When Skills Matter

About When Skills Matter

The When Skills Matter Podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. For show notes and more, go to www.skillsassess.ai/podcast

Publisher

SkillsAssess

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

3 Nov 2025

Latest episode

22 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 Oct 2026

   Episode 16: How AI Is Making Personalised Learning a Reality for Workforce Development - with KaiRise

   Traditional workplace training often brings together people with very different levels of experience, skills and professional backgrounds, yet expects them to learn from the same materials and examples. Can artificial intelligence make learning more relevant to individual needs, and help organisations address skills gaps more effectively? In this episode of When Skills Matter, Robin Adda, CEO and Founder of SkillsAssess, speaks with Mike Lyons and Greg Pfister, co-founders of KaiRise, a US-based company developing AI-powered personalised learning experiences. Mike brings extensive experience in agile coaching and professional training, while Greg has a background in technology leadership and software engineering. Together, they explore how AI can help move workplace learning beyond generic courses and standardised feedback. Mike and Greg explain how KaiRise is using an AI-powered digital instructor, Ask Mike, to draw on course materials, respond to learners' questions and provide feedback relevant to their experience and working environment. The discussion also considers the importance of identifying individual skills gaps, the role of human instructors and the changing demands on organisations responsible for workforce development. In this episode, Robin, Mike and Greg discuss: Why traditional one-size-fits-all training can struggle to engage people with different backgrounds and experience levels How AI-powered digital instructors can provide personalised guidance using existing learning materials How learner profiles can help make course activities and feedback more relevant to individual workplaces Mike's experience using an AI instructor to challenge master's-level engineering students and encourage deeper reflection Why producing more learning content may be less important than helping people retain and apply what they've learnt How organisations can begin exploring AI in learning and development while keeping human expertise central The potential impact of AI on entry-level employment, particularly in software development, and the opportunities emerging alongside those changes Mike shares an example from his teaching at Washington University, where students use an AI instructor to reflect on psychological safety in their workplaces. They receive individual feedback, reconsider their responses and can submit improved answers. He explains why the approach has produced encouraging results in his classes. The conversation also explores a possible shift towards shorter, more targeted learning experiences, supported by a clearer understanding of what each individual needs to develop. If you're responsible for learning and development, workforce capability, skills assessment or talent strategy, this episode offers a practical discussion of where AI-supported learning is heading, what is already possible and the questions organisations still need to address. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way. Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.

2. 

   24 Jun 2026

   Episode 15: Helping Employees Thrive Alongside AI - with Tom Chatfield

   Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we’re joined by Dr Tom Chatfield, a British author, tech philosopher, and educator. His books exploring contemporary culture - most recently Wise Animals (Picador), an exploration of the co-evolution of humanity and technology, and the best-selling textbook Critical Thinking (SAGE Publishing), researched as a Visiting Associate at the Oxford Internet Institute - are published in over thirty languages. Tom is interested in improving our understanding of digital technology, and its uses in policy, education and engagement. He’s particularly interested in AI ethics, critical thinking and future skills, and works with business schools, universities and companies around their development, as well as creating award-winning online courses for both academic institutions and businesses. His past collaborators include Google, the BBC, the UN, Channel 4 Education, Pearson, Mind Candy, Shift, Flamingo London, Six to Start, Preloaded, Firefish, Future Lab, Sense Worldwide, SAGE Publications, Sugru and Allianz. Tom took his doctorate and taught at St John’s College, Oxford, and continues to guest lecture at universities across the world. As a speaker and broadcaster, Tom’s appearances include TED Global and the Cannes Lions Festival; authors@Google; the World Congress on Information Technology; Science Foo Camp; Intelligence Squared; the Houses of Parliament; Aspen Seminars for Leaders; the RSA, Royal Society and Royal Institution; and venues ranging from the Sydney Opera House to the Googleplex. A launch columnist for the BBC’s worldwide technology site, BBC Future, Tom writes and commentate widely in the international media, as well as guest lecturing at universities in the UK and Europe. He is a regular on BBC radio and television, and broadcasts around the world. We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way. Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.

3. 

