Best C Store Operations Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 21: Mastering Efficient Checkout 3:54

5h 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…

1
Episode 21 - OSHA Basics: What Every Store Manager Must Know 3:17

9h 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 …

1
Episode 21: Putting It All Together - Creating the Ultimate Customer Experience 3:01

5h 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…

1
Staying on Track: Managing Interruptions in Store Operations 18:32

2d ago18:32

18:32

Episode 68 Show Notes: Staying on Track - Managing Interruptions in Store Operations Episode Description In this final episode of the "Survive" series from C-Store Center, host Mike Hernandez tackles one of the biggest challenges assistant managers face - the constant interruptions that derail productivity and focus. Discover how Marcus transformed…

1
Episode 20: The Art of Greeting and Assisting Customers 4:33

2d 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…

1
Episode 20 - When Things Go Wrong: Food Safety Emergency Response 3:35

2d 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…

1
Episode 20: Reading and Responding to Customer Cues 3:06

2d 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…

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Insights on the Future of Operations: Highlights from SIFMA Ops 1:11:09

5d ago1:11:09

1:11:09

In this episode of The SIFMA Podcast, we recap highlights from SIFMA’s 2025 Operations Conference & Exhibition, held in Orlando, Florida. SIFMA President and CEO Kenneth E. Bentsen, Jr., is joined by Chief Operating Officer Joseph Seidel and Stephen Byron, Managing Director and Head of Technology, Operations, and Business Continuity. Together, they…

1
Making the Right Choices: Priority Setting for Store Leaders 18:35

9d ago18:35

18:35

Episode 67 Show Notes: Making the Right Choices - Priority Setting for Store Leaders Episode Description In this essential episode of "Survive from C-Store Center," host Mike Hernandez tackles one of the biggest challenges facing assistant managers - making smart priority decisions when everything seems urgent. Learn from Alex's real-world experien…

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Enhancing Store Operations - Your Guide to Continuous Improvement 17:09

9d ago17:09

17:09

Episode Show Notes: Enhancing Store Operations - Your Guide to Continuous Improvement Episode Description In the final episode of "Dive from C-Store Center," host Mike Hernandez wraps up the series with powerful insights on creating lasting efficiency in your store operations through continuous improvement. Learn how one associate's simple observat…

1
Episode 19: Building Your Store's Reputation Through Service 4:43

10d ago4:43

4:43

Smoke Break - Episode 19: Building Your Store's Reputation Through Service Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals strategies for developing and maintaining a stellar reputation that brings customers back again and again. Learn how exceptional service can become your store's most powerful competitive advantage in today's …

1
Episode 19 - Documentation: Your Food Safety Shield 3:18

10d ago3:18

3:18

Smoke Break - Episode 19: Documentation: Your Food Safety Shield Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down the essential documentation practices that protect your business from food safety issues and regulatory consequences. Learn how to implement comprehensive record-keeping systems that demonstrate your commitment to …

1
Episode 19: The Power of Empathy in Customer Service 3:07

10d ago3:07

3:07

Smoke Break - Episode 19: The Power of Empathy in Customer Service Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares insights on developing and fostering empathy in customer interactions. Learn how to lead your team in creating meaningful customer connections that transform typical transactions into memorable experiences. Episode Ov…

1
Making Every Minute Count: Time Management for Store Leaders 17:36

16d ago17:36

17:36

SURVIVE Podcast - Episode 66 Notes Episode Title: Making Every Minute Count: Time Management for Store Leaders Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this game-changing episode of Survive, host Mike Hernandez reveals how convenience store assistant managers can transform from working 60+ hours a week to efficient leaders who accomplish more i…

1
Mastering Difficult Situations - Your Guide to Conflict Resolution 16:59

15d ago16:59

16:59

DIVE Podcast - Episode 66 Notes Episode Title: Mastering Difficult Situations - Your Guide to Conflict Resolution Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this essential episode of Dive, host Mike Hernandez explores how convenience store sales associates can transform challenging customer situations into opportunities for building trust and loy…

1
Episode 18: Maximizing Sales Through Exceptional Service 5:02

20d ago5:02

5:02

Smoke Break - Episode 18: Maximizing Sales Through Exceptional Service Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals practical strategies for transforming good customer service into increased sales. Learn how to train your team in service techniques that naturally boost transaction values and create more profitable customer int…

