Chapter Connections

James Oakley is an Instructional Designer and eLearning Developer who specializes in the electrical, engineering, and technical spaces. He started out his career as a High School English Teacher and then took his passion for education into adult learning. In this space, James makes meaningful and results driven training experiences for Fortune 500 companies.

Most recently, James has developed a comprehensive curriculum of eLearning and Instructor-Led training courses for Critical Facility Engineers in Meta Data Centers across the globe. This provides Meta the knowledge to successfully manage the seamless flow and transition of power into their thousands of data servers, ensuring that Meta Apps are able to run 24 hours and day, 7 days a week with zero lag or downtime. This is proof that regardless of where you started in your last career, a career in this field can have you working in literally any type of subject matter!

James wants to help others find their passion and niche in the ever-expanding L&D career field. At the start of his journey, James was advised and assisted by multiple members of ATD, and he wants to pay it forward for the next generation of professionals with his Transitioning Professionals Special Interest Group (SIG).

His SIG seeks to give professionals who are transitioning from other careers into L&D the skills and confidence to successfully apply, interview, and land their Talent Development dream job. His SIG will cover things like resume review for recruiter optimization, eLearning portfolio advice (since every L&D pro should have one!), and mock interviews and interview tips. He will also bring on different guests to discuss their specific roles in Learning and Development, to help transitioning professionals get a better idea of where they fit in this industry.

Outside of working James is a passionate creative writer and participates in multiple sports. Ask him all about when you see him at the next event!

The final day of Total Trainer - Delivering Training, participants each delivered a 20-minute presentation on a topic of their choice. This culminating exercise marked the end of the eight-workshop module series, a journey that began on the first day with a one-minute presentation.

"We started off with a one-minute presentation the first day," shared Kevin. "We had a very safe space to do so, and from there we progressively built up our presentation skills. We went from one minute to five minutes, to our last presentation, around 20 minutes, and I felt like that was really, really helpful for me to be comfortable."

This gradual progression wasn't just about building time; it was about building confidence. The environment fostered growth, encouraging participants to experiment, refine their skills, and embrace new methods of delivery.

For many, Delivering Training was an invaluable investment in their careers. Shannon highlighted the importance of continuous improvement, saying, "I always think there's always room for improvement. Even if you've been doing presentations for however long, getting new input, new insights, new delivery methods, and ideas from different people."

Kevin, transitioning into talent development, saw the workshop as a unique opportunity to gain industry insights. "Talent development is kind of a second career for me, so getting very specific feedback from industry leaders was valuable to me, and that's what sold me on the training."

Each participant had personal goals and aspirations driving their participation. Shehreen, a software trainer, wanted to enhance her questioning techniques and presentation preparation. Steven, already an experienced trainer, aimed to refine his crowd engagement and pacing. Julio, with five years of training experience, used the workshop to self-assess and discover areas for growth, affirming, "There's always something to work on."

The impact of the program was clear in how participants applied their newfound knowledge:

• Shannon embraced the principle of "less is more" in her presentation design.

• Kevin became more "cognizant" of his delivery, integrating humor and psychological safety.

• Sarena focused on enhancing her questioning techniques to foster engagement.

• Steven improved his ability to "engage with our audience" and create stronger connections.

• Julio added a "getting to know the trainer" element and became more mindful of visual design in his presentations.

ATD Orange County extends heartfelt congratulations to all the participants of the Delivering Training workshop series! Your dedication, hard work, and willingness to grow have made this journey truly inspiring. We celebrate your commitment to professional excellence and look forward to seeing you continue to thrive within our community.

We hope to see you at future ATDOC events, where you can continue to learn, connect with fellow professionals, and further your journey in the learning and development field!

Ever wondered why some people light up when they see a diagram, while others need to hear it explained—or better yet, physically do it themselves? Learning styles shape how we absorb information, and they typically fall into three main categories: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. 

But let’s make this fun. Think of it like this: 

Visual Learning is to 'Pictionary' as Auditory Learning is to 'Jeopardy' as Kinesthetic Learning is to... well, keep reading. 

Pictionary: Seeing is Understanding (Visual Learning) 

If you've ever scrambled to sketch out a giraffe in 30 seconds, you know the magic of visual problem-solving. Pictionary forces players to distill complex ideas into simple images—just like how visual learners thrive on diagrams, charts, and mind maps. 

