Meet James Perry, Senior Growth Marketing Manager at 3Z Brands and the digital engine behind Helix and Birch’s paid media strategies. Since joining the team over three years ago, James has led our efforts across Google Search, while expanding into Paid Social and Connected TV (CTV) to maximize reach. With a sharp eye for data and a creative approach to performance marketing, he’s constantly testing, learning, and scaling what works to grow our brands in smart, effective ways.

Learn more about James below:  

Where are you located?: Pittsburgh, PA

Tell us about what you do in your role at 3Z Brands: 

I manage all things Google for Helix & Birch. I specialize in Search Engine Marketing (SEM), but I have expanded my role to also assist with Paid Social and Connected TV (CTV). Essentially, my goal is to find creative ways to grow our brands through digital marketing. 

How would you describe the 3Z culture?: 

Supportive, Friendly & Intentional.

What do you appreciate the most about working at 3Z?: 

I love the flexibility I have in my role to explore new areas that interest me. I started as a subject matter expert in SEM, but voiced that I wanted to grow into new channels. I’ve been able to broaden my expertise beyond my initial expectations, leading to substantial career growth and enhanced digital marketing knowledge.

How has working in the sleep industry changed the way you think about sleep?:

Transparently, I never imagined how much thought went into creating a mattress, but now that I see the process, I’m blown away. I’m impressed by the level of care and consideration that goes into how we build our products, from the density of foams to the new sleep tech. It makes me appreciate even more the mattress I sleep on (Helix Midnight Luxe), knowing how much science is baked in.

Rapid Fire:

What’s your sleeping position of choice?: 

Combo.

Early bird or night owl?:

Night owl.

Email or Slack?:

Slack.

White noise or silence when sleeping?:

Brown noise.

Favorite mattress?: 

Helix Midnight Luxe.

Favorite accessory?: 

Weighted Blanket.

Last TV show binge?: 

Stick on Apple TV.

Favorite non-work activity?: 

Anything outdoors: cycling, rowing, hiking, to name a few favorites!

The post 3Z Brands Employee Spotlight: James Perry appeared first on Helix Sleep.

It’s time for another Employee Spotlight at 3Z Brands!

This month, we’re excited to shine a light on Connor George, Senior Supply Chain Manager at 3Z Brands. Connor joined the 3Z family in 2021, bringing deep expertise in supply chain strategy, business analytics, and operations management.

From day one, Connor has been a driving force in enhancing efficiency and sparking innovation across our supply chain. He plays a pivotal role in optimizing processes, elevating service levels, and fostering cross-functional collaboration. Whether he’s streamlining workflows, tackling complex logistics challenges, or mentoring team members, Connor brings curiosity, dedication, and a deep commitment to our core values to everything he does.

Learn more about Connor below:  

Where are you located?: Phoenix

Tell us about what you do in your role at 3Z Brands: 

My day usually starts with caffeine and spreadsheets, in that order, followed by a whirlwind of supplier calls, shipping delays, and optimizing inventories. I collaborate with every team in our organization: sales, marketing, ops, R&D, basically anyone who can help me predict demand spikes from a holiday sale or TikTok trend we didn’t see coming. When I’m not solving logistical obscurities, I’m updating forecasts, negotiating material rates like I’m on Shark Tank, or trying to squeeze more efficiency out of our warehouse.

But let’s not forget, we also launch new mattresses. That means new SKUs, new materials… and yes, new chaos. (We love it. Really, we do.) Supply chain in the mattress world is a wild ride: part strategy, part detective work, part group therapy. But hey, someone’s got to keep the world sleeping comfortably… even if we don’t always get to ourselves (luckily, I sleep great every night on my Aurora Luxe Pillow Top.)

How would you describe the 3Z culture?: 

Relaxed yet driven.

What do you appreciate the most about working at 3Z?: 

Every day, I get to work with solution-oriented, down-to-earth colleagues. All team members are approachable and willing to go out of their way to assist one another. One of the things I value most about working here is the trust and autonomy. Leadership sets clear goals and expectations, but they provide freedom for us to make decisions and solve problems. This support empowers us to take ownership, think proactively, and continuously improve how we operate.

