ATD Nashville upcoming events

SIG: Career Transition Office Hours (Virtual) (Fri, August 07, 2026)

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Career Transition SIG
Virtual Office Hours

Office Hours are a dedicated, monthly informal space designed to support you as you move through your career transition journey alongside the Career Transition SIG. Think of these sessions as your time to get personalized guidance, ask questions, and make meaningful progress—with the support of both Magda and Rebecca and peers in the Learning & Development space.

During Office Hours, you can:

Get targeted feedback on your career portfolio materials (resume, LinkedIn, work samples)
Ask real-time questions about job searching, career direction, or challenges you’re facing
Receive coaching and guidance on applying session concepts (e.g., storytelling, interviewing, AI tools)
Work through roadblocks or uncertainty in a supportive, low-pressure environment
Build deeper connections with others navigating similar transitions
Practice your interviewing skills or strategic introduction

These sessions are intentionally flexible—drop in as needed, bring what you’re working on, or simply listen and learn from others. Whether you’re refining a deliverable, preparing for an interview, or just need a confidence boost, Office Hours are here to help you keep moving forward.

This is where ideas turn into action—and where you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Office Hours Dates:

August 7, 2026
September 4, 2026
October 2, 2026
November 6, 2026
December 4, 2026

Time: 12:00-1:00 PM CST

Location: Zoom (link sent after registration)

Members & Non-Members: FREE

Hosts:

Magda Krych is a PMP-accredited Learning and Development Project Manager with Dollar General, specializing in creating innovative training programs and driving organizational change. With experience across healthcare, technology, construction, retail, and manufacturing, she brings expertise in learning and development, communications, and project management. Magda is passionate about helping people reconnect to their strengths, clarify their goals, and build confidence during seasons of transition. She holds degrees in English Literature from Tennessee Technological University and Tennessee State University, and a Master’s in Leadership and Organizational Performance from Vanderbilt University. As a speaker, Magda inspires audiences to embrace growth, innovation, and collaboration in work and life.

Rebecca Woodard is a leadership coach and talent development professional with deep experience developing people and programs across healthcare, life sciences, and professional services. As a Certified Master Coach and Facilitator of The Leadership Challenge, she supports professionals at all levels through Challenger, Gray & Christmas, guiding career transitions with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

She specializes in leadership development, career growth and transitions, and change enablement, bringing a supportive, strengths-based lens to every engagement. Today, she works in performance and organizational development for Wellpath. Rebecca previously served on the Advisory Board for Mindful Leader and as Treasurer for PeaceWorks, a local domestic violence shelter. She looks forward to partnering with ATD Nashville to advance its mission of developing professionals. Rebecca is an ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC), Prosci Change Management Practitioner, EQ-i 2.0 facilitator, and holds multiple leadership certifications. She is passionate about creating compassionate, human-centered workplaces where people can learn, grow, and thrive.

ATD Nashville Chapter Monthly Board Meeting (Virtual) (Mon, August 10, 2026)

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 22:30:00 GMT

The ATD Nashville Chapter Board is made up of passionate leaders just like you—who are committed to serving others and strengthening our talent development community.

We welcome engagement from all ATD members throughout the year. Our leadership council regularly partners with volunteers across a variety of focus areas, including programs, coaching, conference, professional development, membership, technology, sponsorship, and special events. A full list of current board members and their contact information can be found here.

For transparency and shared learning, board meeting notes, annual updates, and board role descriptions are available on our website.

We invite you to get involved. Volunteer-led organizations like ATD Nashville thrive because of leaders who are willing to connect, contribute, and serve.

If you would like to submit an agenda item for a board meeting, please email president@atdnashville.org at least one week (7 calendar days) prior to the meeting for inclusion.

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Virtual Meeting: What is AI Literacy? How HR and L&D Can Enable AI Productivity and Safety (Wed, August 12, 2026)

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Virtual Meeting: What is AI Literacy? How HR and L&D Can Enable AI Productivity & Safety
Virtual Meeting in partnership w/ ATD Nebraska

We're excited to announce a new chapter partnership between ATD Nashville and ATD Nebraska!

As part of this program exchange, members of both chapters can attend a virtual event hosted by the other chapter at no cost through a special member code. It's a great opportunity to expand your network, learn from professionals across the country, and experience the incredible programming being offered by fellow ATD chapters.

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming the talent development landscape, yet many HR and L&D professionals feel uncertain about how to navigate this change responsibly and effectively.

This interactive webinar demystifies AI literacy and provides practical guidance for enabling AI productivity while maintaining critical safety and governance standards.

Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026

Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CT

Members: FREE

Non-Members: $20

Location: Zoom (link provided upon registration)

ATD Nashville members register to attend for free at the button below on the external ATD Nebraska website with our special chapter code (missed it? Email president@atdnashville.org):

About the Facilitator:

John Rood is the Founder of Proceptual, where he specializes in AI governance and safety. He teaches these subjects at Michigan State University and the University of Chicago, sharing his expertise with the next generation of leaders. As a Certified AI Systems Auditor, John has conducted AI audit, governance, and training projects for a diverse range of organizations, from Global 50 corporations to innovative startups.

Pages & Progress (Virtual Book Club): Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion (Fri, August 14, 2026)

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion (Robert Ciadini)
Pages & Progress - A No-Pressure Virtual Book Club for Learning Pros

A guilt-free book club for busy L&D professionals who love learning but are drowning in their to-do lists. We meet quarterly on Fridays at Noon to discuss development books - read (or listen) to the whole thing, skim a chapter, or just show up for the conversation. No judgment, just great discussions, peer networking, and actionable insights you can take back to your work. Progress over perfection, always. Books are selected based on the ATD Talent Capability Model.

This quarter we'll read Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Ciadini.

In the new edition of this highly acclaimed bestseller, Robert Cialdini—New York Times bestselling author of Pre-Suasion and the seminal expert in the fields of influence and persuasion—explains the psychology of why people say yes and how to apply these insights ethically in business and everyday settings. Using memorable stories and relatable examples, Cialdini makes this crucially important subject surprisingly easy. With Cialdini as a guide, you don’t have to be a scientist to learn how to use this science.

Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CST

Members: FREE

Non-Members: $10

ATD Nashville has been pre-approved by the ATD Certification Institute to offer educational programs that can be used towards initial eligibility and recertification of the Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) and Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD) credentials. This program qualifies for a maximum of 1 point.

Facilitator:

Kelly L. Knowles is owner of Kelly K Consulting. She is a national speaker known for her ability to inspire and engage audiences virtually and in-person. She is a published author and has over a decade of experience in training and development for large law firms.

She has certifications in Six Sigma, Color Code Personality Science, and Adult Learning (Association for Talent Development). Kelly earned her BBA and MBA from Middle Tennessee State University.

Kelly is a published author of the book Chin Hairs and Other Things Mama Didn’t Tell You: From Surviving to Thriving in Your 20s and 30s. Her audible book of the same title is a worthwhile listen.

She is passionate about adult learning, helping people realize and develop their potential, and enabling adult learners to improve their everyday effectiveness by authentically maximizing their skills.

SIG: Instructional Design (ID) - Virtual (Mon, August 17, 2026)

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Session 7: Developing Instructional Materials
Virtual SIG: Instructional Design

Program Overview:

This year’s Instructional Design SIG delivers a full ADDIE‑aligned learning journey designed to elevate the chapter’s instructional design capability through science‑based methods, hands‑on practice, and AI‑enhanced workflows. Each session builds on the last, guiding participants from foundational concepts to fully developed learning assets they can use in their portfolios or workplace. Participants should plan to attend all sessions.

To see an outline of the whole program, please visit this website.

Current Session Information:

Session 7: Developing Instructional Materials

- Best practices for developing participant guides, facilitator guides, and supporting materials
- Use of visuals, text, and audio in instructional materials

Activity: Create a sample instructional module.

Activities are due no later than Monday, September 14, 2026

TIME: 5:30-6:45 PM CST

Location: Zoom

*Zoom URL will be provided upon registration

Members: FREE with registration

Non-Members: $20 with registration

Host:

Paula O'Brien is an Instructional Designer at A. O. Smith, combining creativity and instructional expertise to develop engaging educational programs and knowledge resources. She has expertise in instructor-led training, content creation (including writing, digital photography, infographic and video production) and eLearning development. With 19 years in instructional design, Paula excels in needs assessment, task analysis, curriculum design, LMS administration, program evaluation, facilitation, and project management.

Paula actively supports her profession by leading the ATD Nashville Instructional Design SIG, where she mentors fellow talent development professionals.

She holds a Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design and a Master of Education and Human Development from George Washington University, a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management from Rollins College, and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).

SIG: Organizational Development (OD) - Virtual (Thu, August 20, 2026)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

AI and OD: Using AI Without Losing the Human Side of OD Work

Organizational Development SIG

Join us for the ATD Nashville Organuzational Development (OD) SIG!

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into workplace learning and organizational development, OD and learning professionals are being challenged to balance innovation with authentic human connection. Join us on August 20 for AI and OD: Using AI Without Losing the Human Side of OD Work, an interactive session focused on the opportunities, risks, and realities of integrating AI into OD practice.

Participants will explore how AI can support organizational development efforts through enhanced data analysis, workflow efficiency, and decision-making, while also examining ethical considerations and potential risks related to AI use. The session will also focus on practical strategies for preserving empathy, trust, collaboration, and relationship-building in AI-supported environments.

Aligned with the ATD Capability Model areas of Technology Application, Emotional Intelligence & Decision-Making, Data & Analytics, and Change Management, this session is designed to help professionals thoughtfully navigate the evolving intersection of technology and human-centered OD practice.

