Best Retail Store Optimization Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 17: Word of Mouth - Your Most Powerful Marketing Tool 4:55

2d ago4:55

4:55

Smoke 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…

1
Beyond Headless: The Journey to Joyful Content Optimization 31:24

6d ago31:24

31:24

What happens when you tell a software engineer his CMS platform will shut down in six months, leaving major clients like Adidas and Reebok stranded? You get Storyblock - perhaps the most thoughtful reinvention of content management in decades. Dominik Angerer, CEO and co-founder of Storyblok, takes us on a journey through the broken world of tradit…

1
Episode 16: The Power of Customer Loyalty 4:55

11d ago4:55

4:55

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…

1
Real-World AI in Retail: Talkdesk Leaders Reveal What Actually Works Beyond the Hype 33:00

14d ago33:00

33:00

The gap between AI hype and real-world implementation is creating both challenges and opportunities for retailers worldwide. Talkdesk executives Ed Durbin and Michael Klein pull back the curtain on what's actually happening in retail AI adoption, sharing candid insights from their conversations with retail leaders at NRF and beyond. "We've spent mi…

1
Episode 15: Building a Culture of Compliance 6:12

17d ago6:12

6:12

Smoke 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 …

1
Peak Immersion: The Science Behind Engaged Store Associates 28:00

21d ago28:00

28:00

The hidden science behind retail success isn't found in flashy technology or complicated loyalty programs – it's in the power of engaged store associates. This conversation with Nikki Baird, VP of Strategy and Product at Aptos, reveals groundbreaking research showing that when employees reach "peak immersion" during customer interactions, sales nat…

1
Episode 14: Regular Audits and Reviews - Your Path to Compliance Success 5:38

24d ago5:38

5:38

Smoke 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…

1
Personalization 2.0: What Happens When AI Meets Retail 31:12

27d ago31:12

31:12

Ever wondered what technology investments actually make retail employees happier—not just more productive? Katie Riddle, Global Retail Strategy Lead at Verizon Business, reveals that while 98% of grocery retailers struggle with staffing challenges, the solution goes beyond efficiency tools. "It's not just about making employees more efficient," Kat…

1
Episode 13: Training Your Team for Compliance Success 5:48

1M ago5:48

5:48

Smoke 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…

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Loyalty Programs That Actually Work: A SAP CX Perspective 40:15

1M ago40:15

40:15

What happens when traditional loyalty programs fail to deliver real value? In a world where 57% of US consumers no longer demonstrate true brand loyalty, businesses must fundamentally rethink what it means to create lasting customer relationships. Meghann York, Global Head of Product Marketing at SAP CX, takes us deep into the shifting loyalty land…

1
Episode 12: Navigating the World of Regulatory Compliance 5:57

1M ago5:57

5:57

Smoke 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 …

1
Optimizing Grocery: AI Solutions and Future Trends 32:12

1M ago32:12

32:12

When Amanda Oren and I finally connected after a month of calendar wrangling, I knew the wait was worth it. As VP of Industry Strategy for Grocery North America at Relex, Amanda brings a unique perspective – she joined the company after being a customer herself, giving her both the retailer's and the technology provider's view of the rapidly evolvi…

1
Episode 11: Balancing Short-Term Sales with Long-Term Success 9:29

2M ago9:29

9:29

Smoke Break - Episode 11: Balancing Short-Term Sales with Long-Term Success Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares essential strategies for finding the perfect balance between immediate sales boosts and sustainable business growth. Learn how to create promotions and pricing approaches that drive both today's revenue and t…

1
Beyond Price: The Untapped Value of Eco-Conscious Shoppers 30:00

2M ago30:00

30:00

Sustainability and health consciousness aren't just buzzwords – they're reshaping consumer loyalty in profound ways that retailers can no longer afford to ignore. My conversation with Joel Percy, Regional Director at Eagle Eye, dives deep into the striking findings from their Green Loyalty Survey that reveals just how powerfully these factors influ…

1
KPMG: Tariff Impacts and Navigating Retail Uncertainty 21:49

2M ago21:49

21:49

Tariffs have become a hot-button issue that's reshaping the retail landscape in ways few could have predicted. In this revealing conversation with Duleep Rodrigo, KPMG US Consumer and Retail Sector Leader, we cut through the noise to understand how these economic policy decisions impact both businesses and everyday consumers. Unlike typical economi…