1
Episode 18 - Keeping It Clean: Facility Maintenance & Sanitation 3:24

16d ago3:24

3:24

Smoke Break - Episode 18: Keeping It Clean: Facility Maintenance & Sanitation Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down essential sanitation practices that go beyond surface cleaning to ensure true food safety. Learn how to implement comprehensive cleaning systems that will impress health inspectors and protect your cus…

1
Episode 18: Common Customer Needs in Convenience Stores 3:19

16d ago3:19

3:19

Smoke Break - Episode 18: Common Customer Needs in Convenience Stores Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down the fundamental customer needs that drive convenience store visits. Learn how to lead your team in prioritizing these core needs to enhance customer satisfaction and build store loyalty. Episode Overview Maste…

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Financial Literacy Month: Insights from the SIFMA Foundation and Charles Schwab 29:22

28d ago29:22

29:22

In recognition of Financial Literacy Month, SIFMA President and CEO Kenneth E. Bentsen, Jr. hosts a discussion with Lisa Hunt, Managing Director and Head of International Services at Charles Schwab, and Melanie Mortimer, President of the SIFMA Foundation. In this episode of The SIFMA Podcast, they explore the critical role of the financial services…

1
Finding Real Solutions: Root Cause Analysis for Store Leaders 17:03

23d ago17:03

17:03

SURVIVE Podcast - Episode 65 Notes Episode Title: Finding Real Solutions: Root Cause Analysis for Store Leaders Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this problem-solving episode of Survive, host Mike Hernandez explores how convenience store assistant managers can go beyond quick fixes to find and address the true causes of store challenges.…

1
Mastering Compliance - Your Guide to Store Standards 15:36

25d ago15:36

15:36

DIVE Podcast - Episode 65 Notes Episode Title: Mastering Compliance - Your Guide to Store Standards Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this essential episode of Dive, host Mike Hernandez explores how sales associates can master compliance and certification requirements to protect customers, themselves, and their store. Learn why complianc…

1
Episode 17: Word of Mouth - Your Most Powerful Marketing Tool 4:55

27d ago4:55

4:55

Smoke Break - Episode 17: Word of Mouth - Your Most Powerful Marketing Tool Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals strategies for turning satisfied customers into your most effective marketing team. Learn how to create experiences that inspire customers to spread the word about your store without spending a fortune on ad…

1
Episode 17 - Temperature Control: The Hot and Cold of Food Safety 3:02

24d ago3:02

3:02

Smoke Break - Episode 17: Temperature Control: The Hot and Cold of Food Safety Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down essential temperature control practices that protect your customers and business. Learn how to implement effective monitoring systems that prevent foodborne illness risks while maintaining compliance.…

1
Episode 17: Understanding Different Customer Expectations 3:05

27d ago3:05

3:05

Smoke Break - Episode 17: Understanding Different Customer Expectations Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares insights on recognizing and adapting to varied customer expectations in your store. Learn how to lead your team in providing personalized service that meets the diverse needs of your customer base. Episode Overvi…

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Rethinking Leverage Ratios: Why US Treasuries Should Be Exempt 8:01

1M ago8:01

8:01

In this episode of The SIFMA Podcast, SIFMA Chief Operating Officer Joseph Seidel is joined by Dr. Guowei Zhang, Managing Director at SIFMA, to unpack the critical role of leverage ratios in the U.S. Treasury market – and why exempting them from leverage ratio calculations may be key to strengthening market resilience. Together, they explore: How c…

1
Critical Thinking for Store Leaders 17:11

1M ago17:11

17:11

SURVIVE Podcast – Episode 64 Notes Episode Title: Critical Thinking for Store Leaders Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this transformative episode of Survive, host Mike Hernandez explores how convenience store assistant managers can develop critical thinking skills that solve problems at their root cause rather than just treating sympto…

1
Using Data to Drive Success - Your Guide to Sales Analytics 17:01

1M ago17:01

17:01

DIVE Podcast - Episode 64 Notes Episode Title: Using Data to Drive Success - Your Guide to Sales Analytics Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this practical episode of Dive, host Mike Hernandez reveals how convenience store sales associates can use simple sales analytics to dramatically improve their performance. Discover how understandin…

