Jumpstart Your Instructional Design Career

208
How To #234

**On break and returning early 2025**

Thinking about becoming an Instructional Designer (ID) but have no idea how to get started? Instructional Design is a field that is high in demand, very flexible, highly lucrative, and provides you with a great work-life balance (say bye to being overworked and underpaid)! Join Jill Davidian, 21-year corporate Instructional Design veteran and host of Jumpstart Your Instructional Design Career! Jill has worked in many different industries including finance, health care, oil and gas, manufacturing, and even with the United Nations. She has helped over 500 new Instructional Designers launch their ID careers with corporate giants like Google and Amazon, as well as smaller companies. Each week she brings real talk, advice and inspiration, and interviews to help budding IDs stand out from the crowd and get that first job. Whether you are trying to figure out if Instructional Design is right for you, or you are ready to create a portfolio and rework your resume, you are in the right place to jumpstart your Instructional Design career. 

More
Recent Episodes
Episodes loading...
Recent Reviews
  • Breakthrough is here!
    Break through and jump into this group!
    I can’t believe!! I’ve been sleeping on this finally awaken to ID and Jill has everything one needs to succeed and be great. Hands down you have got to join us in a life style of learning and freedom. Life work balance at the next level!!!!
  • vinnie 2018
    Episode 13
    Very helpful in understanding what type of computer you need to work in the industry!! Thanks Jill!
  • Colprof
    Extremely informative
    These podcasts are full of valuable information for anyone considering a career in corporate instructional design. Jill is very honest about what to expect in terms of financial investment, programs needed, and time that should be set aside in order to successfully transition to a career in corporate instructional design.
  • Deelii7
    Clear Concise Learning on Instructional Design
    Jill’s podcast is fantastic for deciding if you want to or are ready to begin a career in ID. The many topics are clearly explained in a concise manner and relevant to the the field of ID. I honestly didn’t expect to find this level of learning; it is refreshing. Topics include resume rewriting, differences between Ed and corporate ID, types of delivery design and building portfolios among other topics. I fully recommend this podcast if you have recently decided to become an ID or are contemplating this career.
  • SueSea~~
    Podcasts are Fantastic
    I truly enjoyed these podcast by Ms. Jill- Not only were they totally informative and inspiring, I found them to be very articulate and easy to understand- The examples really helped get the point across. I am a teacher thinking (seriously) of transitioning to corporate ID. This may just be the push I need!
  • Kowalski95
    Good info on timeframe in 21
    Very good podcast! It helps sets manageable goals for become an Instructional Designer. The time frame is very realistic and practical.
  • Jenn Blan
    Practical Information and Motivational!
    I listened to this podcast while driving to and from a job I knew was not for me! Jill’s advice provided so much motivation for me and a sense that this was a career path that I absolutely was qualified for. Even more, her podcast provides real life, practical information on what instructional design is and what is needed to land a job in ID. Definitely listen to this if you are someone who wants to know what IDs do and to help you find success in landing a job if that’s the path you are on!
  • Ms. Motivated14
    Very Informative!!
    Love how you get right to the point and stay on topic.
  • Britt from FL
    Extremely Valuable
    Jill’s podcast really breaks down the basics of ID and she provides thorough answers to questions people considering entering the field might have. The information is concise but thorough and every episode is packed with value and useful information. It’s evident that she is a true expert in the field and I’d recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about ID. Thank you!
  • 2Bhappy🙂
    How to create Portfolio for ID
    This podcast helped to understand what is needed in your portfolio! Excellent point on creating a portfolio of items needed for the new corporate job you want hired to do. The portfolio is your advertisement for what I will be able to do for my new company! Your samples need to be different using different technologies. Great tips on making a storyline and storyboard as well as design document. Thank you for all the suggestions on best tools for creating teaching animated videos. Main thing to understand is building a quality portfolio takes time and revision.
  • Ambertotherescue
    Great intro on if ID is right for you!
    Jill does a great job breaking down the parts of ID and answering any questions I might give. She uses great examples and analogies so I can get a clear picture of expectations about instructional design.
  • Bodhicitta3
    Great information on Instructional Design Career Transitioning!
    Jill is an amazing instructional designer and she shares her depth of knowledge and experience to help those looking to transition to the career but also giving real, practical and meaningful tips on how to transition and what it really takes to make it and get noticed by employers and get paid for high quality work.
  • Cassie Ortiz
    Valuable Information Presented Clearly and Concisely
    This is the most valuable podcast I have been lucky enough to come across. The information is presented clearly and concisely. It is well organized and thoughtfully prepared. After each episode, I feel empowered to tackle another facet of mastering instructional design.
