inventRight Podcast

Episode 32 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Joey Groves

Joey’s wife could never get her fingers into her wallet to remove her credit cards, which inspired him to come up with a simple solution to help with this problem. When he started to research how to commercialize an idea

Episode 8 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Coach Ryan Diez

Ryan Diez came up with a hand –held washing device for dog at a very young age. However, having no money and not knowing how to get it to market he wanted to figure out another way. That is when he discovered Stephen Key

Episode 24 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Kirk & Brian

Kirk Hyust and Brian Halasinski – “Build a team, be resourceful, learn as much as you can” When Kirk was renovating Brian’s house, he would show and talk about all his product ideas with Brian, one of which was a wrench

Episode 6 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Coach Arleta Daniels

Reading inventRight cofounder Stephen Key’s book about licensing One Simple Idea was life-changing for Arleta Daniels. She’d been creative all her life, but unsure of exactly what to do with her hundreds of ideas. “When

Episode 30 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Craig Allen

Craig Allen – Licensing His Product in the Midst of COVID -19 Growing up watching his dad constantly fix things, Craig caught the bug. He approached a patent attorney, but then asked if instead of filing a patent he coul

Episode 31 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Craig Isakow

Craig Isakow – “It’s not about the ideas, it’s about the execution.” In 2013, Craig created an eye-blocking cover for his webcam and started to test the market. Once he saw there was interest, he hired a freelancer and m

Episode 20 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Coach April Mitchell

April Mitchell - “Be Ready to Learn and Be Ready to Change” A mom of boys, April created a product to keep towels off the bathroom floor. She licensed her idea to a company but with poor advice from an attorney and no li

Episode 17 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Student Dana Kowles

Dana Knowles – “ From Recovery to Licensing, Some day some how” Dana Knowles did not follow the traditional route of going to college, getting a degree and starting a job. Since the age of 16 she struggled with school an

Episode 15 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Student Tim Brennan

Tim Brennan decided, at a very young age of 12, that he wanted to be an inventor. He went through the school system and after earning his higher level of education with a Masters in Engineering; he was ready to get his i

Episode 3 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Coach Terry O'Mara

Terry O’Mara has always been creative. Starting as an inventRight student and becoming a coach soon after.  What he appreciates most about the inventing community is its willingness to take action. “It’s great to ha

Episode 13 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring Former inventRight Student Jeff Shackleford

Jeff Shackleford has always been an inventor at heart; constantly building and creating new ideas. With lack of education and knowledge he did the first thing he thought he needed to do in order to protect his idea. He w

Episode 11 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring Former inventRight Coach Howie Busch

Howie Busch stumbled upon the book One Simple Idea by Stephen Key after licensing two of his products. He realized that the time and money he was spending on the process could be easily streamlined into something that re

Episode 29 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Courtney Laschkewitsch

Courtney Laschkewitsch always has ideas. By the time she was in high school, she already had 300 of them written down! She didn’t want to start a business, so she needed another way of bringing her ideas to life. She sta

Episode 35 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Vladan Kristic

Vladan Kristic started to pursue his dreams of inventing in 2015 when he began researching product licensing. When he was looking for help, he would speak with invention promotion companies but they all sounded like mone

Episode 33 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Andrew Hodgson

Episode 36 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Aaron Orozco

Episode 26 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Arkady Grigoryan

“I win or I learn, but I never lose." After quitting smoking cigarettes, Arkady started to smoke, well, marijuana. Being a natural “clean freak,” he needed a way of storing his half-smoked joints, but no sanitary packagi

Episode 27 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Taryn and Shy Omran

“Play to your strengths and find others to complement you. The no’s are discouraging, but be kind to yourself and push through the hard part, and know that every single thing is not going to be what you love doing.” — in

Episode 21 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Coach Brayton Bushby

Brayton Bushby – “Focus on the process and be open to learning and growth” Brayton grew up always having ideas so when it came time to decide between a degree in business or engineering he chose mechanical engineering. H

Episode 37 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Otto D’Agnolo

Episode 28 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Phil Case

For 10 years, Phil Case would come up with new ideas for products and always wonder, “What do I do next?” An entrepreneurship class in college taught him how to write a business plan, but after seeing how much money it w

Episode 16 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Student Brad Kons

Brad Kons heard about licensing in 2009 after reading the book The Four Hour Work Week, written by Stephen Key’s former student, Tim Ferris. He immediately knew that licensing was something he wanted to learn, and being

Episode 18 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Student Garth Patchen

Garth Patchen, a man who has worn many hat’s throughout his career, decided he wanted to start brining his ideas to market through licensing. He worked on his idea for five years, before finding and reading the book One

Episode 14 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Student Sef Chang

Sef Chang learned the term “licensing” during his last year in Art School from one of his teachers. After learning what it meant he decided to dive deep into what the process was all about. With an advertising background

Episode 19 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Student Eric Van Dalen

Eric’s only wish for his birthday present one year was to start the InventRight coaching program, and so he did. As a small business owner in a very small town in Montana, Eric always found himself being creative and con

Episode 4 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomozak Featuring inventRight Coach Kelly Goode

Before Kelly Goode decided to become an entrepreneur, she spent two decades working in her home state of Alaska’s legislature. As a chief of staff to members of the legislature, she drafted and edited legislation and wor

Episode 7 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Coach Paul Sorenson

Paul Sorenson has been an entrepreneur practically his whole life, especially since graduating college. Owning and running multiple businesses in different industries, including an insurance agency for 15 years, has taug

Episode 1 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Coach Amy Jo Brogan

Amy Jo has been an IR coach since 2015. Starting as an inventRight student and later becoming a coach, she talks about what lead her to the path of learning about licensing and now helping others do the same. She has nev

Episode 10 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Coach Judy DePrang

Judy DePrang grew up watching her father own a chain of Dominoes pizza. Having to travel every year and watch her father run the business she learned about marketing, business and developed an entrepreneurial mindset. Be

Episode 22 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Coach Matthew Palmer

“Some of the greatest challenges reap the greatest rewards” Matthew Palmer loved to take apart toys when he was younger. Learning how to put things back together naturally developed into a desire to learn how to create n

Episode 34 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Keanu Alfaro

Keanu never knew what a product developer did. In 2018, he drew up a pocket knife on a piece of paper and put it away. Two years later, when he felt stuck in life and found the piece of paper in front of him, he decided

Episode 12 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring Former inventRight Coach Karen Steinbock

Karen Steinbock worked as an ER nurse and hospital administration when she soon began to experience the burnout. Looking for an opportunity to be able to use her creativity, she read about Stephen Key and licensing. Afte

Episode 25 - Hosted by Sylvia Pomazak Featuring inventRight Alumni Mike Van Horst

Michael Van Horst was working in real estate when he noticed that no one ever actually hung up their pictures on their walls; instead, they were always left on the floor. Why? He decided to come up with a solution to thi

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Product: How He Took His First Invention to Market

You’ve launched your product — but growth feels harder than it should. Sales are coming in. The product works. Customers like it. And yet, you’re dealing with manufacturing decisions, online platforms, copycats, intellectual property, and the constant pressure to keep momentum going. No one talks enough about this stage — the part after launch, before things feel secure. In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key interviews Trevor, the inventor of Banana Bungee, a flexible banana hanger design

Launch Your Product: What Happens When You Call inventRight With an Idea

What should you do if you have an idea — but don’t know what to do next? In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key talks with Sylvia, the person who speaks directly with inventors when they first contact inventRight. Sylvia explains the most common concerns people have when they call, including fear that someone will steal their idea, uncertainty about patents, confusion about prototypes, and pressure to move too fast. Sylvia shares what she hears from inventors every day and how she helps th

