In this episode of Beyond the Pump, Mikey and Bea arejoined by Alessandra Magnasco, CFCA’s Government Affairs and Regulatory Director, to break down the complex reality behind California’s skyrocketinggas prices.

Alessandra explains the intricacies of ABX2-1, GovernorNewsom’s latest fuel regulation, and how it’s likely to impact consumers and businesses alike.

From the state’s anti-fossil fuel policies to the hiddenconsequences of this new law, this episode dives deep into the government’s role in controlling gas prices and what it means for Californians.

Tune in as they discuss the future of fuel, how independent gas stations are affected, and why it’s critical for voters to speak up. Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion on California’s fuel market and the fight for affordable energy.

If you want to better understand what’s happening withCalifornia’s fuel prices and how you can make a difference, visit the CFCA Consumer Education Page.

Share this episode with friends and family to help raiseawareness about these crucial issues. Make sure to subscribe to Beyond the Pump on Spotify & Apple Podcasts, so you never miss an episode.

Your voice matters – contact your local representatives and let them know how rising fuel costs are impacting you!

Episode Highlights:

•Introduction to ABX2-1 – Alessandra explains the new law signed by Governor Newsom and why it’s stirring concern in the fuel industry and among consumers.

•Breaking Down the “Three Buckets” – A deep dive into the three factors that contribute to California’s high gas prices: taxes, tight fuel supply, and operating expenses.

•Political Theater vs. Real Solutions – The podcast explores whether ABX2-1 is truly addressing the state’s fuel problem or merely a political distraction from upcoming environmental regulations.

•Impact on Small Businesses – Discussion on how high gas prices affect independent gas stations and small business owners, particularly in rural areas.

•Call to Action – Alessandra emphasizes the importance of Californians reaching out to their elected officials to demand change in the state’s fuel policies.

Join CFCA in their fight to lower fuel prices for all ofCalifornia HERE

🎙 Produced by Muscatello Media LLC – Ready to launch your own podcast? Whether you need production, editing, or strategy, we’ve got you covered. Get started today at MuscatelloMedia.com! 🚀

#BeyondThePump #GasPrices #ABX21 #CaliforniaFuel#EnergyCrisis #CFCA #FuelRegulation #Podcast #ElectricVehicleMandates #FossilFuels #EnergyPolicy #SmallBusiness #GasStations #ClimateChange#ConsumerRights #CaliforniaPolitics #GavinNewsom #CARB #LCFS #VoteSmart #GasTax #EnergyFuture #California #CaliforniaGasPrices

In this episode of Beyond The Pump, Mikey and Beatrice sit down with Ashley Boston, Risk & Compliance Manager at Strauch Companies—owner of 12 gas stations and convenience stores across Northern California. Ashley breaks down what went down at the Brentwood City Council meeting, where a harsh tobacco retail license ordinance blindsided local business owners.

From the flawed logic behind license caps and youth-oriented zoning to the serious financial impact on immigrant-owned businesses, Ashley brings a real-world perspective on how these local policies ripple across communities. We also discuss the Santa Cruz filtered tobacco ban (posing as a litter solution), and how statewide trends like this are threatening California’s convenience industry.

Ashley shares how Strauch Co. revamped its ID compliance program, built community coalitions, and is leaning on groups like CFCA to stay ahead of regulatory chaos.

If you're in the fuels or c-store space, this is a must-listen episode.

Subscribe to Beyond The Pump on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your shows—and stay informed on the issues that impact California’s fuels and convenience store industry.

Want to protect your business? Learn more about the advocacy, updates, and tools offered by the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance at CFCA.Energy.

#BeyondThePump #CFCA #CaliforniaConvenienceStores #TobaccoRegulations #SmallBusinessDefense

In this episode of Beyond the Pump, Mikey and Beatrice sit down with Elijah Harrison from Cintas to explore the company's growth, innovation, and culture. From Cintas' humble beginnings in 1929 to becoming an industry leader, Elijah shares insights on leadership, safety, and how Cintas partners with Cal/OSHA to stay ahead of compliance standards. If you're curious about corporate culture, safety certifications, and how Cintas impacts multiple industries, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

Episode Highlights:

• Elijah Harrison's 18-Year Journey with Cintas: From the management training program to general manager roles across multiple locations, Elijah’s career evolution offers key insights into Cintas' culture and growth.
• The History and Evolution of Cintas: Learn how a company that started with shop towels in 1929 became a leader in uniforms, safety, and compliance solutions.
• Cintas and Safety Compliance: Discover how Cintas became VPP-certified and built strong partnerships with Cal/OSHA, helping reduce injury and collision rates.
• Lessons from the Pandemic: How Cintas adapted quickly to support essential services like hospitals and food production facilities during the crisis.
• Looking Ahead: Elijah discusses the exciting future of automation, AI, and talent acquisition at Cintas, ensuring growth and innovation while maintaining strong workplace culture.

Like what you heard? Be sure to follow Beyond the Pump on all major podcast platforms. For more information about the California Fuels and Convenience Alliance, visit CFCA.Energy

🎙 Produced by Muscatello Media LLC – Ready to launch your own podcast? Whether you need production, editing, or strategy, we’ve got you covered. Get started today at MuscatelloMedia.com! 🚀

#BeyondThePump #CorporateCulture #Cintas #WorkplaceInnovation #SafetyAndCompliance #LeadershipJourney #CFCA