Organizational Development (OD) is the study and implementation of organizational change processes. Join two leaders in the OD field for this Special Interest Group (SIG) discussion on OD related topics. Each bi-monthly meeting will have a specialized topic for discussion, workshop, or guest speaker.

Learning Objectives:

Explore how AI can support OD work
Discuss risks and ethical considerations related to AI use
Identify ways to maintain human connection in AI-supported OD practices

ATD Capability Alignment:

Technology Application
Emotional Intelligence & Decision-Making
Data & Analytics
Change Management

Time: 5:00 PM - 6:15 PM CST

Members: FREE with registration

Non-Members: FREE with registration

Hosts:

Deborah (Deb) Tobey, Ed.D. is a thought leader, educator, and practitioner of Organization Development (OD) and Change. Deb has held an OD consulting practice for many years. In addition, she has held positions as Director of OD in a financial services organization, Director of Talent Management in a government agency, and adjunct faculty member at George Washington University and Vanderbilt University. Deb also taught OD full-time at the master's level at Vanderbilt University for eight years. Her other specialties include Human Performance Improvement, Talent Development, and Consultation skills and practices. She is author/co-author of three books for OD practitioners.

In her work, Deb focuses on creating client efficacy, through human performance analysis, identification, design, implementation, and evaluation of human performance interventions.

Lauren Kiproff-Downer is a dynamic Organizational Psychology practitioner and the founder of Perpara Consulting, LLC, based in the Nashville, TN area. With a unique blend of emotional intelligence, innovative problem-solving, and data-driven insights, Lauren is committed to empowering organizations and their employees to achieve new levels of success and job satisfaction.

Lauren specializes in transforming organizational performance, elevating organizational culture, enhancing employee engagement, and advancing talent development across diverse sectors, including healthcare, publishing, and nonprofit organizations. Her intervention approach focuses on creating tailored solutions that improve organizational culture, develop leadership potential, increase employee retention, and support success in virtual or hybrid work environments.

Virtual Chapter Meeting: Many Paths. One Profession. Discover What's Possible in Talent Development. (Thu, August 27, 2026)

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Many Paths. One Profession. Discover What's Possible in Talent Development.
Virtual Event

Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring Talent Development professionals who have successfully navigated a variety of career paths and transitions throughout their careers.

Whether you're exploring a move from education into corporate learning, considering consulting or entrepreneurship, interested in instructional design or project management, or aspiring to leadership roles within Talent Development, this session offers an opportunity to learn from those who have been there.

Our panelists will share their unique career journeys, key lessons learned, challenges they encountered, and practical advice for navigating career transitions with confidence. You'll gain insights into different pathways within the Talent Development profession and have the opportunity to ask questions during a live Q&A session.

No matter where you are in your career journey, you'll leave with ideas, inspiration, and actionable strategies to help you take your next step.

Panelists: Magda Krych, Arie Bell, & Jennifer Brown

Moderator: Rebecca Woodard

Objectives:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Explore diverse career paths and opportunities within the Talent Development profession.
Gain insights into the experiences, challenges, and strategies that helped professionals successfully navigate career transitions.
Develop action steps to support their own career growth, professional networking, and next career move.

ATD Capability Alignment

Career and Leadership Development
Exploring career pathways, professional growth, leadership opportunities, and strategies for navigating career transitions.
Communication
Understanding how effective communication, relationship-building, and personal branding contribute to career success and professional influence.
Lifelong Learning
Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, skill development, adaptability, and staying relevant in a changing profession.

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM CT

ATD Nashville Members: FREE

Non-Members: $20

About the Panelist:

Magda Krych is a PMP-accredited Learning and Development Project Manager, speaker, and learning strategist who helps people and organizations turn curiosity into meaningful action. She specializes in designing innovative learning experiences, leading complex initiatives, and supporting organizational change. With experience across Fortune 500 companies and industries including healthcare, technology, construction, retail, and manufacturing, Magda brings a cross-functional perspective shaped by expertise in learning and development, communications, project management, and facilitation.

An active member and SIG leader with ATD Nashville, as well as a participant in Toastmasters International, Magda is passionate about creating spaces where people can think differently, grow with intention, and build stronger connections. She holds degrees in English Literature from Tennessee Technological University and Tennessee State University, along with a master’s degree in from Vanderbilt University.

Through speaking engagements, workshops, and conversations, Magda invites audiences to explore curiosity, creativity, innovation, and collaboration as practical tools for navigating change—in work and in life.

Arie Bell is a Talent Development Manager at The Ōnin Group, where she leads learning, talent, and performance initiatives for the organization. With experience spanning recruiting, operations, and organizational development, she builds practical, data-informed programs that drive stronger onboarding, leadership capability, and overall employee success.

