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.

🚀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.

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!

🚀 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.

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.

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 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.

📌What’s the best way to sell mattresses in 2025? Brent Batterman joins the show to talk aboutbarbell selling, a strategy that helps retailers crush it in both theluxury andvalue price points while letting the middle take care of itself. Brett shares why financing is your best friend, whyquestions (not pitches) close sales, and how to make customers feel heard from the moment they walk in. Oh, and there’s awild Southwestern shirt showdown you don’t want to miss!

Key Takeaways

1. Master the Barbell Strategy – Focus on selling premium products and value-priced beds while letting the middle handle itself.
2. Financing = More Luxury Sales – Customers buy BIG when monthly payments make it feel affordable.
3. Want More Sales? Ask Better Questions – The secret to closing isn’t talking—it’s listening.

🎰 Sensory overload, late-night networking, and the wildest karaoke showdown—welcome to the ultimate Las Vegas Market recap!

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

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.

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: