"Smoke Break" is a weekly micro-podcast that delivers essential management strategies for convenience store managers in just 5-10 minutes. Join host Mike as he shares actionable insights on inventory control, staff management, profitability, and operational excellence. Each episode tackles real-world challenges faced by c-store managers, providing practical solutions you can implement immediately to improve store performance and advance your career. Perfect for busy managers who want to stay ...
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"Smoke Break" is a weekly micro-podcast designed specifically for independent convenience store owners looking to maximize their business potential. In just 5-10 minutes – the length of a typical break – host Mike Hernandez delivers actionable strategies and practical insights to help you thrive in the competitive convenience store market. Each episode tackles essential topics like store layout optimization, visual merchandising, inventory management, competitive analysis, and building stron ...
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This is a podcast covering training topics and experiences related to new convenience store sales associates that others in your store don't have time to cover. So, dive right in and learn about your job and how things work in the industry.
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"Smoke Break" is a weekly micro-podcast delivering essential management tips for convenience store assistant managers in just 5-10 minutes. Host Mike Hernandez shares practical strategies for store operations, staff management, and career advancement. Perfect for busy assistant managers, each episode provides actionable solutions to real-world c-store challenges that you can implement immediately.
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"Smoke Break" is a weekly micro-podcast delivering essential training tips for convenience store sales associates in just 5-10 minutes. Host Mike Hernandez shares practical advice, real-world scenarios, and actionable strategies to help you excel in your role and advance your career. Perfect for listening during your break, each episode tackles key topics like customer service, store operations, and professional development. Turn your smoke break into a power-packed learning session!
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This podcast is for convenience store sales associates looking to promote to assistant managers as well as for new assistant managers. This can be a tough role when you just get thrown into position. I will prepare you to survive in this role.
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"Smoke Break" is a weekly micro-podcast designed specifically for convenience store district managers who oversee multiple locations. In just 5-10 minutes – perfect for a quick break – host Mike Hernandez delivers strategic insights and practical solutions for multi-unit management challenges. Each episode tackles essential topics like team delegation, standardization across stores, effective communication systems, and performance optimization strategies. Whether you're new to multi-unit man ...
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Welcome to Retail101online, where timeless wisdom meets modern retail! Join our host, a seasoned veteran with four decades of experience spanning 20 countries and multiple retailers. In a world dominated by automation and technology, essential retail knowledge is often overlooked. Our mission is to revive these forgotten fundamentals and empower both aspiring retailers and curious consumers. From customer service to inventory management, we delve deep into the core principles that form the b ...
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Staying on Track: Managing Interruptions in Store Operations
18:32
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18:32Episode 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
4:33
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4:33Smoke 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
3:25
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3:25Smoke 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
3:35
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3:35Smoke 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
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3:06Smoke 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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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…
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Your Money - Your Future: Personal Finances Explained
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15:41Send us a text Episode 19 – your money, your future: personal finance basics for retail workers In this powerful and practical episode of retail101online, we explore how retail workers—especially those working abroad in the middle east—can start building a stronger financial future with simple, easy-to-understand personal finance tips. Many frontli…
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Making the Right Choices: Priority Setting for Store Leaders
18:35
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18:35Episode 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
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17:09Episode 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…
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Episode 19: Building Your Store's Reputation Through Service
4:43
4:43
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4:43Smoke 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 …
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Episode 19: Making the Most of Health Department Visits
3:45
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3:45Smoke Break - Episode 19: Making the Most of Health Department Visits Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez for the final episode in our health and safety series as he shares strategies for turning health department inspections into positive experiences. Learn how to prepare your store network for regulatory visits and use them as op…
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Episode 19 - Documentation: Your Food Safety Shield
3:18
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3:18Smoke 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 …
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Episode 19: The Power of Empathy in Customer Service
3:07
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3:07Smoke 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…
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Episode 19: Troubleshooting Your POS Like a Pro
3:39
3:39
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3:39Smoke 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.…
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Thinking Fast & Slow By Daniel Kahneman And The Impact On Retail
13:12
13:12
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13:12Send us a text In this podcast, we dive into Daniel Kahneman's "Thinking, Fast and Slow" to uncover how you can solve your everyday thinking problems. By understanding the two systems of thought—fast, intuitive reactions and slow, deliberate analysis—you'll learn how to make better decisions, avoid common cognitive biases, and enhance your problem-…
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Making Every Minute Count: Time Management for Store Leaders
17:36
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17:36SURVIVE 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…
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Mastering Difficult Situations - Your Guide to Conflict Resolution
16:59
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16:59DIVE 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…
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Episode 18: Maximizing Sales Through Exceptional Service
5:02
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5:02Smoke 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…
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Episode 18: Emergency Preparedness - When Minutes Matter
3:46
