Best Tom McDowall Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 25: From Resistance to Alignment: Navigating Stakeholders with Caner Akova 46:54

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15d ago46:54

46:54

In this episode, Vidya speaks with Caner Akova about what it really takes to drive performance in the workplace, and why delivering content isn't enough. They explore why L&D needs to design for friction, not just information, and how influence and stakeholder alignment can make or break learning efforts. From rethinking how we run pilots to tying …

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Ep. 24: Making L&D Matter: A Maturity Model Conversation with David James 1:03:38

29d ago1:03:38

1:03:38

Making L&D Matter: A Maturity Model Conversation with David James What does real L&D maturity look like in 2025? In this episode, Vidya speaks with David James (CLO of 360Learning and host of the Learning & Development Podcast) about his L&D Maturity Model - and what it takes to move from reactive training to strategic, business-aligned learning. T…

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Ep. 23: Rediscovering Curiosity and Connection in Learning with Goutham Yegappan 1:06:48

1M ago1:06:48

1:06:48

In this episode of Learning+, Vidya speaks with Goutham Yegappan - educator, data scientist, and question-asker - about reimagining education beyond systems, silos, and standardization. They explore why curiosity fades, how the teacher-student divide holds us back, and why passion isn’t something to find, but a way of seeing. This isn’t a conversat…

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Ep. 22: Behavior, Motivation, and the Role of Learning with Julie Dirksen 1:17:15

2M ago1:17:15

1:17:15

Why doesn’t learning always lead to action? In this episode, Vidya sits down with Julie Dirksen - author, designer, and one of the clearest thinkers on behavior change in L&D. They explore why systems thinking can sometimes overwhelm us, how to design for motivation dips, what to do when learners don’t see themselves as part of the problem, and why…

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Ep. 21: The Quiet Power of Community with Erin Chancellor 1:06:37

2M ago1:06:37

1:06:37

What does it really take to build a thriving learning community - one where people feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow? In this episode, Erin Chancellor joins Vidya to share how she co-manages the Useful L&D Community with care, clarity, and intentional structure. They explore what “lurker love” looks like in action, why creating space matte…

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Ep. 20: Experiment First, Design Later with Tom McDowall 1:12:30

3M ago1:12:30

1:12:30

In this episode, Tom McDowall joins us for a deep dive into learner autonomy, performance-focused design, and the real role of L&D in a fast-changing world. We unpack what it means to give learners control, how to balance autonomy with compliance, and why experimentation - not training - is often the better answer. From Dungeons & Dragons to chatbo…

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Ep. 19: Improving Value, Not Just Proving It with Michelle Ockers 1:12:32

3M ago1:12:32

1:12:32

What does it really take to build a learning strategy that sticks? In this episode, Michelle Ockers helps unpack the difference between tactical execution and strategic clarity. From shifting the conversation from skills to capability, to evaluating learning as a tool for improvement, and not just as proof, Michelle shares practical, grounded advic…

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Ep. 18: Building Service Cultures That Power Organizations with Ron Kaufman 53:12

4M ago53:12

53:12

What if service wasn’t just a department, but a way of thinking across your entire organization? In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, Ron Kaufman - global expert on service culture and best-selling author of Uplifting Service - joins us to break down what it really takes to build a culture of continuous service improvement. We explore why mind…

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Ep. 17: Creating Impactful Practice Scenarios 9:26

4M ago9:26

9:26

In this solo episode, Srividya Kumar explores the power of practice in learning and why it's a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of effective training. She discusses how focusing too much on theory can hinder learners from applying their knowledge. Drawing on real-world examples, Srividya shares how practice scenarios can help learners gain confi…

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Ep. 16: The Ripple Effect of Learning with Dr. Nigel Paine 42:50

5M ago42:50

42:50

In this episode of the Learning+ Podcast, Dr. Nigel Paine explores what it truly means to build a learning culture. He challenges the obsession with perfect courses, emphasizing the need to focus on impact instead. From the power of psychological safety to the role of leadership vulnerability, Nigel shares how organizations can create lasting chang…

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Ep. 15: Unlocking Motivation in Leadership and Learning with Matthew Richter 1:01:09

5M ago1:01:09

1:01:09

In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, Matthew Richter joins host Srividya Kumar to explore the powerful connection between motivation, leadership, and learning. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, Matthew discusses how fulfilling core psychological needs - competence, autonomy, and relatedness - is key to fostering lasting motivation. He shar…

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Ep. 14: Bridging Neuroscience and AI for Better Learning with Margie Meacham 1:07:53

6M ago1:07:53

1:07:53

Margie Meacham, the “Brain Lady,” has dedicated her career to understanding how our brains learn and how that knowledge can shape more effective training. A pioneer in integrating neuroscience with learning design, she’s also been a trailblazer in using AI to create personalized learning experiences. In this episode, Margie shares how neuroscience …

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Ep. 13: Learning Science, Engagement, and Real Impact with Clark Quinn 52:01

6M ago52:01

52:01

Most workplace training falls short - not because we lack research, but because we fail to apply it well. In this episode, Clark Quinn joins us to unpack what it really takes to make learning stick. We talk about why recall alone isn’t enough, how to design practice that drives real performance, and why so many learning programs get engagement wron…

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Ep. 12: The Power of Practice in Workplace Learning with Christy Tucker 1:02:15

7M ago1:02:15

1:02:15

Most workplace training stops at delivering information - but does that actually help people apply what they’ve learned? In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, Christy Tucker joins us to explore how scenario-based learning bridges the gap between knowledge and action. We discuss how practice and feedback build confidence, when branching scenario…

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Want to Revolutionise Learning? Start with Product Thinking! 36:16

7M ago36:16

36:16

Send us a text In this episode of the Ideas Podcast, we sit down with Greg, founder of Two Circle Studio, to explore a bold vision for the future of learning and development. Greg dives into the idea of applying a "product mindset" to L&D, challenging traditional approaches and advocating for a shift towards standardisation, clear requirements, and…

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Ep. 11: Conquering Peaks, Conquering Self with Satyarup Siddhanta 42:42

7M ago42:42

42:42

In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, we chat with Satyarup Siddhanta, an extraordinary mountaineer and Guinness World Record holder, who defied asthma to conquer the highest peaks in the world. Satyarup’s journey is one of perseverance, mental toughness, and the relentless pursuit of personal growth. From near-death experiences to skiing at th…

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Making Data Work for You: Overcoming the Fear and Finding Meaning 41:36

7M ago41:36

41:36

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Alaina Szlachta shares her thoughts on overcoming the fear and overwhelm often associated with data. She explores how to use data strategically to make informed decisions, the importance of asking the right questions, and how to build a strong foundation of baseline data. Dr. Szlachta offers practical insights fo…

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Low Fidelity, High Impact - Live from LN Connect 2024 with Heidi Kirby 37:13

7M ago37:13

37:13

Send us a text Can instructional designers create impactful learning experiences using low-fidelity modalities? This is the central question Tom and Heidi discuss in this episode of the iDeas Podcast. They also explore: - If podcasting is an effective modality for workplace learning, - What we consider to be impactful, - How we can 'sell' low fidel…

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Ep. 10: Equipping Frontline Teams for Success with JD Dillon 56:58

8M ago56:58

56:58

In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, we sit down with JD Dillon, a passionate advocate for frontline enablement and the author of the upcoming The Frontline Enablement Handbook. JD shares his unique perspective on empowering frontline employees—the 80% of the global workforce who are often overlooked in most learning strategy discussions. From…

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Ep. 9: Using Behavioral Science to Transform Work with Vishal George 49:56

8M ago49:56

49:56

In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, behavioral scientist Vishal George shares how small, intentional experiments can spark meaningful change. From creating cultures that embrace experimentation to designing tools that make better behaviors easier, Vishal offers practical strategies that anyone can apply. He also explores why curiosity, commun…

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Ep. 8: Designing Learning for the Brain with Lauren Waldman 37:07