Previously, Arie supported regional operations and recruiting development, designing onboarding programs, leadership training, and adoption strategies that improved productivity, engagement, and retention. She holds a B.A. in Anthropology and Human & Organizational Development from Vanderbilt University, APTD certification and an Adult Learning Certificate issued by the Association for Talent Development. In her free time, Arie loves to read, watch movies, and recently started figure skating.

Jennifer Brown, ACC, M.S. is an executive coach and organizational development professional with nearly 20 years of experience in human resources, leadership development, and learning strategy. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Union University and a Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU).

Jennifer is the founder of Better Coaching & Consulting and an affiliate of the Positive Psychology Group. She combines behavioral science with practical experience to help individuals and teams create meaningful, lasting change. Her coaching approach leverages data-driven assessments such as the Hogan Assessments and VIA Strengths to build self-awareness, enhance leadership effectiveness, and strengthen team dynamics.

About the Facilitator:

Rebecca is an ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC), Prosci Change Management Practitioner, EQ-i 2.0 facilitator, and holds multiple leadership certifications. She is passionate about creating compassionate, human-centered workplaces where people can learn, grow, and thrive. Rebecca is the Director of Career Strategy for ATD Nashville Chapter.

SIG: Career Transition Office Hours (Virtual) (Fri, September 04, 2026)

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Career Transition SIG
Virtual Office Hours

During Office Hours, you can:

Get targeted feedback on your career portfolio materials (resume, LinkedIn, work samples)
Ask real-time questions about job searching, career direction, or challenges you’re facing
Receive coaching and guidance on applying session concepts (e.g., storytelling, interviewing, AI tools)
Work through roadblocks or uncertainty in a supportive, low-pressure environment
Build deeper connections with others navigating similar transitions
Practice your interviewing skills or strategic introduction

This is where ideas turn into action—and where you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Office Hours Dates:

September 4, 2026
October 2, 2026
November 6, 2026
December 4, 2026

Time: 12:00-1:00 PM CST

Location: Zoom (link sent after registration)

Members & Non-Members: FREE

Hosts:

Virtual Forum: AI in Talent Development: Practical Use Cases (Thu, September 10, 2026)

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

AI in Talent Development: Practical Use Cases
Virtual Forum

ATD Nashville’s Virtual Forums are interactive, peer-driven discussions designed to connect talent development professionals around timely topics, shared challenges, and practical solutions. Each session features facilitated small-group conversations where participants exchange ideas, experiences, tools, and strategies with others in the ATD Nashville community.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the way learning professionals design, develop, and deliver training—but with so many tools emerging, it can be difficult to know where to start or how to use AI responsibly. How are L&D teams using AI to increase productivity, enhance learner experiences, and streamline everyday work? What governance, ethical considerations, and organizational policies are shaping AI adoption? And where should we draw the line between automation and human expertise?

Join us for a collaborative discussion as we explore practical applications of AI in talent development, lessons learned from early adopters, and strategies for integrating AI into your workflow while maintaining quality, trust, and compliance. Whether you're just beginning to experiment with AI, actively incorporating it into your work, or helping shape your organization's AI strategy, this forum provides an opportunity to exchange ideas, ask questions, and learn from the experiences of fellow L&D professionals.

This is not a presentation or webinar. It’s a facilitated conversation designed to encourage participation, networking, and knowledge-sharing in a relaxed, virtual environment.

Time: 12:00-1:00 PM CST

Location: Zoom

*Zoom URL will be provided upon registration

Members: FREE

Non-Members: $20

Facilitator:

Tamara D. Jones, MPS, SHRM-CP, is a Human Resources and Learning & Development leader, entrepreneur, and speaker passionate about leadership growth, employee engagement, and purpose-driven development. With experience leading organizational initiatives in training, culture, and workforce strategy, she is known for helping individuals and teams build confidence, adaptability, and lasting impact. Tamara also serves her community through mentorship, workforce development, and service-based entrepreneurship.

SIG: Career Transition (In-person) (Thu, September 10, 2026)

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Session 9: The Art of the Interview
Career Transition SIG (In-person)

Program Overview:

Designing Your Next Chapter is ATD Nashville’s new 2026 Career Transition Special Interest Group (SIG) created for L&D and talent professionals navigating change, exploring what’s next, or rebuilding after a job loss. This SIG will run monthly for twelve (12 months), with a combination of virtual and in-person sessions.

Each month, we’ll blend practical tools with real community: think portfolio-ready deliverables, guided reflection, skill-building workshops, and networking that actually feels good. Whether you’re clarifying your direction, refreshing your brand, or searching for your next role, you’ll gain momentum, confidence, and a supportive circle that grows with you. If you’re ready for clarity, action, and a community that understands your journey, join us. Your next chapter starts here!

