About

Beth Cougler Blom | Owner, Learning Designer, and Facilitator

Beth Cougler Blom brings over 25 years of experience in the field of education, spanning roles in non-profit organizations, post-secondary institutions, municipal government, and as an entrepreneur. She began designing online learning in 2005 with the Canadian Red Cross and further honed her facilitation expertise during her years with Volunteer Victoria. In 2011, Beth founded her company, originally called Beth Cougler Blom Facilitation, which has since evolved into BCB Learning Inc.

Beth has been convening the Victoria Facilitators Group since 2011 and co-founded the Vancouver Island Liberating Structures User Group, where she served as co-steward for eight years and continues as an active member. She is also a former instructional designer and associate faculty member with Royal Roads University, where she taught facilitation skills courses for 12 years.

Beth wrote her book, Design to Engage: How to Create and Facilitate a Great Learning Experience for Any Group, as a practical guide for anyone looking to elevate their facilitation skills. In 2022, she launched her podcast, Facilitating on Purpose, which explores the art and practice of facilitation. Beth is a certified Instructor and Trainer of the Instructional Skills Workshop and holds a Master of Education in Adult Education from the University of British Columbia, a Bachelor of Arts from Wilfrid Laurier University, and additional certifications in intercultural studies and volunteer management.

Beth’s work is deeply rooted in her belief in creating inclusive, engaging learning experiences, perhaps stemming from her natural curiosity and her previous experiences living abroad in France and China. When she’s not facilitating, designing learning, or podcasting, you can find her spending time with family and friends, walking in nature, reading, doing yoga, or dreaming up new ideas.

Podcast Guest Appearances

Carla Green | Communications Coordinator

Carla is a communications coordinator with a passion for writing and editing. She specializes in plain, inclusive language and enjoys helping organizations share their work in ways that are accessible and meaningful to diverse audiences.

She brings over 20 years of experience in human rights and community development, with work in Peru, Zimbabwe, Ghana, and Canada. Her past work with immigrant and refugee newcomers, along with initiatives aimed at building more welcoming and connected communities, continues to inform her values and approach.

Carla holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Alberta, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of British Columbia, and a Master of Arts in Political Science from Acadia University. Her graduate research with women-led organizations in Zimbabwe, followed by several years living and working in the Upper East Region of Ghana, laid the foundation for her ongoing commitment to equity and community engagement.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time near the ocean, dreaming up new travel adventures and creative projects with those around her, and celebrating the small stuff.

Karyn Lemberg | Learning Technologist

Karyn Lemberg has 20 years of experience in Multimedia Design and eLearning Development, having previously held positions as an eLearning Designer/Developer, Web & Multimedia Designer, Animator, and Illustrator for both print and online courses. Currently a Senior Learning Technologist at Royal Roads University, she supports faculty with online course development and tweaking of technologies. Also a freelance contractor, she loves creating interactive online modules primarily using Articulate Storyline.

Karyn’s formal education includes courses in Fine Arts from Malaspina College, Education from the University of Victoria, and an Advanced Animation Diploma with Honours from the Computer Master Institute of Technology. A combination of interests in both Design and Education is an excellent fit for designing effective and attractive learning experiences. Her skills include web design, illustration, interactive e-learning solutions, 2D animation, and 3D animation. She is constantly expanding her knowledge by participating in online learning opportunities and testing various apps and plugins.

When there is time to relax, Karyn enjoys being out in the garden with a camera, reading, and walking on the beach with her two dogs.

Emily Johnston | Graphic Designer & Illustrator

Emily believes in using design to help uplift compassionate ideas, inspire positive change, and connect with the world around us. Over the past 10 years, Emily has worked with a variety of businesses and organizations, providing services for branding, web and print design, and illustration. In 2019, she started her own studio, Artio Design, to continue to help fellow entrepreneurs and bring their ideas to life in their creative endeavours.

Emily’s formal education includes a Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design from Vancouver Island University, with additional studies in areas of printmaking, business marketing, and psychology. Alongside this, she is always striving to improve her skills and knowledge through online learning around green graphic design and ethical design practices.

Outside of design, you’ll often find Emily working on a string of creative projects or spending time in the garden. She also enjoys hiking, bird watching, and planning new travel adventures.