Best Convenience Store Management Training Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 30: Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls 4:03

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3d ago4:03

4:03

Smoke Break - Episode 30: Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to eliminate the most common cause of convenience store accidents through systematic floor safety protocols. Learn proven strategies for managing wet surfaces, creating effective cleaning schedules, redesigning high-ri…

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Episode 29: Hazard Communication - Your First Line of Defense 3:55

3d ago3:55

3:55

Smoke Break - Episode 29: Hazard Communication - Your First Line of Defense Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he transforms hazard communication from confusing paperwork into a practical safety system that protects your employees from dangerous chemical exposures. Learn proven strategies for creating accessible safety data she…

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Episode 30: Building Stronger Teams Through Compliance 3:38

3d ago3:38

3:38

Smoke Break - Episode 30: Building Stronger Teams Through Compliance Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to transform compliance programs from rule-following exercises into powerful team-building tools that create cultures of excellence. Learn strategic approaches for ongoing training involvement, peer leadership …

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Episode 29: Making Data-Driven Decisions with Your Compliance Records 3:18

3d ago3:18

3:18

Smoke Break - Episode 29: Making Data-Driven Decisions with Your Compliance Records Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to transform collected compliance data from static records into actionable insights that improve operations and boost profitability. Learn strategic approaches for tracking successes alongside fa…

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Episode 30 - Safety Metrics: Making Numbers Work For You 3:17

3d ago3:17

3:17

Smoke Break - Episode 30: Safety Metrics: Making Numbers Work For You Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he demystifies safety metrics and transforms raw data into actionable insights that protect your team. Learn practical approaches for tracking incident patterns, identifying time-based trends, calculating true safety costs, …

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Episode 29 - Safety Audits That Get Results 3:18

3d ago3:18

3:18

Smoke Break - Episode 29: Safety Audits That Get Results Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he transforms safety audits from checkbox exercises into powerful prevention tools that protect your team and keep OSHA satisfied. Learn strategic timing approaches, systematic inspection methods, equipment verification techniques, and m…

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Episode 30: Problem Resolution That Builds Trust 2:21

3d ago2:21

2:21

Smoke Break - Episode 30: Problem Resolution That Builds Trust Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals the counterintuitive truth that well-handled complaints create stronger customer loyalty than if problems never occurred. Learn immediate response techniques, active listening protocols, ownership mentality regardless of…

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Episode 29: Ethical Upselling and Cross-Selling 2:21

3d ago2:21

2:21

Smoke Break - Episode 29: Ethical Upselling and Cross-Selling Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he transforms upselling and cross-selling from potentially sleazy tactics into genuine customer service that builds trust and loyalty. Learn the golden rule of customer-benefit-first selling, pressure-free suggestion techniques, tra…

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Episode 28: Understanding OSHA Basics for Your Store 3:54

3d ago3:54

3:54

Smoke Break - Episode 28: Understanding OSHA Basics for Your Store Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he demystifies OSHA compliance for independent convenience store owners, transforming overwhelming regulations into manageable, actionable safety systems. Learn how to protect your employees, customers, and business through pra…

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Episode 28: Leveraging Technology for Better Compliance 3:22

3d ago3:22

3:22

Smoke Break - Episode 28: Leveraging Technology for Better Compliance Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he demonstrates how technology transforms compliance checklists from basic paper forms into powerful management tools that prevent problems before they escalate. Learn practical approaches for implementing digital systems, a…

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Episode 28 - Safety Incentives That Actually Work 3:15

3d ago3:15

3:15

Smoke Break - Episode 28: Safety Incentives That Actually Work Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to design safety incentive programs that encourage genuine safety awareness instead of accident concealment. Learn strategic approaches for rewarding positive behaviors, creating fair multi-role programs, maintaining…

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Episode 28: Making Personalized Recommendations 2:22

3d ago2:22

2:22

Smoke Break - Episode 28: Making Personalized Recommendations Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to transform basic product suggestions into personalized recommendations that boost sales while making customers feel genuinely valued. Learn the art of attention-driven selling, strategic timing techniques, and conve…

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Episode 27: Mastering Customer Feedback 4:30

3h ago4:30

4:30

Smoke Break - Episode 27: Mastering Customer Feedback Episode Duration: 4:30 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez for the final episode of the customer service series as he reveals how to transform customer feedback from occasional complaints into a strategic business improvement tool. Learn proven techniques from successful store owners who've mastere…

