Best Convenience Store Career Development Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 23: Clear and Concise Communication 3:11

8h 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…

1
Episode 23: POS and Inventory - Making the Connection 2:53

8h ago2:53

2:53

Smoke Break - Episode 23: POS and Inventory - Making the Connection Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how your daily POS transactions directly impact inventory management and customer service. Learn to leverage your point-of-sale system as a powerful inventory tool, understand the connection between scanning accurac…

1
Smoke Break - Episode 22: The Art of Active Listening 3:16

4d 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…

1
Episode 22: Mastering Rush Hour at the Register 3:11

4d ago3:11

3:11

Smoke Break - Episode 22: Mastering Rush Hour at the Register Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals the secrets to handling high-volume checkout periods with confidence and efficiency. Learn how to balance speed with accuracy, manage customer expectations during busy times, and prepare your register station for smooth t…

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

9d 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
Episode 21: Using Your POS to Drive Sales 3:27

9d ago3:27

3:27

Smoke Break - Episode 21: Using Your POS to Drive Sales Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to transform your POS system from a simple checkout tool into a powerful sales driver. Learn practical techniques for using transaction data, promotional information, and inventory insights to boost sales while providing ex…

1
Smart Priorities: Managing Multiple Demands Successfully 23:44

17d ago23:44

23:44

Episode 78 Show Notes: Smart Priorities - Managing Multiple Demands Successfully Episode Description In this final episode of the "Arrive" series from C-Store Center, host Mike Hernandez tackles the challenge every convenience store owner faces - managing competing demands and setting smart priorities when everything feels urgent. Discover how Rach…

1
Convenience Store Success: Program Recap and Future Outlook 20:57

17d ago20:57

20:57

Episode 77 Show Notes: Convenience Store Success - Program Recap and Future Outlook Episode Description In this milestone final episode of the "Thrive" series from C-Store Center, host Mike Hernandez celebrates the journey we've taken together and charts the exciting path forward for convenience store leaders. Join us as we explore the remarkable s…

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

22d 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…

1
Episode 20: POS Maintenance and Security 3:30

22d ago3:30

3:30

Smoke Break - Episode 20: POS Maintenance and Security Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he explains essential practices for keeping your POS system clean, secure, and functioning properly. Learn why regular maintenance isn't just about appearances—it directly affects equipment performance, security, and customer trust in toda…

1
Time Well Spent: Effective Management for Store Owners 21:58

24d ago21:58

21:58

Episode 77 Show Notes: Time Well Spent - Effective Management for Store Owners Episode Description In this game-changing episode of "Arrive from C-Store Center," host Mike Hernandez reveals how smart time management can transform your store operations and reclaim your life. Discover how Mike Reynolds cut his 80-hour work weeks down to 45 hours whil…

1
Convenience Store Success: Crisis Management and Emergency Preparedness 19:55

24d ago19:55

19:55

Episode 76 Show Notes: Convenience Store Success - Crisis Management and Emergency Preparedness Episode Description In this vital episode of "Thrive from C-Store Center," host Mike Hernandez delivers essential guidance on crisis management and emergency preparedness - or as he calls it, "planning for the worst while hoping for the best." Learn how …

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

25d 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
Episode 19: Troubleshooting Your POS Like a Pro 3:39

29d ago3:39

3:39

Smoke Break - Episode 19: Troubleshooting Your POS Like a Pro Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical strategies for handling Point of Sale system issues with confidence and professionalism. Learn how to troubleshoot common technical problems while maintaining excellent customer service during system disruptions.…

1
Future-Ready: Forecasting and Adapting to Industry Changes 24:52

1M ago24:52

24:52

Episode 76 Show Notes: Future-Ready: Forecasting and Adapting to Industry Changes Episode Description In this crucial episode of "Arrive from C-Store Center," host Mike Hernandez explores how independent convenience store owners can spot and adapt to industry changes before they catch them off guard. Discover why smart adaptation isn't about predic…

1
Convenience Store Success: Financial Analysis and Profitability 20:26

1M ago20:26

20:26

THRIVE Podcast - Episode 75 Notes Episode Title: Convenience Store Success: Financial Analysis and Profitability Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this essential episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez reveals how convenience store managers can transform overwhelming financial data into actionable insights that drive profits. Learn how on…

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

1M 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…

1
Episode 18: Advanced POS Skills That Make You Stand Out 3:46

1M ago3:46

3:46

Smoke Break - Episode 18: Advanced POS Skills That Make You Stand Out Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he explores advanced Point of Sale techniques that can transform you from a basic cashier into a checkout superstar. Learn how to master complex transactions that enhance customer service and demonstrate your professional va…