   12 May 2026

   Episode 14: What HR Leaders Need To Consider Before Proposing New AI Initiatives (Panel Discussion)

   Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we discuss what HR leaders need to consider before proposing new AI initiatives. Our guest line-up includes Nebel Crowhurst, a senior HR executive with hands-on experience guiding organisations through digital transformation; Carolyn Shepherd, founder and lead consultant at Emmeline AI, known for her focus on future skills; and Perry Timms, founder and chief energy officer at Perry Timms HR, who champions progressive approaches to talent. Together with our host, Robin Adda, we explore real-world applications and pressing challenges facing HR, L&D, and business leaders today. This is a grounded discussion for anyone involved in skills mapping, learning strategy, or workforce development. If you’re aiming to prove the ROI of talent initiatives and want to build a more skills-focused workplace, you’ll find plenty of relevant, real-world takeaways here. Whether you’re an HR, L&D, Talent, or business leader, our goal is to equip you with practical insights and new perspectives to help your organisation thrive. We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way. Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.

4. 

   28 Apr 2026

   Episode 13: Managing Skills in a Fast-Changing World - with Valerie Merrill

   Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we’re joined by Valerie Merrill, founder of Merrill Consultants International and host of the Secrets of Learning and Development podcast. With decades of experience helping organizations navigate leadership development, management capability, and practical training, Valerie Merrill brings valuable perspective on what it takes to build a skilled, resilient workforce in a fast-changing world. Together, we examine how organizations can adapt their learning strategies to meet evolving business needs and workforce expectations. We discuss the practical reality of addressing skills gaps, why learning approaches must keep pace with technological change, and what leaders and L&D professionals can do to support meaningful skill development for their teams. We discuss: How the shelf life of skills is shrinking, and what that means for today’s workplaces The need for a calm, strategic approach to AI, and practical ways to assess and integrate new technologies How to move beyond guesswork and use data to diagnose skill gaps and training needs The importance of psychological safety, trust, and adaptability for effective leadership in remote and hybrid teams Why personalized and adaptive learning pathways lead to greater engagement and impact Ways to plan for the future by understanding workforce capabilities and staying agile in the face of change This episode is relevant for anyone involved in skills mapping, learning strategy, training effectiveness, or preparing for the future of work. Our conversation offers actionable insights into building capability and leading teams through complexity. We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way. Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.

5. 

   14 Apr 2026

   Episode 12: Making Learning and Upskilling More Effective and Inclusive - with Jonty Rooke

   Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we welcome Jonty Rooke, a strategic leader with deep experience building cross-sector partnerships and designing data-informed employment and skills programmes. Jonty’s perspective matters because he actively connects government, employers, and communities to deliver inclusive workforce outcomes and champions practical solutions for skills gaps and social mobility. We discuss the realities of youth employment in the UK, the evolving barriers facing jobseekers, and the importance of purposeful work and collaboration. Throughout the episode, Jonty shares practical insights from leading large-scale employment programmes, including the Connect to Work initiative, and offers clear advice for HR and L&D leaders aiming to make tangible improvements. We cover: How the shrinking of entry-level sectors and policy changes are impacting youth employment The vital role of inclusive hiring and support for those with disabilities and mental health challenges Why employers need to make work more attractive and purposeful, especially for younger people How skills assessment, targeted upskilling, and data-driven approaches create more effective workforce development The impact of tech and AI on the hiring process, and the need to bring more humanity back into recruitment Why investing in skills development—in both new hires and existing staff—drives long-term organisational capability The importance of coaching, mentoring, and management training for sustained productivity Practical ideas for rethinking CVs, interviews, and onboarding, inspired by real employer examples What frontline employability professionals and programme leaders are learning about success and resilience in today’s labour market Our goal with this podcast is to share real stories and actionable insights from people shaping workforce development. If you’re focused on skills mapping, learning effectiveness, or the future of talent, you’ll find useful perspectives and next steps you can apply right away. We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way. Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.

6. 

   24 Mar 2026

   Episode 11: How To Align HR and L&D with Leadership Priorities (Panel Discussion)

   Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter.elcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we delve into the rapidly evolving world of AI and its impact on upskilling, credibility, and workforce development. Our guest line-up includes Nebel Crowhurst, a senior HR executive with hands-on experience guiding organisations through digital transformation; Carolyn Shepherd, founder and lead consultant at Emmeline AI, known for her focus on future skills; and Perry Timms, founder and chief energy officer at Perry Timms HR, who champions progressive approaches to talent. Together with our host, Robin Adda, we explore real-world applications and pressing challenges facing HR, L&D, and business leaders today. This episode explores the practical steps HR and L&D professionals can take to align their work with leadership priorities and show real impact. Our guests discuss how organisations can move beyond basic reporting, using data and storytelling to connect people initiatives with business performance. They emphasise the importance of collaboration, supporting middle managers, and embracing a coaching approach to learning rather than just delivering programmes on request. We discuss: Why aligning HR and L&D initiatives with organisational goals makes a measurable difference How to move beyond traditional data points (like absence and turnover) to real measures of value The role of collaboration across stakeholders, especially the support needed for middle managers Approaches to designing people strategies that are integrated, not isolated, from business strategy The value of engaging employees and leaders in creating learning solutions that address both immediate challenges and long-term ambitions Practical ways to demonstrate the commercial impact of HR and learning investments This is a grounded discussion for anyone involved in skills mapping, learning strategy, or workforce development. If you’re aiming to prove the ROI of talent initiatives and want to build a more skills-focused workplace, you’ll find plenty of relevant, real-world takeaways here. Whether you’re an HR, L&D, Talent, or business leader, our goal is to equip you with practical insights and new perspectives to help your organisation thrive. We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way. Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.

7. 

   10 Mar 2026

   Episode 10: Preparing for an AI-Driven Workplace - with Neil C. Hughes

   Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we flip things around as Robins joins Neil C. Hughes, on his podcast, Tech Talks Daily, for a practical and timely discussion on how AI can transform job opportunities and workforce development. Together, Robin and Neil explore the real challenges and opportunities facing leaders as technology rapidly reshapes the working world. Theye dive into how organisations and employees can successfully navigate skills gaps, build personalised training plans, and ensure that AI is a tool for growth - not just another headline about job loss. They discuss: How AI-driven skills mapping reveals true capability and identifies practical learning needs Why personalised training is more effective than traditional, standardised approaches The importance of integrating human qualities like critical thinking, curiosity, and communication into skills strategies What causes anxiety about AI for employees, and how organisations can turn that concern into motivation for retraining The real-world impact of digital skills gaps across sectors - and practical ways to close them Strategies for future-proofing teams, including auditing skills frameworks and making learning more relevant The role AI can play in upskilling, improving productivity, and supporting economic growth Our aim in this episode is to share insights that help HR, L&D, and business leaders make evidence-based decisions, align learning with business needs, and create organisations where people can thrive in the age of artificial intelligence. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, personalised learning pathways, or effective upskilling, you’ll find practical ideas for building a more agile, confident workforce. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner. Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.

8. 

   24 Feb 2026

   Episode 9: AI’s Role in Upskilling and Organisational Transformation (Panel Discussion)

   Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we delve into the rapidly evolving world of AI and its impact on upskilling, credibility, and workforce development. Our guest line-up includes Nebel Crowhurst, a senior HR executive with hands-on experience guiding organisations through digital transformation; Carolyn Shepherd, founder and lead consultant at Emmeline AI, known for her focus on future skills; and Perry Timms, founder and chief energy officer at Perry Timms HR, who champions progressive approaches to talent. Together with our host, Robin Adda, we explore real-world applications and pressing challenges facing HR, L&D, and business leaders today. We talk through how AI is shaping the skills landscape, why fear and uncertainty often accompany new technology, and the steps leaders can take to build credibility and trust while navigating change. We discuss: Where AI can support upskilling and strengthen the value of HR and L&D How credibility may be damaged by over-reliance on AI-generated content, and ways to avoid this trap The importance of context, personalisation, and reflection in learning strategy Lessons from past workplace technology shifts, from Google to social media and beyond The need to break away from orthodoxy, experiment, and evolve learning practices How business flexibility and entrepreneurial thinking are reshaping job roles and descriptions Our guests offer practical insights and examples that help make sense of both opportunities and risks as AI transforms the way organisations approach learning and talent development. Whether you work in HR, L&D, Talent, or business leadership, you’ll find ideas in this episode you can apply right away. We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way. Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.

9. 

   10 Feb 2026

   Episode 8: How AI-Powered Assessments Drive Smarter People Decisions in Organisations

   Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we share a special interview between our own Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, and Ben Geoghegan, host of A Better HR Business podcast. Robin Adda brings decades of entrepreneurial experience in learning, workforce development, and EdTech. His perspective is shaped by building and scaling multiple businesses, with a focus on addressing the real skills challenges facing organisations today. Together, we discuss how leaders can move past outdated training models and use skills assessment, data, and AI to make workforce upskilling more effective and measurable. The conversation covers essential lessons from building businesses, practical approaches to closing skills gaps, and the changing landscape of learning and development. We explore: Why resilience and adaptability are essential for today’s leaders How practical skills assessment can drive personalised learning pathways Where traditional training often falls short - and how to address it The role of AI in diagnosing skills gaps and supporting continuous workforce development What L&D and HR leaders should look for in assessment tools that align with business goals Ways to ensure your upskilling strategy is flexible, people-focused, and future-ready This episode is relevant for anyone looking to make better people decisions, align training with business priorities, or make learning investment go further. You’ll hear first-hand insights on selecting the right tools, integrating assessment and development, and preparing your workforce for what’s next. Our goal is to help you close skills gaps, improve training effectiveness, and shape a more adaptable organisation - one that’s ready for tomorrow’s challenges. We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way. Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.

