How can human centered design transform the way we approach learning and development (L&D)?
In this episode of The Intelligence Amplifiers Podcast, Marko Gargenta sits down with Ciji Madey, an L&D leader with experience at Lucasfilm, Airbnb, Sonos, and Shiphawk, to explore how design thinking principles can elevate the impact of L&D programs.
Ciji shares how her early career at Lucasfilm shaped her people-first approach, emphasizing the importance of starting with the learner’s real needs before designing training programs or performance initiatives. From fostering creativity and knowledge-sharing at Lucasfilm to driving cultural transformation at Sonos, she provides a fresh perspective on how L&D teams can move beyond traditional models and create experiences that truly engage employees.
This conversation is packed with insights on:
✅ Applying human-centered design to L&D strategy
✅ The role of discovery and research in shaping effective training programs
✅ Why L&D should operate more like a product team, continuously testing and iterating
✅ How companies like Lucasfilm, Airbnb, and Sonos built strong learning cultures
✅ The intersection of organizational development and employee experience
✅ And much more…
If you’re in L&D, HR, or organizational development, this episode is a must-listen to rethink how you design learning with the employee at the center.
