George Hanshaw, Director of eLearning Operations, shares his vision for a future where learning is integrated, engaging, and never boring. He talks about embracing AI, building a culture of experimentation, and why learning and development is the best place to spark organizational transformation. For George, it’s all about starting small, iterating fast, and leading with a people-first mindset.
Discover how AI-driven support and cultural architecture can drive meaningful change in organizations. Tune in for practical strategies and connect with George at hanshawshorizon.com or on LinkedIn.
Show Notes:
[0:25] Introducing George Hanshaw
George Hanshaw, an innovative creator and thought leader, is on a mission to eliminate boring learning. Known for his bold, action-first mindset, he brings energy and purpose to reimagining how we design impactful learning experiences.
[1:02] The Future of Integrated Learning
George Hanshaw imagines a future where "the world gets really blurred" between work and training. He sees tools like augmented reality delivering just-in-time learning, eliminating the need to “clock in on a training number.” Instead, training becomes embedded in daily tasks, enhancing spatial awareness and enabling real-time skill application. As George puts it, “Somebody along the line decided learning was boring—when it’s not supposed to be that way.”
[4:00] AI Course Assistants and the Human Touch
George Hanshaw shares how his institution integrated AI course assistants—named “Spark”—into every course, offering students 24/7 support without replacing human instructors. Designed with Socratic-style prompts, Spark encourages back-and-forth conversations to boost understanding, clarify assignments, and enhance motivation. As George explains, this approach is “radically student-centred” and helps maintain, rather than diminish, the human connection in learning.
[6:00] Start Small, Build Smart
George Hanshaw encourages a progressive approach to using AI in learning: “Start—just start somewhere—and then iterate outward in concentric circles.” He highlights the impact of using AI assistants for active learning, which led to a 20% increase in student performance. From course support to professor tools and hands-on practice, his method proves that small beginnings can lead to transformative results.
[7:30] Shifting Culture for AI Integration
George points out that embracing AI requires more than just new tools—it demands a cultural shift. Rather than focusing solely on technology, he urges organizations to prioritize integration with a people-first approach. He highlights the importance of appointing a “cultural architect”—someone dedicated to designing the kind of workplace where innovation, learning, and AI-driven support can succeed.
[09:40] L&D as a Starting Point for TransformationGeorge highlights Learning & Development as a powerful lever for cultural change, given its reach across all departments. He urges teams to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable,” and view experimentation as a pathway to growth. The message is clear: start small, iterate often, and use L&D to drive the mindset shift needed for the future of work.
[12:40] Evolving L&D’s Role in the BusinessWhen aligned with business outcomes, L&D can transform from a support function into a strategic partner. George emphasizes that by piloting initiatives and learning from what works—and what doesn’t—L&D becomes more than a trainer. It becomes a collaborator, a problem-solver, and a vital force in shaping future-ready organizations.
[13:18] Follow George Hanshaw
You can follow George Hanshaw on LinkedIn, where he actively shares insights on learning, innovation, and organizational transformation. To dive deeper into his work, visit hanshawshorizon.com. George also invites fellow educators and professionals to connect via email at ghanshaw@lpu.edu.