Culture of Convenience

RTO is turning 20! Jeff and Kelly go through the history books to remember some of RTO's biggest moments, what was happening in the world during that time, and how the company became what it is today.

There's a lot going on under your feet! On this episode, Jeff and Kelly talk to Ben Thomas from UST Training to find out just what's going on with underground storage tanks: how they've changed over the years, Ben's evolving role in the industry, and what happens when things go wrong.   About Ben: Ben Thomas brings to the UST industry over three decades of experience, networking and ideas to help owners and inspectors solve complex technical problems in the management of UST systems. Ben's experience goes back to 1986, when he supervised UST removals in Vermont. Between 1989 and 1995, Ben oversaw cleanup of leaking UST sites in northern Alaska. From 1995 to 2002, he ran Alaska's UST leak prevention program. Ben gained national attention for his innovative work in web page development, outreach material, financial responsibility compliance, and most notably the Alaska third party inspection program. Since leaving Alaska in 2002, Ben's principal focus has been education, training, and outreach to the nation's UST owners, operators, inspectors and technicians.

How can a company use today's digital world to their advantage? Luckily for Jeff and Kelly, they have just the expert to ask: Abbey Karel from Bounteous! In their chat with Abbey, they talk digital strategies, automation, AI and more. Plus, just how long until the tucked in sweater goes out of fashion? Listen to find out!  About Abbey: As VP of Growth at Bounteous, Abbey Karel helps Consumer Brands drive digital transformation and create meaningful customer experiences that maximize growth and ROI. By aligning business goals with digital innovation, she enables brands to unlock new opportunities through strategic partnerships and co-innovation while optimizing spend.  With a background in global client leadership, digital strategy, and in-store innovation, Abbey has worked with some of the world's most recognized brands to elevate customer engagement and drive measurable business impact. Prior to Bounteous, she led high-impact client relationships at Ogilvy, earning recognition as a Top-25 Global Client Leader, and played a key role in pioneering native apps and in-store digital experiences for Kohl's and JCPenney.    Abbey is also a frequent speaker and thought leader, sharing insights on digital transformation, customer experience, and data-driven growth at industry events.

Do you know who the ‘Missing 33%' are? In this episode, Kelly finds out in a conversation with a committee co-chair within C-Store Women and RTO's own Client Success Manager, Breeze Savage. They also discuss empowering women in the convenience industry, the secret sauce to client support and how she inspires her team on the daily. Are there any jokes made at Jeff's expense during his absence? Listen to find out!

Jeff and Kelly step into the CoC studio for one final podcast in 2024. Together, they wax nostalgic about all the great topics they've covered this year, such as AI, job perks, foodservice, coupons, and more. They also touch on what sort of convenience trends they see on the horizon in 2025.

On the latest Culture of Convenience episode, Jeff and Kelly talk with Mason Cowan, Chief Customer Officer at BandyWorks Solutions. Mason discusses how BandyWorks combines real-time data with store operations to provide feedback and recommendations to improve c-stores. Together, they discuss the who, what, why, and how of that process!

Dallas Wells, VP of Food Services and Training at High's of Baltimore, was in the studio with Jeff to talk about running a successful food service in his stores. How he rolls out LTOs, the leadership he looks for to make stores successful, and his philosophy on when you should try new things are all in this episode of the Culture of Convenience!

The NACS Show is vast - how can you properly take advantage of it? Look no further than this episode for answers, as Jeff Lenard breaks down how to make the most of the NACS Show. Who to visit, what to look out for, and how to benefit from the personnel are all covered in Episode 135!  About Our Guest:  Jeff Lenard is the VP of Strategic Industry Initiatives for the National Association of Convenience Stores. He also hosts the Convenience Matters Podcast. Jeff is passionate about retail and all things convenience.

