Episode 37: L&D Order Taker No More!

Written By Jess Almlie
 
 

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The tables have turned!

In this episode, Jess Almlie steps into the guest chair as Sarah Cannistra interviews her about her brand-new book, L&D Order Taker No More. Together, they explore why the learning and development profession must shift from being transactional “order takers” to strategic business partners, and how small, intentional steps can create massive impact.

Sarah and Jess discuss

  • Why L&D must urgently move from transactional order-taking to strategic partnership, especially in the age of AI

  • The critical mindset shift from “helper” to “partner” and how it changes every conversation

  • Barriers that keep L&D stuck in order-taking mode, and how we unintentionally reinforce them

  • Practical strategies for transformation, including internal and external playbooks

  • The art of the strategic “yes” and “no” to stay focused on high-impact work

  • How reflective questioning can shift stakeholder expectations and outcomes

  • The continuum between order taker and business partner, and why progress comes in increments, not overnight leaps

  • Insights from Jess’s research with dozens of L&D leaders across the field

 About Jess Almlie

Not only is she the host of the L&D Must Change Podcast and author of the book, L&D Order Taker No More!, but Jess Almlie is also a former Vice President of Learning and a dynamic leader in the learning and development field. She is passionate about empowering L&D professionals to increase our impact by evolving from order takers to strategic business partners. With three decades of experience and a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives, Jess helps organizations solve talent challenges and improve performance through consulting, coaching, and workshops.

 

Find and Connect with Jess Almlie

 

About Sarah Cannistra

Sarah Cannistra is a passionate Learning and Development (L&D) leader and career coach dedicated to helping others grow. She also leads Learning and Development at Rippling. In addition, Sarah is the host of The L&D Career Club Podcast, a top 200 career podcast dedicated to helping professionals break into and thrive in the L&D field.

 

Find and Connect with Sarah Cannistra

 

Special Book Offer from Jess

As mentioned in the show, if you read Jess's book, L&D Order Taker No More! as a group, Jess will come to a one hour virtual Q&A so your group can dive deeper together. All you need to do is reach out to Jess when you're ready. Get your copy of L&D Order Taker No More! today!

Jess Almlie
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Episode 36: Measuring Talent Intangibles