Welcome back to the Shift with Elena Agar Podcast! In today’s episode, Elena sits down with Candice Mitchell, a powerhouse in the world of talent and learning development. Candice shares her unique journey into the L&D space, highlighting how she chose the field from the very beginning—unlike many who “fall into” the profession. With 18 years of experience building talent strategies across organizations of all sizes, Candice offers a behind-the-scenes look at how she helps companies create thriving, future-focused learning cultures from scratch.The conversation dives into the realities facing modern organizations: when is the right time to invest in L&D, how AI is reshaping learning functions, and why “whole-person capability” is the new cornerstone for business success. Candice shares actionable advice for L&D professionals to amplify their business impact, including why it’s crucial to move beyond traditional content creation towards strategic business partnership and how to keep talent development relevant in the age of automation.Get ready to discover Candice’s practical frameworks, fresh perspectives on the future of work, and her heartfelt advice for professionals eager to make their mark in a changing talent landscape. Whether you’re an HR leader, L&D practitioner, or simply curious about the future of work, this episode will inspire you to shift your mindset and unlock new potential for your organization and your career.Time Stamps:00:00 Discovering a Career in L&D03:57 "Niche in Learning Development"06:33 Recognizing Workforce Complacency Signs09:36 "Adopting AI in Workforce Training"14:12 Abandon Content, Embrace Strategy16:11 Technology-Driven Learning Strategies20:30 Emphasizing Human Skills Over AI25:06 Strategic Talent Development Impact26:09 Workforce Planning and the Infinity Loop30:10 "Retain Talent, Increase Value"Connect with Candice on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candicemitchelltdnerd/Get a free "L&D Impact Toolkit"- https://talentdevelopmentnerds.com/impactCheck out the Talent Development Academy: https://talentdevelopmentnerds.com/tdaFollow Elena: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/Website: https://elenaagar.com/Listen on:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wij

Welcome back to another episode of Shift with Elena Agar Podcast! Today, Elena sits down with Damon Lembi, CEO of Learnit, to explore the art of personal reinvention and leadership through change. From living the dream as a Division 1 baseball star to weathering career-ending injuries and building a thirty-year legacy in the learning and development industry, Damon shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey.In this candid conversation, Elena and Damon discuss the power of having a “learn it all” mindset, the realities of overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing workplace. Damon opens up about starting his business career as a receptionist at his family’s company, working his way up, and navigating challenges like economic downturns and generational shifts in the workforce.Whether you’re a leader seeking ways to future-proof your team, someone who’s struggled with self-doubt, or simply fascinated by unconventional career paths, this episode is full of real-world insights, actionable frameworks, and inspiring stories that will help you thrive in your own personal and professional shifts.Time Stamps:00:00 Entrepreneurial Journey Beginnings05:21 Receptionist Start Surprised by Business World08:40 Generational Work Ethic Differences13:19 Embracing a Growth Mindset16:01 "Saying Yes to Overcome Fear"20:26 "Public Speaking Confidence Through Practice"24:09 "Passion Essential for Job Success"26:27 Gratitude and Personal Responsibility31:10 Leadership Mistakes: Listening Before Acting33:50 Intentional Reading and Application37:49 "Leaders: Always in the Making"Connect with Damon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi/ Company website: https://www.learnit.com/Podcast: [pod.link/1714645917]The Learn-It-All Podcast Website: https//www.TheLearnItAllLeader.com The Learn-It-All Leader: https://a.co/d/5oebQ6a Instagram @damonlembi Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/damonlembi Youtube: @thelearnitallpodcast X: @damonlembi Follow Elena: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/Website: https://elenaagar.com/Listen on:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wij

Welcome back to Shift with Elena Agar! In today’s episode, Elena sits down with Dr. Michael Durnin—a dynamic leader whose journey spans college football coaching, higher education administration, and a deep commitment to mentoring others through life’s inevitable chaos. Together, they dive into the art of navigating challenges and setbacks, sharing practical strategies and personal stories that reveal how embracing chaos can actually make us stronger.You’ll hear Mike’s unique perspective on building resilience, the importance of community and connection, and why learning to stay calm is a skill worth cultivating. Elena and Mike discuss the value of embracing imperfection, supporting each other, and holding on to purpose—no matter what life throws your way. Whether you’re a young listener facing uncertain times or just looking for guidance on tackling life’s curveballs, this episode is packed with valuable insights you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. Time Stamps:00:00 Podcast Mentorship Access05:08 "Chaotic Leadership: Embracing Chaos"07:11 "Embracing Calm on Unexpected Journeys"12:14 Pre-Birthday Existential Crisis Cycle14:56 Embracing Chaos for Growth18:53 Empowering Wheelchair Camp Experience23:33 "Mindset Resilience Process"25:47 Vision and Purpose: Key Lessons28:33 "Determined Ironman Resolve"32:55 "Learning and Laughter's Importance"35:34 Honoring Elaine's Transformative ShowConnect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-durnin-dmin-49903017/Follow Elena: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/Website: https://elenaagar.com/Listen on:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wij