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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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Episode 24: Understanding POS Reports For Better Service
2:55
2:55
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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: POS and Inventory - Making the Connection
2:53
2:53
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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: Mastering Rush Hour at the Register
3:11
3:11
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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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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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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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Episode 19: Troubleshooting Your POS Like a Pro
3:39
3:39
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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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Episode 18: Advanced POS Skills That Make You Stand Out
3:46
3:46
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Smoke 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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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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Episode 16: Creating a Store Atmosphere That Customers Love
5:13
5:13
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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 …
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Episode 15: Mastering the Art of Communication
4:46
4:46
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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…
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Episode 14: Growing Your Career Without Breaking the Bank
4:54
4:54
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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…
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Episode 13: Finding Your Balance - Work, Life, and Convenience Store Success
4:38
4:38
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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…
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Episode 12: Handling Emergency Situations Like a Pro
4:58
4:58
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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…
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Episode 11: Staying Safe and Sharp During Late-Night Shifts
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4:58
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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 …
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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…
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Episode 9: Building Lasting Customer Relationships
5:39
5:39
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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…
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Episode 8: Mastering the Art of Difficult Customer Situations
4:45
4:45
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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…
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Episode 7: Taking Your Customer Service to the Next Level
5:59
5:59
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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…
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Episode 6: Turning Product Knowledge into Sales Magic
4:29
4:29
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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…
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Episode 5: Smart Selling Techniques for Success
4:40
4:40
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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…
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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…
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Episode 3: Mastering Advanced Customer Service Techniques
5:04
5:04
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5:04
Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares proven strategies for creating and maintaining exceptional customer service standards in your convenience store. Learn how to train your team in advanced service techniques that will set your store apart from the competition. Episode Overview Master essential aspects of customer service leadership: Training sta…
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Episode 2: Making the Most of Your Convenience Store Career
5:13
5:13
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Smoke Break - Episode 2: Making the Most of Your Convenience Store Career Episode Duration: 7 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez for another insightful episode of "Smoke Break," your go-to podcast for convenience store career development. In this episode, we explore the hidden opportunities and advantages of working in the convenience store industry,…
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Episode 1: Welcome to Convenience Store Operations
6:01
6:01
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Join host Mike Hernandez for the premiere episode of "Smoke Break" where he introduces the fundamentals of convenience store operations and essential customer service skills. Learn what makes convenience stores unique, how to handle common workplace scenarios, and tips for creating positive customer experiences. Show Notes: Introduction to convenie…
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