Dos Marcos

Ever 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

Innovation 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

From 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

Ever 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

Ever 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

Brace 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

Strap 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

Why 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

Are you struggling with sleep and looking for practical, science-backed tips to get better rest? You’re in luck! In our latest podcast episode, we welcomed Dr. Elie Gottlieb, a leading neuroscientist and the Head of Applied Sleep Science at SleepScore Labs, to shed light on how you can truly optimize your sleep without the fluff. Dr. Gottlieb breaks down the complexity of sleep into actionable advice, touching on everything from the importance of consistent sleep schedules to the science of light exposure. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Power of Light: Start your day with 10-15 minutes of sunlight exposure to set your internal clock. While blue light before bedtime gets a bad rap, it’s crucial during the day to boost alertness and mood. Caffeine Curfew: If you’re a coffee lover, be sure to have your last cup at least 6 hours before bedtime. This simple rule can help you avoid disrupting your sleep cycle. Consistency is Key: While everyone’s sleep needs are different, maintaining a consistent sleep and wake time, eve

Many in our industry know the vital role that sleep plays in our overall well-being, but do our consumers? James Perez, current CEO of over a dozen Mattress Firm Franchise stores in South Texas, joins Mark Kinsley on today’s episode [rewind] to discuss his remarkable journey that reshaped his perspective on achieving a restful night's sleep. We visit with Perez who sets out to enlighten individuals about the other crucial factors that contribute to a transformative sleep experience (hint: mattresses only account for 20% of sleep wellness). From pillows to textiles and wellness practices, he understands that the key to unlocking optimal sleep lies in addressing each of these elements comprehensively. Citing back to the inaugural Dream Camp 2022 held in Bentonville, Arkansas, Perez emphasized the pressing need for the mattress industry to establish trust and credibility in their mission to help people improve their sleep. Drawing from his own personal journey, he also shared the profound impact that prio

Ever wondered how to turn sleep dreams into business gold? In this episode of the FAMM podcast, host Mark Kinsley welcomes Kelly Charles, a true icon in the mattress industry. Broadcasting straight from the cozy comfort of an Englander Echelon mattress at the Big Mattress Outlet, Kelly shares insights that could revolutionize your business strategy. Episode Highlights: Inside the Mattress World: Kelly breaks down the Big Mattress Outlet’s unique business model, revealing the art of acquiring top-quality closeout mattresses. From canceled internet orders to floor samples, Kelly’s strategy of building exclusive relationships with manufacturers like SSB and TSI ensures premium products at unbeatable prices. The Secret to Stellar Margins: Discover how Kelly’s years of cultivating supplier relationships translate into exceptional margins. This is not just a business; it’s a finely-tuned operation where customer satisfaction and profit margins go hand-in-hand. If you’ve ever doubted the profitability of the mat

Ever wondered how a mattress store can revolutionize sleep? In this exciting episode of the FAM Podcast, host Mark Kinsley takes us behind the scenes of Snooze Mattress Company's new flagship sleep shop with CEO Matt Smith. Matt, a dynamic and innovative leader in the sleep industry, shares his vision of transforming 20 million lives through better sleep. From competitive games to deep discussions about sleep health, Matt and Mark cover it all. Highlights of the episode include: Introduction to Matt Smith: Learn about Matt's journey and how he came to lead Snooze Mattress Company, from running a Snap Fitness to creating a revolutionary sleep shop. Innovative Sleep Shop Concept: Discover what sets Snooze apart from traditional mattress stores, including unique features like CPAP masks, ice baths, and a bathroom experience that feels like a private airport lounge. Customer Experience: Matt explains the "sleep journey" that customers undergo when they visit Snooze, emphasizing personalize

Ready to catch some Z's? Join Mark as he dives deep into the latest data from the International Sleep Products Association and the Better Sleep Council. In this episode, Mark breaks down 12 key findings from the Mattress Buying Trends Report, providing valuable insights for anyone in the mattress industry. Industry Shifts: Discover how the US mattress market performed in 2023 compared to 2022, with a focus on shipment data from manufacturers. Buying Trends: Learn about the types of mattresses gaining popularity and why hybrids and springs are the new favorites. Online vs. In-Store: Explore consumer preferences for purchasing mattresses online versus in-store, and why trying before buying still matters. Price Perception: Understand why people think good mattresses are more affordable now than before. Customer Satisfaction: Find out why more people are happy with their current mattresses and what this means for the industry. Advertising Impact: One-third of consumers start shopping for mattresse

Ever wondered what would happen if the mattress industry had a Red Bull? Get ready for an energetic discussion on the industry's urgent need for change and innovation. In this episode, Mark Kinsley tackles the importance of rejecting the status quo and embracing a bold vision for the future. The conversation is derived from a recent LinkedIn piece Kinsley wrote that encourages industry players to actively create a better future by challenging traditional practices and focusing on sleep and wellness. TAKEAWAYS Sleep Heroes Assemble!The mattress industry has the superpower to enhance people's health, mood, productivity, and overall quality of life. Time to don your cape and revolutionize sleep! Status Quo? No, Thank You!To truly make a difference, individuals in the mattress biz need to kick the status quo to the curb and actively shape the future. Embrace innovation and be the change! Summit of Dreams:The FAM Sleep Summit isn't just an event; it's a playground for community, collaboratio

GREAT SCOTT!! Sleep Summit is back and it is better than ever! The annual FAM extravaganza -- where the mattress and sleep industry heavyweights gather to chat, brainstorm, and pave the way for a dreamy future. The theme this year? 'Back to the Future of Sleep' – a delightful nod to revisiting timeless truths and reimagining the future of sleep. Expect workshops, networking galore, and insights from the best in the biz. If you're in the sleep game, you won't want to miss it. Takeaways: The Grand Gathering: Sleep Summit 2024 isn’t just an event; it’s the event where the movers and shakers of the mattress and sleep industry come together to craft the future of sleep. Timeless Truths and Future Fantasies: This year’s theme, 'Back to the Future of Sleep,' is all about revisiting the best of what we know and blending it with futuristic ideas. Who knew sleep could be so nostalgic and innovative? Workshops That Wow: Get ready for workshops that will leave you buzzing with new ideas and strate

Buckle up for an eye-opening chat with Eugene Alletto, the maverick CEO of Bedgear, who's revolutionizing the bedding industry with his bold and innovative approach. Dubbed the "bad boy of bedding," Eugene shares how his immigrant upbringing instilled the principle of being additive rather than disruptive. In this lively episode, Eugene and host Mark Kinsley delve into the importance of innovation, the power of words in branding, and the value of inclusive, customer-centric business practices. Join us for a rollercoaster ride through Eugene's fascinating career, filled with anecdotes that underscore his relentless drive and unique approach to transforming the bedding market. Whether it's connecting the dots in a disjointed industry or emphasizing the need for education over mere sales tactics, Eugene's insights are a treasure trove for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business leaders alike. Key Takeaways: Eugene Alletto's Journey: From a top-performing salesperson to the t

Ever 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, 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-

Discover how better sleep can transform your life as Mark Kinsley and Dr. Kimberly Lemke unveil the secrets of the FAM Plus Platinum membership! Join Mark Kinsley and Dr. Kimberly Lemke as they delve into the transformative potential of the FAM Plus Platinum membership. This episode is a deep dive into sleep wellness and its profound impact on health and productivity. Mark and Dr. Lemke underscore the necessity of fostering meaningful conversations about sleep and establishing a universal language to better engage customers. Their partnership is set to revolutionize the mattress industry by equipping it with the knowledge, training, and resources needed to enhance sleep health. KEY TAKEAWAYS Creating Sleep-Selling Superstars: The FAM Plus Platinum membership is designed to empower members with the knowledge and training required to engage customers in meaningful conversations about sleep. The Impact of Good Sleep: Quality sleep significantly boosts health, productivity, and goal achievement, with well-rested

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