Dos Marcos

AI revolution in the mattress industry...is it a ticket to dreamland or a wake-up call to a nightmare? In an enlightening tête-à-tête, Brandon Hufstetler, a luminary in the mattress retail industry, peels back the curtain on the transformative power of AI and Chat GPT. With a touch of humor and a wealth of expertise, Brandon and Mark Kinsley, embark on a journey through the innovative landscape of Sleepology. They dive deep into the heart of generative AI and automation, revealing how these technologies are not just changing the game—they're redesigning the entire playing field. As they navigate the discussion, three pivotal themes emerge: The Democratization of Technology: Brandon eloquently illustrates how generative AI is leveling the playing field, empowering businesses of all sizes to wield the power of AI tools with unprecedented ease and efficiency. The Digital Human Touch: In a world craving personal connection, Brandon champions the use of digital humans to engage customers, merging the warmt

From aligning mattresses to aligning values, David Binke lays it all on the bed for us, proving that a good foundation—in both sleep and life—can truly make a world of difference. In this engaging episode of The FAM Podcast, host Mark Kinsley is joined by David Binke, the charismatic CEO of King Koil. Binke, a legend with a 40-year tenure in the mattress industry, delves into his vast experiences and the strategic maneuvers that have defined his leadership at King Koil. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from David's early days in the industry to significant pivots in business strategy that have redefined how King Koil operates. The discussion also touches on personal anecdotes, particularly the profound influence of David's father, a Holocaust survivor, which shaped his approach to business and life. Additionally, David's dedication to philanthropy and his deep-rooted commitment to community involvement are highlighted, demonstrating how his professional journey is intertwined with

Step into a world where California sunshine meets the minds of mattress executives, seasoned industry veterans, and eager newcomers. Welcome to Dream Camp Palm Springs, where every moment is an immersive journey toward personal and professional growth. This past week was nothing short of extraordinary. From the sprawling landscapes of Guatemala to the rugged beauty of Montana, participants converged from all corners of the globe, each bringing their unique perspectives and aspirations. California’s warmth embraced us, while the vibrant energy of North Carolina and the tranquil charm of everywhere in between infused the atmosphere with diversity and dynamism. Guiding us on this transformative odyssey was none other than Kristoffer Carter, affectionately known as “KC.” As the author of the acclaimed book “Permission to Glow” and a revered leadership coach at Epic Leadership, KC’s presence electrified the camp. With wisdom drawn from his extensive experience, he illuminated the path to personal and professional

In a world where smiles open doors and stories sell mattresses, Mark sits down with Sean Hathaway, the enterprising owner of Mattress World Northwest, in an enlightening episode that unwraps the secrets to business brilliance. Sean, whose charisma and clever strategies have earned him a coveted Giants of Betting award, shares how a grin and a good tale are more than just pleasantries—they're pivotal to thriving in commerce.The conversation dives deep into the art of effective communication and the power of active listening—skills Sean credits for his profound understanding of customer needs. With a keen focus on the nuts and bolts of business, he stresses the importance of a meticulous plan, perfectly executed to ensure explosive growth. But it's not all spreadsheets and smiles. Sean reveals the tougher side of leadership, from the necessity of tough love within the team to the daunting decisions that steer the company culture. Embracing change, according to Sean, isn't just part of the job—it&

Sleep better with insights from a fourth-generation mattress maker. Shaun Pennington, CEO of ⁠Diamond Mattress⁠, shares his wisdom on the FAM podcast. In this episode, Pennington discusses his leadership of the 80-year-old family business known for quality, integrity, and innovation. As a fourth-generation leader, he provides a unique perspective. Key Takeaways from this episode: Invest in coaching skills. Pennington prioritizes developing his coaching abilities. He believes supporting team members this way leads to empowerment and rewards. Consider how you can adopt a coaching mindset in your leadership role. Communicate directly. Pennington and his sister learned to avoid "triangulation" in communication. This means speaking directly rather than relaying messages through others. Direct communication prevents misunderstandings. Try closing triangles in your own conversations. Stay adaptable. The mattress business evolves rapidly. Diamond succeeds by innovating products while providing stapl

