PODCAST · business
Convenience Matters
by National Association of Convenience Stores
Whether it's for food, fuel, drinks or snacks — about half of the U.S. population is at a convenience store every day. We sell 80% of the country's fuel and we are 4% of the total U.S. economy. We'll talk about what we see at stores — and what the future may hold — as long as it's convenient.
Episodes
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How C-Stores Change Lives for the Better - Episode 554
At the 2026 NACS Show, NACS Chairman Lonnie McQuirter shared compelling stories about how convenience stores matter, and how they take care of their people and communities. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Lonnie McQuirter, 2026-27 NACS Chairman; Director of Operations, 36 Lyn Refuel…
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Winning Strategies for the 2026 NACS Show - Episode 553
Whether it's your first NACS Show or you're a seasoned veteran, we're sharing some tips and tricks to make sure all attendees have a fantastic experience this year in Las Vegas. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky
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Why Customers 'Quit' Stores - Episode 552
For most customers, it only takes two negative experiences before they stop visiting a specific c-store or QSR. While that doesn't mean they are leaving the brand, it does change the overall brand loyalty equation. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Matt Pereira, Co-founder and CEO, Seurat...
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Insights on Key Industry Jobs Benchmarks - Episode 551
A look at how employment trends are impacting c-store operators and other channels that directly compete with them, and how retailers can capitalize on these trends to improve their operations. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Chris Wise, NACS Research Analyst Chris Wise manages the NACS...
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How to Define Your Digital Strategy - Episode 550
How can independent operators take advantage digital platforms or AI? We'll break down the questions to ask for finding a cost-effective solution that works for you. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Babir Sultan, CEO, FavTrip Babir is the CEO of FavTrip, which has three locations around...
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Opportunities and Constraints in the Move Beyond E15 - Episode 549
How ethanol blends higher than E15 may offer benefits related to emissions reduction, octane enhancement, agricultural economic activity and energy security. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: John Eichberger, Executive Director, Transportation Energy Institute John has more than 25 years of...
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Tips to Set the Tone for Customer Experience - Episode 548
Findings from a NACS consumer survey point to simple ways retailers can create a vibe and make their stores places that customers choose. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Adam Rosenblatt, Founding Partner, Bold Decision Adam is one of the nation's leading political consultants sought after...
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On the Road With Frank Gleeson - Episode 547
NACS President & CEO Frank Gleeson shares insights from the road and what they reveal about the future of convenience retail. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Frank Gleeson, NACS President & CEO Frank became president and CEO of the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) on...
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A First Look at Dolly Parton's New Travel Stop - Episode 546
Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop officially opened for business on June 24, a celebration of how every stop on the highway can feel a little more like home. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard
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Oil Markets After Iran: What Comes Next? - Episode 545
We examine what may come next for petroleum markets as hostilities in the Middle East appear to ease, as well as the longer-term implications. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: John Eichberger, Executive Director, Transportation Energy Institute John has 25 years of experience in the fuels...
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Building Trust in Your Food Program - Episode 544
Convenience stores are one of the fastest-growing channels for high-quality and fresh food. Hear insights on how to build and maintain customer trust in your foodservice offers. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Amy Costello, Director of Food Safety & Quality Assurance, Casey's Amy oversees...
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C-Stores Lead the Fight Against Human Trafficking - Episode 543
The convenience store industry has become known for its support of anti-human-trafficking efforts. Hear more on how you can join the cause. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guests: Chris Elliott, Executive Director, BPAMA In 2025, Chris was appointed as the executive director of BPAMA, a...
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How AI Exposes Hidden Costs and Shrink - Episode 542
Higher gas prices make theft and inventory mismanagement even costlier. This episode shares how AI can help reduce shrink and tighten inventory control. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: James Hervey, EVP and Head of Petroleum and Convenience, Verifone James has been in the convenience…
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Key Signals Shaping the U.S. Economy - Episode 541
The U.S. economy remains resilient, driven by consumer spending, jobs and AI. We examine what's sustaining it, and what could change. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Thomas Weinandy, Principal Research Economist, Upside Dr. Weinandy studies consumer spending patterns and the broader…
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Top Takeaways From the NACS State of the Industry Summit - Episode 540
We look at the big industry numbers and trends discussed at the 2026 NACS State of the Industry Summit -- and how they could impact your business. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard, NACS Vice President of Media & Strategic Communications Jeff leads the association's industry-wide external communications...
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A Look at Fuel-Buying Behavior - Episode 539
A recent NACS consumer survey looks at broad gas purchasing trends, including when and where consumers decide to refuel. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Adam Rosenblatt, Founding Partner, Bold Decision Adam is one of the nation's leading political consultants sought after for his ability…
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$4 Gas Is Here. What's Next? - Episode 538
Hear more as we talk about what $4.00 gas means for the convenience retail and transportation industries now and in the coming months. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: John Eichberger, Executive Director, Transportation Energy Institute John has 25 years of experience in the fuels…
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What's Next for Convenience? - Episode 537
Frank Gleeson shares his insights on the future of foodservice, technology, and advocacy at NACS and within the convenience retail industry. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Frank Gleeson, NACS President & CEO Frank became president and CEO of the National Association of Convenience Stores...
