Earlier this month, I toured the historic Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, and what I expected to be a simple walkthrough of bourbon-making turned into a masterclass in learner-centered instruction.
Our guide wasn’t just knowledgeable — she radiated passion for bourbon. She didn’t dump facts on us. Instead, she drew us into the story, asked us questions, and connected the process to our experiences. By the end of the tour, we weren’t just informed, we were engaged, curious, and maybe even a little inspired.
And…side note…keep in mind that I am from Colorado, the craft beer capital, so I am not even a bourbon drinker, but after this tour, I think I want to be.
As I reflected on the experience, I realized she modeled exactly what great trainers and facilitators do every day. Here are the takeaways I’ll be carrying back into my own work:
1. Passion Is Contagious
When your learners see that you love what you do, they lean in. The guide’s enthusiasm for bourbon wasn’t forced, but rather genuine. Passion turns dry information into an experience.
L&D takeaway: Bring your energy and curiosity into the classroom (in-person or virtual). Learners will mirror it.
2. Make It Interactive
She asked us questions: “What flavors do you taste here?” “What do you notice about the barrels?” These small invitations made us participants, not just observers.
L&D takeaway: Questions spark curiosity and shift learners from passive to active. Rather than telling them, ask them. Even simple check-ins can transform engagement.
3. Tell the Story Behind the Content
Rather than rattling off numbers and steps, she painted a picture of bourbon’s journey—from grain to bottle—and wove in history, culture, and people.
L&D takeaway: Storytelling connects facts to meaning. Frame your training content as a story learners can follow and remember.
4. Connect Personally
She connected with individuals on the tour, remembering where people were from and asking them what other tours they had been on and linking bourbon notes to their experiences.
L&D takeaway: Learner-centered training starts with connection. Get to know your learners and tie content back to what matters to them.
Whether you’re teaching a compliance module or leading leadership training, the Buffalo Trace guide’s approach is a reminder: it’s not just about what we teach, it’s about how we connect, engage, and inspire.
After all, great training—like great bourbon—isn’t meant to be rushed. It’s meant to be savored.
Enjoy your week!