On this episode, PFMA President Alex Baloga brings insights on the Medical Nutrition Act, how "zero food waste" really works, and where retail's headed in the next 5 years in his interview with Jeff Kahler. PFMA is a supportive network of retailers in PA advocating together to achieve goals and make the whole industry stronger.  About Our Guest:  Alex Baloga has been serving as President and CEO of PFMA since 2017, after serving as Vice President of External Relations. He has experience in politics, serving US Senator Bob Casey in a past campaign and in his Government Office. He currently sits on the Food Industry Association Executives (FIAE) Board of Directors, the Pennsylvania Dairymen's Association Board of Directors, and the NACS Legislative Committee. At PFMA, he leads government relation efforts at local, state, and federal levels.

Using aboveground tanks for fuel storage is a polarizing topic, but for guests Ethan Henderson and Cameron Hogan from Major Oil, it's what they do best. Portable convenience stores, saving communities, and bringing convenience to the outer regions of the world are just some of the topics we get into today on the Culture of Convenience.  About Our Guest:  Headquartered in Birmingham, AL, Major Oil LLC is marked by innovation, unwavering commitment, and a forward-thinking vision for a smarter energy climate. In response to the demand for fuel, real estate limitations in growing communities, alternative energy, and the increased demand for automated and seamless shopping experiences, Major Oil LLC will deploy its Hybrid Energy Stations throughout the United States to meet these demands and challenges.

In Episode 132, Jeff Kahler sits down with Eric Bolduc from Holmes Murphy Insurance to discuss keeping your store safe and saving money in the long run.   About Our Guest:  For over 30 years, Eric has specialized in working with business owners to help them reduce their overall exposure to risk. He's passionate about helping companies have the most comprehensive risk management program that best protects their investment.

With over 550 stores, RaceTrac is leading the charge with learning strategies and asset protection. Jeff Kahler sits down with Kelly Harrington, Director of Asset Protection, and the learning design team, Jackie Keaton and Brandon Christopher Bass, to discuss how the large chain operators overcome obstacles and maintain strong safety culture.  About Our Guest:  Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, RaceTrac is a third-generation, family-owned company that is comprised of four operating divisions: RaceTrac, RaceWay, Energy Dispatch, and Metroplex Energy. RaceTrac owns and operates more than 550 RaceTrac convenience store locations across seven southern states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee and Texas. RaceTrac also owns more than 200 RaceWay stores in 12 states across the Southeast.

Until 2019 coupons were made from paper. With digital coupons entering the scene things are about to change - even in convenience stores. What impact will this have on the industry? Producer Kelly sits down with the Coupon Bureau's Brett Watson to get to the info.   About Our Guest:  At The Coupon Bureau, Brett Watson is leading the charge, with the support of an incredible team, to revolutionize the coupon industry with Universal Coupons. As CEO, she drives both strategic direction and tactical execution, ensuring our vision becomes reality. Working closely with industry stakeholders, Brett helps to shape Universal Coupons to meet the ever-evolving needs of the market. Partner communication and management are key, and she's delighted have the opportunity to develop and nurture relationships critical to our success.  But it's not just about the product; it's about our culture. Brett fosters an environment of collaboration and empowerment. Having an empowered team is critical to the daily work it takes to make fast and effective decisions to drive the adoption of Universal Coupons. And yes, being a start-up CEO means do more than lead. From strategic planning to occasionally taking out the trash, Brett Watson is dedicated to propelling The Coupon Bureau forward in their mission to transform the coupon industry.

Bob Duprey is no stranger to creating consistent training systems. In this interview, Jeff Kahler explores how shift leaders can really elevate restaurant service, especially in quick service restaurants (QSRs)! Bob and Jeff also dive into Shift Leader Playbook, the newest course from Restaurant Playbooks.   About Our Guest:  For the last 20 years, Bob Duprey has worked with Fortune 500 clients to develop custom eLearning solutions. As the founder of Restaurant Playbooks, he formed a team of passionate pros with proven expertise in the restaurant industry, and Learning & Development. Bob's goal is to create engaging eLearning experiences that develop behaviors and deliver results.

Besides bringing her family business out of the red, Stephanie Stuckey has built a team and marketed her brand, all while completely re-inventing herself in a matter of a couple years. Hear her secrets and strategies in this episode!  About Our Guest:  Stephanie Stuckey, CEO and Chair of Stuckey's Corporation, has been on a path to revive her family's company and brand since purchasing it in 2019. Stephanie is the author of UnStuck: Rebirth of an American Icon, coming out April 2, 2024, where she details her experiences with the business and shares insights and strategies she has used along the way.

Recruiting and Retaining advice abounds in our interview with Steve Seymour, author of 100 Ideas to Improve the Workplace. Steve lays out practical - and some out of the box ideas - to not only create a winning team but keep them in your organization. Hint: Treat people the way you want to be treated, but also do this one thing ... Find out more in this episode!  About Our Guest:  Steve Seymour is the Director of Personnel Training & Development at Country Fair, Inc., a chain of 72 convenience stores throughout Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio. In 2019 and 2021, Country Fair, Inc. was named one of America's Best-In-State Employers by Forbes Magazine. Steve has 30+ years of experience in HR and is passionate about creating a positive work culture that improves employee morale and retention. He is the author of 100 Ideas to Improve the Workplace: An HR Nerd's Guide to Creating Excellent Culture, which was published in 2023. All proceeds of the book will be donated to Transplants.org, a charity that Steve actively supports.  

AI is all the rage these days, but how exactly will it benefit c-stores? On this week's podcast we talk to Susan Sly, CEO of The Pause Technologies and Top Women in AI Finalist, to get her take on how AI can help businesses, employees, and the customer.   What's your take on AI? Did this episode change your mind? We'd love to know! Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com. 

It's time for another end-of-season recap! This week Jeff Kahler is tackling the burning questions our listeners sent in during Season 11. Airplane etiquette, "beige flags" in business, working with family; all these and more discussed in this episode.  What was your favorite moment from Season 11? We'd love to know! Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com. 

In 2016, Frank Beard spent 30 days eating exclusively at convenience stores – breakfast lunch and dinner. Ever since then, Frank has been extremely passionate about convenience stores. In this info-packed episode, Jeff Kahler speaks with Frank about his cstore diet, EV charging stations, autonomous check-out, and measuring success.   What is your go-to convenience store food order? We want to know! Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

Jeff Kahler is a champion for single store operators – he not only relates to them, but he loves to support their businesses. In this episode one of those operators, Lonnie McQuirter, breaks down what separates him from big competition and provides a sneak peek at what advice he'll be giving suppliers at the NACS Show!  We love hearing from our listeners! Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

In this episode of the Culture of Convenience, Jeff Kahler interviews Lisa Dell Alba, President and CEO of Square One Markets! Lisa shares her insights on family businesses, supplier relations, and overcoming anything that stands in her way.  We love hearing from our listeners! Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

We're counting down to the NACS Show, one of the biggest events in convenience retailing! In this episode, Jeff Kahler shares the top ten reasons—plus a few extras—why you should stop by and visit Ready Training Online at booth B3749! (And some of these may be pretty shocking!)  Have you ever attended the NACS Show? What do you usually look forward to the most? We want to know! Visit https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

Everyone has some part of their life that's mediocre, but their career doesn't need to be! In this week's episode, Jeff Kahler explains how the concept of “Gears to Your Career” can be used to energize and inspire people in the workplace by providing their very own career path.   How do you avoid workplace complacency? Share your thoughts in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

AI has been in the news a lot lately, but what does that mean for you professionally? In this episode, Jeff Kahler discusses the top 10 jobs he believes could be displaced by AI, along with options on how to either embrace it, or work around it.    How do you think AI will be used in the workplace? Share your thoughts in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

No person on this planet is exempt from insecurities; but how do we show up at work without bringing them along? In this episode, Jeff Kahler speaks candidly about his insecurities and offers advice on how you can overcome your own insecurities to make an impact on the job.   How do you deal with insecurities? Share your thoughts in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

This week, we're spotlighting Angel Bui, RTO's UX/UI designer! Listen as she shares how dedication has helped her through life as well as how her parents, Vietnamese immigrants, inspired her to be successful in not only in programming, but everything she does.  What does dedication look like to you? Share your thoughts in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

"Data is important. But data, just like anything else, can be overwhelming if there is too much to sort through. Jeff Kahler had his own vision for building the best data reporting features in his software platform; unfortunately he was not listening to what his customers were saying they needed. He finally started listening, and HUBS was born. In this episode, find out what can be accomplished when you stop doing and start listening.   How has listening to customers helped improve your business? Share your thoughts in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com."