By the end of the Career Transition SIG, participants will leave with:

A complete Career Portfolio
Increased professional confidence
Stronger networks and deeper community
Market-ready skills in storytelling, interviewing, AI, resilience, and capability mapping
Applied knowledge aligned to the ATD Capability Model

Current Session Information:

Session 9: The Art of the Interview

Learning Objectives:

Describe behavioral and situational interview formats.
Apply storytelling to communicate accomplishments.
Demonstrate improved interview responses through skills practice.

ATD Capability Alignment: Communication, Performance Improvement

Date & Time: Thursday, September 10, 2026 from 5:30-7:30 PM CST

Location: In-person, Franklin Main Library 2nd Floor Learning Center

The Franklin Library is located at 1314 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, TN. The Learning Center is on the 2nd floor. PLEASE NOTE: Food and Drink are not allowed in this room.

Members: FREE with registration

Non-Members: FREE with registration

Hosts:

ATD Nashville Chapter Monthly Board Meeting (Virtual) (Mon, September 14, 2026)

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 22:30:00 GMT

The ATD Nashville Chapter Board is made up of passionate leaders just like you—who are committed to serving others and strengthening our talent development community.

For transparency and shared learning, board meeting notes, annual updates, and board role descriptions are available on our website.

We invite you to get involved. Volunteer-led organizations like ATD Nashville thrive because of leaders who are willing to connect, contribute, and serve.

If you would like to submit an agenda item for a board meeting, please email president@atdnashville.org at least one week (7 calendar days) prior to the meeting for inclusion.

Brave Enough to Lead: Building Cultures of Psychological Safety (Thu, September 17, 2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Brave Enough to Lead: Building Cultures of Psychological Safety

In-Person Chapter Meeting

Overview:

Psychological safety is a powerful yet underleveraged driver of organizational performance, innovation, and engagement. Despite its widespread benefits, it is often framed narrowly as a team or interpersonal issue. This session reframes psychological safety as a strategic organizational imperative—one that must be embedded into leadership development and cultural design.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will:

Examine the systemic and cultural role of psychological safety in driving learning, adaptability, and empowerment.
Analyze how leadership behaviors can either reinforce or erode psychological safety.
Apply a new, research-informed competency model that identifies five core dimensions of psychologically safe leadership.
Work through real-world scenarios to diagnose challenges and craft actionable strategies.
Reflect and collaborate with peers to support ongoing application in their own settings.

Key Takeaways:

Psychological safety is not a “soft skill”—it’s a core performance strategy.
Leaders set the tone: communication, inclusion, and response to risk matter.
Talent development professionals play a critical role in equipping leaders to create and sustain safe environments.
The new competency model provides practical tools for coaching, training, design, and assessment.

5:30 PM - 7:30 PM CT

Location: Williamson Country Public Library - Main Branch, 1314 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, TN 37064

Members: FREE

Parking: FREE

Non-Members: $20

About the Facilitators:

In her work, Deb focuses on creating client efficacy, through human performance analysis, identification, design, implementation, and evaluation of human performance interventions.

SIG: Instructional Design (ID) - Virtual (Mon, September 21, 2026)

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Session 8: Implementing Training Programs
Virtual SIG: Instructional Design

Program Overview:

To see an outline of the whole program, please visit this website.

Current Session Information:

Session 8: Implementing Training Programs

- Effective delivery methods for different learning environments
- Facilitation skills and techniques for learner engagement
- Managing logistics and resources for training programs

Activity: Present a detailed plan, including needs assessment, objectives, instructional strategies, and materials needed to implement your chosen training program. This can be a recorded presentation.

Activities are due no later than Monday, October 12, 2026

TIME: 5:30-6:45 PM CST

Location: Zoom

*Zoom URL will be provided upon registration

Members: FREE with registration

Non-Members: $20 with registration

Host:

Paula actively supports her profession by leading the ATD Nashville Instructional Design SIG, where she mentors fellow talent development professionals.

SIG: Career Transition Office Hours (Virtual) (Fri, October 02, 2026)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Career Transition SIG
Virtual Office Hours

During Office Hours, you can:

Get targeted feedback on your career portfolio materials (resume, LinkedIn, work samples)
Ask real-time questions about job searching, career direction, or challenges you’re facing
Receive coaching and guidance on applying session concepts (e.g., storytelling, interviewing, AI tools)
Work through roadblocks or uncertainty in a supportive, low-pressure environment
Build deeper connections with others navigating similar transitions
Practice your interviewing skills or strategic introduction

This is where ideas turn into action—and where you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Office Hours Dates:

October 2, 2026
November 6, 2026
December 4, 2026

Time: 12:00-1:00 PM CST

Location: Zoom (link sent after registration)

Members & Non-Members: FREE

Hosts:

ATD Nashville Chapter Monthly Board Meeting (Virtual) (Mon, October 12, 2026)

Mon, 12 Oct 2026 22:30:00 GMT

The ATD Nashville Chapter Board is made up of passionate leaders just like you—who are committed to serving others and strengthening our talent development community.

