Training Impact Podcast

Scaling Channel Performance through Training Infrastructure

The Training Impact Podcast explores how organizations use training as infrastructure to improve performance across distributed networks.

Hosted by Jeff Walter, founder of LatitudeLearning, the podcast features conversations with industry leaders, training experts, and operational executives who are building scalable training programs for dealer networks, franchise systems, service partners, and other channel organizations.

Each episode explores practical strategies for:

  • Scaling partner and franchise performance

  • Designing effective training programs

  • Building certification and knowledge systems

  • Connecting training to real business outcomes

The podcast is part of LatitudeLearning’s broader mission to help organizations scale channel performance through structured training infrastructure.

50. CourseCREEK: The Powerful Impact of Turning Expertise Into Scalable Learning

Jeff Walter interviews Robert Lunte of CourseCREEK about how organizations transform expertise into scalable online courses. Learn how instructional design turns knowledge into digital learning.

49. Immersivevision Technology: Solving the Hidden Gaps in Medical Training

Immersivevision Technology is transforming medical education through immersive 3D visualization. Discover how Steven King and Jeff Walter explore innovation, engagement, and scalable training infrastructure in this episode of the Training Impact Podcast.

48. Ford Saeks: Powerful Growth Strategy, AI Integration, and Performance-Driven Training

Ford Saeks shares how AI integration, growth strategy, and performance-driven training help organizations bridge the gap between current results and measurable success. In this Training Impact Podcast episode, Ford Saeks outlines practical frameworks leaders can implement immediately.

47. MSA Worldwide: Critical Role of Brand Standards in Franchise Training Success

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter sits down with Marla Rosner of MSA Worldwide to explore how franchisors transform founder knowledge into scalable brand standards and effective franchise training programs. From manuals to immersive onboarding, this conversation reveals what separates struggling systems from high performing franchise networks.

46. Brandon Hall Group™: The Critical Truth About the Future of Human Capital Strategy

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter interviews Michael Rochelle of Brandon Hall Group™ about the future of human capital strategy. Drawing on decades of research, Rochelle explains how AI, leadership development, employee experience, and measurable impact are reshaping how organizations compete and grow.

45. ASE Education Foundation: The Powerful National Standard Transforming Automotive Education

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter speaks with Virginia Oden of ASE Education Foundation about closing the automotive skills gap. From accreditation and advisory boards to critical thinking and EV readiness, this conversation explores how national standards strengthen career tech programs and prepare students for high demand automotive careers.

44. ASE: Inside the Creation of the Definitive EV Safety Standard

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Corey Glassman explains how ASE developed a national EV safety standard and why it is reshaping technician certification and workforce readiness.

43. Sales Xceleration: Creating a Clear Path to Sale for Sustainable Revenue Growth

What happens when a company outgrows founder-led selling but hasn’t yet built a real sales system? In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter sits down with Susan Cashion of Sales Xceleration to explore how organizations move from unpredictable revenue to structured, scalable growth by installing a clear path to sale grounded in […]

42. Design Interactive: How XRMentor Is Turning Skill Development into a Measurable Advantage

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter interviews Matt Johnston of Design Interactive to explore how XRMentor uses extended reality to move training from passive knowledge delivery to hands-on skill acceleration, tribal knowledge capture, and measurable workforce impact.

41. ASE Test Prep: The Performance Edge Traditional Study Methods Lack

ASE certification is not about memorization. It is about reasoning, confidence, and application. In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter speaks with Carl Borsani of ASE Test Prep about how disciplined preparation turns certification into professional credibility.

40. Bojangles: Inside a Bold Training Shift That’s Driving Real Performance

Bojangles’ approach to training goes far beyond teaching people how to make biscuits or hit drive-thru times. In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Lindsey Halson explains how behavior-based coaching, role-specific competencies, and measurable observations are reshaping leadership development across the brand.

39. Excel Truck Group Breaks the Training Mold to Scale Performance

How does Excel Truck Group training support performance across multiple dealership locations? In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter talks with Tom Meyers about building scalable training programs that align with real work and deliver measurable results.

38. American Dream: The Unstoppable Power of Scale and Experience-Based Destinations

American Dream is not a typical mall. It is a destination built on retail-tainment, combining shopping, dining, and world-class attractions under one roof. In this Training Impact Podcast episode, Jeff Walter talks with Stan Kravitz about how American Dream builds a partner network of resellers, keeps the experience fresh, and uses training to create consistency […]

37. AC Inc.: Turning Field Support into a Strategic Growth Engine

Field support is the most influential role in franchising and often the least trained. In this Training Impact Podcast episode, Angela Cote of AC Inc. explains how shifting field support from compliance to coaching transforms franchisee engagement, confidence, and performance.

36. Matthew Reyes: Training, Motivation, and the Human Needs That Drive Performance

A human-centered Training Impact Podcast conversation with Matthew Reyes on motivation, habit formation, and why training programs succeed or fail based on how well they meet human needs.

35. MCP Emerson Canada: Turning Technical Training into Confident Field Performance

MCP Emerson Canada shares how role-based, performance-focused training builds confidence, strengthens customer trust, and supports consistent execution in technical environments.

34. Thryv: Unlocking Confident Small Business Growth Through Integrated Enablement

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter speaks with Matthew Gourgeot of Thryv about what small businesses truly need to grow with confidence. The conversation explores why software alone is not enough, how integrated enablement drives adoption, and what it takes to support small business owners who are juggling every role inside […]

33. Protein Bar & Kitchen: Scaling a Better-for-You Brand Without Sacrificing Quality

How Protein Bar & Kitchen is scaling a better-for-you franchise brand by prioritizing simplicity, franchisee alignment, and training without sacrificing quality or culture.

32. Secretsos: The Power of Operational Clarity

As organizations grow, performance problems are often mistaken for people problems. In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, April Porter of Secretsos explains how clarity, systems, and documented processes create the foundation for scalable training and sustainable growth.

31. Adminify AI: The Strategic Advantage Behind Modern Channel Enablement

This Training Impact Podcast episode with Kevin Trost illustrates how AI is evolving from a support tool into an execution layer that enables scale. By treating AI as a trainable assistant rather than a plug-and-play solution, organizations can automate key processes, improve consistency across channels, and reduce risk for franchisees and partners. The conversation reinforces […]

30. Business Alliance, Inc. On Operational Excellence and Essential Franchise Validation

Franchising only works when the right people join the right brands—and when those brands are ready to support them. In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter sits down with Jared Nassiff of Business Alliance, Inc. to explore what truly drives successful franchise growth. From brand readiness to franchisee support to the power […]

29. Broken Yolk Cafe: What Every Franchisor Can Learn to Achieve Consistency

Broken Yolk Cafe’s rise from a single Pacific Beach landmark to a multi-state franchise didn’t happen by accident. In this episode, Jeff Walter and Ed Powers explore how operational structure, franchisee support, and consistent training helped turn a beloved breakfast spot into a scalable brand.

28. ASE: The Advantage of Essential Skills and Evolving Standards in Automotive Training

This episode explores how the ASE strengthens technician competence, industry standards, and customer trust through evolving certifications and real-world assessments that reflect today’s rapidly changing automotive technology.

27. Elevate Your Talent: Why Play Is the Essential Missing Link in Training Programs

Elevate Your Talent brings a creative, hands-on approach to problem solving with LEGO Serious Play. In this episode, Jolynn Ledgerwood and Jeff Walter explore how tactile learning unlocks new ideas, strengthens collaboration, and transforms partner, franchise, and corporate training environments.

26. Burn Boot Camp: The Powerful Playbook for Consistent Franchise Success

Discover how Burn Boot Camp scales consistency, coaching, and culture across 380 locations through structured programming, role-based certification, and community-driven training.

25. Design Pickle: Unstoppable Momentum Through Smarter, Scalable Design

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter sits down with Wyatt Borchetta Platt, Revenue Operations Leader at Design Pickle, to explore how creative systems, data, and smart automation shape modern growth strategies. Wyatt’s background in sales operations, marketing, and cross-functional leadership offers a practical look into how brands can scale without losing […]

24. Dumpster Dudez: The Proven Training Framework Behind Rapid Growth

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, host Jeff Walter sits down with Willie Katinowsky, VP of Franchise Development of of Dumpster Dudez, to explore how one of the fastest growing junk hauling and dumpster rental franchise systems built its momentum through simple operations, consistent execution, and a strong commitment to franchisee training.

23. KTA Financial Services: Building Trust Through Training and Transparency

Discover how KTA Financial Services builds client trust through continuous training, financial education, and a culture of transparency.

22. BlueStreak Learning: Proven Strategy for Powerful ROI in Partner Training

BlueStreak Learning empowers organizations through extended enterprise education, partner training, and certification programs that deliver proven ROI.

21. The Secret Ingredient in Hungry Howie’s Success: Training That Sticks

Hungry Howie’s SVP Al Newman shares how the 500-unit pizza franchise trains people, builds leaders, and keeps its flavor consistent across every store.

20. Inside Care Patrol: How Education and Empathy Transform Senior Care

Discover how Care Patrol transforms senior care decisions through empathy, education, and franchise training—turning emotional moments into empowered choices.

19. Scaling Smart: How Bloomin’ Blinds Trains Franchisees for Growth and Quality

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, host Jeff Walter, CEO of LatitudeLearning, sits down with Jake Wharton, Director of Franchise Growth at Bloomin’ Blinds, to unpack what it really takes to scale a franchise system—without losing the craftsmanship and care that made it successful in the first place.

18. Creating Connection Through Content: The Brand Networks Approach

Host Jeff Walter talks with Josh Gelfat, VP of Marketing at Brand Networks, about how digital marketing, AI automation, and learning technology empower businesses to create authentic content, strengthen brand engagement, and drive measurable growth.

17. From Fit to Flourish: How Franchise Fastlane Connects Visionaries with Operators Who Thrive

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, host Jeff Walter sits down with Patrick Sanchez, Vice President of Brand Partnerships at Franchise Fastlane, to unpack what makes a great franchise system work—not just on paper, but in practice.

16. Lessons from eLearningDOC: Building Learning Systems, Not Just Courses

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter interviews Angela Robbins, Toni DiMella, and Diana Brandon of eLearningDOC to explore how documenting processes transforms learning—turning chaos into clarity and creating scalable, consistent, and measurable training programs that drive organizational impact.

15. Learning Designs: Apprenticeships Beyond the Trades

Mary Carter and Julie Hiatt of Learning Designs Inc join Jeff Walter to discuss apprenticeships, blended learning, and workforce training. They share insights on closing skills gaps, boosting retention, and designing programs that balance knowledge transfer with real-world skill application for long-term organizational success.

14. Powering Franchise Excellence: How Batteries Plus Trains Experts in Charge

Jeff Walter interviews Jason Moss, VP of Store Development and Training at Batteries Plus, on building a scalable franchise training engine. They cover onboarding franchisees, Batteries Plus University for associates, hands-on store coaching, and the Plus Games competition that gamifies skills. Moss shares KPI-driven goals, regional facilitator-led training, and a POS-embedded chatbot that surfaces answers […]

13. Service That Sticks: Ray Miller on Embedding Customer Excellence

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter interviews Ray Miller of The Training Bank to explore how customer experience training—when tied to leadership development and embedded into culture—can drive long-term profitability. Ray shares proven strategies for improving service, increasing employee engagement, and building customer loyalty across industries. A must-listen for training and […]

12. Training Precision: How Ziemer Ophthalmic Raises The Bar For Medical Device Training

Discover how Bill Ryan of Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems AG built a global eLearning program for high-stakes medical device training. From dynamic certification and regulatory compliance to AI-driven content creation, this episode explores how scalable, multilingual training empowers technicians, distributors, and doctors alike. A must-listen for L&D leaders in healthcare, medtech, and extended enterprise environments.