If you’re looking for a place where you can grow, contribute, and be part of something that runs on both grit and kindness, you’re in the right spot.

How has working in the sleep industry changed the way you think about sleep?:

I firmly believe that sleep isn’t for the weak; it’s for the wise.

Before I worked at 3Z: “I’ll sleep when I’m dead.”

After working at 3Z: “I’ll live longer, happier, and be more productive if I sleep tonight.”

Rapid Fire:

What’s your sleeping position of choice (side, back, stomach, combo, etc)?: 

Side.

Early bird or night owl?:

Early Bird.

Email or Slack?:

Email.

White noise or silence when sleeping?:

White noise.

Favorite mattress?: 

Aurora Luxe Pillow Top.

Favorite accessory?: 

Deep Pocket Tencel Sheets.

Last TV show binge?: 

Peaky Blinders.  

Favorite non-work activity?: 

Running, traveling, or anything sport-related.

The post 3Z Brands Employee Spotlight: Connor George appeared first on Helix Sleep.

This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Chef David Lizarraga, Head Chef and Food & Beverage Manager at 3Z’s Dream Factory in Glendale. David joined the 3Z family in 2023, and since then, he’s been fueling the 3Z staff with healthy and delicious meals. His passion for food, dedication to quality, and commitment to excellence make him an essential part of daily life at 3Z. 

Learn more about Chef David below:  

Where are you located?:

Glendale, Arizona 

Tell us about what you do in your role at 3Z Brands: 

I am the Head Chef & Food and Beverage Manager at 3Z’s Glendale facility. A day for me is mainly spent in the kitchen putting meals together, and if not there, then I’m planning out the following week’s menu.

How would you describe the 3Z culture in three words?: 

Consistent, creative, caring. 

What do you appreciate the most about working at 3Z?: 

What really stands out to me is the confidence leadership has in me. It empowers me to be creative, take risks, and bring my full culinary self to the table daily. That kind of trust makes a huge difference. I also have to say that I love the schedule. It gives me the balance I need to thrive both at work and at home. 

How has working in the sleep industry changed the way you think about sleep?:

I truly believe that having a good mattress isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Quality sleep is the foundation for everything we do, and I’m proud to be part of a team that makes that possible for so many people.  

Rapid Fire: 

What’s your sleeping position of choice (side, back, stomach, combo, etc)?: 

Side and back.

Early bird or night owl?

Early bird.

Email or Slack?

Email.

White noise or silence?

White noise. 

Favorite mattress?: 

I love our all-foam beds!  

Favorite accessory?: 

Any comfy blanket.  

Last TV show binge?: 

Evil.

Favorite non-work activity?: 

When I’m not working, you can find me on the disc golf course! 

The post 3Z Brands Employee Spotlight: Chef David Lizarraga appeared first on Helix Sleep.

This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Alyssa Obluck, Director of HR Operations and Workforce Relations at 3Z Brands. Alyssa joined the 3Z family in 2022, bringing a wealth of experience, a strategic mindset, and a passion for building strong, people-first workplaces.

Since day one, Alyssa has been a driving force behind our evolving HR landscape. She plays a critical role in shaping and strengthening our company culture, providing thoughtful mentorship to managers across the organization, and leading initiatives that enhance the employee experience. Whether she’s streamlining processes, resolving complex workforce challenges, or championing employee well-being, Alyssa approaches every task with empathy, integrity, and a deep commitment to 3Z’s core values. 

Learn more about Alyssa below:  

Where are you located?:

Phoenix!

Tell us about what you do in your role at 3Z Brands: 

No two days are exactly alike, but my work typically centers around supporting company culture, resolving workplace challenges, mentoring managers, and making sure our HR initiatives are aligned with broader business goals.

How would you describe the 3Z culture in three words?: 

Empowered, supportive, collaborative. 

What do you appreciate the most about working at 3Z?: 

There’s a shared sense of ownership and trust that makes collaboration feel natural, not forced. On top of that, our mission actually means something. We’re making a real impact, and it’s motivating to be part of something bigger than myself.

