Let’s be honest—most of us have sat through a training that felt more like a slow march through a PowerPoint graveyard than a meaningful learning experience. You know the type: a wall of bullet points, a monotone voice, and an hour of your life you’ll never get back.

But what if training didn’t have to be that way?

In the latest episode of the Prevention Leaders Podcast, I sit down with Jason Anderson, a passionate trainer, consultant, and motivational interviewing expert, who has spent the last two decades learning how to actually connect with learners. And not just connect, but *transform* how they experience learning.

Training Is More Than Just Teaching

One of Jason’s biggest takeaways? Training isn’t just about transferring knowledge—it’s about creating an experience. And that experience begins the moment your participants walk into the room.

He talks about how he thinks through everything from the seating arrangement to the tone of his opening words, all with one goal: making sure participants feel safe, seen, and ready to engage.

Here Are a Few Gems Jason Dropped:

🔹 Don’t Just Present—Evoke

Rather than dumping information, Jason invites participants to reflect, respond, and share. His "Rapid Reflection" activity using sticky notes or index cards is a quick and powerful way to get people thinking deeply and reviewing content without even realizing they’re doing it.

🔹 Keep It Human

Jason opens his sessions by sharing personal stories and photos of his family—not to make it about him, but to model vulnerability and set a tone of authenticity. He reminds us that it’s okay (and even powerful) to show up as your full self.

🔹 Design for All Learners

From introverts to extroverts, data-heads to big-picture thinkers, Jason intentionally builds training experiences that speak to a range of personalities and learning styles. He challenges us to ask: “Who is this activity really for—and who might it be leaving out?”

🔹 Rethink Your Slide Deck

This one’s simple: less text, more visuals, and don’t be afraid to ditch the slides altogether if the moment calls for something different.

Want More?

This episode is packed with insights, laughs, and real-life stories that will have you rethinking your own approach to training. Whether you’re new to the world of facilitation or a seasoned speaker looking to up your game, Jason’s wisdom and warmth are not to be missed.

🎧 Listen Now

Because the best trainings aren’t remembered for their slides—they’re remembered for how they made people feel.

▶️ Listen on your favorite platform:

Prefer YouTube? Scroll down for the YouTube version.

Resources & Links:

Explore Jason’s website: https://www.thejasonanderson.com/
Learn more about the Montana Institute: https://www.montanainstitute.com/

Beyond the Slide Deck: Elevating Adult Learning Through Engagement