Episode 56: LIVE from ATD 2026: Working with SMEs with Jeff Daigle and Tami Reiss
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What's the secret to working with SMEs, especially when a project stalls?
If your SME projects keep stalling, it's possible the SME isn't the problem. Recorded LIVE at the ATD 2026 International Conference and Expo in Los Angeles, this special episode brings together influence strategist Tami Reiss and Sr. L&D Manager Jeff Daigle to tackle what can be one of the most universal frustrations in our field: working with subject matter experts. Together, Jess, Tami, and Jeff dig into why content overload kills clarity, how to position L&D as a true business partner, and what it actually looks like to stop persuading SMEs and start aligning with them. Plus, hear Jeff's rare perspective as someone who has sat in the SME seat himself.
Jess, Tami, and Jeff Discuss
Why SME projects stall when L&D focuses on collecting content instead of defining clear learner outcomes
The critical difference between persuasion and alignment, and why alignment gets SMEs to actually show up, engage, and champion your work
How Jeff, as a former field SME, felt pressure to share everything, and what good L&D partnership looked like from that side of the table
Practical strategies for earning and keeping SME time, including doing your homework before meetings and following through on every promise, even small ones
The "need-to-know vs. nice-to-know" framework and why nothing the SME shares should ever get thrown away
How to use AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot to build draft structures before meeting with SMEs, shifting their role from content creator to expert editor and reviewer
Where SME partnerships are headed in the future
About Tami Reiss
Tami Reiss is a global speaker and trainer specializing in strategic influence and leadership communication. She has worked with professionals across industries to help them gain buy-in, lead without authority, and communicate with clarity. Tami is the creator of Just Not Sorry, author of a book on management, a respected authority on communication, and the voice behind the Confident Communicator GPT, a tool for leaders building executive presence and strategic influence.
Find and Connect with Tami Reiss
Website: https://tamireiss.com/
About Jeff Daigle
Jeff Daigle is a Senior Learning & Development Manager based in Kenner, Louisiana. He bridges big‑picture strategy and real‑world execution, helping organizations turn complex goals into clear, practical learning that drives performance. Jeff specializes in competency‑based talent development, organizational frameworks, and technical training, with a knack for making complex concepts easy to understand. Known for his approachable style, he supports people while thoughtfully challenging them to grow, believing the best development happens when clarity, trust, and high expectations come together.