Turn your least favorite part of business into a bedtime story with ShareTown, where mattress returns are transformed into innovative triumphs! Transforming what is typically a logistical nightmare, mattress returns, into an innovative and sustainable solution, this week we sit down with Co-Founder Jorja Leavitt, of ShareTown. This company is not just managing returns; it's redefining the process by focusing on big, bulky items like bed-in-a-box mattresses, making the scenario a win-win for both businesses and consumers. Originally starting as a community sharing platform, ShareTown transitioned into a reverse logistics leader after recognizing a crucial gap in the market. A casual conversation about the difficulties of mattress returns sparked an idea that would eventually lead to the reimagining of returned mattress logistics. ShareTown’s journey from a tech company to a logistics pioneer highlights their ability to pivot and innovate within the industry. The discussion kicks off by exploring the origin

It's the age old quest for the perfect night's sleep! Akin to the search for the Holy Grail, this episode serves up a veritable mattress odyssey with the affable Samuel Utt of Sleep USA Mattress in Cleveland, Tennessee. This isn't your typical yawner of a bed-buying guide; it's an adventure into the soft, sometimes perplexing world of sleep solutions, guided by a man who knows his mattresses better than most know their pillowcases. Samuel Utt, a Dream Camp alumni and the spirited manager of Sleep USA Mattress, welcomed the podcast host with open arms and a promise of demystifying the often-overwhelming mattress shopping experience. The family-owned enterprise, sprouting its roots in 2006, has blossomed under the leadership of Samuel and his father, turning the daunting into the doable for slumber seekers across northern Georgia, eastern Tennessee, and North Carolina. Here are three key takeaways from this pillow talk that might just change how you approach mattress shopping: The Five-Step Co

It's an inauguration that no one wants to sleep through as Mark Kinsley passes the CEO baton to Chealen Martin.  In this episode, we're not just fluffing pillows; we're laying down insights with Chealen Martin, the newly minted president and CEO of Englander, who's ready to give us a peek under the covers of the mattress industry. From navigating the coils of corporate leadership to the plush comfort of customer-centric innovation, Chealen unfolds his journey through the mattress world and dreams up the future of Englander. With a blueprint for success that's as carefully crafted as their mattresses, Martin highlights the critical role of customer feedback in shaping a brand that people can't wait to sleep on. But it's not all springs and foam; Martin also dives into the competitive dynamics of the mattress market, revealing how Englander stands out in a crowded room thanks to robust partnerships with Sutherland, Corsicana, and BIA. These collaborations are the bedrock of Englander

When your star seller becomes a team toxin: what's the next move? Time to call the good doctor! Bob Phibbs, often hailed as the retail guru, rejoins The FAM in this episode to take a deep dive into the high-stakes world of managing rockstar salespeople without letting the show turn into a one-man band catastrophe. Imagine a business as a harmonious orchestra, but with a soloist who plays by their own rules, disrupting the melody. Bob explores the discordant note a high-flyer with a mismatched attitude can strike in a team, turning the workplace symphony into a cacophony. He advocates for a bold move—re-auditioning the entire ensemble to ensure every member can play the future tunes of success. The conversation doesn’t shy away from the tough decisions either, discussing how to tune up or tune out the prima donnas causing disharmony. By the finale, Bob’s advice crescendos into a powerful message: sometimes, you need to cut ties with the toxic stars to let the whole choir shine. This episode is less abo

AI revolution in the mattress industry...is it a ticket to dreamland or a wake-up call to a nightmare? In an enlightening tête-à-tête, Brandon Hufstetler, a luminary in the mattress retail industry, peels back the curtain on the transformative power of AI and Chat GPT. With a touch of humor and a wealth of expertise, Brandon and Mark Kinsley, embark on a journey through the innovative landscape of Sleepology. They dive deep into the heart of generative AI and automation, revealing how these technologies are not just changing the game—they're redesigning the entire playing field. As they navigate the discussion, three pivotal themes emerge: The Democratization of Technology: Brandon eloquently illustrates how generative AI is leveling the playing field, empowering businesses of all sizes to wield the power of AI tools with unprecedented ease and efficiency. The Digital Human Touch: In a world craving personal connection, Brandon champions the use of digital humans to engage customers, merging the warmth

From the showroom floor to the corner office, Kelly Christal's journey from mattress salesperson to franchise mogul is a masterclass in turning dreams into reality, one sleep solution at a time. Kelly Christal's journey from a mattress salesperson to the owner of a Mattress Firm South Dakota franchise is a testament to entrepreneurship, innovation, and strategic partnerships. Starting in the competitive mattress industry, she transformed her role from frontline sales to leading a six-store operation, embodying the essence of entrepreneurial spirit through her understanding of customer needs and market gaps. Key takeaways from Kelly's story include her foundation on solid business practices, strategic partnerships with entities like the RBCG group and Harry Roberts, and technological innovations such as a successful bulk messaging campaign. These strategies not only propelled her business forward but also ensured customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of

In a world where the value of a good night's sleep is often underestimated, one woman's quest to save a few dollars on groceries catapulted her into the realm of entrepreneurial success. Enter Kelly Charles, the erstwhile coupon queen of TLC's Extreme Couponing, who turned her penny-pinching prowess into a thriving empire as the CEO of Big Mattress Outlet. In this witty and engaging episode, Kelly peels back the layers of her unconventional journey from clipping coupons to clinching deals in the competitive mattress industry. With a mix of humor, humility, and hard-earned wisdom, she shares how her side hustle not only funded the inception of her mattress retail business but also laid the foundation for her transition from savvy shopper to business mogul. Kelly candidly discusses the hurdles she vaulted and the milestones that marked her path to success, including the pivotal inflection points in her business, the critical role of accountability and empathy in shaping a positive company culture,

Ever had a shopping experience that felt more like a plot from a horror movie? Today’s episode takes "Nightmare on Elm Street" to a whole new level—except this time, it's all about the quest for the perfect mattress. Buckle up as Bob Phibbs, aka The Retail Doctor, shares his spine-tingling tale from the retail front lines. In an episode that's anything but a snooze fest, Bob Phibbs, our fearless guide through the retail jungle, recounts his harrowing journey through the world of mattress shopping—a tale filled with twists, turns, and lessons galore. Bob's personal horror story isn't just a tale of woe; it's a masterclass in what not to do in the world of mattress and furniture retail. With wit sharper than a memory foam cutter, Bob delves into the heart of creating a shopping experience that's as comfortable as the products being sold. He emphasizes the magic of storefront appeal, the art of providing a sanctuary for customers, and the importance of standing out in a crowded

In a strategic pivot that reads like a well-crafted narrative, Mark Kinsley, after a rewarding five years at the helm of Englander, is embarking on a new chapter. Rather than a quiet exit, he’s transitioning with purpose, launching full throttle into The FAM community. This move coincides with Englander gearing up for a significant expansion phase, signaling a period of dynamic growth for the company. Simultaneously, the FAM community is witnessing a remarkable surge in engagement and impact, reflecting a thriving ecosystem in the industry.As Mark shifts into a strategic advisory role, his focus will turn to scouting for a sales-oriented leader to guide Englander through its next growth chapter. Key Takeaways: Englander is on the threshold of a major growth phase, poised for significant expansion. The FAM community’s growth and impact underscore the strength and reach of this industry. The resonance of Englander’s legacy and brand story with consumers is a powerful testament to its market positioning.

"Shaking Up Sleep: A Deep Dive into the Vegas Market with Brandon Bain" In this episode of the podcast, the conversation turns to the vibrant yet challenging atmosphere of the Vegas Market, featuring the insights of Brandon Bain, Founder and CEO of Bedhead Mareting. As an innovator and community builder in the realm of sleep, Bain offers a comprehensive overview of the event's dynamics, from the evident stagnation in product innovation to the paramount importance of trust and commitment in the industry. Episode Highlights: The discussion opens up about the Vegas Market's notable lack of innovation in product introductions, with a discernible caution among buyers to stick to tried-and-tested products. Bain emphasizes the significance of commitment to products and the cultivation of trust as indispensable for achieving success within the marketplace. The episode also brings to light the essential aspect of community and relationship-building, illustrated by the lively Famhouse party, blen

Major mattress industry shakeups are afoot!! This week on the show, retail wizard Brandon Hufstetler breaks down the implications of the recent Mattress Firm and TSI merger and shares strategies for retailers to thrive amidst the turmoil. The merger consolidates two mattress retail powerhouses, signaling a new era. What does this deal mean for other industry players? Brandon suggests a "wait and see" approach before making big changes. Monitor the merger's impact first. Be ready to reevaluate your unique value proposition and strengthen customer experience. Mark and Brandon also explored the growing role of AI and automation in retail. Though new technologies present challenges, applied strategically they provide opportunities to improve operations and serve customers better. Retailers who leverage data and tech wisely will maintain an edge. Takeways The merger between Mattress Firm and TSI has significant implications for the mattress industry and retailers. Retailers should wait and see

Saddle up, retailers - the Retail Doctor is making a house call to diagnose your learning and training gaps! In this episode, Bob Phibbs sneaks in like Nancy Drew to investigate the mysteries plaguing your sales. Through his retail revelations, you'll learn the prescription for training and coaching your employees. Take two tidbits and call Bob in the morning if you still have poor customer service. Bob Phibbs, the self-proclaimed Retail Doctor, lets us in on industry secrets to concoct a cure for inadequate training. He distinguishes the diseases of learning and training, emphasizing the need for hands-on engagement versus mere information absorption. Coaching and rewards are highlighted as vaccines to reinforce training and boost performance. Bob advises constructing a positive learning culture, holding teams accountable, and tapping into personal motivation. The key to complete recovery is continuous improvement, debriefing, and crafting intentional habits. Consider Bob your retail pharmacist - foll

Buckle up and get ready for a wild ride with leadership guru Brett Thornton, whose book Charged Leadership will jolt your business awake. This high-voltage author doesn't just discuss leadership - he zaps it with an electric current that will leave you buzzing. He crackles with insights on connecting with modern staff and customers alike. Thornton doesn't just write about adapting to new generations - he energizes and empowers leaders to make those vital connections. Like a lightning bolt, Thornton strikes at the heart of great leadership, emphasizing transparency and authenticity. He's no snooze when it comes to creating fun and engaged teams. Brett gives you the real shocker on firing employees - a stunning story that will transform how you lead. Fasten your seatbelts and get charged up! Thornton delivers a high-wattage message that will illuminate your path to leadership success. You'll be powered up and ready to electrify your team. Don't miss this dynamite opportunity to spark your

Wow! What a year it has been! In this episode, Mark Kinsley takes time to reflect on the past year and express gratitude for the incredible guests and events that have shaped the mattress industry community. He highlights the success of Dream Camp and Sleep Summit, two of the year’s premier events, and announces exciting things to come. Mark also celebrates Englander’s impressive 130 year anniversary milestone. Discussing the show’s impact, Mark shares how the Mattress Mentorship Mastermind has empowered so many through mentoring and inspiration. He recounts heartwarming stories from Dreams for All, an event focused on giving back. As he looks ahead to 2024, Mark encourages listeners to be intentional, prioritize their values, and focus on building habits and systems for long-term success. He thanks the community for their involvement this past year and invites everyone to continue connecting through upcoming events and resources. Mark is optimistic about the future and eager to continue growing the community

....And it's a wrap!! 2023 is coming to a close and so is the first year of the Sleep Summit Show! We're recapping hottakes from all of our favorite episodes and we're reconnecting with Greg Law, Kyle Deets, Seth Goldberg, Paul Longman, James Perez and many, many more! 2023 has been a whirlwind year for The FAM with the second annual Dream Camp in Key West Florida and the launch of the industry's newest and hottest event - Sleep Summit in October! We're thrilled with where we are as a FAM and we can't wait for 2024! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sleepsummitshow/message