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3:46Smoke Break - Episode 18: Emergency Preparedness - When Minutes Matter Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for preparing your store network for emergencies before they happen. Learn how to develop and implement comprehensive emergency plans that protect your team, customers, and business when every…
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Episode 18 - Keeping It Clean: Facility Maintenance & Sanitation
3:24
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3:24Smoke 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…
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Episode 18: Common Customer Needs in Convenience Stores
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3:19Smoke 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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Episode 18: Advanced POS Skills That Make You Stand Out
3:46
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3:46Smoke 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…
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Finding Real Solutions: Root Cause Analysis for Store Leaders
17:03
17:03
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17:03SURVIVE 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.…
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Mastering Compliance - Your Guide to Store Standards
15:36
15:36
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15:36DIVE 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…
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Episode 17: Word of Mouth - Your Most Powerful Marketing Tool
4:55
4:55
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4:55Smoke 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…
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Smoke Break - Episode 17: Building Your Safety Culture Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares strategies for creating a genuine safety culture that goes beyond rules and procedures. Learn how to develop an environment where safety becomes part of your stores' DNA rather than just another compliance requirement. Episode Ov…
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Episode 17 - Temperature Control: The Hot and Cold of Food Safety
3:02
3:02
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3:02Smoke 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.…
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Episode 17: Understanding Different Customer Expectations
3:05
3:05
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3:05Smoke 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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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 …
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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…
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Using Data to Drive Success - Your Guide to Sales Analytics
17:01
17:01
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17:01DIVE 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…
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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…
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Episode 16: Mastering Health and Safety Inspections
3:46
3:46
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3:46Smoke Break - Episode 16: Mastering Health and Safety Inspections Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares strategies for preparing your store network for health and safety inspections. Learn how to develop systems that ensure your locations are inspection-ready every day, not just when inspectors are expected. Episode Over…
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Episode 16: Food Safety Basics: Getting Handling and Storage Right
3:51
3:51
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3:51Smoke 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…
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Episode 16: Product Knowledge - Your Secret Weapon
2:44
2:44
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2:44Smoke 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…
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Episode 16: Creating a Store Atmosphere That Customers Love
5:13
5:13
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5:13Smoke 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 …
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Effective Decision-Making for Store Leaders
17:33
17:33
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17:33SURVIVE 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…
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Making Promotions Work - Your Guide to Marketing Success
15:55
15:55
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15:55DIVE 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…
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Episode 15: Building a Culture of Compliance
6:12
6:12
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6:12Smoke 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 …
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Episode 15: Health and Safety - Your Foundation for Success
4:10
4:10
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4:10Smoke Break - Episode 15: Health and Safety - Your Foundation for Success Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares strategies for implementing effective health and safety compliance across your store network. Learn how to create systems that protect your customers, employees, and business while building a strong safety cult…
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Episode 15 - Consumer Protection: Keeping Customers Safe and Satisfied
3:35
3:35
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3:35Smoke 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…
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Episode 15: Time Management - Balancing Service and Operations
3:03
3:03
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3:03Smoke 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. …
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Episode 15: Mastering the Art of Communication
4:46
4:46
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4:46Smoke 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…
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Making Smart Choices: A Guide for Store Leaders
19:02
19:02
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19:02SURVIVE 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…
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Inclusive Excellence - Creating a Welcoming Store for Everyone
20:23
20:23
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20:23DIVE 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
5:38
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5:38Smoke 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…
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Episode 14: Staying Adaptable in Today's Retail Landscape
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4:09
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4:09Smoke Break - Episode 14: Staying Adaptable in Today's Retail Landscape Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares strategies for maintaining adaptability across your store network in a rapidly changing retail environment. Learn how to anticipate industry shifts, test new concepts, and prepare your team for ongoing evolution.…
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Episode 14 - Labor Laws: Keeping Your Team Protected
2:44
2:44
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2:44Smoke 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…
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Episode 14: Building a Customer Service Dream Team
3:15
3:15
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3:15Smoke 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…
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Episode 14: Growing Your Career Without Breaking the Bank
4:54
4:54
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4:54Smoke 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…
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