Welcome to the second episode of the General Manager series here on Stories from the River!

Heather Greenwood sits down with two esteemed General Managers from Broad River Retail: Mitch Dixon of Rock Hill Raiders and Chris Morrell of Team Gold Rush. Both share their journeys within the company, discussing what it means to translate the company’s vision into reality at their stores. Chris emphasizes the importance of having seasoned, passionate Memory Makers on his roster, highlighting how the General Manager role focuses on turning strategy into daily action and nurturing a supportive environment. Mitch, fresh off the grand opening of Rock Hill, underscores success not just by numbers, but by the happiness and growth of the Memory Makers he leads, driving home the point that people are at the center of everything they do.

The discussion dives into what makes Broad River’s culture unique—especially the emphasis on empowering Memory Makers as intrapreneurs, fostering a sense of ownership and entrepreneurial spirit at every level. Both Chris and Mitch recount standout moments—from success stories where Memory Makers doubled their earnings and made life-changing purchases, to heartfelt guest interactions, such as the story of an Ashley sofa saving lives during Hurricane Helene. Through candid reflections, they explain how leadership, resilience during challenging days, and a caring, driven culture have shaped their own careers and those of the Memory Makers around them. The episode wraps up with advice for those in the industry: Broad River is a place where you’re truly valued, supported by Leaders who care about people as much as results.

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Welcome to the first episode of the General Manager series here on Stories from the River!

Heather Greenwood kicks off a special series focusing on the pivotal role of the General Manager at Broad River Retail. Filming from the Ashley store in Pineville, North Carolina, Heather is joined by Dana Mallory, District Manager of the Savage South, and Renee Bradley, Associate Director of Retail Onboarding and Education, two outstanding leaders who have both served as General Managers and now support, teach, and motivate current General Managers throughout the company. The conversation delves into the unique culture at Broad River, emphasizing how General Managers act as the nucleus and heartbeat of each store—driving sales performance, shaping store culture, and forging authentic connections with Memory Makers and guests alike.

Dana and Renee share their perspectives on what makes someone a successful General Manager; stressing qualities like influence, curiosity, adaptability, resiliency, and, above all, the ability to lead wholeheartedly. Unlike other retailers, Broad River's General Manager role is highly focused on sales and fostering a positive, impactful culture. They also discuss why Broad River stands out as a great place to work: the strong family-oriented culture, the focus on leadership development, and the balance between high performance and genuine care for people. Renee and Dana encourage aspiring General Managers from other retailers to consider Broad River, not just for competitive compensation, but for the opportunity to be part of something bigger—furnishing life’s best memories for Memory Makers, guests, and the community.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kV_IoPG9O6c

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Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

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In this episode of Stories from the River, guest host Tyler Trill, Senior Communications Manager at Broad River Retail, sits down with Broad River Retail’s IT experts Robert Ferguson, Associate Director, IT Infrastructure & User Services, and Tim Sobkowiak, Associate Director, Retail Technology & Project Management, to dive into the world of cybersecurity, with a specific focus on phishing attacks.

The discussion breaks down how phishing techniques have evolved from suspicious emails to sophisticated text messages, QR code scams, and AI-powered voice impersonations. Robert and Tim share real-life examples of successful phishing scams, explain why these attacks remain effective, and offer practical advice on how to recognize and respond to threats. Key takeaways include the critical roles of strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and most importantly, ongoing education for every team member—not just IT. The episode emphasizes that staying safe online is everyone’s responsibility, both at work and at home. Listeners will walk away better prepared to spot and stop phishing attempts before they cause harm.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Aj8A5NqKmq8

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Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

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In this episode of Stories from the River, guest host Kim Harkness sits down with Rachel LoPresto, the Corporate Events Manager, to go behind the scenes of Broad River Retail’s signature gatherings, including the annual Sleep Summit at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. Rachel reflects on her first year in the role—highlighting her favorite moments, especially the Experts Soirée, and discussing what goes into crafting memorable and purposeful events for the Memory Makers. Together, they explore how listening to needs, coordinating with premier partners, and creating engaging, themed experiences help drive team connection, learning, and excitement for new products—all while keeping the focus on business goals, like elevating Sleep ROI.

