From Cost Center to Catalyst: Dr. Keith Keating on Redefining the Value of L&D

In this episode of Catalysts, I’m joined by Dr. Keith Keating, Chief Learning & Development Officer at BDO Canada and author of Hidden Value: How to Reveal the Impact of Organizational Learning.Keith is a powerhouse in the world of learning strategy—a practitioner-scholar who believes L&D shouldn’t just defend its worth, but amplify its impact. We dive into what it truly means to be a trusted learning advisor, why L&D needs to stop chasing surface metrics, and how to lead your team out of the “order-taker” trap and into strategic partnership.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:Why L&D’s real power lies in creating value—not just delivering contentHow to move from reactive defense mode to proactive business alignmentWhy metrics like butts-in-seats are holding us backThe science of learning—and how to make stakeholders care about itHow to build trust with both leaders and learnersWhat most orgs get wrong about reskilling, equity, and inclusionThe role of visibility, storytelling, and self-belief in shaping the future of L&DKeith’s journey—from high school dropout to doctoral scholar—is a testament to the life-changing power of learning. And his message is clear: L&D isn’t a support function. It’s a strategic driver. But only if we choose to show up that way.🎧 Tune in for a deeply human, sharply strategic conversation that will leave you thinking differently about what you do—and why it matters.Connect with Dr. Keith Keating on LinkedIn »Connect & Learn More Connect on with me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-ratliff Position Yourself as a Thought Leader in Your Industry: executivebrandbuilder.com Interested in joining the show as a guest? Click here!