Convenience Matters

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 forces shaping today's economy and provides clear, data-driven perspectives on inflation, consumer behavior and the challenges and opportunities facing retailers and suppliers alike.

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 campaigns to advance the role of convenience stores as positive economic, social and philanthropic contributors to the communities they serve. He also serves as lead spokesperson and has conducted more than 6,000 media interviews about trends and innovations at convenience stores.

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 to help clients achieve victory through effective research-based strategies and messaging. He designs and executes cutting-edge quantitative, qualitative, and data analytics programs for campaigns as well as non-political clients like NACS.

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 industry, including more than a decade leading the Transportation Energy Institute (formerly known as the Fuels Institute). Prior to that, he served for 15 years as vice president of government relations at NACS, with a focus on fuels- and energy-related issues.

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 (NACS) on January 1, 2026, succeeding Henry Armour. He is the fourth person to lead NACS in its 65-year history.