When Skills Matter
The When Skills Matter Podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
For show notes and more, go to www.skillsassess.ai/podcast
The When Skills Matter Podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
For show notes and more, go to www.skillsassess.ai/podcast
Listen on:
Episodes

Jun 24, 2026
Jun 24, 2026
25 min
Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we’re joined by Dr Tom Chatfield, a British author, tech philosopher, and educator. His books exploring contemporary culture - most recently Wise Animals (Picador), an exploration of the co-evolution of humanity and technology, and the best-selling textbook Critical Thinking (SAGE Publishing), researched as a Visiting Associate at the Oxford Internet Institute - are published in over thirty languages.
Tom is interested in improving our understanding of digital technology, and its uses in policy, education and engagement. He’s particularly interested in AI ethics, critical thinking and future skills, and works with business schools, universities and companies around their development, as well as creating award-winning online courses for both academic institutions and businesses.
His past collaborators include Google, the BBC, the UN, Channel 4 Education, Pearson, Mind Candy, Shift, Flamingo London, Six to Start, Preloaded, Firefish, Future Lab, Sense Worldwide, SAGE Publications, Sugru and Allianz. Tom took his doctorate and taught at St John’s College, Oxford, and continues to guest lecture at universities across the world.
As a speaker and broadcaster, Tom’s appearances include TED Global and the Cannes Lions Festival; authors@Google; the World Congress on Information Technology; Science Foo Camp; Intelligence Squared; the Houses of Parliament; Aspen Seminars for Leaders; the RSA, Royal Society and Royal Institution; and venues ranging from the Sydney Opera House to the Googleplex.
A launch columnist for the BBC’s worldwide technology site, BBC Future, Tom writes and commentate widely in the international media, as well as guest lecturing at universities in the UK and Europe. He is a regular on BBC radio and television, and broadcasts around the world.
We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter.
About The Podcast
The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
About SkillsAssess
By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed.
Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way.
Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused.
Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.
We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.
Jun 24, 2026
25 min

May 12, 2026
May 12, 2026
12 min
Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we discuss what HR leaders need to consider before proposing new AI initiatives.
Our guest line-up includes Nebel Crowhurst, a senior HR executive with hands-on experience guiding organisations through digital transformation; Carolyn Shepherd, founder and lead consultant at Emmeline AI, known for her focus on future skills; and Perry Timms, founder and chief energy officer at Perry Timms HR, who champions progressive approaches to talent.
Together with our host, Robin Adda, we explore real-world applications and pressing challenges facing HR, L&D, and business leaders today.
This is a grounded discussion for anyone involved in skills mapping, learning strategy, or workforce development. If you’re aiming to prove the ROI of talent initiatives and want to build a more skills-focused workplace, you’ll find plenty of relevant, real-world takeaways here.
Whether you’re an HR, L&D, Talent, or business leader, our goal is to equip you with practical insights and new perspectives to help your organisation thrive.
We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter.
About The Podcast
The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
About SkillsAssess
By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed.
Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way.
Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused.
Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.
We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.
May 12, 2026
12 min

Apr 28, 2026
Apr 28, 2026
23 min
Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter.
In this conversation, we’re joined by Valerie Merrill, founder of Merrill Consultants International and host of the Secrets of Learning and Development podcast. With decades of experience helping organizations navigate leadership development, management capability, and practical training, Valerie Merrill brings valuable perspective on what it takes to build a skilled, resilient workforce in a fast-changing world.
Together, we examine how organizations can adapt their learning strategies to meet evolving business needs and workforce expectations. We discuss the practical reality of addressing skills gaps, why learning approaches must keep pace with technological change, and what leaders and L&D professionals can do to support meaningful skill development for their teams.
We discuss:
How the shelf life of skills is shrinking, and what that means for today’s workplaces
The need for a calm, strategic approach to AI, and practical ways to assess and integrate new technologies
How to move beyond guesswork and use data to diagnose skill gaps and training needs
The importance of psychological safety, trust, and adaptability for effective leadership in remote and hybrid teams
Why personalized and adaptive learning pathways lead to greater engagement and impact
Ways to plan for the future by understanding workforce capabilities and staying agile in the face of change
This episode is relevant for anyone involved in skills mapping, learning strategy, training effectiveness, or preparing for the future of work. Our conversation offers actionable insights into building capability and leading teams through complexity.
We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter.
About The Podcast
The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
About SkillsAssess
By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed.
Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way.
Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused.
Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.
We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.
Apr 28, 2026
23 min