10. 

    27 Jan 2026

    Episode 7: Boardroom Perspectives on AI, Workforce Planning, and Upskilling - with Devyani Vaishampayan

    In today's conversation, we sit down with Devyani Vaishampayan, a respected boardroom leader, former FTSE 100 HR Director, and AI entrepreneur who has shaped the global HR landscape for over three decades. With her unique experience spanning senior corporate leadership, innovative AI investment, and non-executive directorships, Devyani Vaishampayan offers grounded perspectives on what it takes for organisations to build future-proof skills and drive workforce performance. Together with our host Robin Adda, we explore practical, real-world issues facing today’s HR, L&D, and business leaders. Our discussion focuses on closing skills gaps, using data to make better people decisions, and embracing new technology in a way that balances digital transformation with human strengths. We discuss: Why skills and talent strategies are top-of-mind for business performance, especially as the pace of change accelerates How Devyani’s journey from HR leadership to AI entrepreneurship is reshaping practical approaches to skills development The challenges boards and senior leaders face in adopting AI - and why it’s both an opportunity and a disruption Practical ways organisations can assess skills gaps using data and evidence, not guesswork The rise of personalised, just-in-time learning, and how AI enables training to match individual needs and business priorities Balancing digital skills with critical human capabilities such as creativity, judgment, and collaboration The importance of culture and planned investment in upskilling everyone, not just leaders, through the transition to more AI-driven roles Whether you’re working to strengthen skills mapping, refine your learning strategy, or measure the impact of training, this episode brings you actionable insights and honest perspectives from a leader who has sat at the boardroom and on the front lines of workforce development. Our goal is to help you make smarter skill decisions and prepare your teams for whatever comes next. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner. Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.

11. 

    7 Jan 2026

    Episode 6: Why Traditional Skills Strategies Threaten Business Growth [Panel Discussion]

    In this conversation, we focus on a pressing question for HR, L&D, and business leaders: why are current skills strategies falling behind, and what does this mean for business performance? Our guests are Perry Timms, a leading voice on progressive HR and organisational transformation, and Nebel Crowhurst, a senior people executive with firsthand insight into how workforce expectations and skills needs are changing. Hosted by Robin Adda, the discussion explores the root causes behind lagging skills strategies and shares practical ideas for building a more agile, future-ready workforce. Together, we discuss what needs to shift in the way organisations structure, develop, and support skills—from the frameworks we use, to the technologies we embrace, to the cultural changes driving new approaches to work. We discuss: How traditional education and skills models no longer fit today’s longer, more varied career journeys The confusion between competencies, skills, and capabilities, and why clarity in these areas is essential for progress Why measuring proficiency and impact matters more than simply tracking productivity How AI can support, not replace, human judgement in learning and workforce development The impact of technology on work-life blend, and how changing expectations shape new models for working and learning What needs to change in organisational infrastructure to keep up with shifting skills demands and longer working lives Whether you are grappling with how to identify skills gaps, improve learning impact, or prepare your workforce for a changing future, this episode provides clear, practical insights you can apply right away. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner. Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.

12. 

    9 Dec 2025

    Episode 5: Aligning people strategy and business goals through strategic skills focus - with Nebel Crowhurst

    Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we sit down with Nebel Crowhurst, a fractional Chief People Officer, board advisor, investor, and international speaker who brings decades of experience helping businesses align people strategy with overall organisational goals. Nebel’s practical approach and deep HR perspective make her insights particularly valuable for anyone focused on workforce development and skills strategy. Together, host Robin Adda and Nebel explore how taking a skills-based approach to people strategy is essential for not only closing workforce gaps but also helping businesses adapt to rapid change and set themselves up for long-term success. Nebel offers her first-hand experience working with high-growth companies, discussing how HR leaders can move from a reactive posture to a more strategic, evidence-based way of planning, resourcing, and upskilling teams. They discuss: Why HR professionals are rethinking their roles and the challenges driving change in the field How business agility and strategic skills mapping support organisational growth and adaptability Practical strategies for involving HR in early-stage, business-critical conversations The importance of personalised learning pathways over one-size-fits-all approaches The growing impact of AI on HR, learning, and skills assessment—and how to use new technologies responsibly How to start small, use data to prioritise, and iterate workforce planning for meaningful results Advice for HR and L&D leaders looking to place skills at the centre of their people strategy Our goal with this podcast is to share actionable insights and real experiences from those shaping workforce development. Whether you work in HR, L&D, Talent, or business leadership, you’ll find ideas here to help you make measurable impact with your people and your skills strategy. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner. Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.

