38: Building Learning Ecosystems With Limited Resources | Rachel Walerstein

Winning cultures aren’t built with big budgets—they’re built on creativity, partnership, and a deep belief in people. In this idea-packed episode of the Learnit Lounge Podcast, host Mickey Fitch-Collins, PhD, dives deep with nonprofit learning strategist Rachel Walerstein, who unpacks how organizations can design powerful learning programs—even when resources are scarce. From navigating outdated tech and low-risk tolerance to advocating for staff development in grant applications, Rachel shares real stories, honest struggles, and actionable strategies for anyone designing training in the nonprofit sector. Discover how to build ecosystems (not just events) that nurture growth, drive impact, and put people first—no matter your budget. Whether you’re in a nonprofit, small business, or just want your learning programs to stick, this episode delivers human-centered tips and hard-won wisdom you won’t want to miss. In this episode, you’ll learn: The unique challenges nonprofits face in designing learning programs with limited budgets—and creative ways to overcome them Why investing in employee development (not just compliance training) matters for organizational impact How to become a true strategic partner—and get the L&D team into budget conversations The power of partnerships: designing learning with, not for, your people How to scope, launch, and adapt training when funding and priorities can shift overnight The uncomfortable truths (and myths) about leadership development—and what’s missing from most programs Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to the Learnit Lounge Podcast, & episode intro 00:48 – Meet Rachel Walerstein and her nonprofit learning journey 02:57 – The biggest challenges in nonprofit L&D: outdated systems and risk aversion 05:47 – Why culture and ethos matter before you design anything 07:07 – How budgets reflect values—and why L&D needs a seat at the table 08:58 – Rachel’s “hot take”: Learning teams should consult on grant writing and budgets 11:12 – Common myths about nonprofit training (and why “one and done” never works) 12:44 – The critical role of managers and peers as learning partners 15:45 – Why ecosystem thinking changes everything in nonprofit L&D 19:00 – How learning initiatives get scoped out (and how it’s different from corporate) 21:13 – The power—and limits—of participatory design in nonprofits 24:10 – How delays and funding uncertainties shape nonprofit L&D 25:43 – The role of partnerships: Internal, external, and advocacy 29:33 – Rachel’s top leadership lesson: Talk less, listen more 33:20 – The uncomfortable truth about leadership development and emotional intelligence 35:55 – Mickey’s wrap-up and where to connect with Rachel About Rachel Walerstein Rachel Walerstein is a learning strategist, facilitator, and Director of Professional Learning at UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago, where she leads innovative programs to grow nonprofit talent and build thriving, inclusive cultures. With a PhD in English from the University of Iowa and roots in education, Rachel brings a human-centered approach to L&D—including deep engagement with Chicago’s nonprofit and arts communities. She’s served on multiple boards including the Center on Halsted Auxiliary Board and the Guild Literary Complex, and as co-chair of the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Chicago Leadership Institute. Resources & Mentions Website: UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago LinkedIn: Rachel Walerstein Book: Design Thinking for Training and Development Book: Keith Keating on Strategic L&D Partnership Center on Halsted Auxiliary Board: Learn More Guild Literary Complex: Learn More Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Chicago: Learn More Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: [email protected] Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.