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What's Next for Gas Prices? - Episode 536
Industry expert Denton Cinquegrana adds context to turbulent times within the petroleum industry. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Denton Cinquegrana, Chief Oil Analyst, OPIS Denton has been with OPIS since 2001 and serves as the chief oil analyst, responsible for the day-to-day operations...
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How to Cultivate Superfans at Your Stores - Episode 535
In a sea of sameness, cultivating an exceptional customer experience can turn your customers into loyal superfans. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Brittany Hodak, Customer Experience Expert Brittany is an award-winning author, entrepreneur and customer experience expert who helps…
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Think Like a Poet, Lead Like a Visionary - Episode 534
Tucker Bryant shares how the creative mindset that drives poets can also unlock modern leadership. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Tucker Bryant: Poet & Innovation Keynote Speaker After years at Stanford and Google, Tucker Bryant uncovered a surprising truth: the skills that fuel...
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State of the Union Takeaways for C‑Store Leaders - Episode 533
We break down the industry specific issues President Trump addressed—and those he didn't—and what it all means for convenience retailers. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Doug Kantor, NACS General Counsel Doug has served as legal counsel for NACS for more than 20 years, originally as a...
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Convenience Retail Has Heart - Episode 532
The NACS Foundation launched a new campaign that reinforces the importance of convenience stores in the communities they serve. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Kevin O'Connell, Executive Director, NACS Foundation Kevin leads the NACS Foundation and collaborates with industry stakeholders…
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Consumers Weigh In on Experience, Social Media and the Penny - Episode 531
A look at consumer survey data and industry trends that can create opportunities for convenience retailers. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard
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A Look at 2025 C-Store Performance Metrics - Episode 530
NACS Research shares exclusive insights behind preliminary 2025 industry data and what's in store for the convenience channel in 2026. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Chris Rapanick, Managing Director, NACS Research Chris oversees the day-to-day operations of NACS Research, manages and...
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Insights From NRF 2026: Retail's Big Show - Episode 529
Conexxus led a tour of exhibitors showcasing the emerging AI-driven and consumer-facing technologies coming to c-stores in the near future. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Ed Collupy, Innovation Facilitator, Conexxus Ed has extensive retail systems experience in the convenience store and...
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The New C-Store Count Is ... - Episode 528
A look at the 2026 convenience store count, how it compares to previous years, regional variations and overall fueling trends. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard
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A Masterclass in Convenience Retailing Leadership - Episode 527
NACS President & CEO Frank Gleeson, NACS Chairman Emeritus & CEO International Henry Armour, and 2024-25 NACS Chairman and Special Advisor to Alimentation Couche-Tard Brian Hannasch talk about leadership and the industry's future in a panel discussion from the 2025 NACS Show. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard
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What Retailers Need to Know About SNAP Food Restriction Waivers - Episode 526
SNAP food restriction waivers greatly complicate how retailers comply with the program, alongside new developments that affect enforcement. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Margaret Mannion, NACS Director, Government Relations Margaret leads federal advocacy efforts at NACS on issues...
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Creating Compelling Content for Your Business - Episode 525
Whether its podcasts, digital or social media, great content communicates your brand. Hear how to leverage your content and become a stronger storyteller. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Ben Nussbaum, NACS Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Ben has more than 25 years of experience in publishing,...
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A Conversation With NACS President & CEO Henry Armour (Part 2) - Episode 524
Henry takes us behind the scenes of our industry's biggest successes in the past 20 years, from debit swipe fee reform to enhancing the industry's image. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Henry Armour, NACS President and CEO Henry has served as NACS president and CEO since 2005 after…
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A Conversation With NACS President & CEO Henry Armour (Part 1) - Episode 523
Henry shares the biggest focus areas that were top of mind for NACS during the past two decades. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Henry Armour, NACS President and CEO Henry has served as NACS president and CEO since 2005 after spending his entire career in the convenience and fuel…
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Telling the Story About the Snacks C-Stores Sell - Episode 522
What separates a successful snack from the pack? Storytelling can be effective and important to sustaining a brand. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Jason Liebig, Brand History Expert, Television Host Jason is a noted brand historian, consultant, television personality and speaker, known…
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The Next Big Flavor Trends in C-Stores - Episode 521
As c-stores continue to be a preferred destination for prepared foods and beverages, retailers are paying more attention to flavors. We look at what's resonating with customers and how can different flavors -- whether "swicy" or "swalty" -- be used and combined. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our...
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How SNAP Food Restriction Waivers Will Affect Retailers - Episode 520
On Jan. 1, 2026, retailers in 8 states will face SNAP Food Restriction Waivers that restrict items deemed "non nutritious. Here is what retailers need to know. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Margaret Mannion, NACS Director, Government Relations Margaret leads federal advocacy efforts at...
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Breaking Down the Proposed Credit Card Settlement - Episode 519
Visa and Mastercard reached a settlement with merchants on a swipe fees class-action lawsuit. It's opposed by retail groups, including NACS. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Doug Kantor, NACS General Counsel Doug has served as legal counsel for NACS for more than 20 years, originally as a...
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A High-End Speakeasy in a C-Store? - Episode 518
The big term in retail today is "customer experience." Sometimes that's great customer service, sometimes that's something unique in the store--like hiding a speakeasy behind a fake cooler door. We talk about how to create a unique experience that works for any retail location. Hosted by: Jeff...
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'Clerks' and C-Stores With Kevin Smith & Jason Mewes (Part 2) - Episode 517
In part 2, we continue the convenience-focused conversation with Clerks' stars Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes, talking about a range of subjects, including other movies about convenience stores. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guests: Kevin Smith, Actor, Writer, Director Kevin wrote and starred in...
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'Clerks' and C-Stores With Kevin Smith & Jason Mewes (Part 1) - Episode 516
Kevin and Jay talk about their 30-plus-year love affair with convenience stores in a freewheeling conversation that takes a few tangents. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guests: Kevin Smith, Actor, Writer, Director Kevin wrote and starred in the groundbreaking movie "Clerks," which centered on…
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Are Hemp-Based Products a Green Rush or Bust? - Episode 515
Hemp-derived THC beverages could present opportunities for convenience retailers that already sell age-restricted products. Hear more about this growing trend. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Melissa Vonder Haar, Writer/Consultant, MelissaV Inc. Melissa has written about the convenience...
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A Conversation With Frank Gleeson - Episode 514
Incoming NACS president and CEO shares his insights on leadership and the industry's bright future. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Frank Gleeson NACS President & CEO beginning January 2026 Frank is the former president and CEO of Aramark Northern Europe and 2018-2019 NACS chairman. He…
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What You Need to Know About the Penny Shortage - Episode 513
The U.S. Mint stopped producing the penny earlier this year, which has triggered a penny shortage. Find out what's happening behind the scenes and what retailers can do. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Anna Ready Blom, NACS Strategic Advisor, Government Relations Anna serves as a policy...
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Your Tools for the Digital Ecosystem - Episode 512
C-stores are redefining convenience within a digital ecosystem that is on their customers' phones and in their vehicles. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Stephanie Sikorski, NACS Vice President, Strategic Initiatives Stephanie has led sophisticated marketing and community outreach…
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C-Stores and Their Cultural Impact - Episode 511
Hear how some convenience retailers are creating pop-culture moments at their stores and within their community. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Lonnie McQuirter, Director of Operations, 36 Lyn Refuel Station Lonnie leads 36 Lyn Refuel Station, an independently owned, community-focused…
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The Trends Behind RaceTrac's Potbelly Acquisition - Episode 510
The acquisition brings together elements that are growing in convenience retail: great foodservice with a neighborhood feel. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard
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The Importance of Creating a Unique Brand - Episode 509
Brands create trust, loyalty and a unique identity for businesses. Hear how some convenience stores leverage their brands to reach new and existing customers. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Amanda Baltazar, Retail & Hospitality Journalist Amanda is a journalist and NACS Magazine...
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Why Consumers Choose Your C-Store for Fuel - Episode 508
Gas price continues to be top of mind with drivers, but the price per gallon is only one factor for why they select a place to purchase fuel. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Adam Rosenblatt, Founding Partner, Bold Decision Adam is one of the nation's leading political consultants sought...
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How C-Store Fried Chicken Inspired a Mississippi Restaurant - Episode 507
Over the past five years, Stafford Shurden has travelled across the South to celebrate great food for his "Gas Station Tailgate Review" program. His new book, "Meet and Three," is about his life experiences as a restaurant owner, farmer, and convenience store and gas station food connoisseur....
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Learnings From a Convenience Retail Study Tour - Episode 506
We're sharing insights from a recent road trip/market tour and the big takeaways on what's new in convenience. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Frank Beard, Convenience Retailing Expert Frank is a Des Moines, Iowa-based marketer, speaker and writer who focuses on the convenience retailing...
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New Insights on Driving Behaviors and Perceptions - Episode 505
A new Transportation Energy Institute report reveals what consumers think about the vehicle technologies and fueling options they're looking for. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: John Eichberger, Executive Director, Transportation Energy Institute John has more than 20 years of experience…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Whether it's for food, fuel, drinks or snacks — about half of the U.S. population is at a convenience store every day. We sell 80% of the country's fuel and we are 4% of the total U.S. economy. We'll talk about what we see at stores — and what the future may hold — as long as it's convenient.
HOSTED BY
National Association of Convenience Stores
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Convenience Matters have?
Convenience Matters currently has 536 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Convenience Matters about?
Whether it's for food, fuel, drinks or snacks — about half of the U.S. population is at a convenience store every day. We sell 80% of the country's fuel and we are 4% of the total U.S. economy. We'll talk about what we see at stores — and what the future may hold — as long as it's convenient.
How often does Convenience Matters release new episodes?
Convenience Matters releases new episodes frequently with a large back catalog of 536 episodes. Check the episode list for recent publication dates.
Where can I listen to Convenience Matters?
You can listen to Convenience Matters on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Convenience Matters?
Convenience Matters is created and hosted by National Association of Convenience Stores.
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