13. 

    25 Nov 2025

    Episode 4: The Future of Agile HR and L&D - with Natal Dank

    Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In today’s conversation, we’re joined by Natal Dank, Executive Director and Principal Consultant at PXO Culture, and a recognized leader in the global Agile HR movement. Natal’s work focuses on helping organizations build adaptability, develop future-ready skills, and use evidence-based approaches to drive real outcomes in HR, learning, and people strategy. Together, we explore how agility isn’t just a buzzword, but a truly practical approach for HR and L&D teams who want to keep pace with rapid change and deliver lasting value. Natal shares actionable insights from her book, Agile L&D, and offers a clear perspective on what it takes to align learning and skills development with actual business priorities. We discuss: The five core principles of Agile L&D—and how they help teams continuously upskill and reskill workforces Why starting with the business challenge, not just a list of skills, leads to better outcomes How skills mapping, T-shaped skills, and practical assessments can uncover real capability gaps The increasing role of AI, automation, and agentic technologies—and what that means for workforce planning Why evidence-based, incremental learning programs get better results than traditional big-bang training approaches The growing importance of “transversal” skills like adaptability, critical thinking, and communication—alongside digital capabilities How HR and L&D leaders can build more elastic, resilient organizations by focusing on learning agility and continuous experimentation Challenges of keeping skills frameworks, inventories, and learning programs up to date as technology and job requirements shift Our aim with this episode is to give you grounded, practical ideas for making learning more relevant, targeted, and impactful. Whether you’re shaping L&D strategy, redesigning job roles, or simply trying to future-proof your teams, you’ll find plenty of takeaways for your own organization. We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by AI, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner. Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.

14. 

    10 Nov 2025

    Episode 3: Navigating the AI River - Skills Organizations Need for the Future – with Carolyn Shepherd

    In this episode of When Skills Matter, Robin speaks with Carolyn Shepherd, Founder of Emmeline.AI and the AI Learning Lobby, about the human skills that matter most as AI reshapes the workplace. Carolyn shares her “river” metaphor for navigating change, why adaptability and critical thinking are more valuable than ever, and how HR and L&D leaders can support their people through AI transformation. From lived experience to new technical capabilities, Carolyn explains why organizations need to focus on building both human and AI-ready skills if they want their workforce to thrive. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by Ai, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner. Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.

15. 

    10 Nov 2025

    Episode 2: How HR and L&D Leaders Can Close Skills Gaps in the AI Era – with Paul Morgan

    In this episode of When Skills Matter, Robin is joined by Paul Morgan, a seasoned L&D leader with three decades of experience at Microsoft, Diageo, O2, and more. Paul shares candid insights on how HR and learning leaders can close skills gaps without overwhelming employees, why productivity and focus are at the heart of capability building, and how AI should be seen as an enabler rather than a replacement. From the attention economy to skills shortages, Paul explains how organizations can reclaim time, upskill effectively, and create resilient teams in the AI era. About The Podcast The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance. Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact. You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work. Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by Ai, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner. Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.

16. 

    3 Nov 2025

    Episode 1: Welcome To The When Skills Matter Podcast - with Robin Adda

    Welcome to the When Skills Matter Podcast! In this opening episode, Robin introduces the show, shares what listeners can expect in upcoming episodes, and explains why now is the time to rethink how we approach skills, learning, and workforce development. You’ll hear about the kinds of guests and topics that will feature on the show, from AI in L&D to closing skills gaps, aligning people strategy with business goals, and unlocking the full potential of your teams. Robin also gives a quick overview of what SkillsAssess does and how it supports smarter people decisions using AI-powered skills mapping and personalised learning pathways. Learn more at SkillsAssess.ai/podcast. About SkillsAssess By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed. Powered by Ai, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner. Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out. Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.

Contact When Skills Matter

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.