1
Episode 10: Building Trust Through Honest Pricing and Promotions 5:43

2M ago5:43

5:43

Smoke Break - Episode 10: Building Trust Through Honest Pricing and Promotions Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares strategies for creating transparent pricing and promotions that build lasting customer relationships. Learn how honest business practices can become your store's most powerful competitive advantage. Episod…

1
How Pega is Changing Real-Time Customer Engagement 30:36

2M ago30:36

30:36

On the heels of Pega's recent "Blueprint" announcement, I got to spend some time with CTO Don Schuerman pulling apart the tech, the capabilites, and more importantly, what brands are doing with these new superpowers. Discover key insights into how real-time technology solutions can transform customer engagement and minimize tech debt. We discuss th…

1
Episode 9: Using Data to Drive Pricing and Promotion Decisions 5:53

2M ago5:53

5:53

Smoke Break - Episode 9: Using Data to Drive Pricing and Promotion Decisions Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he reveals how to transform your store's data into powerful pricing and promotion strategies. Learn practical approaches to analyze sales information and make data-backed decisions that boost your profits. Episode Ove…

1
The Human Experience: Elevating Customer Connections 35:28

2M ago35:28

35:28

Experience transformation isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity for successful businesses today. Join us as Eric Karofsky, CEO of VectorHX, shares his wealth of knowledge on building impactful customer experiences that drive profitability and satisfaction. We explore the interconnected realms of customer experience, user experience, and employee …

1
Episode 8: Mastering Promotions That Drive Sales 6:03

2M ago6:03

6:03

Smoke Break - Episode 8: Mastering Promotions That Drive Sales Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares proven strategies for creating promotions that boost sales while protecting profits. Learn how to design and implement effective promotions that build customer loyalty and grow your business. Episode Overview Master essen…

1
Seeing Through the Customer Lens for Enhanced Revenue 34:51

2M ago34:51

34:51

Ever wondered how AI is set to reshape the world of Revenue Operations (RevOps) and lead to explosive growth? Tune in as we engage with Shane Evans, the Chief Revenue Officer at Gong, who peels back the curtain on the transformative power of AI and strategic partnerships in revitalizing revenue growth. Shane’s insights will revolutionize your under…

1
Episode 7: Smart Pricing Strategies That Work 5:45

2M ago5:45

5:45

Smoke Break - Episode 7: Smart Pricing Strategies That Work Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical pricing strategies that help maximize your store's profitability while maintaining customer satisfaction. Learn how to implement pricing approaches that work for both your business and your customers. Episode Overv…

1
Reimagining Patient Experience with Consumer-Driven Insights 36:05

3M ago36:05

36:05

By mike giambattista

1
Episode 6: Building Strong Communication and Supplier Relationships 6:20

3M ago6:20

6:20

Smoke Break - Episode 6: Building Strong Communication and Supplier Relationships Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical strategies for developing effective communication systems and strong supplier partnerships that enhance your store's operations. Learn how to create robust networks that support your business …

1
Empowering Marketers with Innovation and AI at Constant Contact 37:56

3M ago37:56

37:56

Frank Vella, the dynamic CEO of Constant Contact, joins us to share his inspiring journey from helping family-run businesses in Canada to leading one of the most trusted names in small business marketing. With an extensive background at tech giants like Microsoft and Hewlett Packard, Frank brings a fervor for innovation and a deep understanding of …

1
Episode 5: Mastering the Details in Inventory Management 6:31

3M ago6:31

6:31

Smoke Break - Episode 5: Building a Sales-Focused Store Culture Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares strategies for developing and implementing effective sales techniques in your convenience store. Learn how to train your team to transform routine transactions into valuable customer experiences that drive repeat busines…

1
The 2025 Consumer Loyalty Engagement Index - Big Changes in the Ways We Interact with Brands 30:08

3M ago30:08

30:08

Unlock the secrets of brand loyalty transformation with insights from Robert Pasikoff, founder and CEO of BrandKeys. You'll discover why emotional engagement now eclipses traditional rational marketing methods, reshaping how we predict consumer behavior and market dynamics. Learn why the days of brand wars like Coke vs. Pepsi are fading, as modern …