This taps into the occipital lobe’s ventral stream, the brain region responsible for object recognition and spatial awareness. Studies show that visual problem-solving can boost spatial reasoning skills by up to 18%. So, the next time you’re mapping out an idea or doodling in the margins, you’re not just passing time—you’re reinforcing your learning! 

Jeopardy: The Sound of Knowledge (Auditory Learning) 

"I'll take Cognitive Processing for $500!" 

Auditory learners excel in environments where words—spoken or heard—are the main tool for understanding. Just like Jeopardy contestants, they rely on rapid verbal processing, pattern recognition, and phonetic memory to recall information quickly. 

This constant engagement with spoken language strengthens phonological loops in the auditory cortex, improving working memory by up to 22%. So, if podcasts, lectures, or discussing ideas out loud help concepts stick, you might just be an auditory learner at heart. 

Squid Game: Action and Consequences (Kinesthetic Learning) 

Now, let’s talk about kinesthetic learners—people who learn best by doing. They need movement, hands-on experiences, and real-world applications to fully grasp concepts. 

And what’s a better example of learning through action than... Squid Game? 

While fictional (and terrifying), Squid Game is an intense example of embodied cognition, where learning is deeply intertwined with physical experience. Think about it: 

• Contestants learn the glass bridge’s fragility by stepping on it. 

• They understand the precision needed for honeycomb carving through trial and error. 

• They grasp the importance of balance and speed in Red Light, Green Light through movement itself. 

These tasks demand proprioceptive awareness (our sense of body position and movement) and motor skill execution—exactly how kinesthetic learners thrive! Their understanding isn’t abstract; it’s physically wired into their brains through interaction and feedback. 

So, What’s Your Learning Style?  

Let’s let the cat out of the bag—this is our April Fool’s Day post. 

The idea of learning styles has been debunked time and again, yet it still appears in training conversations. Cognitive research consistently shows that the notion of individuals having a single preferred learning mode that must be catered to lacks empirical support. The brain is highly interconnected, processing information across multiple sensory channels simultaneously. Activating one sensory modality often engages others as well. 

This understanding leads to a multi-modal approach to instructional design. Visual techniques like diagrams and charts, auditory methods like discussions and recordings, and kinesthetic approaches like hands-on activities all contribute to learning. 

More importantly, different learning objectives require different cognitive processes—and thus, different instructional strategies. Effective learning isn’t about catering to a learner’s supposed preference but about aligning instructional methods with the content and desired outcomes. 

By focusing on what learners need to know and do, talent development professionals can select instructional strategies that truly enhance skill acquisition—whether that means sketching, listening, or engaging physically. 

Did this post give you any ideas for your next class? Just remember—no actual glass bridges or honeycomb challenges required (unless you’re really going for full immersion)!

Are you tired of struggling to get buy-in for your L&D initiatives? Whether it's securing budget approvals, gaining stakeholder support, or simply engaging learners in training programs, the ability to influence others is essential to our success. 

At our recent ATD Orange County Lunch and Learn on March 23rd, members tapped into a fresh, compelling approach to influence—one that’s grounded not in traditional psychology, but in something even more powerful: buyology.

Cheri Tree, CEO of Codebreaker Technologies and author of Why They Buy, introduced us to the B.A.N.K. Code—a groundbreaking framework designed to decode the "why" behind every decision. In less than an hour, Tree offered a paradigm shift that equips us to better connect, communicate, and influence, providing practical tools to increase our effectiveness.

Beyond Persuasion: Understanding "Buyology"

Tree's presentation went beyond simple persuasion tactics, diving into "buyology" - the science of why people buy. 

Tree cited a study by the Chally Group that underscores the importance of communication styles. The study revealed that only 18% of people will buy from someone whose personality style doesn't match their own.

But don't let the term "buy" mislead you. Tree demonstrated that this concept applies to so much more than sales. It's about understanding the core values that drive every "yes" in our lives, from a client's approval to a learner's engagement.

Cracking the Code: The B.A.N.K. System

The heart of Tree's method is the B.A.N.K. system, which identifies four distinct personality codes:

• Blueprint: These individuals value structure, stability, and predictability.

• Action: They're driven by results, excitement, and a sense of urgency.

• Nurturing: Relationships, harmony, and genuine connection are their priorities.

• Knowledge: Logic, data, and expertise guide their decisions.
  