Apr 14, 2026
Apr 14, 2026
24 min
Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter.
In this conversation, we welcome Jonty Rooke, a strategic leader with deep experience building cross-sector partnerships and designing data-informed employment and skills programmes. Jonty’s perspective matters because he actively connects government, employers, and communities to deliver inclusive workforce outcomes and champions practical solutions for skills gaps and social mobility.
We discuss the realities of youth employment in the UK, the evolving barriers facing jobseekers, and the importance of purposeful work and collaboration. Throughout the episode, Jonty shares practical insights from leading large-scale employment programmes, including the Connect to Work initiative, and offers clear advice for HR and L&D leaders aiming to make tangible improvements.
We cover:
How the shrinking of entry-level sectors and policy changes are impacting youth employment
The vital role of inclusive hiring and support for those with disabilities and mental health challenges
Why employers need to make work more attractive and purposeful, especially for younger people
How skills assessment, targeted upskilling, and data-driven approaches create more effective workforce development
The impact of tech and AI on the hiring process, and the need to bring more humanity back into recruitment
Why investing in skills development—in both new hires and existing staff—drives long-term organisational capability
The importance of coaching, mentoring, and management training for sustained productivity
Practical ideas for rethinking CVs, interviews, and onboarding, inspired by real employer examples
What frontline employability professionals and programme leaders are learning about success and resilience in today’s labour market
Our goal with this podcast is to share real stories and actionable insights from people shaping workforce development. If you’re focused on skills mapping, learning effectiveness, or the future of talent, you’ll find useful perspectives and next steps you can apply right away.
We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter.
About The Podcast
The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
About SkillsAssess
By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed.
Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way.
Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused.
Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.
We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.
Apr 14, 2026
24 min

Mar 24, 2026
Mar 24, 2026
8 min
Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter.elcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we delve into the rapidly evolving world of AI and its impact on upskilling, credibility, and workforce development.
Our guest line-up includes Nebel Crowhurst, a senior HR executive with hands-on experience guiding organisations through digital transformation; Carolyn Shepherd, founder and lead consultant at Emmeline AI, known for her focus on future skills; and Perry Timms, founder and chief energy officer at Perry Timms HR, who champions progressive approaches to talent.
Together with our host, Robin Adda, we explore real-world applications and pressing challenges facing HR, L&D, and business leaders today.
This episode explores the practical steps HR and L&D professionals can take to align their work with leadership priorities and show real impact. Our guests discuss how organisations can move beyond basic reporting, using data and storytelling to connect people initiatives with business performance. They emphasise the importance of collaboration, supporting middle managers, and embracing a coaching approach to learning rather than just delivering programmes on request.
We discuss:
Why aligning HR and L&D initiatives with organisational goals makes a measurable difference
How to move beyond traditional data points (like absence and turnover) to real measures of value
The role of collaboration across stakeholders, especially the support needed for middle managers
Approaches to designing people strategies that are integrated, not isolated, from business strategy
The value of engaging employees and leaders in creating learning solutions that address both immediate challenges and long-term ambitions
Practical ways to demonstrate the commercial impact of HR and learning investments
This is a grounded discussion for anyone involved in skills mapping, learning strategy, or workforce development. If you’re aiming to prove the ROI of talent initiatives and want to build a more skills-focused workplace, you’ll find plenty of relevant, real-world takeaways here.
Whether you’re an HR, L&D, Talent, or business leader, our goal is to equip you with practical insights and new perspectives to help your organisation thrive.
We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter.
About The Podcast
The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
About SkillsAssess
By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed.
Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way.
Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused.
Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.
We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.
Mar 24, 2026
8 min

Mar 10, 2026
Mar 10, 2026
26 min
Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter.
In this conversation, we flip things around as Robins joins Neil C. Hughes, on his podcast, Tech Talks Daily, for a practical and timely discussion on how AI can transform job opportunities and workforce development.
Together, Robin and Neil explore the real challenges and opportunities facing leaders as technology rapidly reshapes the working world. Theye dive into how organisations and employees can successfully navigate skills gaps, build personalised training plans, and ensure that AI is a tool for growth - not just another headline about job loss.
They discuss:
How AI-driven skills mapping reveals true capability and identifies practical learning needs
Why personalised training is more effective than traditional, standardised approaches
The importance of integrating human qualities like critical thinking, curiosity, and communication into skills strategies
What causes anxiety about AI for employees, and how organisations can turn that concern into motivation for retraining
The real-world impact of digital skills gaps across sectors - and practical ways to close them
Strategies for future-proofing teams, including auditing skills frameworks and making learning more relevant
The role AI can play in upskilling, improving productivity, and supporting economic growth
Our aim in this episode is to share insights that help HR, L&D, and business leaders make evidence-based decisions, align learning with business needs, and create organisations where people can thrive in the age of artificial intelligence.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, personalised learning pathways, or effective upskilling, you’ll find practical ideas for building a more agile, confident workforce.
We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.
About The Podcast
The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
About SkillsAssess
By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed.
Powered by AI, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner.
Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out.
Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.
Mar 10, 2026
26 min

Feb 24, 2026
Feb 24, 2026
7 min
Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter. In this conversation, we delve into the rapidly evolving world of AI and its impact on upskilling, credibility, and workforce development.
Our guest line-up includes Nebel Crowhurst, a senior HR executive with hands-on experience guiding organisations through digital transformation; Carolyn Shepherd, founder and lead consultant at Emmeline AI, known for her focus on future skills; and Perry Timms, founder and chief energy officer at Perry Timms HR, who champions progressive approaches to talent.
Together with our host, Robin Adda, we explore real-world applications and pressing challenges facing HR, L&D, and business leaders today.
We talk through how AI is shaping the skills landscape, why fear and uncertainty often accompany new technology, and the steps leaders can take to build credibility and trust while navigating change.
We discuss:
Where AI can support upskilling and strengthen the value of HR and L&D
How credibility may be damaged by over-reliance on AI-generated content, and ways to avoid this trap
The importance of context, personalisation, and reflection in learning strategy
Lessons from past workplace technology shifts, from Google to social media and beyond
The need to break away from orthodoxy, experiment, and evolve learning practices
How business flexibility and entrepreneurial thinking are reshaping job roles and descriptions
Our guests offer practical insights and examples that help make sense of both opportunities and risks as AI transforms the way organisations approach learning and talent development.
Whether you work in HR, L&D, Talent, or business leadership, you’ll find ideas in this episode you can apply right away.
We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter.
About The Podcast
The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
About SkillsAssess
By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed.
Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way.
Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused.
Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.
We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.
Feb 24, 2026
7 min

Feb 10, 2026
Feb 10, 2026
20 min
Welcome to this episode of When Skills Matter.
In this conversation, we share a special interview between our own Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, and Ben Geoghegan, host of A Better HR Business podcast. Robin Adda brings decades of entrepreneurial experience in learning, workforce development, and EdTech. His perspective is shaped by building and scaling multiple businesses, with a focus on addressing the real skills challenges facing organisations today.
Together, we discuss how leaders can move past outdated training models and use skills assessment, data, and AI to make workforce upskilling more effective and measurable. The conversation covers essential lessons from building businesses, practical approaches to closing skills gaps, and the changing landscape of learning and development.
We explore:
Why resilience and adaptability are essential for today’s leaders
How practical skills assessment can drive personalised learning pathways
Where traditional training often falls short - and how to address it
The role of AI in diagnosing skills gaps and supporting continuous workforce development
What L&D and HR leaders should look for in assessment tools that align with business goals
Ways to ensure your upskilling strategy is flexible, people-focused, and future-ready
This episode is relevant for anyone looking to make better people decisions, align training with business priorities, or make learning investment go further. You’ll hear first-hand insights on selecting the right tools, integrating assessment and development, and preparing your workforce for what’s next.
Our goal is to help you close skills gaps, improve training effectiveness, and shape a more adaptable organisation - one that’s ready for tomorrow’s challenges.
We’re glad to have you with us on When Skills Matter.
About The Podcast
The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
About SkillsAssess
By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed.
Powered by AI, our tool is designed to help organisations in any sector pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a fast and scalable way.
Our intuitive dashboard was designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, bringing all the data and analytics together to make staff upskilling faster, simpler, and more focused.
Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.
We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.
Feb 10, 2026
20 min