Launch Your Product: How Rob Built a Business After Licensing and Kickstarter Failed

What do you do when licensing your idea fails — and crowdfunding doesn’t work? In this video, Stephen Key talks with Rob Kessler about how he turned an idea into a product after years of trying to license it and running a Kickstarter that didn’t fund. Rob explains how he developed and patented his invention, why major brands passed on licensing, and how he ultimately decided to build and sell the product himself. This inventRightTV interview breaks down the real steps Rob took to move forward wi

Launch Your Product: Why Inventors Finally End Up Calling inventRight For Help

No time to pitch companies or follow up? Sylvia has spent 10 years helping inventors get unstuck and moving forward. In this short conversation with Stephen Key, she breaks down who calls inventRight, common roadblocks, and how to choose the right level of support. You’ll learn when to use License This (DIY, self-paced fundamentals), when to choose coaching (one-on-one guidance to fix what’s stuck), and when Gateway is the best fit—our done-for-you outreach where we contact companies, follow up,

Launch Your Product: The Future of Manufacturing in the USA: No China, No Molds, No Hassle

How do you manufacture a product in the USA and without China? Stuck waiting months for parts or a mold you can’t afford? There is another way. In this interview, Stephen Key interviews Spencer Loveless, CEO and Founder of Merit3D, about using production 3D printing to onshore manufacturing, skip tooling, and move at the speed of demand. If you want to manufacture your product in the USA, you need to watch this video. Spencer breaks down when additive makes sense (and when it doesn’t), how his t

Launch Your Product: What It Really Takes to Launch a New Product With NO Experience

How do you turn an idea into a product when you have no experience and no money for marketing? Learn from entrepreneur Bobbi Hamilton. As the founder of ChiUniverse, she turned a simple, symbol-guided yoga mat into a fun game for kids—and a real business. In this interview with entrepreneur Stephen Key on inventRightTV, she shares the full path she took to turn her idea into a product, including validating the idea, navigating intellectual property, learning manufacturing from scratch, tapping q

Launch Your Product: How He Built a Huge Product Line With No Startup Money

Enrique Baiz started with no capital, no investors, and nothing more than industry experience and a willingness to take risks. Today, he’s behind a massive automotive product line that includes thousands of SKUs — and he built it step by step, one hard-earned decision at a time. In this episode of From Idea to Product on inventRightTV, you’ll learn: — How to turn an idea into a real product without outside funding — The early mistakes that nearly derailed his business — How he handled copycats a

Launch Your Product: The truth about patents that no one is telling you!

What’s the truth about patents that no one tells inventors? People think patents stop people from stealing your invention — but that's not how patents work. In this video, inventor Stephen Key shares his personal story of filing patent applications, taking on big companies like LEGO, and what he learned about the real costs, risks, and realities of patent protection. Discover why patents aren’t always the silver bullet you think they are and how to use them strategically to build teams, license

Launch Your Product: What It Really Takes to Build, Patent & Manufacture Your Own Product

Ever wonder what it really takes to turn an idea into a real, sellable product? In this episode of From Idea to Product on inventRightTV, Stephen Key talks with Glen Davis, a veteran entrepreneur who’s spent over 40 years in the fitness industry — and four years designing, prototyping, and manufacturing his own invention from scratch. You’ll hear exactly how he: — Built and tested multiple prototypes himself — Navigated the challenges of patents, production, and importing from overseas — Funded

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Product: Prototyping, Manufacturing in the USA, and Sales

They started with a simple kitchen idea and turned it into a real business—appearing on Shark Tank, landing a deal, and getting their Made-in-USA product into 250 Lowes stores. In this episode, Stephen Key talks with the inventors of the Turbo Trusser about what it really takes to manufacture, pitch to buyers, and scale a product into retail. You’ll learn how they financed production, protected their idea from knockoffs, won Walmart’s Golden Ticket, and built a small-business success story one s

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Product: How He Designs, Patents, & Makes His Invention

Do you have an idea you want to turn into a real product? Learn exactly how this is done from entrepreneur and inventor Larry Fleming. Larry didn’t start out in product development—he owned an embroidery business. But after years of making custom hats and apparel, he had a new idea that changed everything: A smarter golf tee that doesn’t break and helps you improve your swing. In this interview with entrepreneur and inventor Stephen Key, Larry shares how he went from a simple sketch to CAD desig

Launch Your Product: How to Launch a Product: Mindset, Prototypes, Manufacturing, and Sales

Do you have an idea that you are turning into a product? Learn exactly what to do from entrepreneur April Mitchell. April didn't plan on becoming a game inventor. Now, it's her full-time job. April Mitchell shares her journey from licensing games to self-publishing, mindset growth, building relationships on LinkedIn, and launching her own card game. If you’re inventing, pitching, or growing as a creator, this episode is for you. Learn from a Tagie Award-winning game innovator who’s walked the pa

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Product: How He Builds, Sells, & Ships From His Garage

What if you could turn a simple idea into a full-time business? In this episode, Stephen Key sits down with Mark, the creator of the GrabOpener—a one-handed bottle opener that went from garage prototype to viral success. Mark shares how he used just $3,000 to launch on Indiegogo, handled manufacturing himself, and sold out in days after landing on Reddit. Learn how he overcame copycats, managed inventory in his garage, and used TikTok to create massive demand—all while holding his IP tight with

Launch Your Product: How to Pitch Your Product to Companies For a Licensing Deal

Submit your product to Gateway: https://inventright.com/go/h3c0kwlZUVp5 How do you pitch a product idea to companies for a licensing deal? Getting a company to say yes to licensing your product idea isn’t luck — it’s strategy. In this video, licensing expert Stephen Key breaks down his proven 7-step process for pitching your invention to companies the right way. You’ll learn how to: — Optimize your LinkedIn profile so companies actually want to work with you — Identify and connect with decision-

Launch Your Product: How to Get Companies to Pay You for Your Ideas (Even Simple Ones)

Submit your product to Gateway: https://inventright.com/go/h3c0kwlZUVp5 Most people think you need money, patents, or connections to get paid for your ideas. You don’t. Here’s how companies actually pay creators for simple product ideas — and how you can do it too. Stephen Key explains the 8 steps you should take to get companies to license your ideas for new products and pay you for royalties. Learn how to make your product stand out, pitch it correctly, and ultimately land a licensing deal. Th

Launch Your Product: What Really Killed Tupperware (It’s Not What You Think)

Tupperware was so iconic that people still use the name for ANY plastic container. Earl Tupper's revolutionary burping seal changed food storage forever and built a billion-dollar empire. But today, Tupperware's stock crashed from $95 per share to just $1. Sales dropped by nearly 50% in a decade. What happened? In this video, I break down how Tupperware's refusal to embrace product licensing destroyed one of America's most recognizable brands. They had the perfect opportunity to license their na

Launch Your Product: How Much Does Manufacturing a New Product in China REALLY Cost?

