SURVIVE Podcast - Episode 61 Notes

Episode Title: Strategic Problem-Solving for Store Leaders

Host: Mike Hernandez

Episode Description: In this powerful episode of Survive, host Mike Hernandez explores how convenience store assistant managers can transform daily challenges into opportunities through analytical thinking and systematic problem-solving. Learn practical frameworks and techniques that will help you identify root causes, implement effective solutions, and demonstrate your leadership capabilities.

Key Topics Covered:

• Breaking down complex problems into manageable components
• Gathering relevant data without getting overwhelmed by numbers
• Applying proven analytical frameworks like the 5 Whys and SWOT analysis
• Implementing a systematic problem-solving process in real store situations
• Involving your team in the problem-solving process for better results

Episode Highlights:

• Real-world case study of how systematic problem-solving revealed a simple database error causing energy drink stock issues
• The "Now, Next, or Never" method for setting priorities when facing multiple challenges
• How to create a "Daily Direction Dashboard" for tracking key metrics
• Practical application of analytical techniques to common convenience store challenges
• Tips for effectively communicating changes to your team

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Create a one-page problem-solving template for systematically addressing store challenges
2. Set up a simple data collection system focusing on three key metrics vital to your store
3. Develop a plan to train your team in basic analytical techniques like the 5 Whys

Manager Challenge Question: How would you approach a situation where morning sales have been declining for three weeks? What specific data would you collect, and how would you distinguish between correlation and causation in your analysis?

Listen to this episode to gain the analytical skills needed to solve problems more effectively, make better decisions, and advance your career as a convenience store leader.