The conversation expands into the full range of company events, from Learning & Development events like the Sleep Summit’s to marque events like the Home Furnishing Experts Soirée and the Memory Maker Gala, and celebrating the Company's growth through Grand Openings and Grand Reopenings. Rachel shares insights into the creative planning that goes into venue selection, unique giveaways, and fostering community ties during Grand Openings—including charity partnerships and regional touches like custom coffee carts and local treats. Looking ahead, Rachel expresses excitement for new challenges, particularly the upcoming, pioneering Spokane Grand Opening, while also sharing a few personal summer traditions and rapid-fire preferences. The episode is a vibrant exploration of how intentional details and a focus on Memory Maker experience set Broad River’s events apart.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KR19YwfJmnY

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Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

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In the second part of this two-part series on Stories from the River, Heather Greenwood welcomes Memory Makers from the recent Sleep Summit held at the Charlotte Motor Speedway.

The conversation brings together insights from various Memory Makers, who share how the summit has influenced their approach on the sales floor, deepened their product knowledge, and enhanced their confidence in connecting guests with the perfect sleep solutions. Memory Makers discuss specific takeaways that challenged or energized them, how sleep training translates into improved guest experiences, and the role ongoing education plays in boosting both individual success and company growth.

Hear from:
-Cristina Shields, Sales Manager, VIP, The Hype
-Isaiah Taylor, Home Furnishing Consultant, Flagship Enterprise
-Brett Farmer, Home Furnishing Associate, Rock Hill Raiders
-Jaylon Fisher, Sales Manager, Sleep, Albemarle Aces
-David Boyd, Sales Manager, Sleep, Hub City Hive
-Melanie Pratt, Home Furnishings Professional, Hub City Hive
-Kota Bennett, Sales Manager Expert, VIP, Port City
-Jefferson Lizaire, Sales Manager Expert, Sleep, Augusta Annihilators

Beyond product expertise, the episode delves into the unique culture at Broad River Retail. Memory Makers reflect on the importance of connection, collaborative learning, and the company’s investment in their growth—citing moments of genuine care and camaraderie, from knowing each other’s names to celebrating personal milestones. Many mention how the Sleep Summit reinforces the family-like environment and support system that sets Broad River apart, inspiring them to pioneer new levels of performance and leadership as they look ahead to 2025. The episode closes with reminders to tune in for upcoming special segments and to engage with the Stories from the River community across platforms.

Part One of the Sleep Summit series:
Grid, Grit & Guest Experience: A Summit to Remember - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lBGUfKMt2I

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WayK5G4P13c

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Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

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In this special two-part edition of Stories from the River, Heather Greenwood guest hosts to spotlight the highlights of the recent Sleep Summit held at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. The episode features eight Memory Makers from various Broad River Retail locations, sharing their unique experiences, key takeaways, and the powerful "aha" moments that made the event memorable.

Hear from:
-Cristina Shields, Sales Manager, VIP, The Hype
-Isaiah Taylor, Home Furnishing Consultant, Flagship Enterprise
-Brett Farmer, Home Furnishing Associate, Rock Hill Raiders
-Jaylon Fisher, Sales Manager, Sleep, Albemarle Aces
-David Boyd, Sales Manager, Sleep, Hub City Hive
-Melanie Pratt, Home Furnishings Professional, Hub City Hive
-Kota Bennett, Sales Manager Expert, VIP, Port City
-Jefferson Lizaire, Sales Manager Expert, Sleep, Augusta Annihilators

Each Memory Maker, representing various sales and sales management roles, reflects on how the Summit broadened their perspectives, enhanced their knowledge of innovative sleep products like Purple, Tempur-Pedic, and Sealy mattresses, and inspired new ways to connect with guests. Their collective enthusiasm underscores the Summit’s value as an opportunity for learning, growth, and genuine connection.

Throughout the episode, Memory Makers discuss not only the fun and interactive energy of the Summit, but also the practical techniques and product demonstrations that sparked their excitement to bring new ideas back to their showrooms. Memorable anecdotes include trying out the latest mattress technologies, engaging in sales demonstrations like "float the grid," and sharing personal stories that highlight the importance of guest comfort and finding the right sleep solutions. The episode concludes with a strong sense of passion for delivering life-changing experiences through thoughtful product recommendations and a consistent dedication to guest satisfaction.