For transparency and shared learning, board meeting notes, annual updates, and board role descriptions are available on our website.

We invite you to get involved. Volunteer-led organizations like ATD Nashville thrive because of leaders who are willing to connect, contribute, and serve.

If you would like to submit an agenda item for a board meeting, please email president@atdnashville.org at least one week (7 calendar days) prior to the meeting for inclusion.

SIG: Instructional Design (ID) - Virtual (Mon, October 19, 2026)

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Session 9: Evaluating Learning Outcomes
Virtual SIG: Instructional Design

Program Overview:

To see an outline of the whole program, please visit this website.

Current Session Information:

Session 9: Evaluating Learning Outcomes

- Designing assessments to measure learning outcomes
- Methods for collecting and analyzing evaluation data
- Using feedback to improve instructional design

Activity: Develop an assessment and answer key for your learning unit.

Activities are due no later than Monday, November 9, 2026

TIME: 5:30-6:45 PM CST

Location: Zoom

*Zoom URL will be provided upon registration

Members: FREE with registration

Non-Members: $20 with registration

Host:

Paula actively supports her profession by leading the ATD Nashville Instructional Design SIG, where she mentors fellow talent development professionals.

SIG: Organizational Development (OD) - Virtual (Thu, October 22, 2026)

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Quick Wins in Improving Team Effectiveness

Organizational Development SIG

Join us for the ATD Nashville Organizational Development (OD) SIG!

Strong teams do not happen by accident—and improving team effectiveness does not always require large-scale change. Join us on October 22 for Quick Wins in Improving Team Effectiveness, a practical and collaborative session designed for organizational development and learning professionals looking for actionable strategies that can make an immediate impact.

Participants will explore common barriers that affect team performance, communication, and alignment while identifying simple but effective approaches to strengthen collaboration and engagement. The session will highlight practical tools, coaching strategies, and “quick wins” that leaders and OD professionals can apply right away to support healthier team dynamics and improved performance outcomes.

Aligned with the ATD Capability Model areas of Collaboration & Leadership, Communication, Performance Improvement, and Coaching, this session offers practical insights that can be applied across a wide range of workplace settings.

Learning Objectives:

Identify common challenges impacting team effectiveness
Explore practical strategies for improving team communication and alignment
Share tools and quick wins that support stronger team performance

ATD Capability Alignment:

Collaboration & Leadership

Communication

Performance Improvement

Coaching

Time: 5:00 PM - 6:15 PM CST

Members: FREE with registration

Non-Members: FREE with registration

Hosts:

In her work, Deb focuses on creating client efficacy, through human performance analysis, identification, design, implementation, and evaluation of human performance interventions.

2026 ATD Nashville Conference | Ignite the Spark: Lighting the Way to Excellence (Fri, October 23, 2026)

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

2026 ATD Nashville Conference
Ignite the Spark: Lighting the Way to Excellence

Join us for our 2026 conference on Friday, October 23, 2026! We'll gather to learn and connect at the Cracker Barrel Headquarters in Lebanon, Tennessee.

Discover what’s next in learning and leadership at this full day event that brings together L&D professionals, leaders, and innovators in sessions designed to equip you with fresh strategies to drive performance and engagement.

This year’s conference is packed with sessions that will ignite new ideas, spark meaningful conversations, and light the way to excellence in learning and talent development.

From reimagining onboarding through everboarding strategies and creating AI-assisted learning experiences, to strengthening leadership communication, employee engagement, and conflict resolution, you'll discover practical tools that can be applied immediately in your organization. Explore how to transform insights into action, build sustainable learning cultures, improve survey effectiveness, and increase your influence as a talent development professional.

Whether you're looking for your next lightbulb moment, seeking innovative ways to engage learners, or developing the leaders who will serve as guiding lights for others, each session is designed to help you learn with intention and lead with impact.

Stay tuned for more details about session topics and our amazing speaker lineup!

2026 Conference Pricing:

Early Bird Pricing (ends August 15, 2026)

Member: $65
Non-Member: $100

Regular Pricing

Member: $80
Non-Member: $120
Students: $35

The Buddy Bundle!

Bringing a colleague? Take advantage of our Buddy Bundle! When you purchase one conference registration, the second registration is $20 off. Learning is better together, and so is saving money.

Contact our VP of Conferences, Nicholas Brown, with any questions.

Location: Cracker Barrel Headquarters: 305 Hartmann Drive Lebanon, TN 37087

Date/Time: Friday, October 23, 2026 • 8:00AM - 4:30PM CST
Registration starts at 7:30AM.