Going broke, becoming servants to AI, and rage cleaning are all topics that YOU, our listeners, wanted to discuss. Don't miss this episode, where Jeff Kahler shares his wisdom and wit on these situations and more!  Think you have better advice? Share your thoughts in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

Curiosity requires you to seek out answers beyond yourself. Sandy Williams-Brown's curiosity sets her ahead when it comes to social media and content marketing at RTO. She's curious on the job and with her various roles in life, making her a good advocate, partner and mother.   What does curiosity look like to you? Share your thoughts in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com. 

It's important to communicate and get along with people, but you also have to know how to adapt to truly get the best out of your audience. In this episode, Flavia Chiquita, Senior Content Supervisor at MotionGlass Studios, discusses her career path and how that brought her to where she is now.    What does adaptability look like to you? Share your thoughts in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com. 

Courage, resolve, and strength of character is how we define Grit. But what does it look like lived out? In Episode 112, Video Specialist Steve Witmer discusses how that word shaped his life and career, along with how he brings grit to his video production skills at MotionGlass Studios.    What does grit look like to you? Share your thoughts in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com. 

Can you spot trends and tell how long they'll last? Understanding the life cycle of design trends is not always an easy task, but this week's special guest knows a little about creating websites that get attention. In this episode Producer Kelly sits down with Ready Training Online's Web Designer, Justin Watson, to discuss how noticing trends has always been a part of his life, and how he utilizes that strength at RTO.   How does your business utilize trends? We want to know! Share in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

With advances in technology, the business landscape is constantly evolving. While we can't completely predict the future, we can look at trends to estimate the direction of change, and knowing where the future is headed is the best way to determine what you should be focusing on now. In this episode, Jeff Kahler discusses AI, human employees, technology, and how to up your game for the future so your organization stays relevant.   How is your organization preparing for the future? Share in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

Are you feeling underutilized at work? Do you have talents that aren't being noticed? Do you feel like you could be doing more, but no one is giving you the responsibility? If so, you could be experiencing "rust out." In this week's episode, Jeff Kahler discusses the symptoms of rust out, and what you can do about it, because after rust out comes drop out, and we don't want that!   Have you successfully combatted rust out in your organization? Share your story in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.  

Toxic workplaces will literally destroy your mood, your productivity, and even your life. In this week's episode, Jeff Kahler and Producer Kelly take an in-depth look at toxic workplaces – how to identify the source of the toxicity and what you can do about it.   Have you had experience with a toxic workplace? We want to hear it! Share your story in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/ or email Producer@CultureofConvenience.com.

When it comes to hiring, how do you judge whether a candidate has a stellar work ethic and integrity? In this week's episode, Jeff Kahler asks his friend, mentor, and coach, Steve Goble, to discuss how to find these people - and better yet, how to be one.   How do you determine work ethic and integrity in your new hires? We want to know! Discuss in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

Introducing Sidekick! trainingGrid® will soon have their very own support dog to assist users. Customer support is the backbone of any organization who values the customer experience, and this week, Support Manager Mike Singer joins Jeff and Producer Kelly to explain how Sidekick can help users within the LMS. And just because we love dogs, Jeff also interviews Lori and Jennifer, who help train "sidekicks" in the community--because support can come in all shapes and sizes!   Do you have a best or worst experience in customer service you would like to share? We want to hear it! Discuss in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

It's already time for our season 9 recap and our listeners have sent in some of their most interesting work situations. From accusations of being too happy at work, to missing floor squeegees, to Darth Vader entering a meeting, Jeff Kahler is offering his best advice for each scenario.   Do you agree with Jeff? What would you do in these situations? We want to know! Email us at Producer@CultureofConvenience.com or discuss in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.  