1
Episode 16: The Power of Customer Loyalty 4:55

1M ago4:55

4:55

Smoke Break - Episode 16: The Power of Customer Loyalty Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals strategies for transforming casual shoppers into devoted customers who drive business growth. Learn how to build meaningful customer relationships that increase sales, encourage word-of-mouth marketing, and create a community a…

1
Episode 16: Food Safety Basics: Getting Handling and Storage Right 3:51

1M ago3:51

3:51

Smoke Break - Episode 16: Food Safety Basics: Getting Handling and Storage Right Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down essential food safety practices that protect your customers and business. Learn how to implement proper handling and storage procedures that form the foundation of your store's food safety system. E…

1
Episode 16: Product Knowledge - Your Secret Weapon 2:44

1M ago2:44

2:44

Smoke Break - Episode 16: Product Knowledge - Your Secret Weapon Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares strategies for developing comprehensive product knowledge that enhances customer service and boosts sales. Learn how to lead your team in becoming product experts who can confidently guide customers to the perfect purch…

1
Shaping the 2025 Regulatory Roadmap: Insights from the SEC and FINRA at SIFMA’s C&L Seminar 1:01:42

1M ago1:01:42

1:01:42

In this episode of The SIFMA Podcast, SIFMA President and CEO Kenneth E. Bentsen, Jr. sits down with SIFMA General Counsel Saima Ahmed to unpack key takeaways from the 2025 SIFMA Compliance & Legal Annual Seminar. They discuss top regulatory priorities, evolving compliance expectations, and what’s on the horizon. With exclusive conversations live f…

1
Effective Decision-Making for Store Leaders 17:33

1M ago17:33

17:33

SURVIVE Podcast - Episode 63 Notes Episode Title: Effective Decision-Making for Store Leaders Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this practical episode of Survive, host Mike Hernandez explores how convenience store assistant managers can transform their decision-making abilities from sources of stress into powerful leadership tools. Learn…

1
Making Promotions Work - Your Guide to Marketing Success 15:55

1M ago15:55

15:55

DIVE Podcast – Episode 63 Notes Episode Title: Making Promotions Work - Your Guide to Marketing Success Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this action-packed episode of Dive, host Mike Hernandez explores how convenience store sales associates can transform store promotions from simple discounts into powerful sales opportunities. Learn how…

1
Episode 15: Building a Culture of Compliance 6:12

1M ago6:12

6:12

Smoke Break - Episode 15: Building a Culture of Compliance Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez for the final episode in our compliance series as he shares strategies for transforming compliance from a set of rules into a core part of your store's identity. Learn how to create an environment where doing things the right way becomes …

1
Episode 15 - Consumer Protection: Keeping Customers Safe and Satisfied 3:35

1M ago3:35

3:35

Smoke Break - Episode 15: Consumer Protection: Keeping Customers Safe and Satisfied Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential consumer protection strategies that build customer trust while keeping your store compliant with regulations. Learn how to implement practices that protect both your customers and your busin…

1
Episode 15: Time Management - Balancing Service and Operations 3:03

1M ago3:03

3:03

Smoke Break - Episode 15: Time Management - Balancing Service and Operations Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical strategies for managing the competing demands on your time as an assistant manager. Learn how to balance excellent customer service with operational responsibilities while maintaining your sanity. …

1
Making Smart Choices: A Guide for Store Leaders 19:02

2M ago19:02

19:02

SURVIVE Podcast - Episode 62 Notes Episode Title: Making Smart Choices: A Guide for Store Leaders Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this powerful episode of Survive, host Mike Hernandez explores the critical skill of decision-making for convenience store assistant managers. Learn practical frameworks and techniques to make better choices…

1
Inclusive Excellence - Creating a Welcoming Store for Everyone 20:23

2M ago20:23

20:23

DIVE Podcast - Episode 62 Notes Episode Title: Inclusive Excellence - Creating a Welcoming Store for Everyone Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this essential episode of Dive, host Mike Hernandez explores how convenience store sales associates can create an inclusive, welcoming environment for customers from all backgrounds. Learn practi…

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Episode 14: Regular Audits and Reviews - Your Path to Compliance Success 5:38