  

Let’s say we’re a “B” – Blueprint. If we approach a colleague who’s an “A” – Action, using detailed planning and structured reasoning, we might lose them before we even get to the point. Why? Because while we’re focused on process, they’re looking for fast results and excitement. That mismatch can cost us buy-in, participation, or even trust.

Recognizing these codes allows us to communicate in a way that resonates with others, fostering stronger connections and more productive outcomes.

Why This Matters to L&D Professionals

So, how does "buyology" relate to Learning and Development?  As L&D professionals, we are constantly seeking buy-in, whether it's from stakeholders approving a training budget, or learners embracing a new concept. By understanding the B.A.N.K. codes of our audience, we can:

• Design more engaging learning experiences.

• Communicate the value of our programs more effectively.

• Build stronger relationships with clients and colleagues.
  
  

Just the Beginning

This webinar was just the beginning! This Lunch and Learn is the first in a three-part series designed to help you master the B.A.N.K. Code. While a single hour can introduce us to powerful concepts, true mastery requires deeper exploration and practice.  Cheri Tree has agreed to facilitate two more programs that dive deep into the B.A.N.K. Code.

2. Monthly Learning Event (In Person): Crack the Code: Understanding Clients to Deliver Results (April 23, 2025)

• Why: Deepen your understanding of the B.A.N.K. Code and its potential to supercharge your influence, income, and impact.  

• How: Engage in interactive exercises, group discussions, and real-world case studies to apply the B.A.N.K. Code in practical scenarios.  

• What: Master the art of cracking personality codes in under 90 seconds, tailoring your communication to resonate with any audience.  

3. Workshop (In Person): B.A.N.K. Fundamentals – Mastering the Art & Science of Influence (May 10, 2025)

• Why: Unlock the secrets to authentic communication and build deeper, more meaningful relationships in all aspects of your life.  

• How: Participate in interactive role-playing, collaborative workshops, and personal assessment tools to refine your understanding and application of the B.A.N.K. Code.  

• What: Develop advanced communication skills, strategic negotiation techniques, and a deeper understanding of your own communication style.  

Each event builds upon the last, providing a comprehensive learning experience that will transform your approach to communication and empower you to achieve greater success in all areas of your life.

Watch the Lunch and Learn webinar recording on our YouTube Channel.

Kesha Thomas Clark is an experienced professional currently working to transition into the learning and development field. In her recent work in underwriting, Kesha played a pivotal role in training and mentoring new assistant underwriters at QBE. At Argo Group, Kesha created and facilitated training for a new agency portal and provided on-going portal administration and user support while also managing a $6.7M book of business. In addition to her work in the financial services industry, Kesha has also worked in the nonprofit sector, leading institutional giving and grant writing at the Center for Family Representation, an organization serving low-income families facing separation through foster care.

Recently, Kesha collaborated with UCLA’s Office of Undergraduate Admission to design and deliver a leadership development workshop on employee empowerment for senior managers. She has also presented to local Toastmasters groups on goal setting and professional development. Additionally, as Vice President of Education, Kesha is currently leading training and support for Toastmasters' new learning management system for her club, as well as updating the group's new member orientation and onboarding process.

Driven by a desire to help people, Kesha is interested in leveraging her unique experience in business and the nonprofit sector to create impactful strategies and learning experiences that support professional growth and organizational success.  Kesha holds a dual Master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA) and Social Work (MSW) from Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from Pitzer College.

As someone who is currently transitioning into learning and development, Kesha is interested in helping and working with other professionals who have the same goal. As a co-lead for the Transitioning Professionals Special Interest Group, she plans to provide support to and a community for people to help them connect, learn, and grow together as they explore opportunities within L & D. Changing careers can be scary and overwhelming, and Kesha hopes by offering tools and resources, we can equip transitioning professionals with the confidence and knowledge they need to be successful in their future roles.

Keep an eye on our Chapter Calendar for updates on this Special Interest Group's events!

Alisa earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from UCLA in 2023 and is building her career in Learning and Talent Development. Throughout college, she has had various job titles from a bookkeeper to a dancer at California Adventure’s Lunar New Year parade. 

From her various club involvements, she grew an interest in learning how to create a group environment where people can collaborate and thrive. After learning more about the field of Human Resources she became specifically interested in Talent Development where she enjoys finding ways to help people develop the skills to build a fulfilling career path.