1
Redefining Loyalty Programs Through Purpose and Sustainability 32:01

3M ago32:01

32:01

Can the evolving expectations of Gen Z redefine the way brands approach consumer loyalty and sustainability? This week, we're joined by Regan Plekenpol, co-founder of Rediem, who shares her pioneering journey from sustainable policy work to revolutionizing loyalty programs. You'll discover how Rediem's unique approach is turning traditional loyalty…

1
Episode 4: Smart Inventory Management 5:58

3M ago5:58

5:58

Smoke Break - Episode 4: Smart Inventory Management Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez as he shares practical inventory management strategies that help independent store owners maintain optimal stock levels and maximize profits. Learn how to balance customer demand with smart ordering practices while minimizing waste. Episode Over…

1
Decoding Gen Z Loyalty and Engagement 38:35

3M ago38:35

38:35

This was one of the most fascinating - and instructive - conversations in recent memory. I sat down with two Gen Z consumers - representatives from Z-Suite - to discuss their preferences, buying habits, thoughts, feelings and expectations as customers. According to their site, The Z Suite is a network of diverse Gen Z thinkers serving as a powerful…

1
Episode 3: Exceptional Service and Community Engagement 8:56

4M ago8:56

8:56

Smoke Break - Episode 3: Building Excellence Through Service and Community Connection Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez for insights on transforming your convenience store into a beloved community institution through exceptional service and meaningful local engagement. Learn practical strategies to create lasting connections with…

1
AI-Driven Solutions for Modern Customer Challenges 40:47

4M ago40:47

40:47

What if you could revolutionize customer interaction with cutting-edge technology and enhance loyalty like never before? Join us as we uncover the secrets with Jay Patel, SVP GM of Webex Customer Experience at Cisco. Jay offers a unique perspective on the dynamic intersection of customer service and loyalty, sharing insights into how platforms like…

1
Episode 2: Mastering Inventory Management and Pricing Strategy 8:24

4M ago8:24

8:24

Smoke Break - Episode 2: Mastering Inventory Management and Pricing Strategy Episode Duration: 8 minutes Join host Mike Hernandez for essential insights on two critical aspects of running your convenience store: smart inventory management and effective pricing strategies. Learn practical techniques to optimize your stock levels and maximize profits…

1
Episode 1: Understanding the Convenience Store Landscape 6:41

4M ago6:41

6:41

In this premiere episode of "Smoke Break," host Mike Hernandez explores the fundamentals of the convenience store industry landscape for independent owners. Learn essential strategies for standing out in a competitive market, optimizing store layout, and building strong community connections. Perfect for both new and experienced store owners lookin…

1
Navigating AI-Driven Loyalty Shifts 28:26

4M ago28:26

28:26

Erin Raese is CRO at Annex Cloud and Erin "gets" loyalty. In this episode we explore the shifting tides of brand loyalty across generations, we'll see why the loyalty game is not just about keeping customers engaged but also about staying relevant. We uncover why almost half of Gen Z and millennials abandon brands due to boredom and how influencers…

1
The Rise (and Further Rise) of Commerce Media Networks 35:10

5M ago35:10

35:10

In this episode of *Customerland*, host Mike Giambattista sits down with Eric Brackmann, VP of Commerce Media at Koddi, to unpack the evolving landscape of commerce media. As a leader in helping organizations monetize first-party data and enhance customer experiences, Koddi operates at the intersection of technology and strategy, enabling businesse…

1
Retailers' Guide to the Upcoming Circular Economy Mandate 34:09

5M ago34:09

34:09

In this episode, we explore the European Union's Digital Product Passport (DPP) framework—a groundbreaking initiative designed to enhance product transparency and accelerate the transition to a circular economy. Megan Brewster, VP of Advanced Technology at Impinj, offers her expert insights into how this regulatory shift will reshape how products a…

1
Pioneering Payment Strategies for Europe's Marketplace Leaders 19:08

5M ago19:08

19:08

In this episode, we sit down with Marc-Henri Desportes, CEO of Worldline, and Richard Straver, founder of OPP, to explore the evolving role of embedded payments in platforms and marketplaces across Europe. Our discussion highlights the challenges of traditional payment systems and how their solutions streamline complex transactions—like managing mu…

1
Reimagining Marketing with Empathy and AI 27:29

5M ago27:29

27:29

Discover how empathy reshapes marketing as Tara DeZao, Product Marketing Director for AdTech and MarTech at Pega, joins us to unravel the complexities of customer journeys and data privacy. Together, we examine the crucial role brands play in responding to customers' needs by meeting them in pivotal moments and providing solutions that resonate rat…

1
Empowering Retail Performance with Human-Centric Technology 19:39

6M ago19:39

19:39

Discover how The Vitamin Shoppe is revolutionizing the in-store and online shopping experience with insights from Scott Devlin, CTO of The Vitamin Shoppe, and Joe Corbin, CEO of JumpMind. We dive into the technological transformation that is unifying The Vitamin Shoppe's commerce capabilities. As we unveil the features designed to streamline operat…

1
Empowering Non-Tech Users with AI Solutions 37:53

6M ago37:53

37:53

In this episode, we talk with Mark Ogne, CEO of Symplexity AI, about a practical approach to integrating AI into business operations. Mark, a seasoned tech and marketing executive, shares his journey into AI and explains how Symplexity AI goes beyond consumer-facing tools like ChatGPT to help businesses manage large volumes of unstructured data eff…

1
Enhancing Flexibility in Retail: Mastering Dynamic Transfers in Adaptive Networks 5:50

6M ago5:50

5:50

By YDISTRI

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Advanced Tech in Retail Logistics: Unveiling the Core of Store-to-Store Transfers 5:11

6M ago5:11

5:11

By YDISTRI

1
Bridging Physical and Digital with Cutting-Edge Strategies 36:15

6M ago36:15

36:15

In this episode, we sit down with Matt Elsley and Nick Larkins from QSIC to explore how music and sound can influence retail success. Matt and Nick, with backgrounds in computer networking and audiovisual systems, share how their expertise helped shape a new approach to enhancing in-store experiences. They discuss the challenges of navigating music…

1
Harmonizing Business Goals with Customer Experience Strategies 30:09

6M ago30:09

30:09

In this episode, we sit down with Vinod Muthukrishnan, VP and COO at Webex Customer Experience, to explore his journey from the merchant Navy to co-founding Cloud Cherry, a company focused on improving customer experiences. Vinod shares how he made customer needs a priority, even when technology posed challenges, which eventually led to Cloud Cherr…

1
Breaking Loyalty Part 3: Fixing Loyalty for the Modern Age 31:18

7M ago31:18

31:18

Join us for the third in our 3-part Series on Breaking Loyalty with Mike Robero, an expert in loyalty and customer engagement. In this episode, we take a closer look at how loyalty programs can evolve to meet the changing needs of today’s diverse consumer base. We address the key question: How can brands "fix" their loyalty strategies to build mean…

1
Breaking Loyalty - Part 2: What Customers Want and What Companies Need 43:09

7M ago43:09

43:09

In Breaking Loyalty Part 2, Mike Ribero and Mike Giambattista explore the shift from traditional loyalty programs to building authentic emotional connections that go beyond points and rewards. Mike dives into how loyalty strategies have evolved, emphasizing the importance of seeing customers as more than mere transactions. He offers insights into h…

1
Breaking Loyalty - Part 1: Unraveling the Loyalty Crisis 31:05

7M ago31:05

31:05

What if the loyalty programs you rely on are actually failing you? Join me and loyalty expert Mike Ribero, the architect behind Continental OnePass and Hilton Honors, as we uncover the troubling realities facing the loyalty industry in our first installment of "Breaking Loyalty." With member satisfaction plummeting below 50% and a tidal wave of neg…

1
Key Takeaways from Verint Engage 24 1:03:39

7M ago1:03:39

1:03:39

Unlock the future of customer experience with AI as we sit down with Dave Singer, Global Vice President of Go-To-Market Strategy at Verint. Learn how AI is evolving from theoretical concepts to producing tangible business outcomes, without the need for overhauling existing systems. Dave offers a unique perspective on deploying AI to generate immedi…

1
Transforming Insights into Strategic, Actionable Storylines 36:40

7M ago36:40

36:40

In this episode, we sit down with Brett Townsend, SVP of Strategy at Quester, to talk about brand storytelling and how empathy and conflict can shape consumer engagement. Brett shares his perspective from his book "Insights on the Brink," discussing the changing landscape of the insights industry. We explore Quester's approach to brand and innovati…

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Retail Store Optimization Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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