5 Must – Watch TED Talks for every L&D professional

AI, leadership, the future… and how to engage with your trainings like never before.

Summer is a good time to make space: space to think, to stop… and also to be inspired.

In a world where change does not rest, neither should professional development. At Actua, we work so that learning is continuous, strategic and human. Through platforms such as Totaratools such as Articulate y customized contentwe help organizations to evolve from within.

That’s why today we offer you a selection of 5 TED Talks that inspire us to rethink leadership, learning and the future of work. Perfect to consume on a summer afternoon or share with your team as a starting point for new conversations.

1. How to get empowered, not overpowered, by AI – Max Tegmark

In this talk, Max Tegmark offers a balanced perspective on how artificial intelligence can serve as an ally of learning, not a substitute. He explains how to design training environments that combine the best of AI with human judgment.

• Why we recommend itAI is reshaping instructional design – understanding its applications and limitations is key to innovating in L&D.

Why the corporate world gets learning wrong – Katy Mumaw

Katy Mumaw launches a powerful critique: many companies invest millions in training… without knowing if it works. She proposes a paradigm shift where learning is measured, personalized, and generates real results.

• Why we recommend it: Because it connects with our way of understanding training: with a focus on impact, not just delivery.
• Why we recommend it: Because AI is already transforming the way we design training. Understanding AI is key to leading the evolution of learning.

3. How do you prepare for jobs that don’t exist yet? A work expert and a YouTuber answer

Content creator Jon Youshaei and future of work expert Michelle Weise discuss how technological changes are transforming traditional career paths. They share strategies for highlighting skills in a changing marketplace and offer key tips for those starting out in their careers.

• Why we recommend itBecause it offers a clear and current view on upskilling, employability and lifelong learning, essential topics for any L&D leader looking to prepare his or her organization (and young talent) for the job uncertainty that is now here.

4. The power of vulnerability – Brené Brown

Brené Brown redefines leadership from an unusual angle: vulnerability as a driver of connection, innovation and growth. vulnerability as a driver of connection, innovation and growth.. A talk that combines science, emotion and humanity.

• Why we recommend it: Today more than ever, organizations need human-centered leaders and training. Integrating soft skills, empathy and self-awareness into the content is not optional: it is essential. We apply it in every training design project.

5. How to Make Learning as Addictive as Social Media – Luis von Ahn

Luis von Ahn, creator of Duolingo, takes us behind the scenes of the world’s most addictive instructional design. His secret? Gamification, the psychology of habit… and a lot of user testing.

• Why we recommend it: Because one of the biggest challenges of elearning is to engaging to the user. This talk gives you practical keys to increase retention, frequency of use and enjoyment of learning.

These talks are more than summer inspiration: They are clear signs of where corporate learning is moving. More human leadership, smarter design, and conscious use of technology.

If you also want your organization to evolve through training, we’ ll talk to you anytime.

At Actua, we’re ready to help you design the next chapter of your Learning & Development.