In Learning and Development, we’ve become borderline obsessed with the learner. What do they need? What do they want? What keeps them up at night? We analyze them like we’re trying to crack the code to their soul—or at least figure out their go-to coffee order. (Double shot of espresso, almond milk, no sugar—nailed it?)

But here’s the kicker: in this endless chase to know the learner, we forget the one thing that matters most—the teacher.

Courses aren’t just conveyor belts moving people from “I have no idea” to “I kinda get it.” They’re about connection. About the teacher stepping in and saying, “Hey, this stuff matters, and I’m going to show you why.” Yet, too often, we slap on some fancy framework, tick the boxes, and hope the shiny design does the heavy lifting. Spoiler: it doesn’t. If you’re not excited, they won’t be either. Period.

So, let’s flip the script. What kind of teacher do you want to be? The one who gets remembered because your energy, passion, and creativity sparked something in someone? Or the one who churns out cookie-cutter content so lifeless it could put an insomniac to sleep?

Great teaching isn’t about trendy hacks or rigid theories. It’s about showing up with fire—making your content so alive it practically grabs learners by the collar and says, “Pay attention! This is for you.” If you’re bringing the same energy as a Monday morning meeting, guess what? Your learners are already checked out.

If you want them to care, you’ve got to care first. Be the teacher who leaves their mark, who turns “just another course” into something people actually remember. Show up. Make the difference.