50: Unlearn to Grow: The Hidden Key to Lasting Leadership Development | Shandretta Solomon

When it comes to learning that actually changes how we work—not just what we know—how do you move from “theory” to habit? In this energizing episode of The Learnit Lounge, host Mickey Fitch-Collins, PHD, sits down with Shandretta Solomon, veteran State of California training leader and manager of the Emerging Professional Program, for a candid look at how to make learning truly stick. They unpack why lasting behavior change is the true measure of training success, what makes unlearning and reprogramming so difficult, and how both internal motivation (think “WIIFM”) and good old-fashioned compliance shape how people grow.

From real-world insights on getting buy-in for change to practical tips on reflection, measurement, and closing the “last mile” gap between classroom and reality, this episode is packed with actionable ideas to help you create learning that lives beyond the training room. Whether you’re leading teams, designing programs, or just trying to better yourself, you’ll find inspiration, honesty, and plenty of humor as the conversation covers everything from “the naughty list” (compliance) to the systems that may be holding your leaders back.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to define and measure “learning that sticks” in the real world—not just in theory or survey scores
• The challenge (and necessity) of unlearning old habits before making a change
• Why internal and external motivators both matter—and how to tap into “what’s in it for me?”
• Strategies for helping learners cross the “last mile” from classroom to behavior, including reflection and intentional debriefs
• The vital role supervisors and systems play in reinforcing learning, and why it’s not just about individuals
• Shandretta's top leadership lessons: when to reprogram, when to unlearn, and why the system—not the person—is sometimes to blame

Timestamps:

00:01 – Welcome to The Learnit Lounge

01:00 – Meet Shandretta Solomon & her L&D journey

01:17 – What does “making learning stick” really mean?

04:04 – The vital importance of unlearning and reprogramming

06:52 – How motivation (WIIFM & compliance) affects training success

10:07 – Connecting the “WIIFM” to real change

13:01 – The “last mile of learning” (theory to behavior)

14:52 – Why training must use real-world scenarios

17:06 – Best practices for reflection and debriefing

19:53 – Why soak time matters for post-training impact

22:26 – Measuring impact: surveys, behaviors, and what really works

24:52 – Sustainment, feedback, and manager buy-in

26:31 – Embedding learning into appraisals and culture

28:04 – Shandretta's biggest leadership lesson: the power of unlearning

29:23 – The uncomfortable truth: When the system, not the leader, needs fixing

31:45 – How to connect with Shandretta & episode wrap-up

About Shandretta Solomon

Shandretta Solomon brings over 27 years of experience serving the State of California, with 20 years dedicated to training, facilitation, and leadership development. Currently, she manages the Emerging Professional Program—a cohort-based initiative focused on personal and career growth for new talent. Shandretta's expertise spans designing impactful learning experiences, leading complex training initiatives, and championing change in entrenched systems. Her trademark: blending real-world insight with empathy and practical tools to help teams truly grow.

Resources & Mentions:

• Shandretta's contact info

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: podcast@learnit.com

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