During college, she worked at the Career Center as a student worker and gave multiple presentations to students on professional development. She was also involved in a networking club as Director of Workshops where she developed her own workshop series around career development for psychology majors.

She is currently working at Hyundai Motor America under the Talent Development team. She provides admin support for leadership development programs & training, such as uploading & testing online course content and troubleshooting when employees face technical issues. She has also helped highlight the team's impact to business leaders by learning Excel and creating multiple interactive dashboards with learning data. This year she is focusing on developing her skills in facilitation and instructional design.

As a leader of the Young Professionals Special Interest Group, she is excited to create a collaborative space where early-career HR professionals can share experiences, learn from one another, and develop the skills needed to grow in Learning & Talent Development.

Keep an eye on our Chapter Calendar for updates on this Special Interest Group's events!

For many professionals, career growth isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about finding the right community to learn, connect, and thrive. That’s exactly what led Doaa Saleh to ATDOC.

“I first discovered ATDOC when I was looking into the CPTD certification and found out about the local study group,” Doaa recalls. “When I attended a few in-person events, I was immediately struck by how welcoming and supportive the community was. That’s when I knew this was more than just a resource—it was a place where I could truly connect with others who share my passion for talent development.”

Joining ATDOC wasn’t just about networking; it was about staying on top of industry trends, growing professionally, and giving back to the L&D community.

A Passion for Learning and Leadership

As someone deeply committed to professional growth, stepping into a leadership role within ATDOC felt like a natural next step for Doaa.

“As talent development professionals, we empower others to grow in their careers, and I bring that same mindset to my role on the ATDOC Board,” she shares. “Volunteering has always been important to me—I find real fulfillment in creating opportunities for others to learn and develop. Serving on the board allows me to extend that impact beyond my day-to-day work and contribute to a thriving learning community.”

Through this role, Doaa is helping shape the future of professional development within the chapter, ensuring that members at every stage of their careers have access to valuable learning experiences.

Expanding Professional Development Opportunities

Workshops are at the heart of ATDOC’s commitment to continuous learning, and Doaa has big plans to make them even more impactful.

“I’m focused on expanding our workshops to include leadership development topics and coaching introductions, all through hands-on, value-driven in-person sessions,” Doaa explains. “My goal is to make these workshops a catalyst for curiosity—providing meaningful and practical experiences that spark the drive to explore further.”

Whether members are just starting their L&D careers or are seasoned professionals looking to refine their skills, Doaa is dedicated to creating workshops that leave a lasting impact, inspiring attendees to dive deeper into the many resources and tools ATDOC offers throughout the year.

With Doaa leading the charge in professional development, ATDOC continues to grow as a space where learning professionals can Connect, Invest, and Grow. Whether you're looking for hands-on learning experiences, leadership development opportunities, or simply a welcoming community, ATDOC has something for you.

Ready to take your skills to the next level? Get involved and explore upcoming workshops with ATDOC today!

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly connect with anyone, while others struggle to get their message across? The B.A.N.K. Code may hold the key to unlocking this mystery. This innovative methodology, developed by renowned expert Cheri Tree, offers a unique approach to understanding personality types and tailoring your communication style to build rapport and achieve better outcomes.

What if you could:

• Develop a system for identifying personality types quickly and accurately, ensuring that your communication is always clear, concise, and credible?

• Learn how to close deals faster and become a more influential communicator, boosting your income and impact?

• Build deeper, more authentic connections with colleagues and clients, fostering a more harmonious and collaborative work environment?

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, unlocking deeper insights into communication and developing innovative solutions?

Which of these appeals resonates most with you? How you answer may already provide some insight into your own B.A.N.K. code. 

No matter your preference, the B.A.N.K. Code offers valuable insights and tools for L&D professionals at all levels. Whether you're an instructional designer, a consultant, or a business owner, understanding the four personality types – Blueprint, Action, Nurturing, and Knowledge – can transform your approach to communication, leadership, and team development.

Ready to Elevate Your Communication and Achieve Greater Success?

Join us for our upcoming B.A.N.K. Code for L&D Professionals series, three events designed to take you from beginner to adept in the art and science of authentic communication.

Here's what you can expect:

Lunch and Learn Webinar: Building Better Connections for Business Success (March 26, 2025)

• Why: Discover the power of the B.A.N.K. Code to transform your business and personal relationships. This introductory webinar provides a glimpse into the science behind "yes" and how personality coding can revolutionize your communication.  