Jan 27, 2026
Jan 27, 2026
21 min
In today's conversation, we sit down with Devyani Vaishampayan, a respected boardroom leader, former FTSE 100 HR Director, and AI entrepreneur who has shaped the global HR landscape for over three decades. With her unique experience spanning senior corporate leadership, innovative AI investment, and non-executive directorships, Devyani Vaishampayan offers grounded perspectives on what it takes for organisations to build future-proof skills and drive workforce performance.
Together with our host Robin Adda, we explore practical, real-world issues facing today’s HR, L&D, and business leaders. Our discussion focuses on closing skills gaps, using data to make better people decisions, and embracing new technology in a way that balances digital transformation with human strengths.
We discuss:
Why skills and talent strategies are top-of-mind for business performance, especially as the pace of change accelerates
How Devyani’s journey from HR leadership to AI entrepreneurship is reshaping practical approaches to skills development
The challenges boards and senior leaders face in adopting AI - and why it’s both an opportunity and a disruption
Practical ways organisations can assess skills gaps using data and evidence, not guesswork
The rise of personalised, just-in-time learning, and how AI enables training to match individual needs and business priorities
Balancing digital skills with critical human capabilities such as creativity, judgment, and collaboration
The importance of culture and planned investment in upskilling everyone, not just leaders, through the transition to more AI-driven roles
Whether you’re working to strengthen skills mapping, refine your learning strategy, or measure the impact of training, this episode brings you actionable insights and honest perspectives from a leader who has sat at the boardroom and on the front lines of workforce development.
Our goal is to help you make smarter skill decisions and prepare your teams for whatever comes next.
We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.
About The Podcast
The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
About SkillsAssess
By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed.
Powered by AI, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner.
Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out.
Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.
Jan 27, 2026
21 min
![Episode 6: Why Traditional Skills Strategies Threaten Business Growth [Panel Discussion]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/21388357/whenskillmatters_F_1400bdlrw_300x300.jpg)
Jan 7, 2026
Jan 7, 2026
8 min
In this conversation, we focus on a pressing question for HR, L&D, and business leaders: why are current skills strategies falling behind, and what does this mean for business performance?
Our guests are Perry Timms, a leading voice on progressive HR and organisational transformation, and Nebel Crowhurst, a senior people executive with firsthand insight into how workforce expectations and skills needs are changing.
Hosted by Robin Adda, the discussion explores the root causes behind lagging skills strategies and shares practical ideas for building a more agile, future-ready workforce.
Together, we discuss what needs to shift in the way organisations structure, develop, and support skills—from the frameworks we use, to the technologies we embrace, to the cultural changes driving new approaches to work.
We discuss:
How traditional education and skills models no longer fit today’s longer, more varied career journeys
The confusion between competencies, skills, and capabilities, and why clarity in these areas is essential for progress
Why measuring proficiency and impact matters more than simply tracking productivity
How AI can support, not replace, human judgement in learning and workforce development
The impact of technology on work-life blend, and how changing expectations shape new models for working and learning
What needs to change in organisational infrastructure to keep up with shifting skills demands and longer working lives
Whether you are grappling with how to identify skills gaps, improve learning impact, or prepare your workforce for a changing future, this episode provides clear, practical insights you can apply right away.
We’re excited to bring you these conversations. Welcome to When Skills Matter.
About The Podcast
The When Skills Matter podcast is where forward-thinking HR, L&D, and business leaders come together to share practical ideas and fresh perspectives on workforce development, learning, and performance.
Hosted by Robin Adda, founder and CEO of SkillsAssess, the show dives into real-world strategies for closing skills gaps, developing leaders, aligning HR and L&D with business priorities, and making smarter people decisions that drive measurable impact.
You’ll hear from experienced practitioners and innovators as they explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to navigate the challenges of change, digital disruption, and the evolving world of work.
Whether you’re focused on skills mapping, learning strategy, or talent development, this podcast will give you valuable insights you can use right away.
About SkillsAssess
By providing comprehensive data analytics, SkillsAssess shows where skills gaps are within organisations by department, job role and individual, providing recommendations for learners to upskill only where needed.
Powered by AI, this new tool is designed to aid organisations in any field to pinpoint skill gaps and increase productivity in a quick and scaleable manner.
Using an intuitive dashboard principally designed for HR and L&D managers and administrators, all the data including full analytics is contained and accessed in one place to make the task of staff upskilling quicker, simpler and easier to carry out.
Learn more at www.SkillsAssess.ai.
Jan 7, 2026
8 min


