The FAM Podcast With Mark Kinsley podcast

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

1
How Nate Cangemi Built a Dream Store Without Selling His Home 41:47

1 day41:47

41:47

Discover how Nate Cangemi transitioned from rock and roll to mattress mogul without selling his house! Join host Mark Kinsley as he sits down with Nate Cangemi, the dynamic frontman behind Golden Dreams Mattress and the official band of the Sleep Summit. Nate shares his journey from contemplating selling his house to launching a successful retail experience that redefines mattress shopping. Episode Summary: In this episode, Nate reveals how a pivotal mastermind session at Sleep Summit and the support of a thriving community helped him turn a dream into reality. Learn about the unique experiences he crafted at Golden Dreams Mattress and the invaluable lessons he gathered from industry experts. Whether you're a retail enthusiast or an entrepreneur at heart, Nate's story is sure to inspire. Timestamps: 00:01 - Introduction to Nate Cangemi: The Rockstar Retailer 00:45 - From Vision Boards to Reality: Nate's Motivation to Open a Store 01:51 - The Hot Seat Experience: A Turning Point in Bentonville 03:21 - The Advice That Changed Everything: "Don't Sell Your House 06:06 - Building Golden Dreams: Crafting a Unique Customer Experience 07:07 - From Components to Retail: Nate’s Industry Journey 16:37 - Committing to the Dream: The Power of Community Support 22:16 - Curating Quality: The Brands Behind Golden Dreams 30:08 - Launching Golden Dreams: The First Month’s Success…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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From Fitness to Franchise Rocket: How Brad Taylor is Disrupting Sleep Retail with Snooze 44:46

9 napja44:46

44:46

What do fitness, franchising, and Super Bowl champions have to do with mattresses? Brad Taylor explains it all. Join Mark Kinsley as he welcomes Brad Taylor, VP of Franchise Development at Snooze Mattress Company. With a background in fitness and franchising, Brad brings a fresh perspective to the sleep industry. In this episode, you'll hear how he's helping Snooze scale nationally, why wellness is the future of sleep retail, and how NFL champions Kevin Minter and Andrew Adams became brand ambassadors. What You’ll Learn: Brad shares his playbook for awarding franchises (not selling them), why choosing the right location is crucial, and how Snooze is going beyond beds to promote holistic sleep health—including CPAP awareness, partner disturbance, and light exposure. Plus, get insider stories from Super Bowl events and tips for living a healthier life starting today. Timestamps: 00:00 – Meet Brad Taylor, former Snap Fitness exec turned mattress mogul 01:30 – How Matt Smith recruited Brad into Snooze 04:15 – NFL brand ambassadors: The story behind Kevin Minter & Andrew Adams 06:00 – Snooze at the Super Bowl: VIP access and brand awareness 11:50 – What does franchise disruption really mean? 14:20 – The FORM method Brad uses to vet new franchisees 16:00 – Why real estate is the make-or-break factor in store launches 18:10 – Miniature Herefords, farm life, and writing the next chapter 22:00 – Brad’s journey: from TaylorMade Bodies to Anytime Fitness to Snooze 24:30 – How Snooze brings wellness into the mattress store experience 28:30 – CPAP machines, sleep apnea awareness, and HSA potential 32:00 – What most people overlook in their health journey 36:15 – Sleep as the missing link in wellness…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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How Greenhushing Backfires & Barbell Boomers Are Driving the Economy: ISPA Conference 2025 Unwrapped 21:18

16 napja21:18

21:18

When silence on sustainability speaks louder than words—and boomers quietly steal the economic spotlight—you know it’s time to rethink everything. In this episode of The FAM podcast, host Mark Kinsley recaps big takeaways from the 2025 ISPA conference in St. Pete’s, featuring fresh insights from Scot Case, VP of Sustainability at the National Retail Federation, and economist Dr. Christopher Kuehl of Armada Corporate Intelligence. Episode Summary: Mark takes us behind the scenes at ISPA 2025 where the talk of the conference was “greenhushing”—the risky new cousin of greenwashing. Scot Case explains why being eco-silent may cost you consumer trust, while economist Dr. Christopher Kuehl breaks down the "barbell economy," proving that boomers are now powering home-related spending. From AI-powered green shopping to emotional consumer decisions, this episode flips traditional retail thinking on its head. 3 Key Takeaways: Greenhushing is a PR Risk: Saying nothing about your eco-efforts can be just as damaging as saying too much. Boomers Are the New Power Buyers: Forget what you heard—older generations are investing heavily in home comfort. Sustainability = Quality: Durable goods aren’t just better—they’re now seen as more eco-conscious, especially in the mattress industry.…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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Behind the Scenes with Tambra Jones and the Specialty Sleep Association 27:00