2M ago5:38

5:38

Smoke Break - Episode 14: Regular Audits and Reviews - Your Path to Compliance Success Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares proven strategies for implementing effective audit systems that protect your business and prevent compliance issues. Learn how regular reviews can transform from tedious tasks into valuable tools f…

1
Episode 14 - Labor Laws: Keeping Your Team Protected 2:44

2M ago2:44

2:44

Smoke Break - Episode 14: Labor Laws: Keeping Your Team Protected Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down essential labor law compliance strategies that protect your team and your business. Learn how to navigate wage requirements, scheduling regulations, and workplace policies while building a fair, legal work environ…

1
Episode 14: Building a Customer Service Dream Team 3:15

2M ago3:15

3:15

Smoke Break - Episode 14: Building a Customer Service Dream Team Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for developing and maintaining a team that consistently delivers outstanding customer service. Learn how to train, motivate, and lead your staff to create memorable customer experiences. Episode Ove…

1
Strategic Problem-Solving for Store Leaders 17:44

2M ago17:44

17:44

SURVIVE Podcast - Episode 61 Notes Episode Title: Strategic Problem-Solving for Store Leaders Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this powerful episode of Survive, host Mike Hernandez explores how convenience store assistant managers can transform daily challenges into opportunities through analytical thinking and systematic problem-solvin…

1
Mastering Online Orders & Delivery - Your Digital Service Guide 32:06

2M ago32:06

32:06

DIVE Podcast - Episode 61 Notes Episode Title: Mastering Online Orders & Delivery - Your Digital Service Guide Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this comprehensive episode of Dive, host Mike Hernandez explores the rapidly evolving world of digital ordering and delivery for convenience store associates. Learn how to excel in managing onli…

1
Episode 13: Training Your Team for Compliance Success 5:48

2M ago5:48

5:48

Smoke Break - Episode 13: Training Your Team for Compliance Success Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares proven strategies for developing effective compliance training programs that stick. Learn how to transform procedures from paper documents into daily practices that protect your business and customers. Episode Overvi…

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Episode 13 - Environmental Compliance Made Simple 3:28

2M ago3:28

3:28

Smoke Break - Episode 13: Environmental Compliance Made Simple Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down essential environmental compliance strategies that protect both your business and the planet. Learn practical approaches to waste management, energy efficiency, and regulatory adherence that can save money while avoi…

1
Episode 13: Turning Unhappy Customers into Loyal Fans 3:54

2M ago3:54

3:54

Smoke Break - Episode 13: Turning Unhappy Customers into Loyal Fans Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares proven strategies for transforming customer complaints into opportunities for building loyalty. Learn how to lead your team in handling difficult situations with professionalism and care. Episode Overview Master esse…

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Speaking with Impact: Presentation Skills for Store Leaders 17:19

2M ago17:19

17:19

Survive – Episode 60 Guide Speaking with Impact: Presentation Skills for Store Leaders Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Survive from C-Store Center Duration: 17 minutes Episode Description Transform your leadership presence through powerful communication! In this essential episode of Survive, host Mike Hernandez reveals how effective speaking skills ca…

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Mastering Convenience Meals - Your Guide to Quick Service Excellence 21:24

2M ago21:24

21:24

Dive - Episode 60 Guide Episode 60: Mastering Convenience Meals: Your Guide to Quick Service Excellence Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Dive from C-Store Center Duration: 21 minutes Episode Description Transform your sales performance by mastering today's fastest-growing profit center: convenience meals and prepared foods! In this essential episode of…

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Episode 12: Navigating the World of Regulatory Compliance 5:57

2M ago5:57

5:57

Smoke Break - Episode 12: Navigating the World of Regulatory Compliance Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down essential compliance strategies that protect your business, customers, and reputation. Learn how regulatory adherence can become a competitive advantage rather than just a necessity. Episode Overview Master …

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Episode 12 - Alcohol & Tobacco: Getting ID Right Every Time 3:20

2M ago3:20

3:20

Smoke Break - Episode 12: Alcohol & Tobacco: Getting ID Right Every Time Episode Duration: 3 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for maintaining perfect compliance with alcohol and tobacco regulations. Learn how to implement foolproof systems that protect your business, your license, and your community. Episode Overvi…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

C Store Operations Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen