Robots vs. Humans: Storytelling and AI (Podcast Episode 47)
AI can spit out an L&D outline in seconds, but it cannot create connection. In this episode, Jess Almlie talks with Stephanie Hubka, CPTD 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
Episode / Show Links
About Stephanie Hubka
Stephanie Hubka, CPTD 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.
Recommended by LinkedIn
Find and Connect with Stephanie Hubka
Introducing... The L&D Strategic Business Partner Team Assessment
If you’re tired of reacting to requests, chasing alignment after decisions are made, or trying to prove L&D’s value, it's time to change how your team operates.
Now there is a practical way to find out exactly how your L&TD team is showing up today and what needs to change to leave order taking behind and operate as strategic business partner.
It's called the L&D Strategic Business Partner Team Assessment and it measures your team against seven core categories to surface strengths, gaps, and opportunities for change.
The results of the assessment are then paired with a customized Team Development Roadmap outlining prioritized actions designed to move your team from taking orders to the intentional, outcome driven work that leaders value.
Message Jess Almlie today or fill out this contact form to learn more and schedule your free consultation. Let's make 2026 the year you stop working harder and start working more strategically, as a true business partner.
As someone who uses AI to write case studies and scenario stories, it's improving! For example, when asked for a motivational shelter story, Co-Pilot wrote: Jenn still remembers the nervous flutter in her stomach on her first day as a shelter volunteer, but her training quickly transformed that nervousness into confidence. She learned how to read a dog’s body language, how to spot the subtle signs of a cat’s stress or curiosity, and how to talk with families in a way that helped them imagine life with a new companion. One afternoon, Jenn watched a family struggle to choose between three dogs. Instead of rushing them, she used the techniques from her training—asking gentle questions, observing how the dogs responded, and guiding the family to notice what she noticed. When the family finally knelt beside a sweet mixed‑breed named Willow, the connection was instant. As they left together, Jenn realized that her training didn’t just help her take care of animals—it empowered her to help create new beginnings. And every time she saw another pet and family meet for the first time, she was reminded that volunteers really do change lives, one match at a time.
While I agree how amazing AI is, but they can never replace IDs, they are merely a tool at our disposal that we can use to maximize our efficiency. Learning is more fun when there is a human element
Wow, so cool you are doing an episode together! ATD South Florida just had Stephanie Hubka, CPTD talk about her book 321-Launch and Jess Almlie is our next author to talk about her book Order Taker No More. Seems we are running with the best!! Find them here!! https://www.amazon.com/3-2-1-Launch-Ultimate-Starting-Development/dp/B0DZ2149BT/ https://www.amazon.com/Order-Taker-No-More-Strategic/dp/B0FM4D4S8X/