Best C Store Management Tips Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 26: Making the Most of Mystery Shopping 4:35

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3d ago4:35

4:35

Smoke Break - Episode 26: Making the Most of Mystery Shopping Episode Duration: 9 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to transform mystery shopping from a "gotcha" program into a powerful customer service improvement tool. Learn proven strategies from successful store owners who've used mystery shopping to recognize excellence, ident…

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Episode 26 - Safety Training That Sticks 4:15

3d ago4:15

4:15

Smoke Break - Episode 26: Safety Training That Sticks Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he transforms boring safety training into engaging, memorable sessions that actually prevent accidents and save lives. Learn proven techniques for creating hands-on learning experiences, breaking content into digestible chunks, and customiz…

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Episode 26: Handling Challenging Customer Scenarios 3:12

3h ago3:12

3:12

Smoke Break - Episode 26: Handling Challenging Customer Scenarios Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez for the conclusion of the communication series as he walks you through real-world challenging customer situations and proven resolution strategies. Learn step-by-step approaches for handling product complaints, managing rush hour t…

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The Hidden Traps in Debt Relief Ads You’re Seeing Right Now 47:08

8d ago47:08

47:08

Every time you open TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook, there’s another slick “debt relief” ad chasing you around. Secret government programs. Guaranteed 80% reduction. Gurus in rented Lamborghinis who “paid off $80,000 in six months.” In this episode, Steve Rhode—the old, authentic, original Get Out of Debt Guy—and the new Get Out of Debt Guy, Damon D…

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The 50-Year Mortgage Trap, Money Saving Grocery Hacks & A Meaty Mamma Comeback 45:03

20d ago45:03

45:03

In this episode of The Get Out of Debt Guy Podcast, Steve Rhode — the original Get Out of Debt Guy — and co-host Damon Day dig into two big money topics you’ll want to hear. First, they tackle the controversial idea of a 50-year mortgage, explaining how a slightly smaller monthly payment could actually cost homeowners hundreds of thousands more ove…

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AI Might Take Your Job — Don’t Let It Take Your Future (Smart Money Moves to Make Now) 44:35

29d ago44:35

44:35

Steve Rhode — the old, original Get Out of Debt Guy — and the new Get Out of Debt Guy, Damon Day, break down the headlines behind AI, layoffs, and automation without the hype. If you’re worried about job security (especially in white-collar or repetitive roles) and you’re carrying debt, this episode gives you a calm, practical game plan: how to res…

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Debt Settlement - Should You Take That Credit-Card Settlement? Credit Score, Taxes (1099-C), and Smart Strategy 36:13

1M ago36:13

36:13

Steve Rhode — the original Get Out of Debt Guy — and Damon Day — the new Get Out of Debt Guy — break down the real-world pros and cons of accepting a credit-card debt settlement. We explain why banks won’t deal early but suddenly send settlement letters before charge-off, how “settled for less than full balance” impacts your credit report, and what…

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The College Lie: Why Student Loans Could Be the Worst Investment You’ll Ever Make 53:32

1M ago53:32

53:32

Is college still worth it — or are we all buying into one of the most expensive myths in America? In this episode, Steve Rhode — the old, original Get Out of Debt Guy — and Damon Day — the new Get Out of Debt Guy — break down what nobody tells you about college debt, trade schools, and real financial ROI. They dig into: 🎓 The shocking truth about s…

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Video Podcast - A Different Plan for Meaty Mama: Hope, Debt, and Finding a Way Forward 35:37

2M ago35:37

35:37

In this heartfelt episode, Steve Rhode — the original Get Out of Debt Guy — and Damon Day — the new Get Out of Debt Guy — talk about The Meaty Mama, a hardworking YouTube creator juggling gig work, family, and $50,000 in debt. Steve and Damon explore the emotional and financial challenges she faces, including burnout, unstable gig income, and wheth…

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A Different Plan for Meaty Mama: Hope, Debt, and Finding a Way Forward 35:37