How has working in the sleep industry changed the way you think about sleep?:

I’ve learned that quality often matters more than quantity. It’s not just about getting eight hours of sleep, it’s about getting the right kind of sleep. Understanding the science behind sleep cycles, circadian rhythms, and the importance of a good sleep environment has made me more intentional about my own habits.

Rapid Fire: 

What’s your sleeping position of choice (side, back, stomach, combo, etc)?: 

Combination! Mostly side or back.

Early bird or night owl?

Both!

Email or Slack?
Email.

White noise or silence?

White noise. 

Favorite mattress?: 

Aurora Luxe Cooling

Favorite accessory?: 

Cooling Gel Memory Foam Pillow

Last TV show binge?: 

White Lotus.

Favorite non-work activity?: 

Spending time outdoors is my go-to way to recharge. Whether it’s a walk around the neighborhood or a quiet morning coffee on the patio, being outside helps me reset and stay grounded beyond the workday.

The post 3Z Brands Employee Spotlight: Alyssa Obluck appeared first on Helix Sleep.

Within our diverse team, we are honored to welcome outstanding women who epitomize empowerment and inject our company with creativity, passion, and talent. Among them shines Diana Chunga.

Diana embodies the core values of 3Z Brands with her unwavering dedication, positive mindset, and tireless determination. As an integral part of the manufacturing operations, she continually inspires her colleagues and sets a high standard for professional excellence.

Learn more about Diana in the Q&A below:

How has 3Z Brands helped nurture your career development?

3Z Brands has played a pivotal role in my journey toward a career in Massage Therapy. Their support during my transition into school has been invaluable. Thanks to 3Z, I’ve been able to maintain a good balance between work and school.

What advice would you give the next generation of women starting their careers?

My advice to the next generation is to stay consistent in your journey across all aspects of life. Take the time to discover your passions, and once you find them, fully immerse yourself in them!

What do you love most about working at 3Z Brands?

I love the work environment at 3Z! My coworkers are always helpful and supportive, which makes me look forward to coming into work everyday. The gym and sauna are definitely a plus too!

What is a personal principle you like to follow?

One principle I adhere to, especially when feeling overwhelmed, is the belief that ‘as long as I have breath, I always have options.’

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

I am a very creative individual. I love to write poetry, paint, and dance! I’m in an underground dance group with a bunch of my friends and we travel frequently to New York for competitions!

Who is a female role model you’ve looked up to and why?

I greatly admire my mother. She is one of the most dedicated, compassionate, and resilient women in my life. About 10 years ago, she started her own cleaning business and even named it after me!

What is the most important lesson, business or otherwise, life has taught you?

Life continually teaches me gratitude—being thankful for what I have, the people in my life, and the experiences I’ve been through.

The post Women’s History Month Spotlight: Diana Chunga appeared first on Helix Sleep.

Within our diverse team, we are honored to welcome outstanding women who epitomize empowerment and inject our company with creativity, passion, and talent. Among them shines Laur Fiatoa-Newman.

Laur exemplifies the ethos of 3Z Brands through her unwavering dedication, innovative mindset, and unyielding ambition. A leader within the E-commerce team, she excels in her professional endeavors and serves as a point of inspiration to those around her.

Learn more about Laur in the Q&A below:

How has 3Z Brands helped nurture your career development?

3Z has always given me the freedom to pave my own path! As someone who enjoys taking on new challenges and leading a project from idea to execution, I appreciate the team’s support in encouraging my curiosity. This has helped me expand my skill set from digital and social marketing to CRM and customer analytics. There is never a dull moment and plenty of opportunities to learn and grow.

What advice would you give the next generation of women starting their careers?

Take up space and ask many questions. Don’t let the fear of failure stop you from at least trying. When you are just starting out, it’s easy to be unsure of your place in a new work environment, but until you get your footing, lead with curiosity and try to absorb as much as possible. No one expects you to be perfect! 

What do you love most about working at 3Z Brands?

The people: I’ve been here for nearly six years and continue working with many people I started with. The people are any company’s most important resource, and the folks at 3Z are some of the best I’ve worked with in my career. They are smart, empathetic, and, most importantly, supportive of everyone’s wins! 

What is a personal principle you like to follow? 

