Best Convenience Store Career Development Podcasts (2025)

1
Smart Growth: Developing Your Business Strategy 23:04

5d 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

4d 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

5d 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

5d 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

13d 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

13d 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

13d 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

13d 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

19d 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

19d 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

20d 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

20d 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

26d 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

26d 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

27d 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

27d 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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…

1
Episode 13: Finding Your Balance - Work, Life, and Convenience Store Success 4:38

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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…

1
Market Research Made Simple: A Guide for Convenience Store Owners 19:54

2M ago19:54

19:54

Arrive – Episode 67 Guide Market Research Made Simple: A Guide for Convenience Store Owners Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Arrive from C-Store Center Duration: 20 minutes Episode Description Discover how to turn local knowledge into your secret weapon! In this practical episode of Arrive, host Mike Hernandez reveals how independent convenience store …

1
Convenience Store Success: Performance Management & Employee Development 19:34

2M ago19:34

19:34

Thrive - Episode 66 Guide Performance Management & Employee Development: The Keys to Convenience Store Success Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Thrive from C-Store Center Duration: 20 minutes Episode Description Transform your team from clock-punchers to store champions! In this essential episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez draws from his 9 years of…

1
Episode 9: Labor Laws and Employee Rights 4:02

2M ago4:02

4:02

Smoke Break - Episode 9: Labor Laws and Employee Rights Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down essential labor laws and employee rights that assistant managers need to understand. Learn how to create a fair, compliant workplace while protecting both your team and your business. Episode Overview Master critical compli…

1
Episode 9: Building Lasting Customer Relationships 5:39

2M ago5:39

5:39

Smoke Break - Episode 9: Building Lasting Customer Relationships Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical strategies for creating genuine connections with regular customers. Learn how to transform routine transactions into meaningful relationships that benefit both customers and your store. Episode Overview Master…

1
Creating Appealing Displays and Product Presentations 29:40

2M ago29:40

29:40

Arrive - Episode 66 Guide Boost Your Sales: Creating Appealing Displays and Product Presentations Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Arrive from C-Store Center Duration: 30 minutes Episode Description Transform your convenience store's profitability through the power of visual merchandising! In this essential episode of Arrive, host Mike Hernandez draws …

1
Continuous Learning and Professional Growth for Convenience Store Managers 18:00

2M ago18:00

18:00

Thrive - Episode 65 Guide Elevating Your Career: Continuous Learning and Professional Growth for Store Managers Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Thrive from C-Store Center Duration: 18 minutes Episode Description Ready to take your convenience store management career to new heights? In this powerful episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez reveals how su…

1
Episode 8: Age-Restricted Sales - Your Guide to Compliance 4:45

2M ago4:45

4:45

Smoke Break - Episode 8: Age-Restricted Sales - Your Guide to Compliance Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for managing age-restricted sales compliance in your store. Learn how to create and maintain robust verification procedures that protect your business and team. Episode Overview Master criti…

1
Episode 8: Mastering the Art of Difficult Customer Situations 4:45

2M ago4:45

4:45

Smoke Break - Episode 8: Mastering the Art of Difficult Customer Situations Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical strategies for handling challenging customer interactions with professionalism and skill. Learn how to turn difficult situations into opportunities for building customer loyalty. Episode Overview Ma…

1
Stock Management and Inventory Control for Perishable Items 17:32

2M ago17:32

17:32

In this episode of "Arrive," host Mike Hernandez shares expert insights on managing perishable inventory in convenience stores. Learn practical strategies for reducing waste, maximizing profits, and maintaining quality control through effective stock management techniques. Whether you're dealing with fresh food, dairy products, or grab-and-go meals…

1
Networking and Relationship Building 20:04

2M ago20:04

20:04

In this episode of "Thrive," host Mike Hernandez delves into the crucial yet often overlooked aspect of convenience store management: networking and relationship building. Learn how to develop and maintain valuable connections with suppliers, vendors, and your local community to drive increased sales, improve operations, and foster long-term growth…

1
Episode 7: Safety First - Protecting Your Team and Customers 5:31

2M ago5:31

5:31

Smoke Break - Episode 7: Safety First - Protecting Your Team and Customers Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for implementing and maintaining comprehensive safety protocols in your store. Learn how to create a secure environment that protects both team members and customers. Episode Overview Mast…

1
Episode 7: Taking Your Customer Service to the Next Level 5:59

2M ago5:59

5:59

Smoke Break - Episode 7: Taking Your Customer Service to the Next Level Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares advanced customer service techniques that transform good service into exceptional experiences. Learn practical strategies to enhance your customer interactions and build lasting connections. Episode Overview Mast…

1
Episode 6: When Tech Fails - Dealing with Register Malfunctions 5:28

3M ago5:28

5:28

Smoke Break - Episode 6: Mastering Register Malfunction Management Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for handling register malfunctions effectively. Learn how to prevent technical issues and keep business running smoothly when technology fails. Episode Overview Master critical tech management ski…

1
Episode 6: Turning Product Knowledge into Sales Magic 4:29

3M ago4:29

4:29

Smoke Break - Episode 6: Turning Product Knowledge into Sales Magic Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to transform your product knowledge into successful sales interactions. Learn practical techniques for creating memorable customer experiences that drive sales and build loyalty. Episode Overview Master essentia…

1
Episode 5: Preventing Inventory Shrinkage 5:43

3M ago5:43

5:43

Smoke Break - Episode 5: Mastering Inventory Shrinkage Prevention Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for preventing inventory shrinkage in your convenience store. Learn how to identify, prevent, and address the four main sources of shrinkage while leading your team effectively. Episode Overview Ma…

1
Episode 5: Smart Selling Techniques for Success 4:40

3M ago4:40

4:40

Smoke Break - Episode 5: Smart Selling Techniques for Success Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical selling techniques that help you better serve customers while increasing sales. Learn how to transform basic transactions into valuable customer interactions that benefit everyone. Episode Overview Master essenti…

1
Episode 4: Cash Management and Register Operations 6:04

3M ago6:04

6:04

Episode 4: Mastering Cash Management and Register Operations Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez for essential insights on effective cash handling and register management. Learn how to establish robust procedures and lead your team in maintaining financial accuracy and security. Episode Overview Master critical aspects of financial…

1
Episode 4: Mastering Your Product Knowledge 4:37

3M ago4:37

4:37

Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical strategies for building your product expertise and using it to create better customer experiences. Learn how to transform basic transactions into valuable customer interactions through deep product knowledge. Episode Overview Learn essential skills for: Building comprehensi…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Convenience Store Career Development Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen