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L&D Must Change
L&D Must Change

47. Robots vs. Humans: Storytelling and AI with Stephanie Hubka

04 February 2026 54:16 Jess Almlie

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About this episode

AI can spit out an L&D outline in seconds, but it cannot create connection. In this episode, Jess Almlie talks with Stephanie Hubka about why storytelling is the missing ingredient in a world of fast, transactional training. They break down how to choose stories with intention using the SOL framework, how to design learning through story using scenarios and choose-your-own-adventure techniques, and how to use AI as a partner without outsourcing the best parts of your craft. You will leave ready to start a story journal and humanize your learning.

Jess and Stephanie Discuss

  • How AI exposes the gap between knowledge transfer and human connection
  • Stephanie's "light switch" moment when ChatGPT matched her outline, but stripped the soul from the learning
  • Why storytelling builds trust, openness, and the vulnerability learners need
  • Common objections like "I'm not confident" and "I don't have the right story" and how to move past them
  • Borrowing stories ethically, including when to ask permission and when to anonymize
  • Using the SOL framework to pick stories that spark, overcome, underscore, or link
  • The difference between adding a story and designing through story
  • Story-based structures like scenarios and choose-your-own-adventure learning
  • Four storytelling archetypes (superpowers) and how to match your >
  • A practical workflow: human start, AI middle, human end
  • A simple next step: start a story journal you can pull from anytime

About Stephanie Hubka

Stephanie Hubka wants to live in a world where learning is human at its core and anchored by experiences that celebrate joy, curiosity, and genuine connection. As the managing partner of Protos Learning, LLC she provides strategic leadership on professional learning and organizational performance solutions to companies around the world.

Stephanie is a Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) and is Dare to Lead Trained. She is a sought-after facilitator and keynote speaker, and her work has been published in industry publications including TD Magazine. She is the co-author of 3-2-1 Launch!: The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Talent Development Podcast. Stephanie is a longtime ATD volunteer and proudly served as the president of the Metro DC chapter of ATD in 2016 and as a National Advisor for Chapters from 2017-2022.

Stephanie's passion for training is equaled only by her love of exploring the globe; an avid traveler, she has visited all 7 continents, more than 70 countries, and all 50 US states.

Find and Connect with Stephanie Hubka

    • LinkedIn
    • Website: Protos Learning
    • ATD Blog Article: AI Isn't Human, But Storytelling Is
    • TD Magazine Article: Channel Your Sorytelling Superpower (Free to ATD Members)
    • Book: 3-2-1 Launch! The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Talent Development Podcast

Find and Connect with Jess Almlie

    • LinkedIn
    • Website: www.jessalmlie.com
    • Book: L&D Order Taker No More! Become a Strategic Business Partner
    • L&D Strategic Business Partner Team Assessment and Team Development Roadmap
    • Contact Jess

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