Kelley Kalbas, Relationship Manager of TrainingPros, shares insights from nearly two decades of connecting clients with top L&D consultants. Drawing on her background in instructional design and corporate training, Kelley discusses what makes consultants successful, why client relationships matter and how learning leaders can continue to grow in the field.

Key Takeaways:

00:00 Introduction.

03:19 Effective relationship management combines project knowledge with talent alignment.

03:52 Flexibility in L&D careers supports both professional and personal growth.

05:30 Consultant success depends on cultural fit, engagement and continuous learning.

07:42 Lasting professional relationships are built on trust and communication.

09:09 Top consultants demonstrate initiative, adaptability and collaboration.

11:31 Clients value strong partnerships that extend beyond transactional work.

13:08 Resources and thought leadership guide learning leaders in shaping their impact.

14:00 Challenges in L&D provide lessons that influence future approaches.

Resources Mentioned:

Kelley Kalbas

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelleykalbas/

TrainingPros | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/trainingpros/

TrainingPros | Website

https://trainingpros.com

“Hidden Value” by Dr. Keith Keating

https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Value-Reveal-Organizational-Learning/dp/B0F749SG21

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

Frankie Robinson, Learning and Enablement Strategist of TrainingPros, shares her journey from classroom teaching to corporate L&D, the power of trust in driving training impact, and how AI is transforming the way organizations deliver learning. She also highlights the importance of building stakeholder buy-in and using innovative tools like custom GPTs to create realistic practice scenarios.

Key Takeaways:

00:00 Introduction.

03:01 Transitioning into L&D can be supported by transferable skills and continuous learning.

04:31 Building networks and professional relationships is essential for success in L&D.

08:15 Trust in L&D partnerships is strengthened through consistent communication and supportive actions.

13:14 Stakeholder buy-in is key to ensuring training programs create lasting organizational impact.

17:31 AI is reshaping L&D by centralizing knowledge and making learning resources more accessible.

21:37 Simulation-based learning enhances skill development and learner confidence in L&D programs.

25:18 Personal growth habits contribute to stronger alignment and results in L&D initiatives.

27:56 Using frameworks to focus on what’s within our control helps L&D professionals manage change effectively.

Resources Mentioned:

Frankie Robinson

https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankie-robinson-idd/

TrainingPros | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/trainingpros/

TrainingPros | Website

https://trainingpros.com

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey

https://www.amazon.com/7-Habits-Highly-Effective-People/dp/1416502491

Sana Labs

https://sanalabs.com/

The Power of Covey’s Circle of Concern, Influence, and Control

https://www.modern.works/blog/the-power-of-coveys-circle-of-concern-influence-and-control

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining

In this episode, Leigh Hurst, Relationship Manager of TrainingPros, shares insights from her 30+ years of experience in learning and development, elaborating on the impact of combining corporate, nonprofit and academic work to create meaningful change. She also speaks about her passion for client partnerships and how her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor inspired her to found a nonprofit that has saved lives through creative awareness campaigns.

Key Takeaways:

00:00 Introduction.

01:59 A career rooted in instructional design and behavior change sets the foundation for lifelong work in L&D.

02:58 Corporate and technology-based training experience shows the power of simulation for learning.

04:57 Strategic, consultative partnerships create better client outcomes.

08:05 Consultants gain access to meaningful projects through TrainingPros.

10:55 Flexibility and proactive communication build lasting client trust.

17:30 Personal experience inspires advocacy for early breast cancer detection.

20:49 Adversity teaches us to align our work with our personal values and priorities.

24:08 Workplace flexibility enables professionals to balance career growth and family life.

Resources Mentioned:

Leigh Hurst

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighhurst/

TrainingPros | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/trainingpros/

TrainingPros | Website

https://trainingpros.com

leighhurst.com

Thanks for listening to “Learning Leader Spotlight: Interviews with corporate L&D leaders.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of the insightful conversations.

#LearningAndDevelopment #CorporateTraining #TalentDevelopment #LeadershipTraining