  • FanFromNOVA
    Super helpful!
    You’ll be very inspired if you are new to ID! Every episode is packed full of fantastic, realistic information that you can use! Be ready to take notes and relisten over and over - there is so much to gain from this podcast, and you’ll pick up on more thoughts by listening more than once!
  • I H8Township
    How to Write a Design Document
    “Don’t make this harder than it is.” As a teacher, listening to the episode I was able to apply what I would ask my students to consider as they analyze a text or write an essay to my thinking of the Design Document. Jill walks you through the design document from start to finish, and she repeatedly tells you that much of what you will need will be given to you. However, she does maintain the importance of the design document to the overall process and even its relevance to your portfolio.
  • sutts77
    Clear and concise information, just like good e-learning!
    The Jumpstart Your Instructional Design Career podcast by Jill Davidian is excellent. I have been studying ID for several years and she explains the career path more clearly than anyone else. She also doesn't sugar coat it, it isn't easy, it is hard work, but the rewards are great. Excellent information!
  • lulu.567
    What needs to be in your ID portfolio to get hired
    This was a great podcast! I have been wanting to creat a portfolio for years but just didn’t know where to start. Jill breaks it down into easy manageable steps.
  • Jess DLR
    Focused, Inspiring, Helpful
    This podcast helps inspire but also focus you on the work of pivoting to an instructional design career. Highly recommend!
  • scallygirl07
    Episode 20 - AMAZING!
    This was a wonderful episode. Jill spoke from her heart and didn’t just promote her program as the best and only. I enjoyed the fact that she gave questions to ask to find the perfect academy for me whether it was hers or not. I am signed up for the workshop and can’t wait!!!
  • daddiesdaughters
    Should I Get a Master’s Degree in Instructional Design
    After listening to the podcast, I realized that I really didn’t need to return to college to pursue my masters degree. However, I plan to graduate with my masters degree next month and I wished that I could have found out about this program a few years ago before enrolling in school. I could have saved tons of money and time. I realized that what I’ve learned in college was all theory and not the actual application to prepare me for a job in instructional design. Although, I have a foundation, I’m searching on how to build and where to start at this point. The podcast was very resourceful, precise and truthful! So, for anyone thinking about pursuing a career as an ID, don’t waste your time and money on going to school.
  • Erika - transitioning teacher
    Useful information
    I just listened to your podcast on developing a portfolio and found it very useful and full of detail!
  • hrobinson106
    Episode 2 was Great!
    The episode on how Instructional Design is like building a house was great! It really helped me understand process and what you need to do as an instructional designer.
  • SuzyAlb
    Motivational!
    I discovered Jill’s podcast series over the summer. I listened to all the episodes in just a few weeks. Her advice is motivational and easy to understand. Now I believe I can make a positive change in my career!
  • Katie O Rehill
    Mountains of info!
    I stumbled across Jill’s workshop and podcast. There is so much junk out there and this is a diamond in the rough. I learned so much about ID, how to build my portfolio, and everything else in between from this podcast. It’s real talk and pep talk wrapped up into one amazing educational podcast. There’s nothing like it. Highly recommend!
  • Mgcollier
    I wish I’d found this podcast sooner
    The structure of this podcast made me sigh with relief. There are a LOT of podcasts out here, some good, some entertaining, some that make me grimace. This podcast is not only good, it’s informative in a way that makes me want to keep listening. If you like well organized content, this is a very happy place.
  • Ball bouncer0609
    So real!
    Jill does an amazing job inspiring me with instructional design. I listened to this podcast in about a week and I look forward to hearing episodes over. I save many. Her advice is encouraging and she keeps it real. Highly recommend!
  • C21 top ten
    I can see clearly now
    I was trying to figure out where to start my career transition—the episode on the software I needed to know cleared up the muddy waters. I know what to focus on first and how to interpret the job descriptions. I will be listening to learn more.
  • dreamrgrl
    Inspiring
    I hesitantly began listening to this podcast because I’m looking for a career change (25 years in the classroom has me feeling completely burned out), but change is HARD! I started with episode 1 and immediately connected with Jill’s story. This podcast is giving me the inspiration and confidence to pursue a career change to instructional design.
  • julielulielynn
    Excellent ID podcast!
    This podcast is an excellent intro into the field of corporate instructional design. Jill gives an overview that let’s see what work in the field entails, and dives in deeper to topics like resume writing, building a portfolio to get you hired, and what programs you need to learn. Highly recommend!
  • Tabitha7885
    Loved your Podcast….
    I’m not a big podcast person, but I listened to your podcast on why instructional design was recession proof and your points made so much sense. I can’t wait to listen to more!
  • songluver<3
    Aspiring ID
    Thank you, Jill, for providing this INVALUABLE resource out there for teachers like me who have been trying to break into the ID world with little to no experience. I have been listening to this podcast non-stop since I stumbled across it and I’m so excited to put your advice towards starting my next steps in this exciting career!
  • Smorsh
    Teacher transition keywords
    As a teacher hoping to transitioning to ID so I listened to this episode to hear more about how to use specific key words to enhance my resume and help me stand out!
  • Beetastic
    Great information
    Great information on how to make a change in your career.
  • LivYoLife
    Binge
    I’m not a podcast listener usually, but I have been binging these episodes and taking notes! So much great information that I can’t wait to put to use! Thank you, Jill!
  • roxyprice17
    Excited
    I am so excited to listen and gain knowledge from these podcasts!
  • DeVonya 3.0
    Excellent advice
    Thoroughly enjoyed listening to the podcast in connection with this week’s five day workshop. It is helping me make connections and better understand my next steps. Thank you for the excellent advice, consistent and clear communication. I am so ready to transition.
  • Extremely intrigued!
    Questioning a new career in I.D, check this out!
    I have been listening to Jill’s podcasts for the last few weeks and am currently taking her free workshop. This has been nothing short of amazing! Each episode is so insightful and has been extremely helpful as I wrap my head around Instructional Design and all that it entails. If you are thinking of starting a new career and have a passion for educating others, I highly recommend checking out Jill Davidian’s podcast!
  • JA. P
    Great Podcast!
    Very informative with practical tips on how to build and grow your skills in instructional design.
  • Melody1313!
    Great Info
    I’ve listened to a few of the podcasts and these are so helpful if you’re trying to transition into the industry. It’s great to have an insider’s point of view about what you should and should not do.
  • smbaker03
    Inspirational and Helpful
    I have loved every episode I’ve listened to so far! I’m brand new to ID and what it is. Jill does a great job of choosing topics that are valuable and so many questions have been answered! The information is to the point, digestible, and makes me excited for the next. Her passion for ID and helping others learn more is inspiring!
  • cyndromeda
    Great Episode
    Jill is so helpful. She takes the time to really dig in and teach you about the ID field.
  • OMal250
    Extremely Helpful
    The episode on tools was really helpful and I’m definitely going to go learn Storyline, Rise, and Vyond. Thanks for the tips!
  • smokefreeforlife
    Episode 7!!
    Learning how I can start with a topic like a hobby for my first portfolio example gave me a HUGE relief. I’ve got so much that I can work from now. Definitely recommend all of Jill’s content if you want the nuts and bolts of ID starting from the ground up.
  • Kathleen121716
    Wealth of Knowledge
    Jill is amazing! Her podcast is full of relevant information that is organized in a way that helps others succeed. Her topics are broken down so that you have time to process, research, and apply what you learn. She is enjoyable to listen to and so helpful in her courses! Thanks Jill!
  • Jessica_Worthington
    A Game Changer!
    I am so excited to have all this information available to me. Each episode is so full of knowledge and is giving me the confidence to jump over to a new career in ID. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
  • Tjm1002
    Very informative podcast!
    This podcast is filled with great information on transitioning into an ID career. Jill speaks from experience and shares great tips on how to make the transition.
  • Bubble bomber
    Helpful and positive!
    I love listening to her insight into the world of ID. It’s very uplifting and positive, but also very honest without the fluff. I’ve learned so much about this career path potential!
  • LNHiggie
    Guidance
    Thankful for the guidance and willingness to share her experience. She creates a road map that can you help you start the next chapter of your career! Practical tips and tools to prepare for the transition.
  • MAMLS1
    Just beginning this journey!
    I am just at the start of my instructional design career journey, and I came across Jill‘s podcast and Facebook groups. I am looking forward to taking her week course and really diving in!
  • Carol_Haggerty
    Curious about Instructional Design? Start here!
    So happy I found this podcast as I transition out of teaching. I was honestly not very familiar with ID and Jill Davidson does a fantastic job of breaking it all down. I’m hopeful I’ve got a good skill set to become an instructional designer and will definitely be listening to all the episodes!
Disclaimer: The podcast and artwork on this page are property of the podcast owner, and not endorsed by UP.audio.