Conference Cancellation Policy: Our conference cancellation policy optimizes the participant experience by containing the various costs associated with the event. Registration refunds, minus a 3% credit card processing fee, are available prior to Sep 23, 2026. After this date, a registered attendee may send an alternate to the event without an additional charge. All requests for substitutions must be received prior to Oct 18, 2026. To request a cancellation or a participant change, please contact us at conferences@atdnashville.org with the following information: name, email, and phone number of the registered attendee and the alternate participant.

Virtual Forum: Consulting with Stakeholders for Better Learning Solutions (Tue, November 03, 2026)

Tue, 03 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Consulting with Stakeholders for Better Learning Solutions
Virtual Forum

Great learning solutions begin long before content is developed—they start with understanding the business need. How can L&D professionals move beyond being order takers to becoming trusted strategic partners? What questions help uncover the root cause of a performance challenge? How do you build credibility with stakeholders, manage expectations, and ensure learning solutions are aligned with organizational goals?

Join us for a collaborative discussion as we explore effective consulting practices, stakeholder engagement strategies, and techniques for identifying the right solution to the right problem. Whether you're supporting internal clients, partnering with business leaders, or working with external customers, this forum offers an opportunity to share experiences, learn from your peers, and discover practical approaches for strengthening relationships and delivering learning solutions that drive meaningful business results.

This is not a presentation or webinar. It’s a facilitated conversation designed to encourage participation, networking, and knowledge-sharing in a relaxed, virtual environment.

Time: 12:00-1:00 PM CST

Location: Zoom

*Zoom URL will be provided upon registration

Members: FREE

Non-Members: $20

Facilitator:

SIG: Career Transition Office Hours (Virtual) (Fri, November 06, 2026)

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Career Transition SIG
Virtual Office Hours

During Office Hours, you can:

Get targeted feedback on your career portfolio materials (resume, LinkedIn, work samples)
Ask real-time questions about job searching, career direction, or challenges you’re facing
Receive coaching and guidance on applying session concepts (e.g., storytelling, interviewing, AI tools)
Work through roadblocks or uncertainty in a supportive, low-pressure environment
Build deeper connections with others navigating similar transitions
Practice your interviewing skills or strategic introduction

This is where ideas turn into action—and where you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Office Hours Dates:

November 6, 2026
December 4, 2026

Time: 12:00-1:00 PM CST

Location: Zoom (link sent after registration)

Members & Non-Members: FREE

Hosts:

ATD Nashville Chapter Monthly Board Meeting (Virtual) (Mon, November 09, 2026)

Mon, 09 Nov 2026 23:30:00 GMT

The ATD Nashville Chapter Board is made up of passionate leaders just like you—who are committed to serving others and strengthening our talent development community.

For transparency and shared learning, board meeting notes, annual updates, and board role descriptions are available on our website.

We invite you to get involved. Volunteer-led organizations like ATD Nashville thrive because of leaders who are willing to connect, contribute, and serve.

If you would like to submit an agenda item for a board meeting, please email president@atdnashville.org at least one week (7 calendar days) prior to the meeting for inclusion.

Pages & Progress (Virtual Book Club): The Power of Moments (Fri, November 13, 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact (Chip & Dan Heath)
Pages & Progress - A No-Pressure Virtual Book Club for Learning Pros

This quarter we'll read The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact by Chip and Dan Heath.

While human lives are endlessly variable, our most memorable positive moments are dominated by four elements: elevation, insight, pride, and connection. If we embrace these elements, we can conjure more moments that matter. What if a teacher could design a lesson that he knew his students would remember twenty years later? What if a manager knew how to create an experience that would delight customers? What if you had a better sense of how to create memories that matter for your children?

This book delves into some fascinating mysteries of experience: Why we tend to remember the best or worst moment of an experience, as well as the last moment, and forget the rest. Why “we feel most comfortable when things are certain, but we feel most alive when they’re not.” And why our most cherished memories are clustered into a brief period during our youth.

Readers discover how brief experiences can change lives, such as the experiment in which two strangers meet in a room, and forty-five minutes later, they leave as best friends. (What happens in that time?) Or the tale of the world’s youngest female billionaire, who credits her resilience to something her father asked the family at the dinner table. (What was that simple question?)

Many of the defining moments in our lives are the result of accident or luck—but why would we leave our most meaningful, memorable moments to chance when we can create them? The Power of Moments shows us how to be the author of richer experiences.

Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CST

Members: FREE

Non-Members: $10

Facilitator:

She has certifications in Six Sigma, Color Code Personality Science, and Adult Learning (Association for Talent Development). Kelly earned her BBA and MBA from Middle Tennessee State University.

SIG: Instructional Design (ID) - Virtual (Mon, November 16, 2026)

Mon, 16 Nov 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Session 10: Emerging Trends in Instructional Design
Virtual SIG: Instructional Design

Program Overview:

To see an outline of the whole program, please visit this website.

