact, which resonates with clients and builds sustainable success. Structured Client Attraction Strategy: Henriette introduces her four-part client attraction strategy, which includes visibility, attraction, relationship-building, and transformation. By breaking down the process and working backward from the desired client transformation, she provides a clear, adaptable framework that enables entrepreneurs to attract clients strategically without becoming overwhelmed by constant marketing efforts. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henriettedanel/ https://henriettedanel.com/ https://workshop.henriettedanel.com/client-attraction-workshop https://henriettedanel.com/podcasts contact@henriettedanel.com…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Beyond the Basics, Transform Your Workflow with Excel 365 6:08

13 weeks之前6:08

6:08

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, I’m joined by my co-host Valerie, founder and MD of Merrill Consultants, as she reveals the untapped potential of Excel 365. Drawing on over 30 years of training experience, Valerie explains transformative features like XLOOKUP, dynamic arrays, and advanced functions. She shares how tailored Excel training can boost efficiency, streamline workflows, and enhance collaboration. Whether you’re new to Excel or an experienced user, this episode reveals why exploring beyond the basics is essential to fully utilize its capabilities.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

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Leading with Laughter: Em Stroud on Creativity, Impact, and Authentic Leadership 26:47

14 weeks之前26:47