MAD: Facilitation and learning design for MAD Academy's pilot program
This video is from a later cohort of the MAD Academy
The Context
MAD Academy, founded by René Redzepi of Restaurant Noma and Executive Director Melina Shannon-DiPietro, is a hub for hospitality professionals who want to drive positive change within their organizations and in the world around them. As a facilitator specializing in facilitation and learning design, I was invited to contribute to MAD Academy’s groundbreaking pilot program in 2019.
The Process
As a facilitator and learning designer, I worked closely with MAD and the program’s guest speakers to create coherence and clarity around the academy’s four pillars:
Expert insight
The program consisted of curated sessions featuring prominent figures such as chefs Matt Orlando and René Redzepi, Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard, Aarstidernes founder Thomas Harttung, Sticks’n’Sushi founder Kim Rahbek, and Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson. The presentations provided participants with new perspectives, deep insights, and inspiration.
Useful techniques and methods
The program incorporated practical tools that participants could take home and apply directly in their own work. The tools were flexible and could be adapted to the many different roles and organizations within the hospitality industry.
Expanded mindsets
The program focused on clear thinking and deliberate choices. Participants received support in clarifying their direction and were equipped with tools to realize their ambitions—with a focus on long-term, positive change.
Lasting networks
Through facilitated meetings and knowledge sharing, an international community was built that continues to serve as an active network for MAD Academy alumni. The network provides opportunities for ongoing learning, collaboration, and new possibilities.
The results
Through this collaboration, participants developed both new skills and a mindset that supports responsible and effective leadership. The pilot program set a new standard for learning experiences and provided participants with both the tools and inspiration to drive positive change in their own roles and organizations.
"Thomas was very engaged and flexible in his work designing the very first version of the MAD Academy program. As a facilitator, he managed to create a strong and cohesive community that provided the framework for both deep learning and lifelong relationships."