11. The 10 Training Workstreams Behind High-Impact Training Programs

In this episode of the Training Impact Podcast, Jeff Walter sits down with Matt Anderson, head of delivery at LatitudeLearning, to break down the 10 core workstreams that define successful training implementation. From organizing learners and content to managing user access, tracking progress, and measuring impact, Matt shares two decades of practical insight. Whether you’re […]

10. Behind the Smoker: How Embedded Franchise Training Powers Tickle My Ribs

In this episode, franchise veteran Sean Morris shares how he built a skills-based franchise training model that’s fully embedded into daily operations at Tickle My Ribs. Ditching binders for hands-on coaching, POS-integrated learning, and gamified achievements, Sean’s approach boosts retention and performance across franchise locations. From shoulder-to-shoulder onboarding to certified trainers in red hats, he […]

9. How Academy 4 Scales Volunteer Training to Serve 6,500 Students

Academy 4, a Texas-based nonprofit, trains over 6,500 volunteers annually to mentor fourth graders one-on-one in Title I schools. In this Training Impact Podcast episode, Jeff Walter speaks with Susan Demers, who explains how the organization uses a mobile-friendly LMS and Articulate Rise to deliver simple, effective volunteer training. Topics include onboarding, child safety compliance, […]

8. Soft Skills, Real Impact: The Vertus Approach to Conflict Resolution

In this Training Impact Podcast episode, Jeff Walter interviews Rubens Tilkian, founder of Vertus Conflict Solutions, to explore how proactive conflict management training can boost organizational performance. Rubens, a seasoned mediator with over 70,000 agreements facilitated, explains why soft skills like emotional intelligence and communication are critical for reducing attrition and improving team dynamics. He […]

7. IFA World Franchise Show: Turn Your Franchise Training into a Strategic Asset

In this episode, we unpack Jeff Walter’s high-impact session at the 2025 IFA World Franchise Show: “Turn Your Franchise Training into a Strategic Asset.” Jeff challenges franchisors to rethink training. Instead of a cost, see it as a driver of profitability and consistency. He outlines a five-stage Training Program Roadmap and stresses the importance of […]

6. The Core Difference: Partner vs Employee Training Explained

While employee training is individual-focused and managed through HR systems, partner training targets external businesses and emphasizes organizational certification. Jeff Walter highlights the need for LMS platforms that support flexible roles, self-registration, incentive-based learning, and brand-specific content. He explains why partner learners require unique structures and motivations, and how success is measured differently. This thoughtful […]

5. How Emerging Franchisors can Scale Training for Growth: A Blended Learning Blueprint

Emerging franchisors face challenges scaling traditional, instructor-led training. Jeff Walter of LatitudeLearning advocates for a blended learning approach—combining self-paced e-learning with in-person training—to enhance efficiency and consistency. This method supports scalable onboarding, enables employee certifications, and improves retention, brand consistency, and operational performance as franchise networks grow.

4. The Five Stages of Training Program Evolution: A Roadmap to High-Impact Learning

A roadmap outlining the evolution of training programs that includes five stages: self-directed programs, knowledge acquisition, skill development, individual performance, and organizational performance. Each stage builds upon the previous one, with increasing levels of impact and return on investment. Best practices for each stage are explored, emphasizing the importance of learner engagement, assessment, and the […]

3. The 7 Artificial Intelligence Use Cases for Learning and Development

AI is revolutionizing Learning & Development, according to Jeff Walter of LatitudeLearning. In this Training Impact Podcast episode, he identifies 7 transformative uses: chatbots, content creation, assessments, roleplay, simulations, analytics, and personalized learning. He urges cautious but strategic adoption.

2. Transform Your Training Program into a Strategic Asset

In the premiere of the Training Impact podcast, Jeff Walter, Founder and CEO of LatitudeLearning, explains how L&D teams can reposition training as a strategic investment. By aligning programs with business outcomes and proving ROI, training moves from a cost center to a growth driver. Walter outlines five training levels, urges focus on measurable impact, […]

1. Welcome to the Training Impact Podcast

The Training Impact Podcast focuses on two neglected dimensions of the Learning and Development industry: Partners and Programs. I will be interviewing partner training program managers and discuss the challenges they face training partners and techniques they use to manage those programs for maximum impact.