Learning in the Age of AI with Shane Baetz

In this episode, Richard sits down with global learning leader Shane Baetz to explore one of the hottest (and most misunderstood) topics in business today: learning in the age of AI. Forget the hype and shiny “AI-powered” labels, this conversation gets real about what really works, what’s just noise, and how leaders can build learning programs people don’t snooze through.

With over 15 years in the BPO industry and now leading training and development at Foundever across APAC, Latam, and North America, Shane brings a blend of global perspective, hands-on experience, and future-focused insight. Together, Richard and Shane tackle everything from adaptive learning paths to the irreplaceable role of storytelling and human connection in workplace learning.

Whether you’re in L&D, HR, leadership, or simply trying to future-proof your career, this episode is packed with practical lessons you’ll want to take straight back to your team.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Why AI is exciting for adaptive learning, simulations, and analytics — and where it’s just glorified search.
• The real risks of “AI for the sake of AI” and how to avoid over-automation.
• How to design learning at scale without losing trust, context, or the human layer.
• Why digital literacy and change readiness matter more than tools.
• The future vision: agile learning ecosystems, personalized learning paths, and AI-driven insights.
• Storytelling as the ultimate differentiator in keeping learning human.

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 – Intro: Richard sets the stage on AI buzz in learning
01:20 – Meet Shane: 15+ years in BPO and leading global L&D at Foundever
03:00 – What’s hype vs. what’s real in AI-powered learning
06:10 – The big questions L&D leaders should ask before adopting AI
09:45 – Designing learning at scale: trust, change fatigue, and digital literacy
14:30 – If you had a blank slate: Shane’s dream AI-powered L&D strategy
18:50 – Keeping learning human: why storytelling and checkpoints matter
21:30 – The teacher moment: what shaped Shane’s approach to learning design
25:30 – Final reflections: don’t lose the humanisation of learning