Beyond The Pump

Hosted by California Fuels & Convenience Alliance

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May 2026

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About the show

For most Californians, the gas station is the main touchpoint with the fuel industry. But there's a lot more happening behind the scenes that impacts our daily lives. In this podcast, we dive deeper than the pump, exploring legislative battles, industry stories, and the latest tech shaping fuels. Tune in for expert insights, interviews with leaders, and discussions on how fuel powers our world.

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24 recent

May 4, 202630 min

DATC Keynote Preview: California Energy & Affordability with Assemblymember Heath Flora | Ep 24

Ahead of CFCA Day at the Capitol, when professionals from across the fuels and convenience industry gather in Sacramento, CA to engage in meaningful discussions with the California Legislature, we’re pleased to welcome Assemblymember Heath Flora, who will serve as our keynote speaker for DATC this 2026.In this conversation, Heath breaks down fuel regulations, the push for cleaner energy, and the politics behind legislation like AB 2046, which aims to expand consumer fuel choices. He also highlights how misconceptions about energy policy impact costs and why an all-of-the-above approach is key to tackling California’s affordability challenges.The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CFCA. CFCA is a non-profit, non-partisan organization. Episode Highlights:Real-world impacts of regulatory red tape, including rising gas prices and challenges for small businesses and rural communities that rely on affordable fuel.Insights on key legislation, emerging technologies, and the need for practical, balanced solutions that align environmental goals with economic realities—plus the role of bipartisan cooperation.A closer look at how California can lead in energy innovation while maintaining affordability, featuring Assemblymember Heath Flora’s perspective on delivering more choices and relief for working families.🎙 Produced by the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance (CFCA). – To learn more about the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance, visit www.cfca.energy #BeyondThePump #CaliforniaLegislature #CFCA #HeathFlora #Podcast #DayAtTheCapitol #AB2046 #California

April 20, 202633 min

Earth Week Spotlight: The Rise of E85 in California | Ep 23

In this episode of Beyond the Pump, we celebrate Earth Week 2026 with a deep dive into E85 and its growing role in California’s energy future. Beatrice Lam is joined by special guest Jeff Wilkerson of Pearson Fuels to unpack the facts behind this renewable, cost-effective fuel and why it’s gaining momentum across the state.The conversation also touches on CFCA’s sponsored bill, AB 2046, which supports E85 conversion kits, as part of a broader effort to expand affordable fuel options for Californians. Jeff shares insights into E85’s role in California’s fuel market, highlights how it has proven to be an effective tool in other countries like France, and explores how increasing availability could give drivers more flexibility to choose cleaner, lower-cost fuel options in real time.Episode Highlights:A closer look at CFCA’s sponsored bill, AB 2046, and how it could open up new possibilities for drivers.Clearing up common misconceptions about E85, including concerns around engine damage, efficiency, and availability.Helpful tips for drivers on locating E85 stations and cutting fuel costs without disrupting their daily routine.🎙 Produced by the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance (CFCA). – To learn more about the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance, visit www.cfca.energy #BeyondThePump #CaliforniaFuels #CFCA #EarthWeek #Podcast #Earth Day #AB2046 #California

April 1, 202636 min

A Process Worth Trusting: Owning Your Path In The Industry w/ Julie Jackson | Ep 22

In this episode of Beyond the Pump, we celebrate Women’s History Month by spotlighting a woman who has made a meaningful impact in the industry, featuring a special interview with respected industry veteran Julie Jackson with Jackson Advisory & Consulting. Tune in for an inspiring conversation as she reflects on her career transition from finance to retail, sharing how her experiences shaped her leadership style and approach to building strong, collaborative teams. She also discusses the importance of fostering community and mentorship within the fuels and convenience industry, along with maintaining work-life balance in a fast-paced, demanding environment.Episode Highlights:The importance of community and mentorship in the industry to build strong, collaborative, and high-performing teams.Key lessons and advice for early professionals looking to grow their careers.How her diverse experience shaped her leadership style and how she is uplifting the next generation of leaders.How trusting your own process and trying new things can lead to unexpected and rewarding professional paths.🎙 Produced by the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance (CFCA). – To learn more about the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance, visit www.cfca.energy #BeyondThePump #CaliforniaFuels #CFCA #Women’sHistoryMonth #Podcast #Mentorship #TrustTheProcess #California

February 28, 202644 min

Designing the Destination C-Store & Travel Center with CVW T-Lines | Ep 21

In this episode of Beyond the Pump, Beatrice Lam interviews Joseph Farhat of CVW T-Lines, specializing in crafting store solutions that blend functionality with visual appeal.They explore what it really takes to elevate a convenience store or travel center from a simple stop to a standout destination. Joseph highlights the powerful role convenience stores and travel centers play in their local communities, serving everyone from daily commuters to long-haul drivers, and how operators can evolve to meet rising consumer expectations across both formats. The discussion dives into crafting memorable in-store experiences, striking the right balance between brand consistency and local personality, and reimagining store design for the future, including the smart integration of AI tools, expanded food service, and amenities tailored to both neighborhood customers and highway travelers.Episode Highlights:C-Stores play a vital role in local communities and continue to navigate supply chain challenges.Consumer expectations for cleanliness, modernization, and experience are rising.C-Store and travel center experience is key to customer loyalty and brand consistency is crucial for customer recognition.Planning ahead is essential to rebranding your store, especially for larger spaces like travel centers. How AI tools are changing the landscape of design and can support client contribution.🎙 Produced by the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance (CFCA). – To learn more about the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance, visit www.cfca.energy #BeyondThePump #CaliforniaFuels #CFCA #ConvenienceStores #TravelCenters #Podcast #SmallBusiness #GasStations #California

January 31, 202636 min

What's In Store for 2026? A Fireside Chat with CFCA's CEO | Ep 20

In this episode of Beyond the Pump, Beatrice Lam interviews Elizabeth Graham, CEO of the California Fuels and Convenience Alliance (CFCA).They discuss the challenges and opportunities within the fuels and convenience industry, focusing on the importance of education, advocacy, and innovation. Elizabeth shares insights on the unique aspects of gas station ownership, the impact of regulations, and the resilience of small business owners in California. The conversation highlights the community involvement of CFCA members and the need for continued support and understanding from consumers and legislators alike.Episode Highlights:The fuels and convenience industry is complex, involving various stakeholders.Education is crucial for both consumers and legislators to understand the industry.Insurance costs and regulations are significant challenges for small business owners.CFCA is focusing on local chapters to strengthen community engagement.Members are actively involved in their communities beyond just fuel and convenience store sales. The cost of doing business in California is rising, impacting small businesses.🎙 Produced by the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance (CFCA). – To learn more about the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance, visit www.cfca.energy #BeyondThePump #CaliforniaFuels #CFCA #FuelRegulation #Podcast #SmallBusiness #GasStations #California

October 13, 2025Episode 1848 min

USC's Michael Mische on California's Impending Energy Crisis | EP 18

California’s energy crisis isn’t coming — it’s already here.In this episode of Beyond the Pump, host Mikey Muscatello and co-host Beatrice sit down with USC professor and energy economist Michael Mische to break down the numbers behind California’s skyrocketing gas prices, refinery shutdowns, and growing dependence on foreign oil.Mische reveals why two major refineries (Phillips 66 and Valero) are closing, how much of every gallon goes to state taxes and environmental fees, and why new drilling permits won’t fix California’s fuel shortage. The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of CFCA.💡 Key topics: refinery shutdowns • gas price forecasts • SB237 drilling permits • cap-and-trade costs • EV mandates • job losses • small business impact • energy independence🎤 Guest: Michael Mische, Professor, USC Marshall School of Business📍 Recorded ahead of the CADC Energy Summit (Oct 20–21), presented by the California Fuels and Convenience Alliance.🎧 Listen now to Beyond the Pump on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major platforms.📍 Learn more about California’s fuel and convenience industry at CFCA.energy.📅 Don’t miss the CADC Energy Summit, October 20–21 in San Diego.California gas prices, California energy crisis, refinery shutdowns, Valero Benicia, Phillips 66, SB237, California oil permits, cap-and-trade, EV mandates, CFCA Energy Summit, Michael Mische USC, Beyond the Pump podcast#CaliforniaEnergy #GasPrices #OilAndGas #EnergyPolicy #RefineryShutdown #USC #CaliforniaNews #CleanEnergy #CFCA #BeyondThePump

July 28, 2025Episode 1630 min

Assemblymember Stan Ellis Talks Gas & Policy | Ep 16

In this episode of Beyond the Pump, Mikey and Beatrice sit down with Assemblymember Stan Ellis, a former oil and chemical processing expert now fighting for California’s energy future. From the real life impacts California can expect from upcoming refinery shutdowns to the hypocrisy of importing foreign oil while vilifying our own clean production, Ellis shares his raw and technical look into the consequences of overregulation. Hear how permitting delays, party-line politics, and misguided environmental policies are endangering jobs, spiking gas prices, and hurting everyday Californians. Listen now to Beyond the Pump on all major podcast platforms — and for more on the California Fuels and Convenience Alliance, visit CFCA.EnergyListen now to Beyond the Pump on all major podcast platforms, and for more on the California Fuels and Convenience Alliance, visit CFCA.Energy

November 24, 2025Episode 1947 min

AI Theft Prevention for Retailers | Ep 19

Discover how AI is transforming theft prevention, store operations, and profitability in gas stations and convenience stores. In this episode of Beyond the Pump, Beatrice speaks with JinnLabs co-founder Harjeev Anand about JinnOS, an AI-powered store management platform designed to reduce shrinkage, detect theft in real time, improve inventory accuracy, and unlock data-driven insights for retailers.Learn how multi-camera AI agents monitor transactions, recognize suspicious behavior, support store staff, and give owners the visibility they’ve never had before. Harjeev also shares how JinnLabs is helping c-stores adapt to California's evolving compliance requirements, improve customer experience, and prepare for the next wave of digital transformation in retail.Listen to Beyond the Pump on all major podcast platforms.For more industry resources, visit CFCA.Energy.Learn more about AI theft prevention and store-management tools at JinnLabs.ai.TakeawaysAI-driven shrink reduction is becoming essential for c-store and gas station operators.Multi-agent AI can track customer behavior, identify concealment, and detect employee theft.Data from cameras, POS, and inventory can now feed a unified AI store manager.Inventory automation tools will drastically reduce costs and waste.AI improves employee productivity, customer experience, and operational efficiency.California privacy laws require anonymized facial mapping, not facial recognition.

May 22, 2024Episode 446 min

Mark LaCour: Navigating Industry Challenges | Ep 04

In this episode of Beyond The Pump, we welcome the renowned podcaster and keynote speaker for the 2024 Pacific Fuels + Convenience Summit, Mark LaCour from the Oil and Gas Global Network.Mark takes us on a captivating journey through his 25-year career, sharing stories about the oil and gas industry's commitment to local communities and the environment. He also discusses the industry's high-tech advancements, the challenges of public perception, and the importance of sharing positive and truthful stories.As a special bonus, Mark gives us an exclusive sneak peek at what to expect from the Pacific Fuels + Convenience Summit this September.Join us for an engaging and enlightening conversation that will keep you hooked from start to finish.Don't miss this episode of Beyond The Pump! 00:23- Mark's Career in Oil and Gas02:40- Industry's Caring Nature05:56- Navigating Regulatory Environments10:45- Emerging Innovations in Oil and Gas Industry14:52- Mark's Environmentalist Perspective15:49- Oil and Gas Coexistence18:10- Balancing Environmental Responsibilities23:20- Economic Contributions of Oil and Gas Industry26:23- America's Energy Independence30:11- Effectiveness of Environmental Regulations in California31:55- California's Regulation32:18- Energy Choices32:41- Texas Wind and Solar33:23- History of Energy Sources34:45- Impact on Quality of Life35:58- Consumer Preferences36:41- Fuel Providers in California37:02- Future of Transportation41:34- Pacific Fuels and Convenience Summit Keynote Session43:24- OGGN Promotion #OilAndGasIndustry#Environment #OilIndustry #EnergyLiteracy #Education #RegulatoryChallenges#OGGN #EnergyChoices #CFCA#BeyondThePump

April 28, 2025Episode 1349 min

Energy Reality Check with Leo Paulo | Ep 13

California's energy policies are hitting small businesses, fuel retailers, and working families harder than ever. In this episode of Beyond The Pump, Mikey and Beatrice sit down with retired energy operations expert Leo Paulo to break down what's really happening behind the state's skyrocketing electricity rates, refinery shutdowns, and climate mandates.Leo shares firsthand insights from decades in the oil industry, explains the unintended consequences of California’s rush to renewables, and why policies meant to “save the planet” could be crippling local economies instead.If you're in the fuels, convenience store, or energy business or just live in California, you need to hear this eye-opening conversation.If you care about the future of fuel, small businesses, and affordable energy in California, make sure you’re subscribed to Beyond The Pump on your favorite podcast platform.For more information, advocacy updates, and resources to support California’s fuels and convenience industry, visit CFCA.Energy.#BeyondThePump #EnergyPolicy #CaliforniaEnergy#CFCA #SmallBusinessCalifornia