2M ago35:37

35:37

In this heartfelt episode, Steve Rhode — the original Get Out of Debt Guy — and Damon Day — the new Get Out of Debt Guy — talk about The Meaty Mama , a hardworking YouTube creator juggling gig work, family, and $50,000 in debt. Steve and Damon explore the emotional and financial challenges she faces, including burnout, unstable gig income, and whet…

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Let’s Talk: Finding the Right Path Out of Debt — Without the One-Size-Fits-All Approach 46:30

2M ago46:30

46:30

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Can You Go to Jail for Credit Card or Loan Debt? The Truth About Debt, Fear & Scams 44:09

2M ago44:09

44:09

In this episode, Steve Rhode (the old Get Out of Debt Guy) and Damon Day (the new Get Out of Debt Guy) dig into one of the most common fears people have about money: “If I stop paying my credit cards or personal loans, can I go to jail?” We separate fact from fiction, explain why debt misfortune isn’t fraud, and share the real consequences of misse…

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Should You Use Your 401(k) to Pay Off Credit Card Debt? The Math vs. The Emotion 43:59

2M ago43:59

43:59

Is it worth pulling money from your 401(k) to wipe out credit card debt charging you 20% or more? In this episode of The Get Out of Debt Guy Podcast, Steve, the original Get Out of Debt Guy, and Damon Day, the new Get Out of Debt Guy, break down the real trade-offs. We tackle the emotional relief of paying off high-interest balances versus the cold…

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Laid Off or Terminated? Smart First Moves to Protect Your Finances 38:11

3M ago38:11

38:11

Losing your job can feel like the floor’s been pulled out from under you—but there are steps you can take right away to steady your finances and protect your future. In this episode of the Get Out of Debt Guy Show, Steve Rhode (the original Get Out of Debt Guy) and Damon Day (the new Get Out of Debt Guy) break down what to do first when you’re laid…

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Cost of Living Reality Check: Your Debt is Lava 40:14

3M ago40:14

40:14

Prices are climbing faster than paychecks—and families feel the squeeze. In this episode, Steve Rhode (the old Get Out of Debt Guy) and Damon Day (the new Get Out of Debt Guy) break down the real-world cost pressures hitting households right now: cost of living vs. wages, shrinkflation at the grocery store, Instacart/app markups, rent and housing c…

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How to Make Real Money After Dark with Gig Apps 47:08

3M ago47:08

47:08

Life’s more expensive than ever, and once you’ve cut back on extras, the only way forward is to earn more. In this episode of Get Out of Debt Guy, Steve Rhode talks with Damon Day—the new Get Out of Debt Guy—about how to turn evenings into real money using gig apps like DoorDash, Uber, Instacart, and Amazon Flex. Damon shares the playbook he person…

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Divorce and Dirty Debt - The Inside Truth 42:20

3M ago42:20

42:20

Divorce isn’t just the end of a relationship — it’s often the start of a financial nightmare. In this episode, Steve Rhode, the original Get Out of Debt Guy, and Damon Day, the new Get Out of Debt Guy, dive deep into the ugly mix of money, debt, and divorce. From the skyrocketing cost of contested cases to the fallout of hidden debt, blended famili…

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20 Debt Relief Scams and Sales Tricks to Watch Out For: How to Get Out of Debt Wisely 43:08

4M ago43:08

43:08

Debt relief shouldn’t feel like a trap—but for too many people, it is. In this episode of the Get Out of Debt Podcast, your trusted debt coach, Steve Rhode (the original Get Out of Debt Guy), and Damon Day (the new Get Out of Debt Guy), break down 20 manipulative sales techniques used by both for-profit and nonprofit debt relief companies. Discover…

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Breaking the Chains: Understanding the Morality of Debt and How to Get Out of Debt 40:09

4M ago40:09

40:09

Debt isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the emotional, moral, and even spiritual weight it puts on your shoulders. In this episode of The Get Out of Debt Podcast, Steve Rhode, the original Get Out of Debt Guy, and Damon Day, the new Get Out of Debt Guy, dive deep into the centuries-old struggle of the morality of debt and how to get out of debt wh…

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Smart Expense Cutting Strategies for Getting Out of Debt 36:49

4M ago36:49

36:49

Are you ready to learn how to get out of debt while cutting expenses without hating your life? In this episode of the Get Out of Debt Guy Show, I’m joined by Damon Day to unpack simple, sustainable debt advice that makes saving money feel manageable. We explore realistic spending habits that can sabotage your financial goals—like trying to impress …

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Is Your Interest Rate Too High? Plus the Student Loan Bombshell 42:37

4M ago42:37

42:37

We kick things off by answering a listener’s question: How do I know if my interest rate is too high? Seems simple—until we dig into the loopholes big banks use to dodge state usury laws and how shady tribal loan scams worked… until they didn’t. But buckle up—because what follows is the real headline: a massive, catastrophic overhaul of the federal…

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Living Too Close to the Edge: Why Financial Choices Matter Now 27:44

4M ago27:44

27:44

Life doesn't wait — and when the unexpected hits, your finances can crumble fast if you're not ready. In this episode, Steve Rhode, the original Get Out of Debt Guy, and Damon Day, the new Get Out of Debt Guy, dive into the real cost of living paycheck to paycheck, why guilt is keeping you broke, and what smarter financial choices look like when yo…

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This One Deadline Could Wreck Your College Plans — Parent PLUS Changes Every Family Needs to Hear 27:19

5M ago27:19

27:19

Big changes are coming for Parent PLUS loans—and most families have no idea. In this episode of The Get Out of Debt Guy Show, Steve Rhode and Damon Day break down the hidden deadlines, confusing rule changes, and massive traps built into the new Parent PLUS system. If you’re planning to help your kid with college—or already have Parent PLUS loans—J…

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Why Good Bankruptcy Attorneys Lose Clients (And What That Means for You) 25:37

5M ago25:37

25:37

Today on The Get Out of Debt Guy Show, Steve and Damon are together in person for a rare live conversation—and they’re diving deep into a topic most people avoid: bankruptcy attorneys. After a lunch with a bankruptcy lawyer, they share insider perspectives on why so many people avoid bankruptcy even when it might be the best option. From emotional …

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AI Is Coming for Your Job — And It’s Not Waiting 35:18

5M ago35:18

35:18

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Damon Day to talk about the fast-moving threat of artificial intelligence replacing middle-class jobs. From customer service reps to financial analysts and marketing writers, AI isn’t just nibbling around the edges — it’s bulldozing through entire career paths. We talk about what jobs are most at risk, w…

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Episode 25: Role-Playing - Your Training Secret Weapon 4:23

6M ago4:23

4:23

Smoke Break - Episode 25: Role-Playing - Your Training Secret Weapon Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how role-playing transforms awkward training sessions into powerful skill-building experiences that boost customer service confidence. Learn proven techniques from successful store owners who've used role-playing t…

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Episode 25 - OSHA Inspections: Be Ready, Not Worried 3:11

6M ago3:11

3:11

Smoke Break - Episode 25: OSHA Inspections: Be Ready, Not Worried Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he transforms OSHA inspection anxiety into confidence through proper preparation and daily readiness practices. Learn how to maintain inspection-ready standards every day, organize essential documentation, and train your team to…

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Episode 25: De-escalating Tense Situations 3:29

6M ago3:29

3:29

Smoke Break - Episode 25: De-escalating Tense Situations Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals essential de-escalation techniques that transform heated confrontations into manageable conversations. Learn proven strategies for maintaining calm under pressure, using language that defuses tension, and creating safe environ…

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The Secret Guilt That Keeps You Broke — And How to Finally Break Free 27:46

