The Summer of Learning: Building an AI-Ready, Experimental Culture at Immediate with Kathryn Swandale
In this fascinating interview, Adam is joined by Kathryn (Katie) Swandale, Senior Learning and Development Partner at Immediate. Immediate is a major publishing group known for brands like Radio Times, Good Food, and BBC Gardeners’ World. With over a decade of experience designing and delivering strategically aligned experiential learning,
In this strategic and practical episode, Katie walks through the initiative's evolution, sharing the nuts and bolts of how they achieved an 86% AI adoption rate among employees, a figure significantly above the industry average.
Key takeaways from this masterclass in strategic L&D and cultural change:
- Genesis: The initiative was sparked by the impact of generative AI, forcing Immediate to address a potential AI skills gap and meet people where they were on their learning journey.
- Program Structure: The eight-week program features an Immersion Day, self-serve workshops linked to five strategic themes, and dedicated Experimentation Days for safe project ideation.
- Driving Engagement: High engagement is ensured by strong leadership backing and Subject Matter Experts. Crucially, all activities are made tangible and clearly linked to the business strategy
Looking for a content library to help your team develop their productivity, communication, leadership skills and more? Check out assembleyou.com and follow us on LinkedIn
What is The Assembly?
The Assembly: Where L&D Minds Assemble
The future of workplace learning doesn’t live in theory — it lives in lived experience, fresh research, and honest conversations.
That’s what The Assembly delivers.
Hosted by Adam Lacey, Co-Founder of Assemble You and digital learning veteran, and Brigid McCormack, a newcomer to the world of L&D, this is your go-to space for rich, real talk on what’s driving L&D forward.
In each episode, you’ll find:
Richer insights that go beyond surface-level tips to unpack what really works in learning today
Expert perspectives from leaders shaping the L&D landscape
Access to new research on tech, methods, and innovations defining tomorrow’s learning culture
Practical strategies you can use right now to build essential skills like leadership, communication, and adaptability
Whether you’re designing programs, shaping strategy, or driving culture change — if learning is your thing, this is your podcast.
Formally known as L&D Challenges.