Most companies overlook a game-changing opportunity to fuel growth and fill critical workforce gaps by engaging the next generation early. Lindsey Trent, president and co-founder of Next Generation in Trucking, reveals how industry leaders can build a pipeline of skilled drivers through inspiring community partnerships, impactful education programs, and strategic employer involvement.

In this episode, discover how early talent development can transform your recruitment strategy. Lindsey shares concrete frameworks like the 210-hour CDL program, emphasizing hands-on learning with simulators and health-focused curricula that produce well-rounded drivers. You’ll learn how industry involvement like school field trips, guest speaking, and supporting career tech programs can significantly increase the number of students considering trucking as a career.

This episode is perfect for industry leaders, HR managers, and trucking companies eager to future-proof their workforce. If you want to learn how to attract, train, and retain the next generation of drivers, this episode is your roadmap. Lindsey Trent’s actionable strategies could be the key to filling seats and steering your company ahead in a competitive market.

M-PACT Bound is the official podcast of the M-PACT Fuel and Convenience Tradeshow.

Most fuel retailers overlook the crucial upgrades and proactive maintenance that could save them thousands, or even prevent catastrophic failures. Scott Boorse, VP of industry programs at PEI, reveals the behind-the-scenes strategies that only the most forward-thinking operators are adopting now to stay ahead of costly equipment breakdowns and regulatory migraines.

In this episode, discover how modern infrastructure challenges like workforce shortages, end-of-life equipment, and disruptive testing methods are transforming the industry. Scott breaks down the key insights including why a proactive approach reduces total costs, how to navigate the evolving landscape of underground storage and fueling tech, and why embracing smart site design and AI-driven solutions keeps you competitive.

Failing to modernize now could mean higher compliance costs, safety risks, and lost revenue. But those who act proactively position themselves to lead in efficiency, customer experience, and technology adoption and unlocks new growth opportunities in an increasingly complex landscape. Perfect for fuel station owners, managers, and industry professionals eager to future-proof their operations, this episode delivers practical insights that can be applied today to save money, optimize performance, and delight customers tomorrow.

M-PACT Bound is the official podcast of the M-PACT Fuel and Convenience Tradeshow.

Most independent convenience store operators are quietly shaping the future of the industry, but few realize just how much their innovative strategies and community focus will determine retail success in the coming years.

In this episode of M-PACT Bound, industry veteran Linda Lisanti, Editor-in-Chief of Convenience Store News, shares exclusive insights from recent winners of the inaugural Outstanding Independents Awards and how independent operators are redefining convenience by leveraging technology to enhance customer experiences.

Learn why adaptation, innovation, and community engagement aren’t just buzzwords, they’re the pillars of resilient and profitable independents. With over 63% of the industry’s stores owned by companies with ten or fewer locations, supporting independents isn’t just good for business, it’s essential for the success of our industry. Whether you’re an independent operator, industry partner, or aspiring retailer, understanding these success factors can unlock new growth opportunities and help you excel in the future of convenience retail.

M-PACT Bound is the official podcast of the M-PACT Fuel and Convenience Tradeshow.

Unlock the secret to maximizing your convenience store chain's value before it’s too late. If you're a mid-sized operator worried about valuation and selling your business for top dollar, this episode is for you. Discover the overlooked mistakes that can cost you hundreds of thousands, and learn the proven frameworks that industry veterans use to ensure maximum exit value.

M-PACT Bound sits down with Steve Griffin, a seasoned C-store operator turned M&A advisor with decades of firsthand industry experience. Steve reveals how most owners walk into a sale underprepared, relying on mistaken assumptions about market value, leasehold worth, and financial readiness.

This episode covers:

• Why most owners underestimate the importance of clear, normalized financials and site-level trends
• The common assumptions hurt negotiation positions such as overvalued leasehold sites and incorrect benchmarks
• How to recognize the perfect timing for sale, when performance plateaus or competitive pressures grow, and what signals to watch for
• The broad array of active buyers today, from industry consolidators to private equity, and how their differing priorities impact valuation
• Practical steps to get your business transaction-ready in 8 to 12 months, ensuring you don’t leave money on the table

This episode underscores why staying current on market dynamics, maintaining physical assets, and positioning your business for flexibility are critical to a successful exit. Whether you own five stores or fifty, understanding these insights can turn a potentially undervalued sale into a multimillion-dollar opportunity. Steve Griffin, partner at Downstream Energy Group, is a leading authority on C-store valuation. Don’t miss Steve’s upcoming session at M-PACT 2026 in Indianapolis, April 14-16, where he’ll guide you through a practical, industry-specific framework for valuation and exit success.

M-PACT Bound is the official podcast of the M-PACT Fuel and Convenience Tradeshow.

Most companies overlook a game-changing strategy that can transform their workforce dynamics and boost retention... Trust. Kristine Sexter reveals how building trust across generations not only enhances communication and motivation but also creates a resilient, high-performing team ready to thrive in today’s fast-moving fuel and convenience industry.

In this episode of M-PACT Bound, Kristine shares insights from her 28 years of organizational development expertise, focusing on innovative approaches to multigenerational leadership. Discover why trust is the ultimate universal currency that can bridge age gaps and foster loyalty, recognition, and collaboration. You'll learn the secrets to making your leadership authentic role modeling that inspires every team member, regardless of their age or background.

Perfect for leaders, HR professionals, and business owners committed to creating a workplace where trust, recognition, and legacy matter, this episode equips you with actionable tactics to go full throttle in workforce development. Don’t miss your chance hear these insights first hand with Kristine Sexter at M-PACT 2026.

M-PACT Bound is the official podcast of the M-PACT Fuel and Convenience Tradeshow.

Dive into the excitement of M-PACT 2026 as we unveil the "Full Throttle" racing theme, set to energize the upcoming show in Indianapolis. Brian Clark, Kellie Walsh, and Meggie Davlin discuss the new developments for 2026 – including the Exhibitor Cup Awards and the dynamic kickoff event at Crane Bay. With over 50% of the show floor already sold, this year's M-PACT promises to be a spectacular celebration leading up to the 25th anniversary in 2027.

M-PACT Bound is the official podcast of the M-PACT Fuel and Convenience Tradeshow.

Join M-PACT Bound with the executive directors from IFRA, IFFA, KPMA, and OECA, the host states of M-PACT 2025, to preview what's in store for this year's event. Discover the latest updates, educational offerings, and what attendees can expect before the premier fuel and convenience event returns to Indianapolis April 1-3.

M-PACT Bound is the official podcast of the M-PACT Fuel and Convenience Tradeshow.

In this episode, listen as M-PACT Bound talks with Deena Doyle, the Executive Director of Women in Energy, about the innovative, new panel session she will be leading at M-PACT 2025. Deena shares the overall mission and initiatives of the Women in Energy, an organization whose goal is to create a community for energy professionals focused on education, mentorship, and growth, as well as advancement tools for women currently working in the energy industry. Deena highlights how this session promises to offer a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by women in the energy and convenience retail industries.

M-PACT Bound is the official podcast of the M-PACT Fuel and Convenience Tradeshow.