66 - Building a Mattress Empire: Lessons in Leadership and Partnership
Tradition, Craftsmanship, and Family Leadership: Insights from Ron and Kara Shovlin of Shovlin Mattress Factory
In this episode of the Growing Up B2B Podcast, host Ed Delia sits down with Ron and Kara Shovlin, owners of Shovlin Mattress Factory, to explore the realities of running a multi-generational family business rooted in craftsmanship and community. Their conversation offers a candid look at how a 50-year-old mattress company continues to evolve through thoughtful branding, clear role definition, disciplined growth, and a shared commitment to quality. For B2B leaders navigating legacy, partnership dynamics, or market disruption, this episode delivers valuable lessons in leadership and long-term success.
Balancing Legacy with Modernization in a Family-Run Manufacturing Business
Ron and Kara share how their journey began with deep family roots—Ron growing up inside the factory and Kara joining during a time of transition. Their evolution into business partners required clarity, complementary strengths, and a willingness to modernize without abandoning the craftsmanship that built the brand. Kara brought structure to operations and marketing, helping reposition the company under the "Shovlin Mattress Factory" name to emphasize heritage while sharpening their message around wellness and sleep quality. Together, they have continued to innovate—selectively adopting new ideas while protecting the standards that define their brand.
A major theme of the discussion is the importance of communication and boundaries in husband-and-wife leadership. Ron and Kara attribute their strong partnership to clearly defined roles—Ron leading production and customer guidance, Kara steering marketing, financial strategy, and operations. Regular check-ins, honest conversations, and a commitment to separating business from personal time help them maintain balance while running a growing company. Outside support, such as Ron’s involvement in the Entrepreneur Organization, also helps them gain perspective and avoid burnout.
The conversation also touches on disciplined growth. While the mattress industry has become increasingly saturated with big-box rivals and online bed-in-a-box brands, Shovlin Mattress Factory has stayed competitive through personal service, traditional craftsmanship, and strong community ties. Ron and Kara evaluate new opportunities methodically—from expanding into new locations to launching Beam Light Sauna—and ensure every decision aligns with their standards and core values. Their measured approach to innovation ensures long-term success without compromising their identity as a quality-first, family-run manufacturer.
About Ron and Kara Shovlin
Ron and Kara Shovlin are the owners of Shovlin Mattress Factory, a family-run business rooted in craftsmanship, customer service, and community impact. Together, they combine hands-on expertise with modern strategy to lead the company into its next era of growth.
About Shovlin Mattress Factory
Shovlin Mattress Factory is a New Jersey-based manufacturer specializing in handcrafted, custom-built mattresses made with premium materials and traditional construction techniques. Serving customers since 1972, the company is known for its commitment to quality, customer care, and wellness-focused sleep solutions.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Key Episode Highlights
How legacy craftsmanship can remain a competitive advantage in a trending-driven industry
The importance of defined roles and communication for husband-and-wife leadership teams
Using brand storytelling and wellness-focused messaging to differentiate in a crowded market
Why disciplined, values-aligned growth fuels long-term stability
The role of community relationships and employee loyalty in sustaining a family business
Conclusion
This conversation with Ron and Kara Shovlin highlights what it takes to run a thriving family business in a rapidly changing industry—clarity, communication, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Their story is a powerful example for B2B leaders seeking to honor legacy while embracing strategic innovation.
Explore Ed Delia’s website to learn more about leadership strategies for family businesses and B2B growth. If you’re a B2B leader with insights to share, apply to be a guest on the Growing Up B2B Podcast here.