9M ago37:07

37:07

In this thought-provoking episode, Lauren Waldman—scientist, learning designer, and yes, “The Learning Pirate”—takes us into the fascinating world of neuroscience. She reveals why learning professionals must stop designing for content and start designing for the brain. Discover how understanding memory, attention, and focus can revolutionize learni…

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Ep. 7: Demystifying Engagement in Learning 20:59

9M ago20:59

20:59

In this solo episode, host Srividya Kumar (Vidya) dives into one of the most talked-about (and often misunderstood) topics in L&D—engagement. Reflecting on her early learning experiences, she shares insights on why excitement doesn’t always equal engagement, and explores how to foster emotional and cognitive connections in learners. Vidya demystifi…

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Ep. 6: Blending Data and Insight for Better Learning with Sam Rogers 1:13:49

10M ago1:13:49

1:13:49

In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, we sit down with Sam Rogers—musician, performer, and instructional designer whose path into L&D has been anything but traditional. Sam shares how his journey from the stage to instructional design shaped his unique approach to building effective learning ecosystems. With experience consulting for companies …

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Ep. 5: Learning from Environmental Diplomacy with Erik Solheim 34:15

10M ago34:15

34:15

In this episode of The Learning+ Podcast, we sit down with Erik Solheim, global leader in environmental diplomacy and former head of the United Nations Environment Programme. Erik shares powerful insights on how nations can balance economic growth with sustainability, offering lessons that resonate far beyond environmental policy. From fostering co…

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Ep. 4: Inclusive Learning from the Start with Dr. Nicole L'Etoile 46:20

11M ago46:20

46:20

How accessible is your learning program? In this episode, we chat with Dr. Nicole Letoile, an expert in accessibility and inclusive design, who’s on a mission to make learning environments work for everyone. Together, we explore practical strategies to weave accessibility into your programs from day one. Nicole shares her wisdom on creating content…

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Ep. 3: Crafting Useful Learning Experiences with Heidy Kirby, PhD 45:49

11M ago45:49

45:49

In this episode, Heidi Kirby, PhD, brings her no-nonsense approach to learning design. We dive into her mission behind “Useful Stuff” and why focusing on solutions over tools is critical in L&D. We also explore her transition from academia to corporate, the evolution of learning, and how AI can empower – but not replace – the skilled instructional …

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Ep. 2: Rethinking AI for Tomorrow’s Needs with Ross Stevenson 1:04:21

12M ago1:04:21

1:04:21

In this episode, we chat with Ross Stevenson, where we break down the misconceptions surrounding generative AI tools like ChatGPT, and explain why treating them like Google Search can lead to frustration. Ross highlights the importance of adapting our approach to these tools, focusing on effective prompting, and understanding their probabilistic na…

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Ep. 1: Embracing Human-Centered Design in L&D with Ryan Tracey 14:12

1y ago14:12

14:12

In this episode, we dive into Human-Centered Design (HCD) with Ryan Tracey, where we unpack the concept, and talk about how it differs from and encompasses other design approaches. We discuss the relevance of HCD in the age of AI and its crucial role in designing learning solutions. Ryan offers insights on how HCD can help L&D professionals move be…

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Learning Technologies 2024 - The Learning Tech Debrief with Katja Schipperheijn and Kerry Richardson 1:01:13

1+ y ago1:01:13

1:01:13

Katja Schipperheijn and Kerry Richardson joined me the day after Learning Technologies to discuss what we each came across at the event, what was missing, and what it all means for the L&D industry. We discuss AI, human behaviour, technologies role in enhancing human connection, the lack of focus on accessibility and answer questions from the live …

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Learning Technologies 2024 - Performance Enablement, Real Change, and Purposeful AI with Olga Anishenkova 4:11

1+ y ago4:11

4:11

Olga Anishenkova, Learning Design Specialist at Atlas CopCo, joined me early on day one of Learning Technologies to discuss what she was looking forward to at the event. We discussed how perhaps there hasn't been as much real change in the last year as we think and that we have a long way to go in terms of delivering value to our organisations. We …

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Learning Technologies 2024 - Make People's Working Lives Better with Ross Garner 4:39

