replay event

Learning and Development Through the Lens of Anthropology

speaker
Blake Payton

About the speaker(s)

Blake Payton is a learning and development leader with an anthropologist’s lens, bringing deep cultural and human insights into corporate training. Currently leading Global L&D at Dialpad, Blake’s career took an unconventional path—from academia to tech—after realizing that traditional higher education wasn’t the best fit for his passion for engaging, human-centered learning. His approach is rooted in community, authentic human connection, and the belief that happy, empowered employees drive business success. With a focus on high-impact onboarding, leadership training, and culture-building, Blake has designed programs that have been compared to industry leaders like Apple and Microsoft. His philosophy? Learning isn’t just about content—it’s about creating environments where people thrive, connect, and find purpose in their work.

How Anthropology Shapes Learning & Development: A Conversation with Blake Payton

How can anthropology transform the way we approach learning and development (L&D) in the workplace? In this episode of The Intelligence Amplifiers, Blake Payton, Global Head of L&D at Dialpad, shares how his background in anthropology and education has influenced his human-centered approach to corporate learning.

Blake dives into why traditional L&D programs often fail, how organizations can foster a culture of learning and belonging, and why a people-first approach is the key to engagement and retention. His perspective challenges outdated training models, advocating for community-driven, experience-based learning that meets the needs of today’s workforce.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

✅ The intersection of anthropology and learning & development
✅ Why corporate training often lacks real engagement and how to fix it
✅ How community, culture, and belonging impact workplace learning
✅ Strategies for making L&D more human-centered and impactful
✅ The importance of mentorship, autonomy, and purpose in career growth
✅ How Dialpad is rethinking corporate L&D to drive real change

This episode is a must-listen for L&D professionals, HR leaders, and business executives looking to create meaningful, effective learning experiences in their organizations.