Come back on Thursday for part two!

Watch this episode YouTube: https://youtu.be/9lBGUfKMt2I

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Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

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Welcome back to Stories From the River, where Charlie Malouf continues his conversation with Bradley Sullivan, the General Manager of the award-winning Albemarle Aces, for an in-depth discussion on leadership, motivation, and what it takes to build a high-performing retail team at Broad River Retail. Against the energetic backdrop of the Charlotte Motor Speedway, Bradley shares how his obsession with performance metrics, consistency in routines, and a deep investment in the growth of his Memory Makers have been the driving forces behind his team's repeated successes, including multiple top store awards and coveted cheeseburger trophies for sleep sales excellence. He highlights the importance of embodying the business, emphasizing the motto "be the business," and fostering a culture that values both results and personal connections.

Bradley delves into the unique culture of the Albemarle Aces, describing it through the metaphor of poker—where patience, strategy, and embracing the hand you're dealt are essential to winning. He reflects on meaningful moments, like witnessing Memory Makers achieve personal financial milestones and seeing them feel at home in the store's nurturing environment. Motivated by the desire to create a legacy of excellence, Bradley stresses the importance of passionate leadership, the impact of teaching others to surpass their own expectations, and a love for "playing the game." The episode wraps up with Bradley sharing personal anecdotes about family, literature, and the comeback journey that's defined his return to Broad River, leaving listeners inspired to lead with heart and a competitive spirit.

Additional resources:

The Motive: Why So Many Leaders Abdicate Their Most Important Responsibilities by Patrick Lencioni - https://www.amazon.com/Motive-Leaders-Abdicate-Important-Responsibilities/dp/1119600456

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton - https://www.amazon.com/Outsiders-S-Hinton/dp/014240733X

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas - https://www.amazon.com/Count-Monte-Cristo-Wordsworth-Classics/dp/1853267333

Marry the Process, Divorce the Outcome: Lessons on Success with Keith Jones - https://youtu.be/z3autMe8m3Y

Broad River's Original Purpose Summit, Purpose 8:28 (held on 8.28.2019) - https://www.purpose828.com

Watch this episode YouTube: https://youtu.be/4qfkK_n6mD4

Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.

Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

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In this episode of Stories from the River, host Charlie Malouf sits down with Bradley Sullivan at the Charlotte Motor Speedway to dive into Bradley's unique journey as a Memory Maker at Broad River Retail. Bradley, affectionately known as Sully, recounts his path from his early days in the furniture business, his meaningful recruitment experience at the transformative Purpose 8:28 event (Bradley's 'Day Zero' in Fort Mill, South Carolina, on August 28, 2019), and his rise through various leadership roles within the Company—from his start in Cary as an AGM with Michael Childers, to taking on the GM role in Bull City, to revamping the culture at the Ashley Outlet in Charlotte, N.C., on South Boulevard (which changed its identity during Bradley's tenure from the Boulevard Bulldogs to the "Boulevard Believe"), and now leading the Albemarle Aces to success. Bradley's remarkable story is marked by resilience, personal growth, and a knack for seeing potential in the underdog.

Throughout the conversation, Bradley emphasizes his love for developing people, not just selling furniture. He highlights how culture is the cornerstone of thriving stores and shares heartfelt stories about the Albemarle Aces' journey to becoming a top-performing memory-making group, including winning the North American Ashley Store of the Month a record-setting three times within the past five months. The discussion also explores the importance of confidence, overcoming setbacks, and the challenge of consistency in retail. Bradley gives a special shoutout to the individual Memory Makers who make the Albemarle Aces shine, reinforcing the deep bonds and connections that drive success within Broad River Retail.

Additional Resources:

Broad River's Original Purpose Summit, Purpose 8:28 (held on 8.28.2019) - https://www.purpose828.com

Watch this episode YouTube: https://youtu.be/3irD0s0Rpic

Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes.

Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail