Synopsis
The galaxy's greatest mattress podcast.
Episodes
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Luxury vs. Value: The Secret to Selling More with Brent Batterman
10/02/2025 Duration: 49minSelling 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 ofThe FAM Podcast featuresBrent Batterman, a powerhouse in the mattress industry, breaking downbarbell selling and how to dominateboth ends of the market like a pro.
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Vegas Market Unfiltered: Showrooms, Shenanigans & Sleep Innovations with Mark and Tara Kinsley
03/02/2025 Duration: 39min -
After-Hours Web Traffic: Brian Morgan's Bold Moves to Revolutionize Retail
27/01/2025 Duration: 30minAre 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.
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Reimagining Supply Chains and Sleep with Purecare's CEO Sean Bergman
20/01/2025 Duration: 49minBuckle 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.
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From Soldiers to Snoozers: How Jelly Sleep Is Changing Sleep Forever with Tara Youngblood
13/01/2025 Duration: 46minWhat’s cooler than cool? Sleep science revolutionized by Tara Youngblood, the visionary behind Jelly Sleep and her groundbreaking innovations! Join Kinsley as he chats with Tara Youngblood, co-founder of Jelly 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 Jelly 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 b
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From Fire to Global Fame: The A.H. Beard Story with Allyn Beard
06/01/2025 Duration: 46minCelebrating 125 years of crafting dreams—this episode dives into the incredible legacy of A.H. Beard with Allyn Beard, a fourth-generation leader redefining sleep and wellness. Join host Mark Kinsley as he welcomes Allyn Beard, the fourth-generation leader of A.H. Beard, an iconic Australian company that has shaped the sleep industry for over a century. Together, they explore the company's storied past, exciting innovations, and global impact. Summary:In this episode, Mark and Allyn discuss the evolution of A.H. Beard from a small family business to a global leader in the bedding industry. Allyn shares inspiring stories of resilience, including rebuilding after a devastating factory fire and expanding into international markets. They also talk about the family dynamics of running a multi-generational business, the importance of quality sleep products, and the company's ambitious plans for the future. Get a glimpse of how passion, purpose, and perseverance continue to drive A.H. Beard’s success. 3 Key Takeaway
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The Best of The FAM Podcast: Top Highlights from 2024
16/12/2024 Duration: 12minWhat if some of the best stories of 2024 could inspire your next big move? In this final episode of The FAM Podcast for 2024, Mark Kinsley takes listeners on a journey through some of the year’s most unforgettable moments. From conversations with industry trailblazers to insights that reshaped how we think about sleep and sales, this episode is a FAMified celebration of the stories and lessons that made 2024 a standout year. Relive the highlights from our top episodes of 2024: Kelly Charles and the Coupon Effect: How strategic savings turned into a game-changing customer experience.Samuel’s Sleep Odyssey: Exploring the future of sleep science and what it means for the industry. Eugene Alletto’s Bold Vision: Bedgear’s CEO shares his journey as the “bad boy of bedding” and why taking risks matters.The 440-Year Legacy: Dive into the rich history and innovation of an iconic Italian manufacturer. Brent Batterman’s Sales Masterclass: Discover how to close a deal in 28 seconds with charm and precision. Behind-
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From $350M to Over $1B: Imon Shrock’s Giga Cloud Revolution
02/12/2024 Duration: 01h01minWhat does it take to grow from $350 million to over $1 billion (approximately) in just two and a half years? In this episode, Mark Kinsley sits down with Imon Shrock, President of Giga Cloud Technology, to uncover the secrets behind this jaw-dropping transformation. Amon shares how supplier-fulfilled retail is reshaping the furniture and mattress industry, the importance of emotional reconsolidation during sleep, and even his personal journey with meditation and mindfulness. Packed with insights on logistics, game theory, and the future of retail, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to innovate in the retail space. Key Takeaways: 1.) Supplier-Fulfilled Retail: Amon breaks down how this innovative model reduces inventory risk, speeds up delivery, and empowers retailers to focus on what matters most—converting sales. 2) Meditation and Leadership: Amon shares his experiences with meditation, offering valuable lessons on awareness, decision-making, and the “power of the pause.” 3) The Future of
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Sleep, Science, and Solutions: Colin Lawlor on AI’s Role in Better Sleep
25/11/2024 Duration: 37minWhat if improving your sleep wasn’t just a dream but a data-driven reality powered by AI? In this episode of The FAM Podcast, host Mark Kinsley welcomes Colin Lawlor, CEO of SleepScore Labs, to discuss the revolutionary potential of Sleep.ai, a groundbreaking B2B platform designed to transform the way businesses and consumers approach sleep. Direct from the Sleep Summit 2024 main stage, Mark and Colin dive deep into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the sleep industry. Colin explains how Sleep.ai leverages over 500 million hours of sleep data to create actionable insights for consumers and businesses alike. From combating common sleep disorders to driving smarter mattress innovations, the duo explores how AI can address health concerns like dementia, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes by improving sleep quality. The discussion also tackles the growing consumer demand for evidence-backed wellness solutions and how this new technology can elevate trust and transparency in retail. Key Takeaways: 1.
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From Idea to App: Live AI Development with Blake Austin
18/11/2024 Duration: 54minCan AI build an app in real-time? Spoiler alert: Yes, it can—and we’re doing it live! In this episode of the FAM Podcast, host Mark Kinsley sits down with Blake Austin, the innovative founder and CEO of Mattress AI, a SaaS platform revolutionizing the mattress industry with AI-driven digital tools. Mark and Blake dive into the exciting world of generative AI and its transformative impact on the mattress industry—and beyond. Blake shares the inspiration behind Mattress AI, a tool that helps retailers match customers to the perfect mattress using advanced AI algorithms. Together, they explore cutting-edge AI tools, including Notebook LM and Bolt.new, building a functional app live on the podcast. From making AI approachable to discussing how it can empower businesses, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and practical takeaways. Key Takeaways: Generative AI tools like Bolt.new allow non-technical users to create functional apps, cutting costs and saving time. The future belongs to those who embrac
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Mike Magnuson on AI, Google, and the Future of Mattress Shopping
11/11/2024 Duration: 39minEver wondered who’s truly driving the online mattress market? This week, host Mark Kinsley welcomes back industry insider Mike Magnuson, founder and CEO of GoodBed.com, for an unfiltered look at the evolving landscape of mattress shopping. Together, they unpack why New York Times and Forbes dominate affiliate sales, how AI and algorithms shape consumer trust, and what brands must do to stay ahead in a chaotic digital age. From humorous anecdotes to actionable insights, this episode is a wake-up call for retailers navigating the intersection of tech and trust in 2024. Key Takeaways: Affiliate Powerhouses: Discover why unexpected players like Forbes and The New York Times dominate mattress affiliate sales. AI’s Double-Edged Sword: How poorly trained algorithms are churning out low-value recommendations and eroding consumer trust. Winning in a Shifting Landscape: The importance of reliable data (like GoodBed’s) to beat the pay-to-play game and ensure long-term success.
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442 Years of Innovation: From Italian Alps to Eco-Friendly Mattresses – Andrea Piana on Revolutionizing Sustainability in Textiles and Sleep
04/11/2024 Duration: 34minEver wondered what happens when a 442-year-old Italian family business meets modern American innovation? Join us for an inspiring journey from textile roots to sustainable sleep tech! In this episode, Mark Kinsley, welcomes Andrea Piana, CEO of Piana Technology, a company that began in 1582 as a textile manufacturer and has evolved into a powerhouse of sustainable innovation in bedding and beyond. Episode Summary: In this episode, Mark and Andrea dive into Piana Technology's legacy, from humble beginnings in Italy’s Alps to pioneering eco-friendly mattresses today. Andrea shares the family’s journey, the power of passion and purpose, and how Piana Technology aims to lead in sustainability without sacrificing functionality or affordability. Andrea’s reflections on the family’s commitment to community, the environment, and future generations make this conversation both insightful and heartfelt. Key Takeaways: 1. Sustainability at Scale: Piana Technology is reshaping the mattress industry with circular desi
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Science Meets Comfort: Revolutionizing the Mattress Industry with Evidence-Based Innovation
27/10/2024 Duration: 46minInnovation meets science as the mattress industry seeks to bridge the gap between comfort, performance, and consumer trust. In this insightful episode of The FAM podcast, host Mark Kinsley catches up with Mike Magnuson who delves into groundbreaking developments in the mattress industry, focusing on the collaboration between GoodBed and Dow, a global leader in material science. They explore how science and data can revolutionize how mattresses are tested, moving beyond subjective reviews toward measurable, evidence-based criteria. This collaboration aims to give manufacturers, retailers, and consumers more accurate and detailed insights into mattress performance, especially concerning temperature regulation, comfort, and durability. Additionally, the discussion touches on the growing influence of e-commerce platforms and how the industry needs to evolve to stay competitive. One of the central themes is how this partnership seeks to offer a level of precision that was previously unavailable, especially in meas
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Sleep Summit Secrets: DeLoreans, Friendships, and Event Triumphs
21/10/2024 Duration: 30minFrom wild scooter adventures to DeLorean time machines, Sleep Summit 2024 had it all! Join Mark and Tara Kinsley as they dish out all the behind-the-scenes fun in this unforgettable recap. In this jam-packed episode, Mark teams up with his partner-in-crime, Tara, professionally known as Director of Events at The FAM, to relive the magic of Sleep Summit 2024. From the jaw-dropping DeLorean reveal to the snack secrets that made the event a hit, they share hilarious stories and heartfelt moments that brought the community closer together. KEY TAKEAWAYS Round Two, Bigger and Better: Tara spills the details on how organizing the second Sleep Summit was a whole lot smoother—better venue, smoother logistics, and more surprises! Friendships in the Making: It’s not just about business! Mark and Tara highlight how those casual walks around Bentonville led to new friendships and deeper connections. Forget stiff conferences; this summit was all about community vibes! Back to the Future Fun: What’s a summit without a
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From Master's Thesis to Cultural Icon: The Rise of the Waterbed
30/09/2024 Duration: 40minEver wondered how a wobbly bag of water turned into a cultural symbol of comfort and rebellion? Meet the man who started it all! In this episode, Mark Kinsley dives into the deep end with Charlie Hall, the legendary inventor of the waterbed. Charlie spills the story of how a graduate project aimed at comfort morphed into a nationwide sensation that made waves in the bedroom (literally). From his original vision of a super-comfy chair to pioneering an entire sleep revolution, Charlie gives us the behind-the-scenes scoop on the highs, lows, and splashes along the way. Plus, he talks about his other ventures, like creating sun showers for happy campers, and even a few tales about frolicking (interpret that as you wish) on early waterbed prototypes. Whether you’re a sleep enthusiast, a curious inventor, or just someone who appreciates comfort, this episode will have you floating with interest. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Genesis of the Waterbed: What started as a chair evolved into a mattress, and it all came down t
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Airweave’s “Anti-Sex” Olympics Mattress Is Athlete’s Tech-Packed Secret to Super Sleep
16/09/2024 Duration: 33minEver wondered if Olympic athletes’ beds are designed to keep them from… extracurricular activities? Buckle up, because this episode dives into that juicy rumor and much more! In this riveting episode, we sit down with Brett Thornton, the Chief Operating Officer of Airweave and Sleep Summit 2024 speaker, to debunk the myth of the so-called “anti-sex beds” that Olympic athletes are sleeping on. Brett takes us through the fascinating journey of how Airweave transformed fishing line into high-tech mattresses that promise top-tier support and comfort. Discover how these innovative beds are tailored to each athlete’s needs using cutting-edge technology. Plus, get an inside look at Airweave’s mission to bring better sleep to the world, one recycled fishing line at a time. Spoiler alert: These beds can handle a lot more than just a good night’s sleep! Don’t miss out on this blend of science, humor, and a dash of Olympic gossip! KEY TAKEAWAYS: AirWeave offers a unique retail experience in Japan, with 250 store-to
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How to Make a Friend (and a Sale) in 38 Seconds with Brent Batterman
09/09/2024 Duration: 27minBrace yourself for sales gold and name slip-ups as Brent Batterman—aka 'The Butterman'— shares how making friends (not just sales) can revolutionize your retail game! Mark Kinsley welcomes his longtime friend Brent Batterman (not Bierman!) to drop some serious sales wisdom from his 20+ years in the mattress industry. From making unforgettable first impressions to the art of bundling, Brent is here to supercharge your sales game and remind you why the customer experience always comes first—because if you’re not making friends, you’re not making sales! Plus, Brent teases his upcoming presentation at Sleep Summit 2024, complete with secret strategies on mentoring your team. Prepare for some laughs, a few F-bombs, and a lot of business-boosting advice! Key Takeaways: Make a Friend Before a Sale: Brent emphasizes that smiling and making a genuine connection with customers is the most overlooked yet powerful sales technique. It’s simple, but most people don’t do it—start now! The Power of Bundling: Why
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From the Bahamas to Bedding: Sheldon King's Journey from Island Life to Mattress Success in North Dakota
26/08/2024 Duration: 42minStrap in, folks! We’re taking a wild ride from the sunny shores of Nassau to the frosty plains of North Dakota with none other than Sheldon King, the Territory Sales Manager at Mattress Firm North Dakota. This isn’t just a story of selling beds—it’s a masterclass in embracing challenges, finding purpose in every corner of life, and speaking life into every moment. Sheldon King, originally hailing from the Bahamas, shares his incredible journey—from falling in love (with his wife Bailey and North Dakota’s unique culture) to managing ten thriving mattress stores across the state. Sheldon brings his rich tapestry of experiences, from track and field at Dickinson State University to navigating the ups and downs of sales, all while wrangling cattle on horseback (well, sometimes from a Kubota). His path to success in the mattress industry wasn’t just about selling products; it involved a significant transition from a spec-heavy, product-focused approach to a more effective, story-driven, customer-centered strateg
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From Cabo with Love: Vegas Confessions and Summit Surprises
19/08/2024 Duration: 18minWhy is Mark Kinsley soaking up the sun in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico? Sure, it’s a dream vacation spot, but there's an even better reason—big updates about Sleep Summit 2024 that are hotter than the Baja sun. Plus, he's got a story to share that could teach any business a thing or two about customer service. Think of it as a tale of two businesses: one did everything right, and the other... well, let’s just say they missed the mark. In this episode, Mark Kinsley broadcasts from the stunning Grand Solmar Resort in Cabo San Lucas, where he’s enjoying the fruits of his victory bid at the Dreams for All Foundation event. But this episode isn’t just about vacation vibes—Mark reveals exciting news about Sleep Summit 2024. Attendees can look forward to a star-studded lineup featuring industry heavyweights like Colin Lawlor of Sleep Score Labs, Eugene Aletto from Bedgear, and many more. If you haven’t secured your tickets yet, now’s the time!Mark also shares a compelling story of a lost purse in Las Vegas, h