Learning and Development Through the Lens of Anthropology

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.