1
Smart Growth: Developing Your Business Strategy 23:04

1M ago23:04

23:04

ARRIVE Podcast - Episode 75 Notes Episode Title: Smart Growth: Developing Your Business Strategy Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this strategic episode of Arrive, host Mike Hernandez reveals how independent convenience store owners can transform their business through effective planning and goal setting. Learn the practical approach th…

1
Convenience Store Success: Effective Promotions and Sales Techniques 18:20

1M ago18:20

18:20

THRIVE Podcast – Episode 74 Notes Episode Title: Convenience Store Success: Effective Promotions and Sales Techniques Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this profit-boosting episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez reveals strategies for creating effective promotions and sales techniques that increase your convenience store's revenue withou…

1
Episode 17: Understanding Different Customer Expectations 3:05

1M 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…

1
Episode 17: Mastering Your POS System 3:51

1M ago3:51

3:51

Smoke Break - Episode 17: Mastering Your POS System Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical strategies for becoming more efficient and confident with your store's Point of Sale system. Learn how to transform this everyday tool into a skill that enhances your customer service and workplace value. Episode Overview …

1
Standing Out: Finding Your Competitive Edge 22:08

2M ago22:08

22:08

ARRIVE Podcast - Episode 74 Notes Episode Title: Standing Out: Finding Your Competitive Edge Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this strategic episode of Arrive, host Mike Hernandez explores how independent convenience store owners can discover and develop their unique competitive advantages in today's challenging market. Learn how to ide…

1
Convenience Store Success: Employee Training and Development 17:35

2M ago17:35

17:35

THRIVE Podcast - Episode 73 Notes Episode Title: Convenience Store Success: Employee Training and Development Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this essential episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez explores how effective employee training can transform your convenience store's performance while significantly reducing turnover. Learn prac…

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

2M 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
Episode 16: Creating a Store Atmosphere That Customers Love 5:13

2M ago5:13

5:13

Smoke Break - Episode 16: Creating a Store Atmosphere That Customers Love Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez for the final episode in our series as he shares strategies for creating an inviting store environment that brings customers back again and again. Learn how your attitude, actions, and attention to detail can transform the …

1
Financial Success: Understanding Your Numbers 22:08

2M ago22:08

22:08

ARRIVE Podcast - Episode 73 Notes Episode Title: Financial Success: Understanding Your Numbers Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this essential episode of Arrive, host Mike Hernandez demystifies financial analysis for convenience store owners. Learn practical approaches to understanding your financial statements and key performance indic…

1
Convenience Store Success: Managing Inventory and Supply Chain 19:23

2M ago19:23

19:23

THRIVE Podcast - Episode 72 Notes Episode Title: Convenience Store Success: Managing Inventory and Supply Chain Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this profit-boosting episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez reveals practical strategies for mastering inventory and supply chain management in your convenience store. Learn how to transform yo…

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

2M 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
Episode 15: Mastering the Art of Communication 4:46

2M ago4:46

4:46

Smoke Break - Episode 15: Mastering the Art of Communication Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares advanced communication techniques that can transform your customer interactions and team collaboration. Learn how to elevate your verbal and non-verbal skills to create more meaningful connections and standout service. Epis…

1
Strategic Thinking: Building Your Path to Long-Term Success 22:22

2M ago22:22

22:22

ARRIVE Podcast - Episode 72 Notes Episode Title: Strategic Thinking: Building Your Path to Long-Term Success Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this transformative episode of Arrive, host Mike Hernandez explores how convenience store owners can shift from day-to-day reactive management to strategic thinking that drives long-term success. …

1
Convenience Store Success: Store Layout and Visual Merchandising 18:55

2M ago18:55

18:55

THRIVE Podcast - Episode 71 Notes Episode Title: Convenience Store Success: Store Layout and Visual Merchandising Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this transformative episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez reveals how convenience store managers can turn their store layout and visual merchandising into powerful sales tools. Learn practic…

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
Episode 14: Growing Your Career Without Breaking the Bank 4:54

2M ago4:54

4:54

Smoke Break - Episode 14: Growing Your Career Without Breaking the Bank Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical strategies for professional development that don't require expensive training or formal education. Learn how to leverage your current position to build valuable skills that can advance your career in re…

1
Smart Site Selection: Evaluating Locations for Store Expansion 23:53

2M ago23:53

23:53

ARRIVE Podcast - Episode 71 Notes Episode Title: Smart Site Selection: Evaluating Locations for Store Expansion Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this strategic episode of Arrive, host Mike Hernandez explores the critical process of selecting the perfect location for your next convenience store. Learn how to evaluate potential sites beyo…

1
Convenience Store Success: Managing Customer Complaints and Service Recovery 19:09

2M ago19:09

19:09

THRIVE Podcast - Episode 70 Notes Episode Title: Convenience Store Success: Managing Customer Complaints and Service Recovery Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this powerful episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez tackles one of the most challenging aspects of convenience store management: turning customer complaints into opportunities fo…