What does it take to be a power employee? This week Producer Kelly puts Tom Hart, RTO's Director of Business Development and convenience industry whiz kid, into the hot seat. In this episode they discuss the amazing job opportunities available convenience and Tom gives a lot of credit to the role mentorship plays in becoming a power employee.   What qualities make up a power employee? Discuss in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

trainingGrid® is launching their very own app! This couldn't happen without a lot of planning and careful consideration. In this episode, Jeff Kahler discusses everything that had to be taken into account while developing the app. Just because something is a good idea, that doesn't mean it's a good idea for everyone - and just because you CAN do something to help your customers, doesn't mean it WILL. Find out all the details in this episode.   How do you feel about using apps for training employees? Discuss in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

Scammers work hard – but RTO is working even harder to keep your organization safe from Bitcoin fraud. In this week's episode, Jeff Kahler shares how a call from a client made him rethink how to protect you and your team from Bitcoin scams. Does your organization have a plan for training and dealing with scammers?  Discuss in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

These days it seems like everyone wants a piece of the convenience pie. Restaurants, grocery chains, movie theaters - everyone wants to find new ways to increase convenience for their customers. How can you up your game and ensure you're truly building a culture of convenience? Find out in this week's episode!   How has your business adapted to be more convenient? Discuss in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

Welcome to our 100th episode!! This week we're talking celebrations. Often when an organization doesn't know how to do something well, they just don't do it. In this episode, Jeff Kahler discusses how to recognize and celebrate the people in your company. He also shares his reservations about recognition and discovers he is not alone! Learn how to better acknowledge a job well done. Thank you all for listening and here's to another 100 episodes!   How do you recognize your employees? Let us know! Discuss in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

Much like the fabled Fountain of Youth or the quest for the holy grail, achieving work-life balance often seems like a never-ending journey. Everyone is pursuing it, but the real question is: what do you do with it once you find it? This week Jeff Kahler breaks down the psychology behind work-life balance and shares some great ideas on how to achieve it.   Do you believe you have a good grasp on work-life balance? Let us know! Discuss in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

Loyalty programs pop up in a variety of ways - but how effective are they when it comes to ROI? This week Jeff Kahler discusses 2023 trends for loyalty clubs and shares best practices for getting the most out of your program.   How do you make a loyalty program work? And what causes people to be loyal to you? We want to hear your thoughts! Discuss in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

A loss leader is a strategy typically found in the retail space, but you can create one for any business. This week Jeff Kahler shares his very unconventional use of a loss leader and provides 4 important tips on how to avoid undervaluing yourself or your business.   How have you utilized loss leaders to create value for your organization? Share in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

Younger generations often look down on the older generations for being inept with technology. However, Jeff Kahler has decided it's time to end to this false stereotype. In this week's episode, Jeff and Kelly discuss what each generation brings to the table with technology and inventions. Each generation's progress stands on top of the previous generation's creativity.   Do you have a story about how different generations use technology? Share in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

From baby boomers to Generation Z, lately it seems like a lot of people are really focused on the differences between generations. In this week's episode, Jeff Kahler is breaking down what each generation brings to your organization and unpacks the differences and similarities between us all.   How have you promoted teamwork between generations? We want to hear your story! Share in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

What do irrational fears, uncomfortable truths, and Jeff Kahler reading minds have in common? It's all happening in the Season 8 Recap! Don't miss this week's episode, where tensions are running high and the emails from listeners just keep rolling in…   We want to know: what was your favorite moment from season 8? Share in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

What are the new trends in hiring and recruiting since the Great Resignation? This week, Jeff Kahler invites Jessica Blake-Dean from High's Stores, based in Baltimore, onto the show to discuss her strategy for recruiting and hiring talent in 2023.   How has your recruiting strategy evolved? We want to know! Share in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.

Do you find compliance laws confusing? You're not alone. The laws for maintaining compliance within an organization are numerous, varied, and can sometimes be complicated. This week, Jeff Kahler interviews RTO's very own Laura Wentling, Director of Government Affairs, to truly understand the complexities of staying compliant.   Do have a story about maintaining compliance within your organization? We want to hear it! Share in the comments at: https://www.cultureofconvenience.com/.