1+ y ago4:39

4:39

Ross Garner, Head of Content and Custom Solutions at Mindtools, joined me for a chat on The Learning Network's stand during the Learning Technologies expo. We discussed the gap between what L&D vendors are talking about regarding AI and what customers are talking about. Then, we covered the growth of face-to-face training in an increasingly hybrid …

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Learning Technologies 2024 - The Vital Role of Accessibility and Inclusive Learning Design with Gemma Nunn 2:06

1+ y ago2:06

2:06

Gemma Nunn, Head of Learning Design at Mint took some time during the expo at Learning Technologies to discuss her passion for accessibility. We discussed the incoming EU legislation that will establish some minimum standards for workplace learning accessibility, as well as the need to progress from an AI-dominated narrative to one in which all our…

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Learning Technologies 2024 - Keeping Human Connection at the Heart of Learning with Mike Pryke 3:14

1+ y ago3:14

3:14

Mike Pryke, Director of Revenue at Guider stopped to chat on the exhibition floor of Learning Technologies 2024. We discussed the many attendees' AI fatigue and the importance of using AI to solve real problems, not just add an exciting new tool to the toolbox. Finally, Mike shared his view on the importance of human connection being at the centre …

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Learning Technologies 2024 - Accessibility in Digital Learning with Susi Miller 5:50

1+ y ago5:50

5:50

Susi Miller, founder and director at eLaHub, joined me on day one of Learning Technologies 2024 to discuss the state of accessibility in the industry and at the event. We discuss what is changing, improving and what we still need to do. Susi shares her own observations on the areas of accessibility we need to focus on and what she hopes to see deve…

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Learning Technologies 2024 - Maturing the AI Conversation in L&D with Toby Harris 7:39

1+ y ago7:39

7:39

Toby Harris, Chief Customer Officer from Filtered, joined me in the Learning Technologies exhibition hall to discus the state of the AI conversation in L&D. He highlights the importance of maturing the conversation within our industry and embracing the opportunities around linking skills and content data through AI to deliver an effective workplace…

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Learning Technologies 2024 - The Social Impact of Learning with Thomas Bergen 5:05

1+ y ago5:05

5:05

Thomas Bergen, CEO of getAbstract, sat down with me at Learning Technologies 2024 to discuss the event. We explored what getAbstract has been focusing on and the big topics of the event, including the rise of AI content generation. We also discussed recent changes in the industry and what Thomas hopes to see change moving forward. We finished with …

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Learning Technologies 2024 - Human Connection with Paula Hughes 3:10

1+ y ago3:10

3:10

Paula Hughes, Vice-Chair of The Learning Network sat down with us in the Learning Technologies Exhibition to discuss what she was hearing at the event, the changes she had seen in the last 12-months, and what she hopes to see in the next 12-months. AI was a big topic, but Paula also stresses the continued importance of human connection and selectin…

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Looking to the Future: Live at LN Connect 23 with Helen Marshall 26:01

1+ y ago26:01

26:01

Send us a text This episode of the iDeas Podcast was recorded live on 17th November 2023, at LN Connect 23, The Learning Network's annual conference. I am joined by the fantastic Helen Marshall, CLO at Thrive Learning who I first met at LN Connect 2019. In this episode, I ask Helen about her journey from senior instructional designer back in 2019 t…

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Brain Waves: The Power of Designing for the Brain with Lauren Waldman 35:33

2y ago35:33

35:33

Send us a text Yo ho, ho ho, it's a learning life for me! In this episode, I had an absolute blast chatting with Lauren Waldman, a.k.a 'The Learning Pirate'. Lauren's a certified learning scientist who's on a mission to make brainy stuff more approachable. We kick things off by hearing about how she ended up becoming a 'Learning Pirate' and what ma…

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Writing an Instructional Design Book, Backwards Design and Sharing Experiences with Dr Luke Hobson 1:01:19

2+ y ago1:01:19

1:01:19

Send us a text In this episode of the iDeas Podcast, I chat with Dr Luke Hobson about his recent (at the time of filming) book, backwards design and its role in learning design, and the importance of sharing experiences with others. Luke's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-hobson-edd-7a685622/ Luke's book - What I Wish I Knew Before Becomi…

