Following the Spark: Jo Cook’s Journey into Learning and Leadership

S3 E9: In this candid and engaging episode, we’re joined by Jo Cook, virtual learning pioneer, editor of Training Journal, and unapologetically curious creative. Jo shares her unconventional journey from teenage journalism dreams to discovering a passion for teaching, which sparked during a nerve-racking first classroom experience.

We explore Jo’s fearless move into self-employment, her early adoption of virtual classrooms, and how creativity fuels everything she does, from glittery canvases to online facilitation. She also opens up about navigating feedback, synthesising insights across projects, and why her business is aptly named “Lightbulb Moment.”

Whether you’re an L&D professional, creative thinker or someone figuring out what energises you, this episode is packed with humour, honesty and practical wisdom.

Key Learnings
Curiosity is a powerful compass for career growth
Jo’s journey shows that following what genuinely interests you even if it doesn’t fit the conventional path  can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities. Her curiosity led her from journalism to teaching, and eventually to becoming a respected voice in virtual learning.

Feedback is valuable, but boundaries matter
Jo shares how learning to discern which feedback to take on board, and which to leave behind, was a crucial part of her personal and professional development. It’s not about ignoring criticism, but about knowing yourself well enough to decide what truly serves your growth.

Guest Information: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocooklightbulb/
https://lightbulbmoment.info/
https://www.trainingjournal.com/
jo@lightbulbmoment.info

Chapters

• 2:38 Introduction
• 4:01 Discovering a Love for Teaching
• 6:16 Why Range and Depth of Experience Matter
• 14:04 Taking the Leap into Self-Employment
• 15:33 Feedback, Creativity and the Lightbulb Moment