Following the Spark: Jo Cook’s Journey into Learning and Leadership

Episode notes

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S3 E9: In this candid and engaging episode, we’re joined by Jo Cook, virtual learning pioneer, editor of Training Journal , and unapologetically curious creative. Jo shares her unconventional journey from teenage journalism dreams to discovering a passion for teaching, which sparked during a nerve-racking first classroom experience. We explore Jo’s fearless move into self-employment, her early adoption of virtual classrooms, and how creativity fuels everything she does, from glittery canvases to online facilitation. She also opens up about navigating feedback, synthesising insights across projects, and why her business is aptly named “Lightbulb Moment.” Whether you’re an L&D professional, creative thinker or someone figuring out what energises you, this episode is packed with humour, honesty and practical wisdom. Key Learnings Curiosity is a powerful compass for career growth Jo’s journey shows that following what genuinely interests you even if it doesn’t fit the conventional path can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities.

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