6M ago27:46

27:46

Debt and guilt go hand-in-hand—and not in a good way. In this episode of the Get Out of Debt Guy podcast, Steve (the original Get Out of Debt Guy) and Damon Day (the new Get Out of Debt Guy) dive into the toxic guilt that keeps people stuck in debt and making bad financial decisions. From draining retirement accounts to hiding credit card debt with…

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Episode 24: Mastering Problem Resolution 4:20

6M ago4:20

4:20

Smoke Break - Episode 24: Mastering Problem Resolution Episode Duration: 9 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he transforms how you view customer complaints and problems, revealing how effective resolution strategies can turn unhappy customers into loyal advocates. Learn proven techniques from successful store owners who've mastered the art of tur…

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Episode 24 - Incident Reports: Getting the Details Right 3:07

6M ago3:07

3:07

Smoke Break - Episode 24: Incident Reports: Getting the Details Right Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how proper incident reporting protects your store from major complications and liability issues. Learn comprehensive documentation strategies for all types of incidents, from customer injuries to near-misses, and …

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Episode 24: The Power of Empathy in Communication 3:02

6M ago3:02

3:02

Smoke Break - Episode 24: The Power of Empathy in Communication Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how empathetic communication transforms challenging customer interactions into positive experiences that build trust and loyalty. Learn practical techniques for understanding customer perspectives, using language that v…

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The Morality Trap: When Doing the 'Right' Thing Keeps You Broke 37:11

6M ago37:11

37:11

Is it more moral to protect your future—or to financially bleed yourself dry trying to pay everyone back? In this episode, Steve, the original Get Out of Debt Guy, and Damon Day, the new Get Out of Debt Guy, unpack the emotional weight and moral confusion around debt, repayment, and financial survival. From the fear of bankruptcy to the guilt of wa…

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Episode 23: Product Knowledge - Your Secret Service Weapon 3:53

6M ago3:53

3:53

Smoke Break - Episode 23: Product Knowledge - Your Secret Service Weapon Episode Duration: 9 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how deep product knowledge transforms your staff from order-takers into customer service experts. Learn proven strategies from successful store owners who've turned product expertise into a competitive advantag…

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Episode 23 - When Accidents Happen: First Response Matters 3:15

6M ago3:15

3:15

Smoke Break - Episode 23: When Accidents Happen: First Response Matters Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he guides you through critical first response procedures when workplace accidents occur. Learn how your actions in the first few minutes can significantly impact outcomes, from scene safety assessment to proper documentati…

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Episode 23: Clear and Concise Communication 3:11

6M ago3:11

3:11

Smoke Break - Episode 23: Clear and Concise Communication Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals the essential communication skills that make assistant managers more effective in fast-paced convenience store environments. Learn how to deliver messages quickly and clearly to customers and team members, prioritize informat…

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The $50,000 Closet: Why Self-Storage Might Be Storing Your Regrets 37:27

6M ago37:27

37:27

Steve, the original Get Out of Debt Guy, and Damon, the new Get Out of Debt Guy, crack open the rolling doors of America's $44 billion self-storage obsession. From emotional clutter and forgotten bins to the sneaky subscriptions draining your wallet, this episode is a deep clean for your finances and your soul. Damon shares how he finally closed hi…

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Episode 22: The Impact of Store Cleanliness 4:07

6M ago4:07

4:07

Smoke Break - Episode 22: The Impact of Store Cleanliness Episode Duration: 9 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how store cleanliness directly impacts customer perception, shopping behavior, and sales success. Learn proven strategies from real store transformations that show how smart cleaning systems, staff engagement, and attention t…

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Episode 22 - Emergency Planning: Ready for Anything 4:16

6M ago4:16

4:16

Smoke Break - Episode 22: Emergency Planning: Ready for Anything Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he guides you through comprehensive emergency planning that protects your team and customers when seconds count. Learn how to create actionable emergency procedures, assign specific roles, and conduct effective drills that prepar…

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Smoke Break - Episode 22: The Art of Active Listening 3:16

