ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A new NACS podcast, “Congress Goes to Work,” looks at how members of Congress—and even presidential candidates like Ted Cruz—visit convenience stores to learn more about our industry’s issues.

The latest “Convenience Matters” podcast features Kelly Fink, NACS senior director of political engagement, who has led and participated in many of the NACS In Store events in which political leaders visit convenience stores.

During NACS In Store events, members of Congress visit convenience stores, and work behind the counter. They learn about the industry, meet constituents and gain an appreciation of what’s important in communities. And now presidential candidates are participating.

The podcast explores other ways that NACS members can be engaged with their elected leaders, such as attending the March 14-16 NACS Government Relations Conference or reaching out directly to elected leaders.

A new “Convenience Matters” podcast will be released every Monday, focusing on topics related to convenience stores. 

“Podcasts are a perfect fit for our industry because so many of our members are on the road, whether driving to the office or out visiting stores,” said podcast co-host Jeff Lenard, NACS vice president of strategic industry initiatives. “We are delighted to see the industry response to these podcasts and encourage members to suggest topics and guests for future episodes.”

NACS Daily announced the podcasts in late January.