15: Scrappy, Smart Approaches to Learning and Development | Carla Nesbitt-Stokes

Release Date: Aug 19

Building a world-class learning program on a shoestring budget isn’t just possible—it can be transformative. In this dynamic episode, host Mickey Fitch-Collins, Ph.D., welcomes Carla Nesbitt-Stokes, a certified talent development professional, to the Learnit Lounge for a refreshingly practical conversation. Together, they explore actionable strategies for designing high-impact L&D initiatives when resources are tight, including leveraging internal talent, fostering a culture of mentoring, and embracing creative mindset shifts. Carla shares the inside story behind her organization’s Leadership Academy, discusses the power of relationships, and opens up about how tools like AI are quietly revolutionizing learning efficiency. Whether you’re an L&D leader, manager, or simply determined to make an impact with limited means, this episode is brimming with tips, inspiring stories, and wisdom you can use right away.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to align L&D strategy with organizational goals, even on tight budgets
• Carla’s blueprint for building a high-engagement Leadership Academy using internal subject matter experts
• Why relationships—and identifying hidden talents—are the secret weapons for transformative learning
• Practical ways to leverage AI to save time and streamline communication in L&D
• Key tactics for getting leadership buy-in when budget is scarce
• The most uncomfortable truths about shortcuts in leadership development—and why repetition matters
  

In This Episode:

• 00:00 – Welcome to The Learnit Lounge with Mickey Fitch-Collins
• 00:42 – Introducing Carla Nesbitt-Stokes and today’s episode topic
• 03:07 – Carla’s first steps: Aligning L&D programs with organizational goals
• 04:29 – Mindset shifts for constrained L&D environments
• 05:46 – Tapping internal subject matter experts for maximum impact
• 07:10 – The “scrappy” tactic: Internal leadership academies
• 08:44 – Designing the virtual Leadership Academy: Cohort model and engagement strategies
• 10:54 – The human resource advantage: Culture and relationships
• 12:32 – The evolving role of AI in L&D
• 14:11 – Practical AI applications for lean L&D teams
• 15:27 – Building relationships to drive leadership buy-in
• 16:44 – Thinking about budget as your “own” money—decision strategies
• 18:24 – The power of simple questions to uncover L&D needs
• 18:47 – Key leadership lessons: From “heads-down” work to building connections
• 20:41 – The big myth: There are no shortcuts in true learning & development
• 23:16 – How to connect with Carla Nesbitt-Stokes
• 23:33 – How to subscribe, review, and follow The Learnit Lounge
  

About Carla Nesbitt-Stokes

Carla Nesbitt-Stokes is a passionate educator, mentor, and certified talent development professional with a diverse background spanning higher education, technology, and financial services. With a Master’s in Human Resource Management and a CPTD from the Association for Talent Development, Carla has designed and led staff training, leadership, and onboarding programs that drive measurable results. She is renowned for her strengths-based, people-first approach and her unwavering commitment to helping others grow in their careers. Today, Carla shapes learning strategy in a virtual-first organization, leading innovative initiatives like the Leadership Academy to develop leaders from within.

Resources Referenced:

• Carla Nesbitt-Stokes’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cnesbitt-stokes-tdleader/
• Association for Talent Development (ATD), CPTD Certification: https://www.td.org/certification/cptd/introduction
• Learnit Website
• Connect with host Mickey Fitch-Collins, PhD

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