In this episode of Behind the Brand, hosts Bob Paden and Adam Hayes sit down with Lauren Taylor, owner and president of Holder Mattress Company, a 77-year-old Indiana business known for its craftsmanship, integrity, and commitment to American manufacturing. As a third-generation leader, Lauren shares the remarkable story of a family-built brand that began after World War II and continues to handcraft mattresses in Kokomo, Indiana, with every stitch rooted in quality and care for their community.
Lauren opens up about the challenges and triumphs of running a small manufacturing company in an industry increasingly dominated by foreign imports and mass production. From navigating burdensome flame-retardant regulations to competing with "bed-in-a-box" giants, she talks candidly about innovation, values, and what it means to stay true to local craftsmanship in a global market.
Listeners also get a personal glimpse into Lauren's journey, from an aspiring novelist to an unexpected business owner discovering creativity in leadership. She reflects on lessons learned, balancing entrepreneurship with family life, and her deep passion for sustainability, community involvement, and supporting American-made goods.
Whether you're a small business owner, an entrepreneur at heart, or someone who appreciates products built with purpose, Lauren's story offers inspiration, humor, and a reminder that legacy and local pride never go out of style. Tune in to learn how Holder Mattress continues to thrive, one handcrafted bed at a time.
