The Kirkpatrick Podcast
Welcome to the Kirkpatrick podcast, where we bridge traditions and trends in learning and performance evaluation. Whether you're a seasoned learning professional or just starting out, join us as we dive into the Kirkpatrick Model like never before. Through stories and insights, we're fusing time-honored methods with cutting-edge innovations to help you navigate the ever-evolving world of learning and performance evaluation. Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with our weekly episodes and gain practical strategies to enhance your training programs. Don't miss out—be part of the learning revolution!
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From Order Takers to Strategic Partners: The Mindset Shift L&D Needs Now
08/11/2025
From Order Takers to Strategic Partners: The Mindset Shift L&D Needs Now
We’ve all been guilty of celebrating the wrong data—hours of training delivered, high NPS scores, without asking if it actually changed anything. In this episode, Vanessa Alzate takes a hard look at how organizations define success, why L&D can’t do it alone, and why executive sponsorship is critical to lasting change. You’ll hear: The “green smoothie” problem with vanity metrics Why culture change must start at the top (and bottom) How middle management can derail your evaluation efforts What L&D pros must ask themselves about their role in the future It’s time to move from learning to performance—and stop pretending the status quo is good enough. Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast.
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The Catalyst Year: Inside the New Kirkpatrick
08/04/2025
The Catalyst Year: Inside the New Kirkpatrick
Season 4 kicks off with a candid solo from Vanessa Alzate as she reflects on the last two years since acquiring Kirkpatrick Partners. Hear the behind-the-scenes story of building a company through personal sacrifice, the release of her new book Building a Culture of Evaluation: The New Kirkpatrick Model for Performance and Innovation, and why this isn’t just another year—it’s the catalyst. From designing a new kind of summit experience to launching next-gen tools like Bigfoot and trevato, Vanessa lays out the vision for transforming how organizations evaluate, learn, and lead. In this episode: A raw look at what it takes to reimagine an iconic brand Why most training fails—and what we’re doing about it The story behind the book and the upcoming Kirkpatrick Summit Sneak peeks at upcoming tech tools and brand refreshes A call to senior leaders: it’s time to stop cleaning the fish Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast.
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Proving Impact, Building Culture: Champions of the Kirkpatrick Four Levels®
06/30/2025
Proving Impact, Building Culture: Champions of the Kirkpatrick Four Levels®
In the season finale of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, Vanessa brings together three dynamic leaders who are proving every day that learning doesn’t matter unless it makes a difference. Join Veronica Soria, Genevieve Nystrom, and Deana Brown, practitioners and champions of the Kirkpatrick Four Levels® (aka the Kirkpatrick Model), as they share how they’ve built evaluation into the DNA of their organization. Whether you’re leading training in the military, higher education, or global consulting, this episode offers real-world strategies for showing impact, shifting culture, and leading with courage. 🔑 Key Takeaways: How to align stakeholders around performance outcomes—not activity Why courage and consistency are the foundations of learning cultures How these leaders went beyond smile sheets to track real behavior change Practical tips for integrating Level 3 and 4 data into performance conversations What it feels like when learning earns a seat at the strategy table 🎯 Topics Covered: Learning evaluation strategy Kirkpatrick Four Levels® in action Culture building and leadership ROI and behavior change Building systems for continuous improvement 🎧 Don’t miss this special sendoff to the season—packed with wisdom, candor, and real talk from three true champions of impact. Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast.