“But what if it all went well?” Worrying about an adverse outcome typically begets a negative response, so I always reframe my thoughts to believe in it and manifest a positive outcome. 

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

I do interior design on the side, and I particularly like to challenge myself to take ideas and try to upcycle or DIY them. My wife is Jamaican, so I like to say that I also know conversational Patois. 

Who is a female role model you’ve looked up to, and why? 

Issa Rae. I am very inspired by her professional journey. Her professional confidence, talent, and belief in herself are evident in how she hones her craft and has grown from webisodes to HBO and beyond!

What is the most important lesson, business or otherwise, life has taught you?

I believe that honesty and transparency are always the best approaches, both personally and professionally. For instance, if I make an error in a project, I prefer to bring in someone with more experience to help me correct it and learn from my mistake. As a manager, I also encourage honesty from my team because it allows me to address any issues and help them improve. This approach demonstrates responsibility and accountability for one’s actions and is essential for effective leaders.

The post Women’s History Month Spotlight: Laur Fiatoa-Newman appeared first on Helix Sleep.

Amidst our dynamic team, we are privileged to have remarkable women who embody the essence of empowerment and teamwork, and infuse our company with passion, talent, and creativity. Among them stands Allyson McGrath.

Allyson epitomizes 3Z Brands’ core values through her dedication, forward-thinking mindset, and commitment to continued learning. Serving as a Full Stack Web Developer for the Leesa brand, she consistently ignites inspiration among her peers while upholding a benchmark of professional excellence.

Learn more about Allyson in the Q&A below:

How has 3Z Brands helped nurture your career development?

This has been my first job as a web developer, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. I have great mentors and teammates who are very patient, supportive, and kind, not to mention extremely knowledgeable. My job at 3Z also provides me with many opportunities to learn new things every day, allowing me to diversify my skills.

What advice would you give the next generation of women starting their careers?

Don’t be afraid to try something different if it interests you! I started my professional career as a middle school social studies and English teacher but had thought for several years about going into tech before actually making the jump. I was afraid I wasn’t going to be any good at it (I’m terrible at math) but I’ve managed to successfully transition into a new field and love it.

What do you love most about working at 3Z Brands?

I love learning new things, and every day is something different. One day I may be learning about Shopify, and the next be working on creating new components in our codebase. I also always enjoy pair programming with my teammates.

What is a personal principle you like to follow?

Seek out and learn from people with different life experiences than you. It’s much easier to be kind and helpful when you understand what difficulties people face.

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

I’ve lived in five different states: Arizona, Washington, Colorado, Texas, and Kansas. I miss living in Washington State with all the rain.

Who is a female role model you’ve looked up to and why?

Honestly, any of my former coworkers in education. It’s a tough job, but there were so many great educators and counselors that I worked with that I admire for sticking with it, caring about the kids, and furthering their education and well-being. I’m so thankful that I got to teach alongside them!

What is the most important lesson, business or otherwise, life has taught you?

You never know what skills or knowledge may be useful to you in the future. A lot of my previous experience from teaching has transferred over into my web developer job, such as organization, project management, and various soft skills.

The post Women’s History Month Spotlight: Allyson McGrath appeared first on Helix Sleep.

Within our diverse team, we are honored to welcome outstanding women who epitomize empowerment and inject our company with creativity, passion, and talent. Among them shines Rose Gaitanis.

Rose embodies the core values of 3Z Brands with her steadfast commitment, forward-thinking approach, and relentless drive. As an integral part of Nolah’s digital product team, she continually inspires her colleagues and sets a high standard for professional excellence.

Learn more about Rose in the Q&A below:

How has 3Z Brands helped nurture your career development?

Before joining 3Z, I worked on the agency side, where my role required me to handle multiple categories simultaneously. Working in the mattress industry, and within one category, is relatively new for me but one that I am sure to be a part of long-term. 3Z has been so amazing in ensuring that team members gain first-hand knowledge of the production process with the opportunity to attend Mattress University and spend a few days immersed at the factory. This has helped tremendously in my role in communicating the benefits of our mattresses and how they help address our customer’s needs.

What advice would you give the next generation of women starting their careers?