23 napja27:00

27:00

In the mid-90s, as the popularity of waterbeds waned, a new wave of sleep products began to emerge. This shift paved the way for the formation of the Specialty Sleep Association (SSA). Tambra Jones, executive director of the SSA, played a pivotal role in this evolution, bringing together manufacturers, retailers, and futon experts. The SSA organized trade shows and established a permanent showroom in Las Vegas, providing a platform for emerging mattress brands to thrive. A Journey Through the Industry Tambra's journey in the furniture industry began as a trade show manager in San Francisco. She cultivated an environment where small companies could showcase their products and connect with potential buyers. This experience laid the groundwork for her later involvement with the SSA. Tambra’s passion for fostering connections and supporting new entrants in the industry has remained a core aspect of her work. Innovations on Display The SSA showroom at the Las Vegas Market has become a hub for innovative sleep technology. One standout example is Cambridge Sleep, which offers a system that adjusts brain waves using sound frequencies to enhance sleep quality. Their technology is embedded in pillows and designed to create a calming sleep environment. Tambra herself has experienced the benefits of this technology, emphasizing the importance of sleep quality in our lives. The Role of B2B Connections The SSA space serves as a meeting ground for businesses within the sleep industry. Manufacturers often visit to network, explore licensing opportunities, and discover new products. Tambra highlights how many successful companies began their journeys in the SSA space, leveraging connections made there to grow their brands. This collaborative environment fosters creativity and innovation, vital for the industry’s progress. Membership Benefits Joining the SSA offers numerous advantages. Membership includes opportunities for promotion through newsletters and social media. For a nominal fee, members receive visibility and connection to key industry players. Tambra notes that being part of the SSA community is about more than just business; it’s about building relationships and supporting one another in the industry. The Challenge of Greenwashing Tambra and the SSA have tackled the challenge of greenwashing in the sleep industry. They launched the Bed Facts Verified program to provide transparency around product claims. However, they faced resistance from manufacturers reluctant to disclose their materials and certifications. Despite the hurdles, the SSA remains committed to promoting genuine sustainability within the industry. Consumer Awareness and Demand Today’s consumers are increasingly discerning about the products they purchase. With access to information online, they can research brands and verify claims. Companies like Avocado have thrived by catering to this informed demographic, emphasizing transparency and sustainability. The SSA recognizes the shift in consumer attitudes and encourages manufacturers to meet this growing demand for accountability. Unusual Innovations The SSA has seen its share of unconventional innovations. From mattress-jacking devices that elevate mattresses for easier sheet changes to temperature-regulating systems like Bed Jet, the showroom showcases a variety of creative solutions. These innovative concepts illustrate the diversity of ideas within the industry and the importance of staying ahead of trends.…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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You Wont Believe How the Sleep Industry Transformed in the 90s! 27:00

23 napja27:00

27:00

Why it matters: The Specialty Sleep Association (SSA) is reshaping the sleep industry by providing a platform for innovative products and fostering connections among manufacturers and retailers. Key Insights: In a recent episode of the FAM Podcast, Mark Kinsley and SSA Executive Director Tambra Jones discussed the history and mission of the SSA, which has evolved since the days of waterbeds. Historical Context: SSA was formed in the late 90s, merging various sleep product associations to create a dynamic trade environment. Innovation Showcase: The SSA showroom in Las Vegas features cutting-edge sleep technology, including sound and mood-enhancing products like Cambridge Sleep's systems. Community Connection: The SSA serves as a networking hub, connecting new companies with established brands and fostering collaboration. Consumer Awareness: Today's consumers are more discerning, often seeking organic and sustainable sleep products, but many manufacturers struggle with greenwashing accusations. Innovative Products Highlighted: Some standout innovations featured at SSA include: A mattress-lifting device that simplifies sheet changing. Temperature-regulating technologies like ChiliPad and Jelly Sleep. Adjustable pillows and other customizable sleep solutions. The Bottom Line: For anyone interested in the sleep industry, the SSA offers invaluable resources and connections. Whether you're a manufacturer, retailer, or simply curious about the latest in sleep technology, engaging with the SSA can lead to new opportunities and insights. For more information on joining the SSA or exploring their offerings, visit sleepinformation.org. #PranaSleep #SleepDeeplyLiveBoldly www.pranasleep.com…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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ChatGPT, Automation & Ironman Suits: The AI Revolution with Rex Harris 47:03

30 napja47:03

47:03

What if you could automate your most tedious tasks, save hours every week, and finally feel like Tony Stark in your own AI-powered Ironman suit? Host & Guest Introduction: In this episode, Mark Kinsley, is joined by Rex Harris, an AI consultant and product manager whose resume boasts stints at Amazon, Pandora, Electronic Arts, and Bright. Rex is here to break down AI's role in business, how automation can 40X your productivity, and why taste and creativity still matter in an AI-driven world. Summary of the Episode: This episode is a masterclass in how AI is reshaping business operations. Rex explains how large language models like ChatGPT, AI automations, and digital agents are revolutionizing workflows. He also shares insights on automated lead research, AI-powered voice agents, and even web scraping for smarter sales strategies. Plus, find out how AI tools like Zapier, ChatGPT, and voice automation can give you a competitive edge—and why human creativity still reigns supreme. Key Takeaways: 1) AI isn't taking jobs—it’s taking tasks. Learn how to automate workflows and reclaim your time. 2) Automation is the new superpower. From cold-calling intelligence to auto-scheduling, the right AI tools can revolutionize your work. 3) Human creativity still wins. AI can crunch data, but it can’t replace taste, art, or soul-driven decision-making.…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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Texting Your Way to a 25% Sales Boost with Kelly Christal 41:34

5 weeks41:34

41:34

🚀 One text message. Five minutes. A $5,000 sale. What if your follow-ups were actually closing deals instead of getting ghosted? In this episode of The FAM Podcast , host Mark Kinsley sits down with Kelly Christal , co-owner of six Mattress Firm franchise stores in South Dakota, to talk about the game-changing impact of Podium’s automated follow-up system. Kelly shares how her team skyrocketed customer engagement, collected over 1,300 Google reviews, and used a single text message to bring a customer back from a competitor’s showroom. Want to know how speed wins sales? Tune in and find out how a structured follow-up strategy could increase your conversion rates by up to 96% ! Plus, learn why Podium’s AI-powered assistant, Jerry , never sleeps, never takes a lunch break, and never ghosts a customer. 💡 Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Speed Wins! – 86% of customers buy from the first business that responds. 2️⃣ Ditch the Paper Quotes – Sending a text instead of handing out brochures keeps customers engaged. 3️⃣ Bulk Messaging = Big Sales – One well-timed text can lead to a 25% sales boost.…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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Traction, Tears & Teamwork: Saying Goodbye to the FAM Mom 30:58

6 weeks30:58

30:58

What happens when the Mom of the FAM makes a big move? You get a rollercoaster of emotions, heartfelt goodbyes, and some seriously witty banter . In today's episode, Mark Kinsley sits down with Adrienne Woods—the woman who has kept the FAM running smoothly behind the scenes—to talk about her next big adventure, the wildest part of working with Mark, and the unexpected way she’s using Traction (yes, the business strategy book) to parent her kids.🚨 Spoiler Alert: Mark may or may not get emotional. Will his "no crying on the podcast" streak survive? Tune in to find out! Key Takeaways: ✅ The FAM Mom Moves On – Adrienne is shifting gears to focus on her legal career, but don’t worry, she’ll still be around… at least for Sleep Summit 2025!✅ Traction for Parenting? – How Adrienne and her husband are using business strategies to raise kids who can change tires and change the world. ✅ Mark’s Perfectionism Exposed – What’s the hardest part about working with Mark? Adrienne spills the tea!🎧 Listen now and send Adrienne some love as she embarks on this new chapter!…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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Why Customers Trust AFW: Inside the Billion-Dollar Buying Strategy with Ashley Kaminiski 34:21

7 weeks34:21

34:21

🚀 Buying furniture isn’t just about picking pretty pieces—it’s an art, a science, and sometimes involves a tiger. (Yes, really.) Join Mark Kinsley as he chats with Ashley Kaminiski , a powerhouse buyer at American Furniture Warehouse (AFW) who’s shaping how people shop for their homes. With 15 years in the industry and a keen eye for trends, Ashley spills the secrets of furniture buying, customer behavior, and what it’s like working alongside the legendary Jake Jabs. They cover everything from surprising furniture trends ( why are Arizonians obsessed with fireplaces? ) to AFW’s unconventional approach to sales ( no up system, no problem! ). If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to move a billion dollars worth of sofas—or how tigers helped sell furniture—you don’t want to miss this episode! Key Takeaways 1️⃣ Furniture trends are tricky. Customers love classic styles but will dip a toe into trends—if the price is right. 2️⃣ Speed matters. AFW’s privately owned structure allows it to make decisions and move inventory faster than corporate competitors. 3️⃣ No pressure sales work. Instead of aggressive upselling, AFW lets customers pick their salesperson—leading to better customer relationships and trust.…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

1
From Corn Husking to Mattress Selling: Chad Fisher’s Playbook for Independent Retailers 25:45

8 weeks25:45

25:45

What happens when you mix 20 years of independent retail experience with a passion for mattresses? You get Chad Fischer, the new Director of Bedding at BrandSource, and he’s on a mission to shake things up in the sleep industry! Mark Kinsley welcomes Chad Fischer, a seasoned leader in the bedding industry, who has stepped into a brand-new role at BrandSource. Chad shares his journey, his vision for growing the bedding division, and why independent retailers should be paying attention. Summary: In this episode, Chad Fischer dives into his priorities at BrandSource, a powerhouse buying group focused on independent retailers. He explains why BrandSource created a dedicated bedding division and how he plans to elevate it. From vendor partnerships to marketing strategy and merchandising, Chad outlines the roadmap for independent retailers looking to stay competitive in an evolving market. Plus, he and Mark break down Nebraska trivia (spoiler: Chimney Rock is involved), husking corn techniques, and the importance of investing in people for long-term success. Key Takeaways: 1) Vendor Partnerships Matter – Fisher emphasizes that successful buying groups focus on strategic partnerships, not just signing up vendors. 2) Marketing Can Be a Game Changer – BrandSource’s in-house agency helps retailers navigate digital marketing without overpaying. 3) Stay the Course – With industry shakeups happening, Chad advises retailers to stay steady, build strong partnerships, and focus on long-term growth.…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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Luxury vs. Value: The Secret to Selling More with Brent Batterman 49:38

9 weeks49:38

49:38

Selling a mattress isn’t just a transaction—it’s an art. And if you’re missing out on the luxury AND value zones, you’re leaving money on the table. This episode of The FAM Podcast features Brent Batterman , a powerhouse in the mattress industry, breaking down barbell selling and how to dominate both ends of the market like a pro. 📌 What’s the best way to sell mattresses in 2025? Brent Batterman joins the show to talk about barbell selling , a strategy that helps retailers crush it in both the luxury and value price points while letting the middle take care of itself. Brett shares why financing is your best friend, why questions (not pitches) close sales , and how to make customers feel heard from the moment they walk in. Oh, and there’s a wild Southwestern shirt showdown you don’t want to miss! Key Takeaways Master the Barbell Strategy – Focus on selling premium products and value-priced beds while letting the middle handle itself. Financing = More Luxury Sales – Customers buy BIG when monthly payments make it feel affordable. Want More Sales? Ask Better Questions – The secret to closing isn’t talking—it’s listening.…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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Vegas Market Unfiltered: Showrooms, Shenanigans & Sleep Innovations with Mark and Tara Kinsley 39:15

10 weeks39:15

39:15

🎰 Sensory overload, late-night networking, and the wildest karaoke showdown—welcome to the ultimate Las Vegas Market recap! In this episode of The FAM Podcast, host Mark Kinsley is joined by his wife and FAM’s Director of Events, Tara Kinsley, to break down all the behind-the-scenes action from Vegas Market. From showroom highlights and innovative products to the now-legendary FAM House Party, this episode is packed with energy, insights, and a few unexpected surprises (including a doctor who only accepts cash 🧐). Expect stories about: ✔️ The most game-changing bedding products spotted at market ✔️ Why this was the busiest, most exciting market post-COVID ✔️ The mattress industry’s take on AI, marketing, and mentorship ✔️ How FAM Cam took over the Vegas showrooms (and why retailers love it) ✔️ A bizarre hotel-room medical visit that saved Tara from market misery 💡 Key Takeaways 1️⃣ The Mattress Industry is Thriving – Vegas Market was busier than ever, and the energy was undeniable. 2️⃣ AI is Changing the Game – More brands are integrating AI-powered marketing & product innovation. 3️⃣ The FAM House Party is a Can’t-Miss Event – From podium pong to confetti cannons, the industry’s best networking happens with a mic in one hand and a drink in the other.…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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After-Hours Web Traffic: Brian Morgan's Bold Moves to Revolutionize Retail 30:09

11 weeks30:09

30:09

Are your store hours holding you back? Mark Kinsley sits down with Brian Morgan, CEO of Austin Couch Potatoes, to tackle how customer behavior is reshaping retail strategies. From discovering the power of after-hours web traffic to using AI tools like Podium to elevate customer engagement, Brian shares his journey of innovation. Learn how this bootstrap entrepreneur turned a Craigslist hustle into a nationwide success while making a positive impact on employees and customers alike. Plus, hear why a factory in a store might just be the future of retail. KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Adapt to Changing Customer Habits: Analyzing after-hours web traffic can reveal untapped sales opportunities. 2. AI as a Game-Changer: Tools like Podium’s AI assistant can revolutionize customer interaction and drive conversions. 3. Innovate or Fade: Staying relevant requires bold pivots, like merging manufacturing with retail spaces. This episode provided by: Podium…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

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Reimagining Supply Chains and Sleep with Purecare's CEO Sean Bergman 49:55

12 weeks49:55

49:55

Buckle up for a fascinating ride as host Mark Kinsley sits down with Sean Bergman, CEO of PureCare, to explore how the company brings stability to retailers amidst economic uncertainty. From global sourcing strategies to family business culture and even dog training tips, this episode has something for everyone. Sean reveals the secrets behind PureCare's product innovations, their commitment to global supply chain stability, and how they support retailers in competing with big-name brands. Bonus: You'll leave with actionable ideas on financing, soft goods, and building better business relationships. Key Takeaways: 1) Global sourcing stability: Why diversifying your supply chain is critical for navigating uncertain markets. 2) Retail innovation: How PureCare's direct-ship program reduces inventory burdens for retailers. 3) Leadership lessons: Insights on family business dynamics, culture building, and how passion fuels success.…

The FAM Podcast with Mark Kinsley

1
From Soldiers to Snoozers: How Geli Sleep Is Changing Sleep Forever with Tara Youngblood 46:45

13 weeks46:45

46:45

What’s cooler than cool? Sleep science revolutionized by Tara Youngblood, the visionary behind Geli Sleep and her groundbreaking innovations! Join Kinsley as he chats with Tara Youngblood, co-founder of Geli Sleep, TED speaker, and holder of over 40 sleep-related patents. Tara is on a mission to transform the way we rest with innovative solutions that deliver better sleep effortlessly. Summary: In this episode, Tara dives into the science of sleep, from temperature regulation to boosting performance in soldiers and athletes. Discover how her Geli Sleep products use cutting-edge technology to deliver a thousand times more gel than standard mattresses, ensuring thermal neutrality for optimal rest. From military sleep studies to menopausal solutions, Tara shares her expertise and passion for creating a world where everyone can wake up refreshed and pain-free. Plus, she dishes on the art of the ice bath and why mattresses need to truly cool—not just pretend! Key Takeaways: Temperature and Sleep: Cooling the body is the secret to better deep sleep and improved performance. Geli Sleep’s Magic: With a thousand times more gel, Geli Sleep mattresses and pillows outshine competitors by maintaining consistent cooling all night. Innovation Meets Purpose: Sleep science isn’t just techy—it’s transforming lives, from reducing injuries in athletes to alleviating menopausal sleep struggles.…

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