Self-Checkout with Grocery Store Mike

"The True Cost of Vacancy: Why Staffing Agency Fees Are Worth Every Penny in Retail Operations," argues that while staffing agency fees may seem high, the unseen costs of leaving positions vacant in retail, especially in grocery stores and pharmacies, are far more detrimental. The author, an executive grocery recruiter, emphasizes that under staffing leads to decreased morale, operationa...

Transform Your Grocery Store with Legendary Customer Service: The Ultimate Competitive Advantage Discover how exceptional customer service is revolutionizing the grocery industry in 2025. While competitors focus on automation and cost-cutting, savvy grocery operators are claiming massive market share through genuine human connection and service excellence. In this essential episode, learn from Mik...

Mike Cook (Grocery Store Mike) Executive Grocery Recruiter  Director of Executive Search – Grocery Division - Frontline Source Group | Fresh Talent, Always in Stock | Partner with Me to Save Critical Time and Bring Top-Tier Talent to Your Organization  The grocery industry faces a critical challenge that's keeping executives awake at night. According to recent Deloitte research, talent availa...

How can someone advance their career in the grocery industry?  Advancement in the grocery industry is often achieved by starting in entry-level positions and focusing on internal promotion. Developing fundamental competencies such as department knowledge, inventory management, customer service, and basic profit and loss understanding is crucial. Pursuing relevant certifications like food safety, r...

 Hey there, fellow grocery enthusiasts! It's Grocery Store Mike , and today, we're diving into the exciting world of food and payments in the grocery industry. In my 35 years of experience working on the frontlines of the grocery industry, I've seen some incredible changes and innovations, and now we're at the cusp of another major transformation. The Food as Medicine movement...

In this podcast episode, Tim Taylor, the owner of 4T's Family Market in Hennessey, Oklahoma, provides a unique perspective on the grocery industry. Tim carries on the legacy of his father, who established 4T's in 1963. Tim joins the show to discuss his love for the grocery industry, the store's resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the challenges posed by big box retailers. T...

In this episode of the Self-Checkout podcast, Tyler Kern and Grocery Store Mike are joined by Aaron "AJ" Johnson , the founder of The Oasis Fresh Market and The Oasis Projects . AJ shares the story behind The Oasis Fresh Market and its mission to offer food and build a sense of community for the residents of Tulsa, Oklahoma. AJ delves into the heart and motivation behind The Oasis Fresh...

In this episode of the Self-Checkout podcast, Tyler Kern and Grocery Store Mike are joined by Jena Good , also known as The Grocery Gal . Jena is attending the 85th Annual OGA Convention in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and shares her insights and experiences in the grocery industry. As a third-generation grocer, Jena brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the conversation. She discusses her inv...

In this episode of the Self-Checkout podcast, Tyler Kern and Grocery Store Mike welcome Jeff Klaus , the Regional General Manager at Retail Data Systems , for a discussion on the role of technology in the grocery industry and its impact on rural grocery stores. As a Regional General Manager at Retail Data Systems, Jeff possesses extensive knowledge and insights into the industry. The conversation...