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Getting Practical with Matt Gjertsen 44:12

2+ y ago44:12

44:12

Send us a text In this episode of the iDeas Podcast, I'm joined by Matt Gjertsen from Better Every Day Studios. We discuss his career path in the L&D world and focus on the practical side of our profession. iDTX 2023 is set for March. Make sure you secure your free tickets early, as the last two years filled up quick! https://hopin.com/events/idtx-…

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Upskilling and the Future with Darren Nerland 44:11

3y ago44:11

44:11

Send us a text In this episode of the iDeas Podcast, I chat with Darren Nerland, senior leadership development manager, speaker and co-founder of Learnapalooza. In this video, I ask Darren about his take on the current focus on skills in the learning and development industry, as well as what he thinks the future looks like. On the note of the futur…

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Community, Instructional Design, Posters and Generalism with Linnéa Sjögren 53:39

3y ago53:39

53:39

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with @Linnéa Sjögren about the solutions she creates for her clients, her approach to SME's and whether to remain a generalist or niche down to find success. This episode will be of interest to anyone working in learning and development, eLearning development or instructional design. Linnéa runs the GLDC commu…

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Adventures in Instructional Design Freelancing with IDLance, with Andrea Dottling and Parker Grant 56:44

3y ago56:44

56:44

Send us a text In this episode of the iDeas Podcast, I chat with Andrea Dottling and Parker Grant, the co-founders of IDLance. We discuss why they started the IDLance community and their own adventures in the world of freelancing. This episode is ideal for any instructional designer, eLearning developer or L&D consultant considering a move to freel…

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Learning Experience Design for Education with Dr Sonia Tiwari 46:26

3y ago46:26

46:26

Send us a text In this episode I chat with Dr Sonia Tiwari, a learning experience designer focussing on children's education. You can connect with Sonia on LinkedIn Check out her website -------------------------------------------------------------------------- SUPPORT IDT AND FUTURE IDTX EVENTS Subscribe on YouTube. It's quick and free! Join us on…

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The Importance of Embracing Technologies and Practices in Instructional Design with Terry Godfrey 50:29

3y ago50:29

50:29

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with Terry Godfrey about his instructional design and eLearning development career. He explains the importance of always trying new things and continuing to evolve as new technologies and practices move into the industry. Terry previously presented at iDTX 2022, and since then, we've stayed in touch. His posit…

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The Power of Netwokring in your Learning and Development Career with Gemma Wells 48:51

3y ago48:51

48:51

Send us a text Gemma Wells is a digital programme manager at The Opportunity Group and the chairperson of The Learning Network. In this episode, we chat about the role networking has played in our careers, and Gemma reveals her top tips on how to get started if you're new to networking in the world of L&D. This is an excellent primer on effective n…

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Construcive Learning and Emotive Design with Angela Ross 45:55

3y ago45:55

45:55

Send us a text Angela Ross is the co-founder & COO of Sub-10. In this episode, we discuss her approach to learning design and why Sub-10 focuses on constructive learning and emotive design over micro-learning. You can get in touch with Angela on LinkedIn. Check out Sub-10, you can even take out a free trial of their awesome platform and content! If…

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Your Instructional Design Tech Stack with Zak Rittenhouse 32:08

3y ago32:08

32:08

Send us a text Zak Rittenhouse is a senior learning experience design lead at Braze. In this episode, we chat about what makes for a great tech stack for an instructional design, learning experience designer or eLearning developer. Beyond just saying what tech we like, this discussion is about selecting the right tools for the job. You can catch up…

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On the Bleeding Edge: AR, EdTech and Social Responsibility with Rustica Lamb 42:55

3y ago42:55

42:55

Send us a text Rustica Lamb is the founder of Bloom Learning Technologies, an international award-winning learning technologies company that is bringing the cost of elearning way, way down. In this episode, we chat about an amazing AR project Rustica is creating, the EdTech landscape of 2022 and the social responsibility that belongs to all of us i…