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The Great Reset: Dr. Nigel Paine on Learning, Leadership, and Thriving Through Disruption
06/23/2025
The Great Reset: Dr. Nigel Paine on Learning, Leadership, and Thriving Through Disruption
Vanessa welcomes Dr. Nigel Paine, a global thought leader in organizational learning and author of The Great Reset, to the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Together, they unpack what it truly means to lead in a world of constant disruption. Nigel reflects on the dual forces that shaped his career—technology and adult learning—and why AI is not just a tool but an essential collaborator for the future of work. They explore how organizations must pivot beyond individual performance metrics to create systems that empower entire teams and embrace change. Vanessa also shares how Kirkpatrick Partners is integrating AI into evaluation processes to deepen impact and speed up learning feedback loops. Key Takeaways: Why the "clean fish in a dirty fishbowl" metaphor is the wake-up call your organization needs. How AI, when democratized and dialogic, becomes a partner in personal and organizational learning. Nigel's evolution from small grassroots education to leading global learning at the BBC. What the future of leadership requires: Less command-and-control, more courage, curiosity, and systems thinking. Kirkpatrick Partners’ AI-powered evaluation tools are reshaping how learners get feedback and how L&D proves value. Listen if you're a leader looking to: Future-proof your organization with a culture of learning agility Explore the role of AI in amplifying—not replacing—human performance Move from transactional training to transformational outcomes Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast.
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Why Emotional Intelligence Matters in Learning Design
06/16/2025
Why Emotional Intelligence Matters in Learning Design
In this uniquely personal episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, Vanessa shares her reflections after hosting a very special pair of guests: her two young daughters, Giselle and Gianna, for Bring Your Kid to Work Day. What started as a fun, spontaneous activity quickly turned into a powerful conversation about what learning really looks like—free from jargon, metrics, and formality. What her children expressed, without realizing it, was a masterclass in emotional intelligence, behavior change, and human-centered performance. Why does this matter? Because emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions and those of others—is not only foundational for leadership... it's critical for learning transfer. In this episode, you’ll explore: How children instinctively understand key drivers of learning transfer: coaching, repetition, and emotional support Why emotional intelligence is a performance catalyst—not just a personal trait How feedback (even from a 7-year-old) reveals blind spots and builds trust The connection between microlearning and respect for cognitive and emotional bandwidth Why organizations must audit not just outcomes—but perception and morale Whether you're a CEO, VP, or L&D strategist, this episode invites you to see learning through a new lens—one rooted in empathy, human connection, and psychological safety. Because the truth is: when people feel seen, supported, and safe, they learn more, apply more, and contribute more. Key Takeaways: Emotional intelligence enables learning transfer by creating safe, supportive conditions Coaching and mentoring aren’t “extras”—they’re essential to behavior change Microlearning isn’t about speed—it’s about respect for time and attention Honest feedback—even hard truths—build stronger, more aligned teams Your people are paying attention. The question is: are you asking what they see? Listen if you’re asking: Why aren’t our people applying what they learn? How can I foster a more emotionally intelligent culture of feedback? What would I learn if I stopped assuming—and started asking? 🎧 Tune in for this unexpected yet powerful reminder: The most effective learning environments don’t just transfer knowledge. They affirm humanity. Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast.
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Is Your Learning Program Just a Nicely Packaged Illusion?
06/09/2025
Is Your Learning Program Just a Nicely Packaged Illusion?
AI is revolutionizing everything—but one thing it won’t fix is our unwillingness to hear the truth. In this episode, Vanessa shares a powerful reflection sparked by OpenAI rolling back its “too agreeable” model—and how this parallels the fear many organizations have about evaluating their work. Are we more interested in being reassured than being right? 📌 In this episode: Why some execs fear evaluation—and how it’s holding them back How agreeable AI mirrors the L&D world’s dependence on surface metrics Emerging AI tools that can finally make Level 3 measurement doable A new Kirkpatrick offering to help you integrate AI and evaluation responsibly 🎧 Listen to this wake-up call for learning leaders—and what to do next. Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast.
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The Playbook for Turning Training into Business Wins
06/02/2025
The Playbook for Turning Training into Business Wins
In this high-energy episode, Vanessa takes an unexpected turn into the NFL Draft—and lands directly in the heart of organizational performance. What do first-round draft picks and workplace learning have in common? More than you think. 🔍 You'll discover: Why elite athletes and top-performing employees both need systems, not just training How learning solutions should fit the culture and capability of your organization A step-by-step analogy to help senior leaders see that one training is never enough Why great onboarding is your competitive advantage—and how Tom Brady proves it If you're a business leader who wants your people performing at championship levels, this episode is a playbook for impact. 🎧 Listen now! Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast.