• How: Learn the fundamentals of the B.A.N.K. methodology and its practical applications in various settings.  

• What: Gain insights into the four personality types (Blueprint, Action, Nurturing, Knowledge) and how to identify them quickly.  

2. Monthly Learning Event (In Person): Crack the Code: Understanding Clients to Deliver Results (April 23, 2025)

• Why: Deepen your understanding of the B.A.N.K. Code and its potential to supercharge your influence, income, and impact.  

• How: Engage in interactive exercises, group discussions, and real-world case studies to apply the B.A.N.K. Code in practical scenarios.  

• What: Master the art of cracking personality codes in under 90 seconds, tailoring your communication to resonate with any audience.  

3. Workshop (In Person): B.A.N.K. Fundamentals – Mastering the Art & Science of Influence (May 10, 2025)

• Why: Unlock the secrets to authentic communication and build deeper, more meaningful relationships in all aspects of your life.  

• How: Participate in interactive role-playing, collaborative workshops, and personal assessment tools to refine your understanding and application of the B.A.N.K. Code.  

• What: Develop advanced communication skills, strategic negotiation techniques, and a deeper understanding of your own communication style.  

Each event builds upon the last, providing a comprehensive learning experience that will transform your approach to communication and empower you to achieve greater success in all areas of your life.

Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the power of personality and elevate your impact!

Start by registering for our introductory webinar:  Building Better Connections for Business Success (March 26, 2025)

Once you see how quickly the B.A.N.K. Code can empower you to build stronger relationships, register for the remainder of our B.A.N.K. Code for L&D Professionals series.

vWhy do we design learning experiences? Is it merely to impart information, or is it to ignite genuine transformation? As learning and development professionals, we often focus on the "what" and "how" of our programs, but what about the fundamental "why"—the human brain itself?

Imagine designing learning experiences that resonate with the very core of how we learn, leveraging the brain's natural processes to foster lasting impact. That's the power of understanding neuroscience in learning and development.

Join us for an interactive session with the Learning Pirate, Lauren Waldman, where we'll delve into the science behind learning and memory. This isn't just another workshop; it's an exploration of how the brain engages with learning, allowing us to evolve our strategies and truly connect with our learners.

Watch this video to get a sneak peek into Lauren's insights: 

Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your approach to learning and development.

Join us and discover the "why" behind effective learning.

When JodiAnne Ellis joined ATD Orange County (ATDOC), she was looking for more than a professional organization—she wanted a true community. As a passionate learning and development professional, she saw ATDOC as the perfect place to build meaningful relationships, grow her network, and stay ahead of industry trends.

Now, as the chapter’s Vice President of Talent Management, JodiAnne is taking that passion a step further by helping shape the chapter’s future and creating opportunities for others to thrive.

Finding Community and Growth at ATDOC

Like many members, JodiAnne was drawn to ATDOC for the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals who share a love for learning and development. 

“I joined ATDOC to build meaningful relationships with other passionate L&D professionals, grow my professional network, and stay informed about the industry's latest developments and best practices,” she shares.  

Whether it’s exchanging ideas, staying updated on best practices, or simply having a support system of industry peers, JodiAnne  believes that ATDOC provides an invaluable space for both personal and professional growth.

Why Serve on the Board?

For JodiAnne, stepping into a leadership role was about giving back and making an impact.

“I wanted to help advance the chapter’s vision and mission, share my insights and experience, and contribute to strengthening ATDOC’s presence within the L&D community,” she says.

By serving on the Board, she’s able to help create an even stronger, more engaged chapter—one that continues to be a go-to resource for learning professionals at all career stages.

A Vision for Connection, Learning, and Growth

JodiAnne’s goals for her role are all about fostering engagement and professional development.

“I want to design and host dynamic events that inspire active participation and learning,” she shares. “I’d also love to create mentorship opportunities that connect members with experienced professionals, and curate valuable resources to help individuals advance their skills and achieve their career goals.”

She’s on a mission to ensure every member feels supported, empowered, and connected.

With JodiAnne’s leadership, ATDOC is continuing to grow as a vibrant, welcoming community for L&D professionals. Whether you’re looking to network, develop new skills, or find mentorship opportunities, she’s dedicated to making sure you have the resources and support to thrive.