As a working mom, my advice stems from personal experience. Balancing motherhood, being present, and having a rewarding career is achievable! However, it’s crucial to cultivate a strong support network whenever possible. This includes having a supportive employer (like 3Z!), a supportive partner, and family and friends. I am fortunate to have each of these pillars in my life, along with a close-knit community of fellow moms who offer invaluable assistance and encouragement when needed. It truly does take a village!

What do you love most about working at 3Z Brands?

The people! Across all brands and teams, I’ve been genuinely impressed by the level of respect and camaraderie. It’s remarkable, especially considering some of us have never met in person!

What is a personal principle you like to follow?

One personal principle I adhere to is treating others with the same kindness and respect I hope to receive. When someone does or says something that upsets me, I try to empathize with their perspective. Recognizing that we may not be aware of what someone is going through personally, I strive to maintain this mindset when responding to situations.

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

This is currently top of mind as we’re in the midst of the season. I lead the Girl Scout Cookie program for my daughter’s troop, and this marks the sixth consecutive year I’ve taken on this role! For a few weeks annually, my house and car are filled with cases upon cases of Girl Scout cookies as we venture out to sell them in the cold on weekends. It’s a lot of work, but it provides valuable learning opportunities for the girls, teaching them communication, sales, marketing, and finance skills.

Who is a female role model you’ve looked up to and why?

I don’t have one specific person in mind, but I’ve been fortunate to have several sources of inspiration. Firstly, my mom stands out. She immigrated to the US from Italy as an adult, not knowing any English. Yet, she tirelessly worked to provide us with every opportunity and remained actively involved in our school and activities. Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with exceptional women as colleagues and clients throughout my career. I often reflect on how one of them might have approached it in challenging situations and use that as guidance.

What is the most important lesson, business or otherwise, life has taught you?

It’s essential to embrace stepping outside your comfort zone. Before joining Nolah, the majority of my career was spent in agencies. Transitioning from the agency environment to Nolah and 3Z was a bit of a risk, as it was entirely new territory for me. However, I found that I could leverage my agency skills while also expanding my expertise in the mattress category. I’m now exactly where I want to be in my career, and I’m grateful for having made that shift.

The post Women’s History Month Spotlight: Rose Gaitanis appeared first on Helix Sleep.

Amidst our diverse team, we are privileged to have remarkable women who infuse our company with passion, talent, and creativity. Among them stands Jennifer Roberts.

Jennifer exemplifies the ethos of 3Z Brands through her unwavering dedication, innovative mindset, and unyielding ambition. A leader within the manufacturing technology team, she excels in her professional endeavors and serves as a point of inspiration to those around her.

Learn more about Jennifer in the Q&A below:

How has 3Z Brands helped nurture your career development?

I joined 3Z Brands as a Production Planning Analyst in 2019 when the company was much smaller than it is today. As the company grew, I was given opportunities to take on various responsibilities in our manufacturing technology department. I gained experience in software design, system implementation, project management, people management, and leadership. I was encouraged and trusted to take on new challenges at 3Z Brands, and that has helped to accelerate the growth of my career.  

What advice would you give the next generation of women starting their careers?

The best advice I can give to any woman starting her career is don’t be afraid to take a seat at the table. Your voice and your unique perspective are so important. As a woman working not only in tech but also in manufacturing, there have been many times that I was the only female voice in the room. It can be intimidating. It can cause you to question your abilities. The best thing you can do is to speak up anyway. Don’t be afraid to be wrong; don’t be scared to share your unique perspective. There is strength in diversity, and your contributions are valuable. Step outside your comfort zone. The more you do this, the easier it gets, and you pave the way for more women to sit at that table in the future. 

What do you love most about working at 3Z Brands?

My favorite thing about working at 3Z Brands is our corporate culture. This company has cultivated a collaborative environment where teamwork and innovation are standard practice. We strive to hire team players who enjoy what they do and are willing to jump in and help where needed. The management team here at 3Z Brands does a great job listening to what is important to their employees and keeping them engaged. Employees from the production floor to the C-suite seem genuinely happy to come to work, and that makes a huge difference. 

What is a personal principle you like to follow? 

One personal principle that I wholeheartedly embrace is the simple yet powerful mantra, “Be Kind.” I strive to cultivate a spirit of kindness towards others in my daily interactions and decision-making. This principle encourages me to approach situations with empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. Whether in professional relationships or social encounters, I find that embodying kindness not only fosters an overall better environment but also contributes to my well-being. 

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

Whenever I have free time, you can find me making strange and interesting art in my home studio. I love experimenting with mixed media techniques, printmaking, painting, photography, and digital art. My husband and I recently took on an exciting new project to turn a ten-passenger electric bus into a drivable, ridable piece of art. When the art car is complete, we hope to show it off at events, parades, and festivals.

Who is a female role model you’ve looked up to and why? 

I think that Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is one of today’s most compelling female role models. She is redefining what it means to be a female leader. I believe that historically, women have been forced to minimize traditionally feminine traits to rise to positions of power. AOC is doing the opposite. She is leading from a uniquely feminine perspective with compassion and empathy rather than competitiveness. She proves that this leadership style can still be strong and effectively influence people in a much deeper way. I believe that AOC is paving the way for future female leaders to embrace who they are and lead from their unique perspectives, and this is why I find her to be one of today’s most influential female role models. 

What is the most important lesson, business or otherwise, life has taught you?

I feel like there are so many life lessons that can be highlighted here, but one equally beneficial to my personal and professional life is to practice active listening. Active listening involves not just hearing someone’s words but also tuning in to their thoughts and emotions; this can change a conversation into an engaged, cooperative, and reciprocal interaction. I have had many past experiences where I missed having real conversations and a complete understanding of what someone was telling me because I was not actively listening. I was so concerned with what my response would be, what the person thought of me, or all the things I still had to do that day that I wasn’t asking meaningful questions and was not fully engaged. I still consciously must work at this, and it is not easy. It takes focus and intention to listen actively but when you learn how to do it, you gain so much more out of conversation, and it helps build stronger professional and social connections. 

The post Women’s History Month Spotlight: Jennifer Roberts appeared first on Helix Sleep.

On January 10th, this commitment took center stage as 3Z Brands opened its doors to 20 students from the University of Richmond’s Robins School of Business. For the second year, 3Z Brands hosted as part of the university’s annual New York City Marketing & Communications Road Trip. Led by Senior Growth Marketing Specialist Ava Cummings, herself an alumna of the University of Richmond, the visit exemplified 3Z Brands’ dedication to nurturing emerging talent and fostering meaningful connections within the marketing and communications community.

The University of Richmond’s Marketing & Communications Road Trip is a cherished Robins School of Business tradition. It offers students an invaluable opportunity to explore the inner workings of various companies where alums like Ava are making their mark. This year’s trip included visits to five companies, including 3Z Brands, each representing a unique facet of the corporate landscape.

Ava’s journey from the University of Richmond to 3Z Brands is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and opportunity. She understands the importance of paying it forward, specifically with this Marketing & Communications Road Trip. Having benefited from this trip as an undergrad, Ava remains passionate about supporting similar opportunities for the next generation of University of Richmond students.

The visit included a presentation, panel discussion, and networking opportunities at 3Z’s NYC offices. Ava was joined by Adam Tishman, Co-President of Consumer Brands & Co-Founder of Helix Sleep, who provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of entrepreneurship and business evolution. Adam also shared the Helix founding story and spoke to the immense growth of the Helix brands and the evolution into the 3Z entity.

A panel discussion featuring marketing experts Steve Krinberg, Jen Pressley, Emily Skaar, Laur Fiatoa, and Steve Catanzaro highlighted the visit. The group shared personal anecdotes, industry insights, and practical advice from years of experience. From discussing the latest marketing trends to offering tips for navigating the job market, the visit gave students a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to draw from as they embark on their professional journeys. 

3Z Brands is proud to partner with the University of Richmond for this unique opportunity. By investing in developing and empowering emerging talent, we look to help build a strong workforce while shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for those in the marketing and communications space.

The post Fostering Future Marketers: 3Z Brands Hosts University of Richmond Students appeared first on Helix Sleep.