Best Convenience Store Training Podcasts (2025)

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

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3d 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

3d 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

3d 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

3d 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 25: Cash Handling Essentials 3:34

3d ago3:34

3:34

Smoke Break - Episode 25: Cash Handling Essentials Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals the fundamentals of professional cash handling that build customer trust and protect both you and your store. Learn essential techniques for accurate transactions, proper counting procedures, counterfeit detection basics, and mainta…

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Episode 24: Mastering Problem Resolution 4:20

9d 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

9d 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

9d 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

9d 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 24: Understanding POS Reports For Better Service 2:55

9d ago2:55

2:55

Smoke Break - Episode 24: Understanding POS Reports For Better Service Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he demystifies POS reports and reveals how sales data can transform your customer service approach. Learn to read sales patterns, identify customer preferences, and use transaction insights to anticipate needs, make better …

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

18d 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

16d 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

16d 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

16d 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 23: POS and Inventory - Making the Connection 2:53

16d 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…

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Episode 22: The Impact of Store Cleanliness 4:07

24d 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

26d 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

24d 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

26d 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 22: Mastering Rush Hour at the Register 3:11

26d 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…

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Episode 21: Mastering Efficient Checkout 3:54

29d 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

29d 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

1M 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

1M 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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Episode 21: Using Your POS to Drive Sales 3:27

1M 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…

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Legal and Regulatory Compliance 20:40

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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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Episode 20: POS Maintenance and Security 3:30

1M 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…

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Ensuring Employee and Customer Safety 21:59

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

1M 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…

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

2M 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 …

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Episode 19: Making the Most of Health Department Visits 3:45

2M ago3:45

3:45

Smoke 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

1M 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 …

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

2M 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…

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

2M 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.…

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Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management 22:39

2M ago22:39

22:39

Episode 66 Show Notes: Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management Episode Description In this crucial episode of "Drive from C-Store Center," host Mike Hernandez explores the essential aspects of emergency preparedness and crisis management for convenience store district managers. Learn why 40% of businesses without comprehensive emergency plans …

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Convenience Store Success: Financial Analysis and Profitability 20:26

2M 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…

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

2M 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…

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

2M 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…

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Episode 18: Maximizing Sales Through Exceptional Service 5:02

2M 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…

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Episode 18: Emergency Preparedness - When Minutes Matter 3:46

2M ago3:46

3:46

Smoke 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

2M 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…

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

2M 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…