6M ago3:16

3:16

Smoke Break - Episode 22: The Art of Active Listening Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals the difference between simply hearing customers and truly listening to them. Learn essential active listening techniques that transform customer interactions, build stronger relationships, and help you resolve issues more effecti…

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Don’t Buy the Wrong Fix: What Really Works to Get Out of Debt 46:09

6M ago46:09

46:09

Too many people waste thousands chasing the wrong debt solution. In this eye-opening episode, Steve Rhode—the original Get Out of Debt Guy—and Damon Day—the new Get Out of Debt Guy—pull back the curtain on the truth behind debt relief programs, credit counseling, debt settlement, Dave Ramsey plans, and even bankruptcy. We break down: Why people fal…

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Episode 21: Mastering Efficient Checkout 3:54

6M ago3:54

3:54

Smoke Break - Episode 21: Mastering Efficient Checkout Episode Duration: 9 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares proven strategies for transforming slow, frustrating checkout experiences into swift, memorable interactions that keep customers coming back. Learn how independent store owners have dramatically reduced wait times and improved cu…

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Episode 21 - OSHA Basics: What Every Store Manager Must Know 3:17

6M ago3:17

3:17

Smoke Break - Episode 21: OSHA Basics: What Every Store Manager Must Know Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he demystifies OSHA regulations with practical, actionable guidance for convenience store managers. Learn the essential safety requirements that protect your team and keep your store compliant, from hazard communication …

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Episode 21: Putting It All Together - Creating the Ultimate Customer Experience 3:01

6M ago3:01

3:01

Smoke Break - Episode 21: Putting It All Together - Creating the Ultimate Customer Experience Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he demonstrates how to combine all customer service skills into seamless, exceptional experiences. Learn how to blend cue reading, empathy, needs anticipation, and expectation management to create mem…

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A Listener’s Drowning in Debt at 71—Here’s What I Told Him 7:45

6M ago7:45

7:45

In this episode of the Get Out of Debt Guy podcast, I answer a powerful listener question from a 71-year-old semi-retired filmmaker who’s buried in $30,000 of credit card debt. After losing income from DVD sales, he’s now fielding calls from debt relief companies offering to settle or consolidate his debt—but something doesn’t feel right. We talk a…

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How to Pick the Best Credit Card (and Stop Getting Played) 6:12

6M ago6:12

6:12

Struggling to choose the right credit card? In this episode of the Get Out of Debt Guy podcast, Damon Day breaks down how to find a credit card that actually works for you—not against you. Learn why the interest rate doesn’t matter if you pay off your balance every month, which rewards are truly worth it, and why using a credit card is often safer …

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Is College Still Worth It? The Truth About Degrees, Debt & Smarter Paths Forward 38:33

7M ago38:33

38:33

Is college still the golden ticket—or just expensive boomer advice? In this episode of the Get Out of Debt Guy podcast, Steve and Damon unpack the myths, numbers, and alternatives to a traditional 4-year degree. They talk about community college, trades, side hustles like DoorDash, and why letting your kid live at home a little longer might be the …

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Episode 20: The Art of Greeting and Assisting Customers 4:33

7M ago4:33

4:33

Smoke Break - Episode 20: The Art of Greeting and Assisting Customers Episode Duration: 9 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares powerful stories and proven strategies for transforming customer experiences through effective greeting practices. Learn how independent store owners like you have significantly increased customer loyalty and sales…

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Episode 20 - When Things Go Wrong: Food Safety Emergency Response 3:35

7M ago3:35

3:35

Smoke Break - Episode 20: When Things Go Wrong: Food Safety Emergency Response Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he provides essential guidance for handling food safety emergencies in your convenience store. Learn how to develop an effective crisis response plan for situations like power outages, product recalls, and foodborne…

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Episode 20: Reading and Responding to Customer Cues 3:06

7M ago3:06

3:06

Smoke Break - Episode 20: Reading and Responding to Customer Cues Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to interpret and react to the silent signals customers communicate through their body language, tone, and expressions. Learn why understanding these non-verbal cues is essential for providing exceptional service a…