Purpose: This paper aims to provide an overview of the development of learning organization concepts from the perspective of Dr. Michael Marquardt and presents an interesting evolution of his work spanning three decades in the learning organization field. Design/methodology/approach: Through a conversation with a thought-leading scholar, Dr. Michael Marquardt, this paper discusses several topics pertaining to the evolution of the learning organization debate and provides his perspective on the development of his theories. Findings: The learning organization debate may have differing perspectives. However, the theories foundational to Dr. Marquardt's research originated from those in the field during the 1980s and 1990s. He built upon the foundation through his consultancy work to develop his current perspective. Originality/value: The discussion with Dr. Marquardt reveals his perspective on the evolution of the learning organization debate. He began with similarities to others and over time built his definition based upon those areas of that he saw most impactful in practice.