Current Session Information:

Session 10: Emerging Trends in Instructional Design

- Leveraging new technologies (AI, VR, AR) in instructional design
- Microlearning and gamification
- Future directions and continuous improvement in instructional design

Activity: Develp a learning unit about an emerging trend of your choice.

Activities are due no later than Monday, December 14, 2026

TIME: 5:30-6:45 PM CST

Location: Zoom

*Zoom URL will be provided upon registration

Members: FREE with registration

Non-Members: $20 with registration

Host:

Paula actively supports her profession by leading the ATD Nashville Instructional Design SIG, where she mentors fellow talent development professionals.

SIG: Career Transition (Virtual) (Tue, November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Session 11: Peer Coaching
Career Transition SIG (Virtual)

Program Overview:

By the end of the Career Transition SIG, participants will leave with:

A complete Career Portfolio
Increased professional confidence
Stronger networks and deeper community
Market-ready skills in storytelling, interviewing, AI, resilience, and capability mapping
Applied knowledge aligned to the ATD Capability Model

Current Session Information:

Session 11: Peer Coaching

Learning Objectives:

Synthesize key learnings from the year.
Build a short-term and long-term career action plan.
Set SMART goals for the next 6 months of transition.

ATD Capability Alignment: Performance Improvement

Date & Time: Tuesday, November 17, 2026 from 12:00-1:00 PM CST

Location: Zoom

*Zoom URL will be provided upon registration

Members: FREE with registration

Non-Members: FREE with registration

Hosts:

SIG: Career Transition Office Hours (Virtual) (Fri, December 04, 2026)

Fri, 04 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Career Transition SIG
Virtual Office Hours

During Office Hours, you can:

Get targeted feedback on your career portfolio materials (resume, LinkedIn, work samples)
Ask real-time questions about job searching, career direction, or challenges you’re facing
Receive coaching and guidance on applying session concepts (e.g., storytelling, interviewing, AI tools)
Work through roadblocks or uncertainty in a supportive, low-pressure environment
Build deeper connections with others navigating similar transitions
Practice your interviewing skills or strategic introduction

This is where ideas turn into action—and where you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Date: Friday, December 4, 2026

Time: 12:00-1:00 PM CST

Location: Zoom (link sent after registration)

Members & Non-Members: FREE

Hosts:

ATD Nashville upcoming events

SIG: Career Transition Office Hours (Virtual) (Fri, August 07, 2026)

ATD Nashville Chapter Monthly Board Meeting (Virtual) (Mon, August 10, 2026)

Virtual Meeting: What is AI Literacy? How HR and L&D Can Enable AI Productivity and Safety (Wed, August 12, 2026)

Pages & Progress (Virtual Book Club): Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion (Fri, August 14, 2026)

SIG: Instructional Design (ID) - Virtual (Mon, August 17, 2026)

SIG: Organizational Development (OD) - Virtual (Thu, August 20, 2026)

Virtual Chapter Meeting: Many Paths. One Profession. Discover What's Possible in Talent Development. (Thu, August 27, 2026)

SIG: Career Transition Office Hours (Virtual) (Fri, September 04, 2026)

Virtual Forum: AI in Talent Development: Practical Use Cases (Thu, September 10, 2026)

SIG: Career Transition (In-person) (Thu, September 10, 2026)

ATD Nashville Chapter Monthly Board Meeting (Virtual) (Mon, September 14, 2026)

Brave Enough to Lead: Building Cultures of Psychological Safety (Thu, September 17, 2026)

SIG: Instructional Design (ID) - Virtual (Mon, September 21, 2026)

SIG: Career Transition Office Hours (Virtual) (Fri, October 02, 2026)

ATD Nashville Chapter Monthly Board Meeting (Virtual) (Mon, October 12, 2026)

SIG: Instructional Design (ID) - Virtual (Mon, October 19, 2026)

SIG: Organizational Development (OD) - Virtual (Thu, October 22, 2026)

2026 ATD Nashville Conference | Ignite the Spark: Lighting the Way to Excellence (Fri, October 23, 2026)

2026 ATD Nashville ConferenceIgnite the Spark: Lighting the Way to Excellence

2026 Conference Pricing:

Virtual Forum: Consulting with Stakeholders for Better Learning Solutions (Tue, November 03, 2026)

SIG: Career Transition Office Hours (Virtual) (Fri, November 06, 2026)

ATD Nashville Chapter Monthly Board Meeting (Virtual) (Mon, November 09, 2026)

Pages & Progress (Virtual Book Club): The Power of Moments (Fri, November 13, 2026)

SIG: Instructional Design (ID) - Virtual (Mon, November 16, 2026)

SIG: Career Transition (Virtual) (Tue, November 17, 2026)

SIG: Career Transition Office Hours (Virtual) (Fri, December 04, 2026)

2026 ATD Nashville Conference
Ignite the Spark: Lighting the Way to Excellence