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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Episode 13: Finding Your Balance - Work, Life, and Convenience Store Success 4:38

2M ago4:38

4:38

Smoke Break - Episode 13: Finding Your Balance - Work, Life, and Convenience Store Success Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance while succeeding in your convenience store career. Learn how to manage your time effectively, set boundaries, and prioritize you…

1
Smart Growth: Expanding Products and Revenue Streams 23:01

3M ago23:01

23:01

ARRIVE Podcast - Episode 70 Notes Episode Title: Smart Growth: Expanding Products and Revenue Streams Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this value-packed episode of Arrive, host Mike Hernandez explores strategic ways convenience store owners can expand their product mix and develop new revenue streams. Learn how to grow your convenience …

1
Convenience Store Success: Marketing Strategies That Work 20:36

2M ago20:36

20:36

Thrive - Episode 69 Guide Marketing Strategies That Work for Convenience Stores Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Thrive from C-Store Center Duration: 20 minutes Episode Description Discover how to market your convenience store effectively without a big chain's budget! In this practical episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez shares how he increased his …

1
Episode 12: The Art of Customer Service 4:00

3M ago4:00

4:00

Smoke Break - Episode 12: The Art of Customer Service Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for creating and maintaining exceptional customer service standards in your store. Learn how to lead your team in delivering consistent, quality interactions that build customer loyalty. Episode Overview Maste…

1
Episode 12: Handling Emergency Situations Like a Pro 4:58

3M ago4:58

4:58

Smoke Break - Episode 12: Handling Emergency Situations Like a Pro Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for responding to emergency situations with confidence and professionalism. Learn how to protect yourself, your team, and your customers during unexpected events. Episode Overview Master responses…

1
Finding Your Edge: Growth Opportunities and Niche Markets 22:49

3M ago22:49

22:49

Arrive - Episode 69 Guide Finding Your Edge: Growth Opportunities and Niche Markets Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Arrive from C-Store Center Duration: 23 minutes Episode Description Discover how to transform your convenience store by finding your unique competitive edge! In this essential episode of Arrive, host Mike Hernandez reveals how identifyin…

1
Convenience Store Success: Retail Analytics and Data-Driven Decision Making 20:53

3M ago20:53

20:53

Thrive - Episode 68 Guide Retail Analytics and Data-Driven Decision Making for Convenience Store Success Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Thrive from C-Store Center Duration: 21 minutes Episode Description Transform your convenience store's performance through the power of data you already have! In this practical episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez …

1
Episode 11: Building a Culture of Safety and Compliance 3:59

3M ago3:59

3:59

Smoke Break - Episode 11: Building a Culture of Safety and Compliance Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for creating a work environment where safety and compliance become ingrained in daily operations. Learn how to transform safety from a set of rules into a core part of your store's culture. Epi…

1
Episode 11: Staying Safe and Sharp During Late-Night Shifts 4:58

3M ago4:58

4:58

Smoke Break - Episode 11: Staying Safe and Sharp During Late-Night Shifts Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for maintaining both personal safety and quality customer service during overnight shifts. Learn practical techniques for staying alert, managing unique night-time situations, and creating …

1
Spotting Success: Market Trends and Consumer Preferences for Convenience Stores 21:59

3M ago21:59

21:59

Arrive - Episode 68 Guide Spotting Success: Market Trends and Consumer Preferences for Convenience Stores Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Arrive from C-Store Center Duration: 22 minutes Episode Description Transform your convenience store by spotting profitable trends before your competition! In this essential episode of Arrive, host Mike Hernandez re…

1
Convenience Store Success: Effective Communication & Team Collaboration 21:02

3M ago21:02

21:02

Thrive - Episode 67 Guide Effective Communication & Team Collaboration for Convenience Store Success Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Thrive from C-Store Center Duration: 21 minutes Episode Description Transform your store's operations through the power of effective communication! In this essential episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez reveals how pro…

1
Episode 10: Emergency Preparedness and Response 4:29

3M ago4:29

4:29

Smoke Break - Episode 10: Emergency Preparedness and Response Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for preparing your store and team for emergencies. Learn how to develop and implement critical safety protocols that protect your customers and staff during unexpected situations. Episode Overview Mast…

1
Episode 10: Mastering the Rush Hour Rush 5:08

3M ago5:08

5:08

Smoke Break - Episode 10: Mastering the Rush Hour Rush Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical strategies for handling peak business periods with efficiency and professionalism. Learn how to transform chaotic rush hours into smooth operations while maintaining quality customer service. Episode Overview Master ess…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Convenience Store Career Development Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen