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

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

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:

1. Greenhushing is a PR Risk: Saying nothing about your eco-efforts can be just as damaging as saying too much.
2. Boomers Are the New Power Buyers: Forget what you heard—older generations are investing heavily in home comfort.
3. Sustainability = Quality: Durable goods aren’t just better—they’re now seen as more eco-conscious, especially in the mattress industry.

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

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.

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.