In this episode of Consulting Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig sits down with Derek Hales, founder of NAPLAB, a groundbreaking platform for data-driven mattress testing and reviews. From his humble beginnings testing mattresses in his one-bedroom apartment to building a thriving business that has tested over 420 mattresses, Derek shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey.

Derek recounts how a personal need for an affordable, high-quality mattress led him to create a website that quickly gained traction and evolved into a full-fledged business. With a focus on objective, quantifiable data, NAPLAB has transformed the way consumers shop for mattresses by providing transparent, unbiased reviews. Derek also highlights the critical role of his wife, who leveraged her expertise in mathematics to develop advanced tools and processes that power NAPLAB's operations.

Throughout the conversation, Derek delves into the evolution of the mattress industry, from the rise of direct-to-consumer brands to advancements in materials and manufacturing. He also offers practical advice for consumers navigating the overwhelming world of mattress shopping and explains how NAPLAB's data-driven approach simplifies the decision-making process.

Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking inspiration or a consumer curious about what goes into finding the perfect mattress, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

Key Discussion Points:

• Launching NAPLAB: From weekend hobby to thriving business
• Testing over 420 mattresses: How Derek built a data-driven review system
• The rise of direct-to-consumer mattresses: A $15 billion industry transformation
• Key factors in choosing a mattress: Firmness, price, and materials
• Scaling operations: Leveraging automation and tools like WordPress and Google Sheets
• The role of data: How objective metrics ensure unbiased reviews
• Manufacturing insights: Behind-the-scenes at U.S.-based factories
• The importance of branding in a competitive market
• Lessons from transitioning from corporate SEO to entrepreneurship
• How AI and automation are shaping e-commerce businesses

Stay Connected
Subscribe to Consulting Spotlight for weekly insights from industry leaders! Visit softwareoasis.com/subscribe to stay updated. Our newsletter delivers actionable tips and exclusive content straight to your inbox every week. Don't miss out—join our community today!

-> Strategic Consulting Partnerships: Live Q&A Webinar Today!

• Consulting Firms: End Cold Outreach Today. Learn to generate warm introductions now.
• Strategic Consulting Partnerships: Live Q&A. Learn to build referral networks.
• Instant Networking Today: Streamline your pipeline with qualified referrals.
• Target 25+ Consulting Categories: Learn to generate warm referrals from strategic partnerships with top AI, cybersecurity, marketing, firms and more.
• Register Now (Webinar Today) https://www.softwareoasis.com/gold

-> Career Stalled?

• Earning $40K-$90K+ in tech is possible. Explore 10 in-demand career paths with 1M+ job openings.
• Fast-track tech career courses – no experience or degree required!

Start Free Course https://softwareoasis.com/start-free-course

-> Subscribe to our Fan Newsletter and Get ahead in your B2B tech career.

Weekly data, trends, analysis, interviews, and insights to your inbox every Tuesday. Unsubscribe at any time.

https://softwareoasis.com/newsletter

-> Join our Patreon

https://softwareoasis.com/patreon

What can you expect from our Patreon?

By becoming a patron, you're investing in your own success and unlocking a range of exclusive benefits, including:

• Exclusive Content: Bonus episodes, extended interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and early access to recordings.
• Direct Influence: Suggest topics, ask questions for guests, and participate in polls to shape the future of the podcasts.
• Personalized Advice: Patrons get access to group Q&A sessions with me, Michael Bernzweig.
• Community Access: Join a private channel to connect with other listeners.
• Software Oasis Free Course Access: Get access to one free course from Software Oasis's trending tech and career courses, valued at $249 to $399.
• Weekly Fan Newsletter: Packed with exclusive insights, updates, and curated resources.