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What Beyoncé, Branding, and Behavior Change Have in Common: Unlocking Lessons from Pop Culture to Boost Learning Impact and Organizational Value
05/27/2025
What Beyoncé, Branding, and Behavior Change Have in Common: Unlocking Lessons from Pop Culture to Boost Learning Impact and Organizational Value
This episode of The Kirkpatrick Podcast takes an unexpected—and powerful—turn into the world of pop culture. Vanessa dives into Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour and draws sharp, practical parallels between world-class performance branding and what it takes to build a high-impact learning department. You’ll walk away with: ✅ Fresh perspective on how brand reputation shapes learner behavior ✅ How to create emotional buy-in before training even begins ✅ Why perceived relevance must be tested—not assumed ✅ What concerts can teach us about Level 3 behavior change Whether you’re a CEO, VP, or L&D leader, this episode will help you rethink how your internal learning experiences shape real-world performance. 🎧 Listen now and start shaping a brand of learning that inspires action. Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast.
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Kirkpatrick (Alzate) Kids Take Over: Out of the Mouths of Vanessa's Babies (and Future CEOs)
05/19/2025
Kirkpatrick (Alzate) Kids Take Over: Out of the Mouths of Vanessa's Babies (and Future CEOs)
It’s Bring Your Kids to Work Day—and Vanessa brought her most honest coworkers yet: her daughters, Gianna and Giselle! In this heartwarming and hilarious episode, the Kirkpatrick Kids take over the mic to explore what their mom actually does for a living. From peanut butter and jelly training plans to genius microlearning ideas and calling out work-from-home culture, this episode is filled with laughs, wisdom, and more insight than you’d expect from a couple of future entrepreneurs. 🎧 Tune in to hear: What kids really think training and evaluation means Adorable (and surprisingly accurate) takes on coaching, mentoring, and learning design Their wild ideas for checking behavior change (it involves FaceTime and possibly... lawyers?) Vanessa’s reflections on motherhood, work-life balance, and being a CEO Whether you're in L&D, a parent, or just need a smile, this one’s for you. Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast.
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Why Training Fails: The Real Issue Behind Performance Problems in Your Organization
04/28/2025
Why Training Fails: The Real Issue Behind Performance Problems in Your Organization
In today’s spicy episode, Vanessa drops a bold truth: the real issue behind training failures is often the performance environment, not the training itself. With her birthday month in full swing, Vanessa shares why so many training programs set up for failure and how to ensure the right systems and environments are in place for true success. Key topics covered: What constitutes a performance environment and why it matters The impact of manager support, peer support, and organizational culture on training success Why we need to stop blaming training when the root cause lies elsewhere How to create an environment that fosters learning transfer and behavior change Get ready for a spicy take on why training alone isn’t enough and how to set up your performance environment for success. Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Learn more about the Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Visit our #TrainingEvaluation #CorporateTraining #LearningAndDevelopment #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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The Truth About ‘Kirkpatrick-Compliant’ Tools: Are They Actually Measuring Impact?
04/21/2025
The Truth About ‘Kirkpatrick-Compliant’ Tools: Are They Actually Measuring Impact?
In today’s episode, Vanessa takes a deep dive into how to assess whether your vendor is truly delivering the Kirkpatrick Model’s four levels of evaluation. With so many tools claiming to help you automate the process, it’s important to understand what’s really being measured and whether the solution aligns with the updated Kirkpatrick methodology. Key topics covered: How to identify when a vendor is not aligned with the Kirkpatrick Model 🤨 Key questions to ask about Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 evaluations Why it's crucial to partner with vendors who truly understand the latest in the Kirkpatrick Model How Kirkpatrick Partners worked with Qualtrics to build a truly compliant platform Learn how to hold your vendors accountable and ensure your tools are delivering the impact you need! Don’t settle for "Kirkpatrick-compliant" tools that fall short. make sure your solutions are up to date - and put you in touch with the tools that we authorize are doing it right. Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Learn more about the Learn more about the Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Visit our #TrainingEvaluation #CorporateTraining #LearningAndDevelopment #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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Revolutionize Instructional Design: How to Design for Performance, Not Just Learning
04/14/2025
Revolutionize Instructional Design: How to Design for Performance, Not Just Learning
In today’s episode, Vanessa dives deep into the importance of designing learning experiences that drive actual performance, not just knowledge acquisition. Drawing from her background in corporate training and instructional design, she introduces the new Performance Designer Certification by Kirkpatrick Partners. This program emphasizes integrating evaluation throughout the design process, ensuring that training is not just a one-off event, but a holistic, ongoing process that leads to real-world impact. No more same old same old training design - its time to design with the end in mind! Key topics covered: The importance of measuring Levels 1 and 2 during the training Designing for performance instead of content dumps How to integrate formative evaluations into the design process The connection between Kirkpatrick’s evaluation model and ADDIE Join us as we explore how to avoid the “training graveyard” and design learning programs that actually move the needle. Ready to rethink your approach to instructional design? Join our Performance Designer Certification and start designing for impact! 🚀 Learn more about the Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Visit our #TrainingEvaluation #CorporateTraining #LearningAndDevelopment #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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DOGE & Government Efficiency: What It Means for Training
04/07/2025
DOGE & Government Efficiency: What It Means for Training
How is government policy influencing workforce training and efficiency? In this episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, we explore DOGE and its impact on training, learning effectiveness, and business outcomes. With government efficiency in the spotlight, we discuss how organizations can align their training strategies to stay ahead. Key Topics Covered: The role of DOGE in shaping workforce development How government policies impact training efficiency Strategies for measuring performance in a changing landscape Real-world applications of training evaluation in government settings Join us for an insightful discussion on training impact in the age of efficiency. Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Visit our #TrainingEvaluation #CorporateTraining #LearningAndDevelopment #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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Level 1 Smile Sheets: Misunderstood, Not Useless
03/31/2025
Level 1 Smile Sheets: Misunderstood, Not Useless
Level 1 evaluation—often dismissed, frequently misunderstood. But is it really as useless as some claim? In this episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, Vanessa breaks down why Level 1 reaction surveys aren’t just about "happy sheets"—they provide critical insights into learner experience, engagement, and relevance. The problem isn’t the metric itself; it’s how we use (or ignore) the data. In this episode, we cover: ✔ Why experience does matter in learning effectiveness ✔ The biggest mistakes in Level 1 surveys—and how to fix them ✔ Why survey data often gets ignored (and how to make it actionable) 🎧 Listen now and start making your Level 1 evaluations work for you! Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Visit our #TrainingEvaluation #CorporateTraining #LearningAndDevelopment #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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Ditch the Vanity Metrics: Are Your Pre- and Post- Tests Failing You?
03/24/2025
Ditch the Vanity Metrics: Are Your Pre- and Post- Tests Failing You?
Are your learning assessments actually measuring what matters? In this episode of The Kirkpatrick Podcast, we dive into why traditional pre- and post-tests often fail to reflect real learning and behavior change. From ineffective multiple-choice questions to the illusion of knowledge retention, we break down the common pitfalls and explore alternative methods like scenario-based learning and real-world application assessments. What You’ll Learn: ✅ Why most pre- and post-tests give misleading results ✅ The dangers of vanity metrics in training assessment ✅ How scenario-based learning and role-play can transform Level 2 evaluations ✅ Why “messing things up” might be the best thing you can do for real learning impact 🎧 Tune in now and rethink how you measure learning! Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Visit our #TrainingEvaluation #CorporateTraining #LearningAndDevelopment #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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Unlocking Behavior Change: The Secret to Measuring Training Impact
03/17/2025
Unlocking Behavior Change: The Secret to Measuring Training Impact
In this episode of The Kirkpatrick Podcast, Vanessa Alzate, Jordan Rawlinson, and Sarah O’Connor dive deep into Level 3 evaluation—arguably the most crucial yet overlooked stage of the Kirkpatrick Model. How do we ensure that training translates into real behavior change? What are the biggest obstacles learning professionals face when trying to measure workplace application? And why is Level 3 where true business growth happens? Tune in as we break down practical strategies, common challenges, and the power of required drivers in making training stick. Timestamps: [00:30] Welcome to March Madness at The Kirkpatrick Podcast! [01:22] What is Level 3, and why does it matter? [03:00] Common challenges organizations face with Level 3 evaluation [07:24] Defining behaviors—why it’s the foundation of effective evaluation [12:15] The role of required drivers in monitoring and reinforcing behaviors [18:19] Simple, cost-effective ways to evaluate behavior change [25:16] How rewards, recognition, and coaching can make Level 3 easier [33:47] The power of drip-feeding learning for long-term impact [36:24] One small step to start making Level 3 evaluation happen today Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Visit our #TrainingEvaluation #CorporateTraining #LearningAndDevelopment #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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The Kirkpatrick Four Levels®: Back to the Basics - Level 4: Results is the Easiest Level to Measure??
03/10/2025
The Kirkpatrick Four Levels®: Back to the Basics - Level 4: Results is the Easiest Level to Measure??
In this episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, hosts Vanessa and Jordan break down the complexities of Level 4 evaluation—often considered the most challenging aspect of training impact measurement. But what if Level 4 is actually the easiest to measure? Join us as we explore: ✅ Why Level 4 impact isn't just about ROI ✅ How leading indicators help you prove value faster ✅ The biggest misconception that holds organizations back ✅ How to partner with other teams to track real organizational impact ✅ The hidden fears that stop organizations from measuring Level 4 Whether you’re a CEO, VP, or L&D leader looking to prove the value of your initiatives, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Visit our #TrainingEvaluation #CorporateTraining #LearningAndDevelopment #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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The Kirkpatrick Four Levels®: Back to the Basics - The Key to Effective Evaluation
03/03/2025
The Kirkpatrick Four Levels®: Back to the Basics - The Key to Effective Evaluation
In training and learning and development, the Kirkpatrick Model is one of the best known models up there with Bloom's Taxonomy and ADDIE. Yet, evaluation is one of the pieces of the ADDIE model that is still not done right. Join Vanessa Alzate and Jordan Rawlinson as they kick off the March Madness series, focusing on simplifying evaluation and getting back to the core principles of measuring impact. In this episode, they discuss: ✅ Why overcomplicating evaluation is a common mistake ✅ The biggest barriers organizations face when evaluating impact ✅ How to use existing data and habits to drive performance improvement ✅ The power of the Kirkpatrick Model and why it remains the gold standard If you're a CEO, VP, or learning leader looking to demonstrate the real impact of your programs, this is a must-listen! 🎧 Tune in now and start measuring what truly matters. Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Visit our #TrainingEvaluation #CorporateTraining #LearningAndDevelopment #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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From Bronze to Gold: Elevating Learning with the Kirkpatrick Model
02/24/2025
From Bronze to Gold: Elevating Learning with the Kirkpatrick Model
In this aspirational episode of The Kirkpatrick Podcast, Vanessa Alzate and Dr. Jim Kirkpatrick welcome Jian Liu, a Training Specialist at a federal agency within the Department of Homeland Security and a Gold-Certified Kirkpatrick Professional. Jian shares his journey of applying the Kirkpatrick Model to create a Culture of Evaluation™ in his organization and the transformative impact it’s had on his training programs. From building a compelling evaluation plan to leveraging insights for program improvements, Jian provides actionable advice and highlights the importance of empathy and storytelling in learning and development. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Jian leveraged the Kirkpatrick Model to improve training for federal contracting professionals. The role of storytelling in presenting evaluation results and creating buy-in. Practical tips for embedding evaluation into organizational culture. The importance of collaboration and continuous learning for L&D professionals.
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Protecting Children with Strategic Training and Evaluation: A Kirkpatrick Model Case Study
02/17/2025
Protecting Children with Strategic Training and Evaluation: A Kirkpatrick Model Case Study
In this moving episode of The Kirkpatrick Podcast, Vanessa sits down with Pamela Heisler and Cassy Miller from Oregon Child Abuse Solutions, winners of a Blended Evaluation Plan of Excellence at the 2024 Kirkpatrick Summit. Together, they explore how a comprehensive, data-driven evaluation transformed their forensic interview training program, OC FIT, into a powerful tool for protecting children and achieving justice. Learn how their work demonstrates the life-changing potential of applying the Kirkpatrick Model to critical training programs. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The role of forensic interviewers in safeguarding children. How Oregon Child Abuse Solutions used the Kirkpatrick Model to evaluate training impact. Key findings and improvements stemming from their evaluation. The importance of clear communication and stakeholder engagement. How systemic improvements create statewide consistency in child advocacy. Resources and Tools Mentioned: The Oregon Child Forensic Interview Training (OC FIT) program. The Kirkpatrick Four Levels® of Evaluation Community of Practice for forensic interviewers. How to measure training impact at the organizational and societal level.
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Defining the Relationship: Building Stronger L&D and Evaluation Teams
02/10/2025
Defining the Relationship: Building Stronger L&D and Evaluation Teams
In this episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast, we’re diving into the dynamics of Learning & Development (L&D) and evaluation teams. Host Vanessa Alzate sits down with Jordan Rawlinson, Learning and Performance Strategist at Kirkpatrick Partners, to explore the key skills and roles needed to build an effective evaluation team. With the upcoming “Defining the Relationship” webinar on February 13th, we discuss why internal collaboration is just as critical as stakeholder buy-in, how to balance strengths within a team, and why evaluation shouldn't be a solo effort. Topics Covered: ✅ The power of team collaboration in evaluation ✅ Key roles needed for a high-functioning evaluation team ✅ How to structure responsibilities for maximum impact ✅ Addressing common barriers like math anxiety and overcomplication ✅ The importance of centralizing evaluation efforts ✅ How to make evaluation more effective and efficient Special Offer: 📅 Register for the "Defining the Relationship" Webinar on February 13th at 12 PM ET to explore these insights further! Can't make it live? Register anyway to receive the replay. Resources & Links: 🔗 Register for the webinar: 🔗 Connect with Jordan Rawlinson on 🔗 Learn more about 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review
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From Training to Transformation: Making Learning Stick in Complex Systems
02/03/2025
From Training to Transformation: Making Learning Stick in Complex Systems
In this insightful episode of The Kirkpatrick Podcast, Vanessa sits down with Dr. Amy Heaton to explore the intersection of human-centered design and the Kirkpatrick Model. They dive into the complexities of creating sustainable change in organizations, tackling challenges like retaining institutional knowledge, supporting learners post-training, and building systems that drive transformation. Discover how empathetic design, stakeholder engagement, and effective evaluation can create environments where learning thrives and behaviors change. Dr. Heaton shares her experiences working with government agencies, nonprofits, and private sector clients to revolutionize learning and performance strategies. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why changing human systems is key to sustaining learning outcomes. The role of stakeholder engagement in driving organizational change. How human-centered design complements the Kirkpatrick Model. Strategies for creating systemic support for learners post-training. Resources and Tools Mentioned: Human-Centered Design principles from Stanford’s d.school Empathetic interviewing and its impact on learning strategies The concept of "change leadership" vs. "change management"
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Becoming a Trusted Learning Advisor: Insights from Dr. Keith Keating
01/27/2025
Becoming a Trusted Learning Advisor: Insights from Dr. Keith Keating
Many L&D professionals strive to build trust and credibility within their organizations, but the journey to becoming a trusted advisor can feel elusive. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Keith Keating, Chief Learning Officer at BDO and author of The Trusted Learning Advisor, to explore what it truly means to be a trusted partner in learning and development. Dr. Keating shares actionable strategies from his book, including how to align L&D initiatives with business goals, build credibility with stakeholders, and measure the value of learning programs. Tune in to gain practical insights that will help you elevate your role as an L&D professional and drive meaningful business impact.
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Ted Kniker on Building Evaluation Capacity with the Kirkpatrick Model
11/18/2024
Ted Kniker on Building Evaluation Capacity with the Kirkpatrick Model
What if the Kirkpatrick Model could transform not just learning, but entire public programs? In this episode, hosts Vanessa Alzate and Jim Kirkpatrick sit down with Ted Kniker, co-founder of IMPACT Paradigm Associates and a pioneer in using the Kirkpatrick Model to drive high-stakes impact. From shaping the U.S. State Department’s evaluation capacity to breaking new ground in areas like natural resource management, Ted reveals how the Kirkpatrick Model has become his go-to tool for tackling “fuzzy” program evaluations. Join us as Ted shares his inspiring journey, actionable strategies, and expert tips for applying the model to influence meaningful change in any sector. Don’t miss this episode packed with insights you can start using today! Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Learn more about the Events and Resources: Kirkpatrick Virtual Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: NEW - Join the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Free Resources and Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Connect with Visit our
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Kirkpatrick +AI: Myra Roldan on Innovation, Ethics, and Impact
11/11/2024
Kirkpatrick +AI: Myra Roldan on Innovation, Ethics, and Impact
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing the landscape of learning and development, offering unprecedented opportunities for innovation and efficiency. But how can organizations harness the power of AI while maintaining ethical standards and a human-centered approach? In this episode, Vanessa Alzate sits down with Myra Roldan, a leading AI expert and LinkedIn Top Artificial Intelligence Voice, to explore how AI can be leveraged to enhance learning and performance evaluation. Together, they unpack the insights from the Kirkpatrick + AI webinar, discussing practical applications of AI, its role in automating evaluation processes, and the ethical considerations that must guide its adoption. Whether you’re looking to integrate AI into your evaluation strategies or curious about the future of AI in learning, this episode will provide key takeaways and actionable tips for driving impact with AI—without losing the human touch. Learn more about the Events and Resources: Kirkpatrick Virtual Join us for the Apply to be a FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: FREE Virtual Event: NEW - Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Connect with Visit Myra's Connect with Visit our
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Revolutionizing Public Service Training: Dr. Sydney Heimbrock on Skills for the 21st Century
11/04/2024
Revolutionizing Public Service Training: Dr. Sydney Heimbrock on Skills for the 21st Century
Public service training plays a vital role in building a resilient, skilled workforce equipped to meet the evolving needs of the 21st century. But how can we ensure these programs are truly impactful? In this episode, Vanessa Alzate and Dr. Jim Kirkpatrick sit down with Dr. Sydney Heimbrock, a transformative leader in public sector training, to discuss how the Kirkpatrick Model is revolutionizing training evaluation in government. Dr. Heimbrock shares invaluable insights from her global experiences and her work with Qualtrics, emphasizing the importance of continuous feedback, human-centered approaches, and real-time data in creating adaptable and effective training programs. If you're seeking strategies to enhance public service training or better align evaluation with workforce demands, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you drive meaningful change. Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Learn more about the Events and Resources: Kirkpatrick Virtual Join us for the Apply to be a FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: FREE Virtual Event: NEW - Learn more about the Kirkpatrick Evaluation Toolkit - Learn More About our Certification Programs - Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Connect with Connect with Visit our
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Evaluating Your Leadership Training: Maximizing Impact with the Kirkpatrick Model
10/28/2024
Evaluating Your Leadership Training: Maximizing Impact with the Kirkpatrick Model
Leadership training is a crucial component of developing leaders who can effectively guide teams and drive organizational success. However, how can you be sure your leadership development programs are making a real impact? In this episode, Vanessa Alzate and Jim Kirkpatrick explore how the Kirkpatrick Model offers a structured, comprehensive approach to evaluating leadership training at all four levels—Reaction, Learning, Behavior, and Results. They provide valuable insights and practical tips on measuring participant engagement, assessing knowledge and skill acquisition, evaluating behavior change, and linking leadership development to business outcomes. Whether you're looking to refine your leadership training strategies or align them more closely with business objectives, this episode will guide you through maximizing the effectiveness of your programs. Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the Launchpad Workshop October 24th: FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Connect with Visit our #Level4Evaluation #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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Achieving Level 4: Turning Evaluation Challenges into Success
10/21/2024
Achieving Level 4: Turning Evaluation Challenges into Success
Many organizations find Level 4 of the Kirkpatrick Model—Results—the most challenging to achieve. However, reaching this level is not only possible but can also drive significant business impact when approached correctly. In this episode, we demystify Level 4 evaluation by exploring practical strategies to link training initiatives directly to measurable results. From overcoming common barriers to setting clear expectations, we guide you through the steps to successfully demonstrate the impact of your programs on organizational outcomes. Tune in to discover that achieving Level 4 is within your reach and learn how to leverage the full power of the Kirkpatrick Model. Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Join us for the Apply to be a speaker at the Launchpad Workshop October 24th: FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: Kirkpatrick + AI - NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Connect with Visit our #Level4Evaluation #TrainingImpact #LearningAndPerformance #CultureOfEvaluation #KirkpatrickModel #Kirkpatrick
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Enhancing Employee Engagement and Performance with the Kirkpatrick Model Part 3
10/14/2024
Enhancing Employee Engagement and Performance with the Kirkpatrick Model Part 3
In this third installment of our series on enhancing employee engagement, we dive into the first two levels of the Kirkpatrick Model: Reaction and Learning. We explore how these foundational levels can significantly impact employee engagement when implemented effectively. Discover practical strategies for gauging initial reactions and measuring learning outcomes to set the stage for deeper engagement and lasting behavior change. Join us as we unpack the nuances of Levels 1 and 2, providing actionable insights that you can apply to your learning and development programs today. Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Launchpad Workshop October 24th: FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: NEW - Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Connect with Visit our
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Your Crash Course in the Updated Kirkpatrick Model
10/07/2024
Your Crash Course in the Updated Kirkpatrick Model
Understanding the Kirkpatrick Model is more than just a box to check—it's a key to unlocking your potential to drive real results in your organization. In this episode, Vanessa Alzate and Jim Kirkpatrick provide a crash course on the updated Kirkpatrick Model, exploring its new features and advanced application in today's workplace. From overcoming common evaluation challenges to becoming a strategic leader in your organization, learn how mastering this model can accelerate your career. Tune in to hear about the benefits, success stories, and practical tips that will make the Kirkpatrick Model your go-to tool for impactful evaluations. Do you have a question you would like us to answer on the Kirkpatrick Podcast? Have a story about how the Kirkpatrick Podcast or other Kirkpatrick events/programs have positively impacted your career? We would love to hear from you! to submit your questions and/or stories, and we may just share them on the next episode of the Kirkpatrick Podcast. Events and Resources: Launchpad Workshop October 24th: FREE Webinar: FREE Webinar: NEW - Join the Learn more about the Learn More About our Stay Connected: Sign Up for our Free Resources and Subscribe to our Follow us on Connect with Connect with Visit our
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