"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 ...
…
continue reading
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.
…
continue reading
"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 ...
…
continue reading
"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.
…
continue reading
"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!
…
continue reading
"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 ...
…
continue reading
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 ...
…
continue reading

1
Your Money - Your Future: Personal Finances Explained
15:41
15:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Enhancing Store Operations - Your Guide to Continuous Improvement
17:09
17:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 19: Building Your Store's Reputation Through Service
4:43
4:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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 …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 19: Making the Most of Health Department Visits
3:45
3:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 19 - Documentation: Your Food Safety Shield
3:18
3:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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 …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 19: The Power of Empathy in Customer Service
3:07
3:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 19: Troubleshooting Your POS Like a Pro
3:39
3:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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.…
…
continue reading

1
Thinking Fast & Slow By Daniel Kahneman And The Impact On Retail
13:12
13:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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-…
…
continue reading

1
Mastering Difficult Situations - Your Guide to Conflict Resolution
16:59
16:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 18: Maximizing Sales Through Exceptional Service
5:02
5:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 18: Emergency Preparedness - When Minutes Matter
3:46
3:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 18 - Keeping It Clean: Facility Maintenance & Sanitation
3:24
3:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 18: Common Customer Needs in Convenience Stores
3:19
3:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 18: Advanced POS Skills That Make You Stand Out
3:46
3:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Mastering Compliance - Your Guide to Store Standards
15:36
15:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 17: Word of Mouth - Your Most Powerful Marketing Tool
4:55
4:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 17 - Temperature Control: The Hot and Cold of Food Safety
3:02
3:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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.…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 17: Understanding Different Customer Expectations
3:05
3:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading
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 …
…
continue reading

1
Using Data to Drive Success - Your Guide to Sales Analytics
17:01
17:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 16: Mastering Health and Safety Inspections
3:46
3:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 16: Food Safety Basics: Getting Handling and Storage Right
3:51
3:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 16: Product Knowledge - Your Secret Weapon
2:44
2:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 16: Creating a Store Atmosphere That Customers Love
5:13
5:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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 …
…
continue reading

1
Making Promotions Work - Your Guide to Marketing Success
15:55
15:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 15: Building a Culture of Compliance
6:12
6:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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 …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 15: Health and Safety - Your Foundation for Success
4:10
4:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 15 - Consumer Protection: Keeping Customers Safe and Satisfied
3:35
3:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 15: Time Management - Balancing Service and Operations
3:03
3:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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. …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 15: Mastering the Art of Communication
4:46
4:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Inclusive Excellence - Creating a Welcoming Store for Everyone
20:23
20:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 14: Regular Audits and Reviews - Your Path to Compliance Success
5:38
5:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 14: Staying Adaptable in Today's Retail Landscape
4:09
4:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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.…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 14 - Labor Laws: Keeping Your Team Protected
2:44
2:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 14: Building a Customer Service Dream Team
3:15
3:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 14: Growing Your Career Without Breaking the Bank
4:54
4:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Mastering Online Orders & Delivery - Your Digital Service Guide
32:06
32:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:06DIVE Podcast - Episode 61 Notes Episode Title: Mastering Online Orders & Delivery - Your Digital Service Guide Host: Mike Hernandez Episode Description: In this comprehensive episode of Dive, host Mike Hernandez explores the rapidly evolving world of digital ordering and delivery for convenience store associates. Learn how to excel in managing onli…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 13: Training Your Team for Compliance Success
5:48
5:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
5:48Smoke Break - Episode 13: Training Your Team for Compliance Success Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares proven strategies for developing effective compliance training programs that stick. Learn how to transform procedures from paper documents into daily practices that protect your business and customers. Episode Overvi…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 13: Creating Consistent Customer Experiences
4:13
4:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
4:13Smoke Break - Episode 13: Creating Consistent Customer Experiences Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares strategies for building consistency across your store network while preserving local store character. Learn how to create memorable customer experiences that maintain your brand standards while allowing for location-s…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 13 - Environmental Compliance Made Simple
3:28
3:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
3:28Smoke Break - Episode 13: Environmental Compliance Made Simple Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down essential environmental compliance strategies that protect both your business and the planet. Learn practical approaches to waste management, energy efficiency, and regulatory adherence that can save money while avoi…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 13: Turning Unhappy Customers into Loyal Fans
3:54
3:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
3:54Smoke 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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 13: Finding Your Balance - Work, Life, and Convenience Store Success
4:38
4:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
4:38Smoke 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…
…
continue reading

1
Mastering Convenience Meals - Your Guide to Quick Service Excellence
21:24
21:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:24Dive - Episode 60 Guide Episode 60: Mastering Convenience Meals: Your Guide to Quick Service Excellence Host: Mike Hernandez Series: Dive from C-Store Center Duration: 21 minutes Episode Description Transform your sales performance by mastering today's fastest-growing profit center: convenience meals and prepared foods! In this essential episode of…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 12: Navigating the World of Regulatory Compliance
5:57
5:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
5:57Smoke Break - Episode 12: Navigating the World of Regulatory Compliance Episode Duration: 6 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he breaks down essential compliance strategies that protect your business, customers, and reputation. Learn how regulatory adherence can become a competitive advantage rather than just a necessity. Episode Overview Master …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 12: Building a Collaborative Leadership Culture
3:53
3:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
3:53Smoke Break - Episode 12: Building a Collaborative Leadership Culture Episode Duration: 4 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for creating a collaborative leadership approach across your store network. Learn how to build strong teams, facilitate cross-location learning, and multiply your impact as a district manager. …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 12 - Alcohol & Tobacco: Getting ID Right Every Time
3:20
3:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
3:20Smoke Break - Episode 12: Alcohol & Tobacco: Getting ID Right Every Time Episode Duration: 3 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for maintaining perfect compliance with alcohol and tobacco regulations. Learn how to implement foolproof systems that protect your business, your license, and your community. Episode Overvi…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 12: Handling Emergency Situations Like a Pro
4:58
4:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
4:58Smoke 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…
…
continue reading