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Episode 27: Using Checklists in Store Audits 3:41

10d ago3:41

3:41

Smoke Break - Episode 27: Using Checklists in Store Audits Episode Duration: 4 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he transforms store audits from fault-finding missions into powerful operational insight tools. Learn strategic approaches for leveraging checklists to understand real-world system performance, identify both quick fixes and systemic is…

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Episode 27 - Building Your Safety Committee 4:02

10d ago4:02

4:02

Smoke Break - Episode 27: Building Your Safety Committee Episode Duration: 4 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he guides you through creating an effective safety committee that actively prevents accidents rather than just reacting to them. Learn optimal committee sizing, strategic member selection, clear responsibility assignment, and documentati…

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Episode 27: Building Customer Rapport 2:20

10d ago2:20

2:20

Smoke Break - Episode 27: Building Customer Rapport Episode Duration: 2 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how building genuine customer relationships transforms one-time shoppers into loyal regulars who choose your store regardless of price. Learn practical techniques for remembering names and preferences, engaging in meaningful small …

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

17d 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: Making Your Checklists Work Harder 3:59

17d ago3:59

3:59

Smoke Break - Episode 26: Making Your Checklists Work Harder Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to transform basic compliance checklists into powerful continuous improvement tools that drive operational excellence across your district. Learn to extract valuable data insights, leverage checklists for training, opt…

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Episode 26 - Safety Training That Sticks 4:15

17d 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

12d 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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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: Creating Powerful Compliance Checklists 4:23

6M ago4:23

4:23

Smoke Break - Episode 25: Creating Powerful Compliance Checklists Episode Duration: 9 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to create compliance checklists that actually work in the real world of convenience store operations. Learn to build customized tools that reflect each store's unique characteristics, engage your team in the devel…

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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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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: Staying Ahead of Safety Regulations 3:28

6M ago3:28

3:28

Smoke Break - Episode 24: Staying Ahead of Safety Regulations Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez for the final episode of the health and safety series as he reveals how to stay ahead of ever-changing safety regulations. Learn proactive strategies for monitoring regulatory changes, building industry networks for early warnings, and…

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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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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: Building Emergency Response Partnerships 3:14

6M ago3:14

3:14

Smoke Break - Episode 23: Building Emergency Response Partnerships Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to build strategic partnerships with local emergency responders that can save lives and protect your stores during critical situations. Learn proactive relationship-building strategies with fire departments, poli…

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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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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: Creating Safety Incentive Programs That Work 3:22

7M ago3:22

3:22

Smoke Break - Episode 22: Creating Safety Incentive Programs That Work Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to build safety incentive programs that actually change behavior and strengthen safety culture across your district. Learn why traditional accident-free day rewards can backfire and discover proven strategies…

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

7M 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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Episode 21: Mastering Efficient Checkout 3:54

7M 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: Employee Safety Training That Sticks 3:04

7M ago3:04

3:04

Smoke Break - Episode 21: Employee Safety Training That Sticks Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to transform ineffective safety training into engaging, memorable programs that actually prevent accidents. Learn proven techniques for creating lasting safety habits across your district through storytelling, hands-…

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

7M 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

7M 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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Legal and Regulatory Compliance 20:40

7M ago20:40

20:40

Episode 68 Show Notes: Legal and Regulatory Compliance Episode Description In this final episode of the "Drive" series from C-Store Center, host Mike Hernandez tackles the critical topic that affects every aspect of convenience store operations - legal and regulatory compliance. Discover how Maria Rodriguez transformed her district from averaging t…

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

7M 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…

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

7M 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…

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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: Record Keeping - Your Safety Net 3:25

7M ago3:25

3:25

Smoke Break - Episode 20: Record Keeping - Your Safety Net Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals why effective documentation is crucial for health and safety compliance across your district. Learn how proper record keeping serves as both protection during inspections and a valuable management tool that identifies operat…

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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…

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Ensuring Employee and Customer Safety 21:59

7M ago21:59

21:59

Episode 67 Show Notes: Ensuring Employee and Customer Safety Episode Description In this crucial episode of "Drive from C-Store Center," host Mike Hernandez explores comprehensive safety strategies that protect both employees and customers while enhancing business operations. Learn how one district manager reduced safety incidents by 70%, decreased…

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

7M 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 …

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

7M 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…