What does it really cost to manufacture a new product in China? In this video, Stephen Key and Guillaume Cheneau, founder of BSense, break down the costs first-time inventors often overlook when manufacturing a product in China — from prototypes and tooling to packaging and shipping. If you’re serious about selling on Amazon or in retail, understanding these numbers is critical. Learn how to budget smarter, avoid expensive mistakes, and work with the right partners to bring your product idea to

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Product: How He Made, Manufactured, & Sold His Invention

Do you have an idea that you are turning into a product? Learn exactly what to do from entrepreneur Alex Fields. Alex didn’t plan to become an inventor. But when his premature son needed physical therapy, he created a product to help—Little Gripsters. In this powerful interview, Alex reveals how he went from hand-drawn sketches to selling at trade shows and launching on Amazon and TikTok Shop. He shares every step, from prototyping and manufacturing to branding and building a team. If you’ve eve

Launch Your Product: You've never heard a licensing agreement explained like this before

Are you about to sign a licensing agreement for your invention? Watch this first. Stephen Key breaks down the 6 biggest traps that inventors overlook in licensing contracts — and how to protect yourself. From grant of license to indemnification, minimum guarantees, and keeping your IP safe, these tips could save you thousands. Learn how to license smarter and avoid costly mistakes. licensing agreement tips, inventor licensing, stephen key inventright, patent licensing traps, licensing deal advic

Launch Your Product: Licensing or venturing: Which is right for your product idea?

Should you license your invention or start your own business and venture it yourself? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key breaks down the real pros and cons of both paths. Learn which approach makes more sense for you based on your time, resources, goals, and risk tolerance. Stephen shares real numbers, personal experience, and honest advice about profit margins, hidden challenges, and what it really takes to succeed with either strategy. If you’re an inventor wondering how to bring yo

Launch Your Product: How Robert Licensed 4 Products In Just 6 Months

Ever wondered what it takes to become a full-time inventor? In this interview, Andrew Krauss talks with Robert Kraft, an inventRight member who’s licensed five HVAC inventions—including four in just six months—while still running his HVAC business. Learn how Robert’s leveraging licensing, negotiating terms, getting upfront money, and guiding companies who’ve never done licensing before. If you’re dreaming of going full-time, this is the roadmap. 🚀 Learn more about our done-for-you Gateway Progr

Launch Your Product: Steve Jobs Called It HUGE... Then It FAILED Spectacularly

The Segway Disaster: How Dean Kamen Lost Millions By Not Licensing In 2001, Dean Kamen unveiled the Segway with endorsements from Steve Jobs and predictions it would be bigger than the Internet. Instead, it became one of history's most spectacular product failures. But the Segway wasn't a bad invention—it was a textbook case of why brilliant inventors need strategic licensing partners. In this video, Stephen Key breaks down the 10 critical mistakes Dean Kamen made by choosing to venture the Segw

Launch Your Product: How to Get Your Product Made in China the RIGHT Way

Thinking about manufacturing your product in China? Before you contact a factory on Alibaba, watch this. Entrepreneur Stephen Key sits down with Guillaume Cheneau, founder of BSense, a company that helps inventors and startups turn ideas into manufacturable products the right way. They reveal the most common mistakes first-timers make — from poor communication and unusable prototypes to hidden costs and quality control failures — and explain how to avoid them. You’ll learn what “design for manuf

Launch Your Product: The Fastest Way to Get a Product Licensed?

Want to know the fastest way to license your product idea? In this video, Stephen Key breaks down which industries move quickly, why categories like pets, toys, and kitchen gadgets are easier to license, and what factors really speed up the process. You’ll learn how to pick the right companies, create effective marketing materials, and avoid wasting years in slow-moving industries. Gain perspective on what FAST really means for product licensing. 👉 Ready to speed up your journey? Learn more abo

Launch Your Product: How to Rebuild Yourself After Hitting Rock Bottom

What do you do when everything that was working suddenly stops? At age 50, Stephen Key watched the royalty income from his successful Spinformation invention drop to zero. With a family to support and an office to keep running, he had to figure out what came next. In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen shares how he went from feeling like he had hit rock bottom to starting over and building Hot Picks, a guitar pick company whose products eventually reached more than 10,000 stores worldwide. H

Launch Your Product: How to Launch an Idea WITHOUT a Patent (5 Simple Steps)

Want to launch your product idea without wasting money on patents? In this video, entrepreneur and inventor Stephen Key reveals the 5 simple steps to get your product licensed — without spending a penny on a patent. Learn how to research your idea, create a quick prototype, file a low-cost provisional patent application (PPA), build powerful marketing materials, and pitch companies the right way. Watch Stephen share real-world examples, including Fishbone, now in Walmart stores, that launched wi

Launch Your Product: How to Get a Better Licensing Deal Before Negotiations Begin

A licensing negotiation doesn’t begin when a company sends you a contract. The work you do before an offer arrives can affect how a company sees your product — and the deal you may ultimately be able to negotiate. inventRight cofounders Stephen Key and Andrew Krauss explain how to strengthen your position before a company offers you a licensing deal. Stephen and Andrew also discuss why you don’t need to spend a fortune developing your idea before approaching companies. A simple proof-of-concept

Launch Your Product: I Got Rejected 100 Times. Then My Product Sold Millions

Why does mindset matter so much when you're trying to turn an idea into a successful product? Stephen Key was rejected by more than 100 times before one company finally said yes to licensing his rotating label invention, Spinformation. That one yes led to a manufacturing partnership, hundreds of millions of labels being sold, major retail exposure, and industry recognition. In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen shares the story behind Spinformation and explains why he kept going when company

Launch Your Product: How to Reach Companies to License Your Product (Just 5 Simple Steps)

How do you connect with companies to license your invention? What do you need to get the attention of open innovation companies? Are you struggling to get companies to respond to your product ideas? In this video, Stephen Key and Dana Knowles of inventRight share the 5-step formula every inventor needs to connect with the right companies faster and more effectively to get their products licensed. From doing the right research to making professional connections on LinkedIn and email, you’ll learn

Launch Your Product: What You Need to License a Product in 2025

Want to license your invention? Before you send that pitch or file that patent application, Stephen Key shares the 4 essential things you need to do today to land a licensing deal. After decades of experience and hundreds of product submissions, Stephen breaks down what separates successful inventors from those who never get a deal. From making sure your idea is actually new, to understanding cost and becoming a valuable asset to companies, this video covers everything you need to know to improv

Launch Your Product: Can You Help Increase Your Own Royalties?

Can you help increase your own royalties? Signing a licensing agreement is a huge accomplishment — but it's just the beginning. While your licensee handles manufacturing, distribution, and sales, there are meaningful ways you can help drive product success and increase your royalty income. In this Licensing Playbook LIVE, inventors Stephen Key and Andrew Krauss share practical strategies for staying involved after the deal: • How to support your licensee without overstepping • Why your inventor

Launch Your Product: Tired of getting ghosted by companies looking for ideas?

Wondering how inventRight's Gateway program works? In this behind-the-scenes look, Stephen Key and partner Andrew Krauss reveal exactly what happens when you're accepted into Gateway. Learn how our team presents your product idea to companies for licensing. Discover the step-by-step process, what to expect with timing, and why transparency is key to building trust between inventors and companies. 🎯 What You'll Learn: How the Gateway acceptance process works What your Gateway manager does for yo

Launch Your Product: Why Some People Succeed With Their Ideas and Others Don't

What do you need to turning your ideas into products repeatedly? It's probably not what you think. Stephen Key started out selling products at street fairs and on street corners. He eventually went on to bring products to market with major retailers like Walmart. In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen explains why he believes the difference wasn't simply money, patents, prototypes, or experience — it was developing the mindset to keep moving forward when he didn't have all the answers. After

Launch Your Product: The One Thing You Need to Succeed With an Idea

What does it really take to succeed with an idea? It’s not money, a prototype, or a patent. After decades of bringing ideas to market and helping other people do the same, Stephen Key has learned that the people who succeed have something else in common: The right mindsets. In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen explains why having the right mindset matters when you’re trying to turn an idea into a product, license an invention, or accomplish something you’ve never done before. You may not ha

Launch Your Product: What it really costs to patent a product

What does it really cost to patent an invention? In this video, inventor, entrepreneur, and best-selling author Stephen Key breaks down the numbers, the risks, and the smart steps you should take before spending thousands of dollars on a patent. If you’ve been searching for how to patent an idea or wondering how to patent a product, this video gives you the real-world perspective most people miss. Learn: — Why patenting the wrong invention could cost you tens of thousands of dollars — The three

Launch Your Product: Are you turning ideas into products? Join our weekly live show

Got a product idea and not sure what to do next to turn it into reality? Join Stephen Key, Andrew Krauss and the inventRight team every Wednesday at 5pm Pacific for The Licensing Playbook Live, a free event where real product licensing experts share the most up-to-date strategies for getting your ideas in front of companies. Learn how our Gateway team (aka “The Gators”) are pitching to over 800 companies—and how you can too. Whether you’re just starting or stuck with inventory in your garage, th

Launch Your Product: What Makes a Licensing Agreement Successful?

When licensing agreements go bad, it's usually not for the reasons most inventors expect. Everyone focuses on getting a licensing deal, but very few people think about what happens if the product doesn't sell. In many cases, licensing agreements don't break down because of legal disputes—they break down because there are no sales. That's when important questions about exclusivity, intellectual property, and future opportunities come into play. In this video, you'll learn: • Why most licensing ag

Launch Your Product: Why companies are ignoring your ideas for new products

Companies need to innovate and want new ideas, but inventors often complain they're getting ghosted when they pitch them a new idea. What gives? Why aren't companies replying to your emails and calls about your idea for licensing? Learn why the product licensing doors have become harder to open on your own. In this video, Stephen Key speaks with Dana Knowles, Director of Inventor Relations at inventRight, to break down exactly how the Gateway program is helping inventors get their products in fr

Launch Your Product: How to Protect Your Idea Without Overpaying for a Patent

*How do you protect your idea without overpaying for a patent?* In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key and registered patent agent Kevin Prince break down the real cost of getting a patent — from provisional patent applications to non-provisional filings, office actions, government fees, and more. Patent costs can vary dramatically depending on who you hire, the complexity of your invention, and your patent strategy. Stephen shares his own experience spending $25,000 on a patent, while Ke

Launch Your Product: How to Patent an Idea Without Overpaying

Got a big idea? Learn how to protect it the right way! In this episode, inventor and entrepreneur Stephen Key sits down with patent agent Kevin Prince — as well as fellow inventor and entrepreneur — to discuss what every inventor needs to know before filing a patent on their invention. Discover why not all patent practitioners are created equal, how flat fees can save you thousands, and why working with someone who actually cares about your invention makes all the difference. If you’re an indepe

Launch Your Product: Protecting Your Product on Amazon: IP Strategy & Enforcement

How do you protect your product on Amazon from copycats with IP strategy and enforcement? You invested time, money, and creativity into building your product. Then someone copies it. Unfortunately, it's a reality many Amazon sellers face. If you have a popular product on Amazon, you can basically expect it. In this episode of *inventRightTV,* Stephen Key talks with *Mario Simonyan,* founder of *ESQgo* and a former successful Amazon seller turned intellectual property attorney. Mario shares pract

Launch Your Product: How to Patent an Idea: Step 1 (Patent Searching)

What is the first step of patenting an idea? It's doing a patent search. Before you spend money filing a patent, you need to know if your idea is truly original. In this inventRightTV episode, Stephen Key sits down with patent agent Kevin Prince to reveal why a patent search is the critical first step for every inventor. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes, understand keyword vs. class searches, and discover how professional searches can save you years of wasted time and money. If you’re serious

Launch Your Product: How to Choose an Inventor-Friendly Industry for Licensing

Before you begin reaching out to companies, it's important to understand what industries are inventor-friendly for licensing — and why. Some industries have a long history of working with outside inventors. Others have more barriers, stricter requirements, and a much lower tolerance for risk. Understanding those differences can help you focus your efforts where you're most likely to succeed instead of pursuing opportunities that were never a good fit. In this video, you'll learn: • Why some indu

Launch Your Product: What Inventors Leave Out of Their Provisional Patent Application

Are you writing your own provisional patent application? This is what a leading patent agent says inventors leave out of their provisional patent application! In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key and registered patent agent Kevin Prince explain what to include in your provisional patent application — and why you shouldn't rely on it without having a patent professional review it. Many inventors write their own provisional patent applications to save money. Stephen and Kevin discuss what

Launch Your Product: How to Turn an Idea Into a BILLION Dollar Business feat. Don Brown

How do you turn an idea into a product that sells 10 million units and a business that makes a billion dollars? Stephen Key sits down with Don Brown, the legendary inventor of the Ab Roller, to reveal how he sold over 10 million units of one of the best-selling fitness products of all time. Don shares marketing strategies, costly mistakes, manufacturing tips, how to test your idea without wasting money, and what really matters when launching a product. Thank you, QuickPatents, for sponsoring thi

Launch Your Product: Will a Patent Help You Sell an Idea to a Company?

*Will a patent help you sell an idea to a company?* In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key and registered patent agent Kevin Prince explain when patents matter to companies — and why the answer depends on your product, your industry, and your licensing strategy. Many inventors assume they need an issued patent before approaching companies. In reality, some companies require patent protection, while others care more about getting innovative products to market quickly. Stephen and Kevin dis

Launch Your Product: The Truth About Reaching Companies With a New Product

Do you have a great product idea but don’t know how to get it in front of the right companies? In this episode, Stephen Key is joined by Dana Knowles to reveal exactly what goes on behind the scenes in inventRight’s Gateway program. You’ll discover how the Gators—Dana’s team—do the heavy lifting to research, vet, and contact companies on your behalf. They’ll show you what the reports look like, the level of detail involved, and why transparency is key to building trust between inventors and the

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Product: How This Couple Licensed Their Invention

Join Stephen Key on inventRightTV as he interviews Craig and Denise, the creators of Fish Fly - an innovative outdoor game that proves great products can succeed even during challenging times. When COVID hit right after their successful Toy Fair presentation, most companies went silent. But instead of giving up, they doubled down on their vision and ultimately secured a licensing deal. 🎯 What You'll Learn: How to navigate product licensing during economic uncertainty The power of effective sell

Launch Your Product: Gateway Match: The Easiest Way to Connect Your Ideas With Companies

Invented a new product? Tired of chasing companies to get them to look at it? Try Gateway Match from inventRight. Gateway Match is a new free 90-day program from inventRight that showcases your product ideas directly to companies seeking innovations. Instead of chasing companies with pitches, your ideas are displayed where decision-makers can discover and contact you. This is product licensing made practical. Companies get access to vetted ideas, and inventors get found without the hustle. Gatew

Launch Your Product: How to Sell an Idea to Big Companies — and Actually Get Paid

Submit your product to Gateway: https://inventright.com/go/h3c0kwlZUVp5 Do you have a big idea and want to work with billion-dollar companies? In this video, you’ll learn the exact strategies to sell your idea to massive corporations and actually get paid. Discover how to research the right companies, build a strong team, understand costs, protect yourself with intellectual property, create marketing materials that wow, and budget for the long game. If you’ve ever dreamed of licensing your produ

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Product: How They Found a Better Market

*From idea to product, launching is just the beginning.* Daniel and Chris worked with the inventRight team to take their idea from concept to a patented product. Along the way, they learned that launching wasn't the finish line—it was the beginning. Customer feedback, trade shows, and real-world experience led them to discover a better market for their invention. In this interview, they share what it really takes to develop, manufacture, launch, and evolve a new product. If you're working on an

Launch Your Product: Can Your Idea Be Patented? Here's How to Find Out

Can your idea actually be patented? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key and registered patent agent Kevin Prince explain why searching for prior art is one of the most important steps before filing a patent application. Many inventors assume their idea is new—only to discover someone else patented a similar concept years ago. Stephen and Kevin explain what prior art is, how to search for it yourself, what makes an idea patentable, and why understanding prior art can save you thousands

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Business: How She Launched a New Beverage Brand

How do you launch a new beverage brand without a bunch of money? Discover how entrepreneur and designer Julie broke into the competitive beverage industry with her award-winning low-calorie cocktails, BeTini. In this inspiring interview with Stephen Key, Julie shares her journey from concept to shelf, how unique packaging and flavor helped her stand out, and the challenges of navigating laws, distribution, and marketing. Learn valuable tips on product design, patents, branding, and getting retai

Launch Your Product: Should You Get a Patent? Here's How to Decide

When does it make sense to get a patent? Should you get a patent on your idea? Here's how to decide. In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key and registered patent agent Kevin Prince explain how to decide whether filing a patent makes financial sense — and why the answer is not always obvious. Many people assume every good idea needs a patent. In reality, the decision depends on your goals, your market, your budget, and how you plan to make money from your idea. Stephen and Kevin discuss pr

Launch Your Product: How Jeff Launched His First Product With No Prior Experience

Have a product idea but don’t know where to start? 🚗💡 Watch this inspiring interview with inventor Jeff, who turned a simple winter problem into a powerful multi-functional car tool — the Icy Light. From scraping ice in the dark with a library card in Alaska to creating a patented all-in-one car safety companion now heading to store shelves nationwide, Jeff shares every step of his 18-year journey. Hosted by Stephen Key on InventRightTV, this episode covers: • How Jeff went from fishing in Ala

Launch Your Product: Got an Idea? Let inventRight Help You Move It Forward

Have a product idea but not sure what to do next? Get expert feedback from the licensing pros at inventRight—for free. In this quick video, Stephen Key explains how you can schedule a free call with our team to get expert eyes on your invention and help you move forward. Whether you’re stuck, need direction, or just want to know if your idea has potential, we’re here to help. No strings attached. 📞 Book your free call today: https://inventright.com/contact/ 🔗 Learn more at inventRight.com #Ste

Launch Your Product: How to get companies to license your ideas

Looking for a better way to sell your idea to companies? In this video, inventor and entrepreneur Stephen Key introduces Gateway Match, a new platform built exclusively for inventRight alumni that helps companies discover your products for licensing.. Instead of spending all your time searching for the right companies, Gateway Match lets you showcase your sell sheet to companies already looking for new ideas. Your product stays visible year-round while inventRight actively encourages companies i

Launch Your Product: How to Choose the Right Company to License Your Product

Choosing the right company to license your product is one of the most important decisions you'll make during the licensing process. The company you partner with can influence how your product is developed, marketed, and supported — and ultimately how successful it becomes. That's why evaluating potential licensing partners goes far beyond company size or brand recognition. In this video, Stephen Key and Andrew Krauss discuss what inventors should look for when building a target company list and

Launch Your Product: Your Gateway to 900 Open Innovation Companies: Inside inventRight’s Secret Weapon

Are companies ignoring your product pitches? 🎯 In this powerful episode, Stephen Key sits down with Dana Knowles — the Gateway Queen — to uncover the real reasons it's harder than ever to get your product in front of decision-makers and what you can do about it. Dana has helped get into 800+ companies, and she shares insider tips on building relationships, handling rejection with grace, and how inventRight’s Gateway Program does the heavy lifting for you. Have a product that companies should kn

Launch Your Product: How to Sell an Idea to a Company the Right Way

What is the right way to sell an idea to a company? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key and Dana Knowles, Director at inventRight Gateway, explain why good product ideas get rejected—and why it often has nothing to do with the quality of the idea itself. Many entrepreneurs and inventors assume companies evaluate ideas the same way they do. In reality, companies are thinking about product fit, manufacturing, pricing, customers, and whether your idea belongs in their product line. Stephe

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Walmart: The Story Behind This Hot New Product

How do you go from having an idea to retailing it in Walmart? Meet Rick Kellow, the inventor, entrepreneur, CEO behind the Great Plate. Their mission is to provide a family-friendly plate that allows for convenient, entertaining and spill-free eating in every setting. Find out how Rick turned his idea into a product selling in the world's biggest retailer. Visit: https://www.greatplate.com/ Proudly made in the USA, GreatPlate® fuels over 50 American businesses, strengthens communities, and keeps

Launch Your Product: How Maria Turned a Simple Product Idea Into Sales Nationwide

How do you turn a simple idea into a product selling nationwide? Ever had a wreath stolen or blown away from your door? Meet Maria Dalmolin, a first-time inventor who created the world’s first anti-theft wreath hook — a simple yet powerful solution to a surprisingly common problem. In this interview with entrepreneur Stephen Key, Maria shares her inspiring journey from a wreath-making hobby to securing multiple patents and launching a product that's helping homeowners across the country. Check o

Launch Your Product: Don’t Wait for Change — Build Your Future with Product Licensing

Do you have ideas for new products? Build your future with product licensing! Selling an idea to a company is simpler than starting a business. In this video, Stephen Key explains why waiting for your career to change in our new AI-forward world may be the wrong approach. Instead of reacting after the fact, he shares another path: Learning how to sell an idea to a company while keeping your current job. Also known as product licensing! If you've ever looked at a product and thought, "I could do

Launch Your Product: The Fastest Way to Launch or License Your Product Idea

Contact Marc Portney at https://marcportney.com #ideas #productlaunch #licensing License your ideas, inventions, and products with the help of inventRight. Find out how by calling +1 (650) 793-1477 or emailing support@inventright.com. Do you have the next big hit? New to the licensing business model? Educate yourself first. — Read “One Simple Idea”: amzn.to/4fwVVOT — Explore inventRight’s Free Inventor Resources: bit.ly/3AaGko2 About Stephen Key, inventRight Cofounder Stephen Key is an award-win

Launch Your Product: How to Pitch an Idea Companies Actually Read

How do you pitch an idea to a company that they actually read? What should you do and not do when pitching an idea for licensing? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key and Dana Knowles, Director at inventRight Gateway, explain the biggest mistakes inventors make when pitching an idea for a product to companies — and how to avoid them. Most inventors think they need to explain every feature, every detail, and every step behind their invention. In reality, that's often why companies stop r

Launch Your Product: How He Turned a Simple Idea Into a Recurring Revenue Business

How do you turn a simple idea into a recurring revenue business? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews inventor and entrepreneur Rob Poleki, inventor of Washie and inventRight member who first pursued product licensing before ultimately building the company himself. After a frustrating experience in an airport restroom with his young son, Rob identified a problem millions of people encounter every day. When licensing didn't work out, he pivoted and built the business himself.

Launch Your Product: How Anthony Turned His Hobby (Watches) Into Making Money

How do you turn a hobby into a business that makes money? In this interview, inventRight co-founder Stephen Key sits down with Anthony Mendoza, a retired Army Major who transformed his passion for watch repair into a successful product business. Anthony shares how he identified a gap in the market, prototyped a hand-operated watch cleaning machine, navigated overseas manufacturing, and achieved strong sales—all while learning through YouTube and inventRightTV. Anthony, thank you for your service

Launch Your Product: What Ideas Are Companies Looking for Right Now?

What ideas are companies looking for right now? What kind of ideas do they want to license? Many inventors assume that if they have a good idea, the right company will automatically be interested. But one of the biggest lessons we've learned from working with companies is that not every company is looking for the same thing. In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews Dana Knowles, Director at inventRight Gateway, about a surprising discovery the Gateway team has made while talking

Launch Your Product: How Jeff Built a Business Inventing, Patenting & Selling New Products

How do you build your first business? How do build your first business after spending years designing new products for others? In this episode, Stephen Key interviews inventor and medical industrial designer Jeff Stearns, the founder of Bullseye Brace, who turned his passion for helping people in pain into a successful medical device business. Learn how Jeff developed orthopedic braces, navigated manufacturing overseas, protected his products, and launched a physical product without a massive te

Launch Your Product: How Erik Turned His Simple Idea Into a Thriving Business

From city guy to "lazy farmer" turned successful inventor, Erik Diedrichsen shares how a simple idea to feed backyard chickens more efficiently turned into a booming business with products in major farm retail stores across the U.S. In this episode, Stephen Key dives deep into Erik’s journey—how he designed his chicken feeder, protected it from knockoffs, found U.S. manufacturing, and grew his brand without a background in product development. Whether you're an inventor, entrepreneur, or backyar

Launch Your Product: How inventRight Gets Products in Front of Companies

How does inventRight get products in front of companies and responses? Many inventors spend months contacting companies, sending product pitches, and following up, only to hear nothing back. In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews Dana Knowles, Director of Gateway at inventRight, about one of the biggest challenges in invention licensing: Getting your product in front of the right companies and the people who can actually make decisions. Dana shares how the inventRight Gateway t

Launch Your Product: How He Turned an Unlikely Idea Into Major Licensing Deals

How do you turn an unlikely idea into major licensing deals? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews entrepreneur and former inventRight coach Howie Busch, creator of DudeRobe — a product Stephen originally told him not to pursue. What started as a simple idea to create a robe that guys would actually want to wear eventually became a successful consumer brand. Along the way, Howie launched on Kickstarter, appeared on Shark Tank, secured licensing deals with the NBA, UFC, and Uni

Launch Your Product: Tell the world about your product! Free media for entrepreneurs

If you’ve got a great product idea and you’ve done all the hard work—protected it, created inventory, and even started selling—but you’re struggling to get the exposure you need, this video is for you! How to apply to be featured on inventRightTV: Email youtube@inventright.com with a link to where your product is selling and two or three sentences about yourself. Our Co-founder, Stephen Key, explains why media exposure is critical for creating demand and how coming on inventRightTV could be the

Launch Your Product: How She Turned a Simple Idea Into a Product Sold Nationwide

How do you turn a simple idea into a product sold nationwide? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews inventor and entrepreneur Kim Meckwood, creator of Click & Carry, a simple device designed to make carrying multiple bags easier and more comfortable. What started as frustration carrying groceries to her condo eventually became a patented product featured on Shark Tank and sold through major retailers including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Pavilions, Tractor Supply, Walmart.com,

Launch Your Product: How Aaron Turns His Ideas For Products Into Passive Income

How did a simple glow stick idea turn into a licensed product? In this inspiring interview, inventor Aaron shares how he went from pitching pet toys to closing a licensing deal in the birthday candle industry — thanks to persistence and inventRight’s Bridging the Gap program. Hosted by Stephen Key, this episode is packed with tips for new inventors, trade show advice, and the power of simple ideas that spark joy. Have a product that companies should know about? Not sure what to do next to licens

Launch Your Product: Reset Your Mind to Unlock Better Product Ideas

Join Courtney on a rejuvenating trip to the Big Island of Hawaii as she shares how taking a break from your routine can spark creativity and help you reconnect with your product licensing goals. Discover the power of mindfulness, market research, and working in cycles to fuel long-term success in inventing and licensing. Have a product that companies should know about? Not sure what to do next to license or increase sales of your product? Apply to inventRight's Gateway Program — we are experts i

Launch Your Product: How He Turned an Idea Into a Product Companies Want

How do you turn an idea into a product a company wants to license? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews inventor Chad Parks, a former Air Force service-member who won a six-month inventRight coaching scholarship for military veterans and later turned his invention into a licensed product. After being seriously injured while setting a hunting trap, Chad decided there had to be a better way. He built multiple prototypes, created a simple demonstration video, and reached out to

Launch Your Product: How Jason Sold 100 Million Units of One Product!

How do you sell over 100 million units of a product without any experience in business? Meet Jason Koo, the inventor of the KooClip, who went from a 16-year-old dreamer to a global success story. In this incredible interview with Stephen Key, Jason reveals his rollercoaster journey—from stockbroker to broke entrepreneur to multi-million unit seller. He shares how he broke into retail, overcame rejection, funded his orders, protected his inventions, and why he never gave up. Check out Jason's new

Launch Your Product: How to Stop Companies From Working Around Your Patent

Can a company legally work around your patent? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews patent attorney & intellectual property litigator Erik Belt of McCarter & English about one of the biggest misunderstandings inventors have about patent protection — & how companies design around patents every day. Many inventors assume a patent automatically stops copycats. But as Erik explains, patent claims, workarounds, & strategic patent drafting play a much bigger role than most people r

Launch Your Product: How I Pitched My Games to Publishers (Behind the Scenes at Dice Tower West)

How do you pitch a new game to a publisher? Join Courtney as she takes you inside Dice Tower West, one of the biggest game conventions in Nevada! With over 3,000 attendees and a game library of over 6,000 games, this event is a paradise for game designers and board game enthusiasts alike. In this video, you'll learn: -How to pitch your game to publishers at a speed pitching event -How to effectively demo and teach your game -Tips for engaging players and creating a smooth game experience -How to

Launch Your Product: How They Turned a Simple Idea Into a Viral Product Business

How do you turn a simple product idea into a successful business? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews entrepreneurs Adrian and Alex, inventors of Blend Blaster — a blender accessory designed to add completely new functions to everyday blenders, including washing produce, chilling drinks, and making cold brew coffee in minutes. What started as a simple frustration on a hot day eventually became a patented consumer product, a growing online business, and a viral social media s

Launch Your Product: 7 Mistakes Inventors Make When Pitching Companies (And How to Fix Them!)

If you're making these common mistakes when contacting companies, you're setting yourself up for rejection—even if your product is amazing. In this must-watch episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key is joined by Dana Knowles, to break down exactly what not to do when pitching your invention. They’ve seen it all—confusing videos, long-winded emails, missing contact info, typos, and yes… attachments no one can open! Have a product that companies should know about? Not sure what to do next to license

Launch Your Product: How to Turn an Idea Into a Manufactured Product

How do you turn an idea into a real manufactured product in China? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews Guillaume Cheneau, founder of BSense, about what it takes to design a product for manufacturing & mass production. Guillaume explains why product companies think about manufacturing, tooling, materials, production costs, & scalability from the very beginning — before expensive mistakes happen. You’ll learn how products go from idea to production, what manufacturers look for

Launch Your Product: How to Evaluate Companies That Want to Buy Your Idea

Are you selling your invention idea to the right company? The technical term is licensing. In this video, Stephen Key and Dana Knowles dive into how to evaluate whether a company is truly the right fit for your invention idea. Even if a company shows interest in licensing your invention idea/product, there are key factors to consider: their culture, responsiveness, distribution, and overall potential. Dana shares how to navigate negotiations and avoid being overly difficult while making sure you

Launch Your Product: Everyone Said This Invention Wouldn’t Work — He Proved Them Wrong

How do inventors come up with breakthrough ideas that change an industry? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews Dr. Sargon Lazarof about how a simple insight led to inventing a completely different approach to dental implants — one that allows patients to walk in with a bad tooth & leave with a working replacement the same day. What started as a frustrating problem turned into a patented medical invention, FDA approval & a technology that challenged the traditional way dentist

Launch Your Product: How He Turned a Simple Idea Into a Disney Product at Target

How do simple product ideas turn into licensed products sold at major retailers like Target? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews entrepreneur Robert Rosenberg about how he turned a simple idea into a Disney-licensed product sold at Target stores nationwide. A fast retail request evolved into a new product category featuring character-shaped snacks, movie theater popcorn kits, and licensed food products designed to stand out on store shelves. Learn more about Fan Foods: https

Launch Your Product: When a company wants to buy your idea, do this next

In this video, Stephen Key and Dana Knowles dive deep into what to do after you make contact with a company that shows interest in your invention. From promptly sending your sell sheet and video to knowing when to follow up and how to handle NDAs, Dana shares real-world advice to keep your licensing conversations moving forward. Learn the critical steps to maintain momentum, build trust, and eventually get that licensing deal! Have a product that companies should know about? Not sure what to do

Launch Your Product: How Dimitry Turned a Simple Idea Into a Product Selling Worldwide

How do you turn an idea into a successful product? In this episode of inventRightTV, co-founder Stephen Key sits down with inventor and entrepreneur Dimitry Boss to discuss his inventive journey and the launch of his clever new product — Genie Cone, a customizable and patent-protected hair accessory that’s already turning heads. Dmitri opens up about his creative process, how he was inspired by his late father’s product from the 1980s, and how he modernized it with interchangeable, customizable

Launch Your Product: How He Turned a Handmade Card Game Into a Licensing Deal

How did a college student help turn a handmade card game into a licensed product? In this episode, Stephen Key speaks with Max Gelbert, co-creator of Spellio, a fast word-based card game designed to make spelling more fun and accessible. Max shares how the game started with simple note cards, Canva mockups, and handmade copies before moving into local toy stores and eventually a licensing relationship with Jazzwares. In this inventRightTV interview, Max explains what happened when he and his par

Launch Your Product: The WRONG companies to sell your ideas

Stephen Key and Dana Knowles discuss why pitching your invention ideas to the wrong companies can waste your time and damage your chances of licensing success. Dana explains the red flags to watch for when researching companies to approach, including warning signs like missing websites, lack of contact options, or companies demanding only patented ideas. They also discuss how to vet a company's reputation and why doing this homework is essential. Have a product that companies should know about?

Launch Your Product: How He Cut Product Development From Months to Weeks

What does it really take to manufacture overseas without wasting time & money? Stephen Key speaks with Paul, founder of 2XSR, about creating a multifunctional weighted training vest that holds barbell plates, sand plates & a hydration pack. With no background in product development, business, finance, marketing or intellectual property, Paul moved from Toronto to Vietnam to work with manufacturers. Paul explains why he chose Vietnam, how a prototype changed the way factories treated him & why be

Launch Your Product: How They Scaled a Product While Dealing With Tariffs and Copycats

How do you launch an inflatable truck topper when the first sample looks like a bouncy house? In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key talks with Ryan Guay from Flated about how his team used inflatable paddleboard technology to create automotive products, including a truck topper, Air-Deck & rooftop cargo box. Ryan explains how the idea started during the pandemic, why the team tested samples for over a year before selling, & how they worked through manufacturing, fitment, patents, marketin

Launch Your Product: How to identify the right companies to pitch your ideas

Join Stephen Key and Dana Knowles as they dive deep into how to identify the right companies to pitch your invention ideas to. In this insightful chat, Dana shares step-by-step strategies for finding brands, assessing subcategories, and why thorough research is key to getting a licensing deal. Discover how the Gateway program helps inventors by doing the legwork to ensure your product is pitched to companies that are a perfect fit. Have a product that companies should know about? Not sure what t

Launch Your Product: Don’t File That Patent Yet! Do This FIRST Instead

Are you rushing to patent your idea or spend thousands on a prototype — before knowing if anyone even wants it? In this straight-talking episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key reveals the most common mistake inventors make: doing the easy stuff first and putting off the most important step — selling the benefit. Learn why licensing success starts with understanding the real value of your product idea and how to test the market before investing a dime. Have a product that companies should know abo

Launch Your Product: How He Licensed His Invention to a BIG Company After 17 Years

How do you turn a product idea into a licensing deal after 17 years of setbacks? In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key talks with Shawn Coleman, inventor of ModCan, a modular hazardous-waste packaging system designed to fit more efficiently inside a 55-gallon drum. Shawn saw the problem firsthand in the lab industry: standard containers left drums mostly empty, creating wasted space, higher disposal costs, and operational inefficiency. Shawn explains what it actually took to move from ide

Launch Your Product: How They’re Building a Product Line to Get Into Retail

Trying to fund your next product? It’s harder than it looks, even after early success. Watch Stephen Key interview two entrepreneurs who already have a successful BBQ product called the Turbo Trusser, a Shark Tank deal, and growing retail traction, but are now facing a new challenge: How to fund and launch their next product. Support their Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/turbotrusser/turbo-trusser-smoke-n-griddle-patented-2-in-1-dome Check out the Turbo Trusser: https://www.kic

Launch Your Product: Q&A With Stephen Key and Andrew Krauss, inventRight Cofounders

Join Andrew Krauss and Stephen Key, co-founders of Inventor Groups of America (IGA), as they tackle the real-world challenges faced by inventors and entrepreneurs. From turning ideas into successful products to avoiding common licensing pitfalls, this session covers it all! Dana Nolles and Kevin Prince join to offer additional strategies and patent insights. Don’t miss this deep dive into licensing, pitching, and taking your inventions to market! 00:00 - Welcome & Introductions 01:10 - What is I

Launch Your Product: How He Licensed a Simple Idea After 100+ Rejections

How do you turn an invention into a real product business when licensing fails the first time? In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key talks with Dennis Diener, creator of Moodle Mates, a line of aromatherapy scented plush products, and inventor of the Quad Highlighter, a licensed product that has sold 700,000 units in about a year and a half. Dennis shares what happened when he tried to license his plush concept, why he chose to manufacture it himself, and how feedback from Kickstarter bac

Launch Your Product: 4 Licensing Traps to Avoid-Or You'll Be in Tears!

You finally landed a licensing agreement -congratulations! But be careful, because hidden pitfalls could cost you big time. Navigating a licensing deal takes skill and experience, and if you don't get it right, you might regret it. Don't make these mistakes!

Launch Your Product: Don’t Make These Rookie Mistakes When Selling Your Ideas!

In this video, I'm going to reveal the real reasons why companies might not want to work with you. I know it's frustrating when you're just starting out, but if you make these mistakes, they'll never take you seriously. Learn what to avoid so you can increase your chances of success!

Launch Your Product: How He Turned a Simple Idea Into $2 Million in Sales

How did a simple stock tank cover go from zero to more than $2 million in sales in just two years? In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key talks with Nick Norman of Polar Protector about what it actually took to turn a simple product idea into a real business. Nick saw a gap on Amazon when he could not find a cover for a stock tank used for cold plunges, designed a solution, patented the design, found overseas manufacturers, and launched with less than $2,500. For anyone building a physical

Launch Your Product: Gateway Explained: Get Your Product in Front of 10 Target Companies

Submit your product to Gateway: https://inventright.com/go/h3c0kwlZUVp5 Do you have a product idea you want to license, but you’re not sure how to approach companies the right way? In this video, Stephen Key explains how inventRight’s Gateway program helps inventors present their ideas professionally to companies looking for new products. If you’ve already spent time and money on your idea, prototype, or intellectual property, Gateway is designed to help you avoid costly mistakes and get your id

Launch Your Product: How to Turn a Simple Idea Into a Worldwide Product

In this video, you'll learn two powerful lessons: the importance of building relationships and never giving up. When no one wanted to license her idea, she took matters into her own hands— marketing and selling it herself. Now, it's a big hit!

Launch Your Product: From Idea to 7 Patents & Selling in Ace Hardware: How She Got It Done

In this video, we'll share the incredible story of a female captain who came up with a game-changing idea, protected it, marketed it, and got it into Ace Hardware. She reinvented the way to catch shrimp—don't miss her inspiring journey!

Launch Your Product: How She Turned a Niche Idea Into a Deal With Margaritaville

How do you turn a niche water sports idea into a product families actually want to use? In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key talks with Juliette Clark of TANDM Surf about how a simple idea — making surfing easier, more inviting, and more fun for two people — turned into a real product and business. This episode is not just about who she is. It’s about what viewers can learn from the decisions behind the product: sketching the concept, finding manufacturers, testing early versions in the

Launch Your Product: The #1 Thing You Need to Pitch an Idea to a Company

In this video, we're diving into the essentials of pitching your idea. We'll cover key things to watch out for and, most importantly, the one crucial step you must take to increase your chances of success. Don't miss it!

Launch Your Product: Don't Waste Time and Money Manufacturing a Product! Do This Instead

When manufacturing a product, how and why do people waste money and time, and how do you avoid it? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews Guillaume Cheneau, founder of B-Sense, to break down the most common (and costly) mistakes inventors make when moving from product development into production—especially when working with overseas manufacturers. If you’re thinking about manufacturing in China or using platforms like Alibaba, many decisions that seem cost-effective early on—li

Launch Your Product: How a Simple Idea Turned Into a Product That’s Sold for 8 Years

How do you turn a simple idea into a real product that keeps selling? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews Chris (founder of Crazy Dad / Scrape and Save) about how he turned a simple problem—getting the last bit out of jars and cans—into a patented product sold on Amazon for over 8 years. If you’ve ever thought, “This idea is so simple—why hasn’t anyone done it?” this interview shows what actually goes into bringing that idea to life. What looks obvious in hindsight took year

Launch Your Product: Want a Licensing Deal! 5 Questions You Must Answer Correctly!

In this video, I'll break down the five key questions a potential licensee will ask— and why you need to have the right answers. Don't get caught off guard and miss your chance. Be prepared and make the best impression!

Launch Your Product: How He Took an Idea to Market by Selling Before It Existed

What does it really take to bring a product to market? In this interview, Stephen Key talks with inventor Vance Zahorski, founder of Line Cutterz (featured on Shark Tank) and Thread Cutterz, about how he turned a simple idea into a global product sold in major retailers like Walmart. See the products Vance created at Line Cutterz and Thread Cutterz: www.linecutterz.com www.threadcutterz.com Vance shares the moment that sparked his invention—a dangerous fishing accident—and how it led to creating

Launch Your Product: Patent Attorneys EXPOSED: What They Don’t Want You To Know!

When launching a new product, protecting your idea is crucial-but choosing the right patent attorney can make all the difference. In this video, we reveal key pitfalls to watch out for and how to avoid costly mistakes. Don't miss these important insights!

Launch Your Product: How She Manufactured 1,000 Units With No Experience

Struggling to solve a real problem but unsure how to turn it into a product? In this interview, Stephen Key talks with Danielle Canter, who created the Crown Lift Insert System—a new product designed to prevent head drop in pillows. After experiencing severe discomfort due to a neck condition, Danielle tested multiple pillows without success and then decided to design and commercialize her own solution. Learn how she turned her idea into a product despite having no prior product development expe

Launch Your Product: She Created a Product in College—Here’s How She Did It

In this video, you'll see how a determined college student started her own company and successfully launched her product-all while balancing school. Despite challenges and setbacks, she pushed through and made it happen. Her journey is truly inspiring!

Launch Your Product: He Earns Passive Income From His Ideas With NO Prototypes

Find out how this young entrepreneur licensed over 50 of his designs in an unexpected industry-without ever building prototypes. His unique approach proves you don't need a factory or a big budget to succeed. Don't miss his incredible story!

Launch Your Product: How She Took an Idea All the Way to a Manufactured Product

How do you take an idea all the way to a manufactured product? In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key talks with Jenny De Leon, who developed a travel solution to fix a real TSA-related pain point. She built prototypes, secured four patents (two utility, two design), and manufactured 1,000 units — but like many inventors, found that selling and distribution are far more difficult than creating the product itself. Learn more about Jenny De Leon and her product here: https://repeatabltravel.

Launch Your Product: This UK Designer Turned His New Character Into Merch

Discover how this UK entrepreneur built his company from the ground up with minimal funds. Now, he's successfully licensing his characters, turning his creative vision into a thriving business. Watch his inspiring journey unfold!

Launch Your Product: How She Took a Niche Product from Idea to Amazon Sales

Some of the best inventions come from real life—when you need a solution now. In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key talks with Laura, a mom who faced a difficult at-home problem and turned it into a simple, practical product called “Naked No More.” Laura shares how she dialed in the design through hands-on trial and error, built a working prototype, and then figured out manufacturing, protection, and sales channels—so parents can quickly find a solution through Amazon, Etsy, or her websit

Launch Your Product: How She Turned a $5 Prototype Into a Product That’s Sold for 20 Years

Why do some physical products sell—even when they’re not perfect—while others fail despite heavy investment? In this interview, Stephen Key talks with Julie Austin, who created a simple hands-free water bottle after a personal problem led to a real need. She built her first prototype for $5, manufactured locally, and got into retail stores despite imperfect packaging and design. Over time, she learned hard lessons about retail placement, product education, and why demand creation matters more th

Launch Your Product: How to Patent an Idea: Fast Track Your Patent Application

When launching a new product, securing your patent quickly is crucial to staying ahead of the competition. In this video, you'll learn the essential steps to expedite the process and avoid costly delays. Don't miss this must-watch guide to getting your patent issued fast!

Launch Your Product: How She Turned a Simple Idea Into a Product That Sells Itself

What does it actually take to turn a real-world problem into a product that sells — while managing manufacturing, inventory, and growth? In this interview, Stephen Key talks with Christina Collura, an elementary school teacher who created a chalkboard-based puzzle product to help children develop fine motor skills. After seeing the challenge firsthand in her classroom — and with her own son — she built a simple prototype, sourced a manufacturer, and took the risk of ordering inventory herself. L

Launch Your Product: Bringing Characters to Life: From Idea to Merchandise & Licensing

Have you created a character and dreamed of turning it into something bigger? This designer from the UK did just that-transforming his original characters into merchandise and selling them everywhere, from plush toys to apparel. And it doesn't stop there-he's even landed licensing deals! Watch to learn how he made it happen and how you can bring your own characters to life.

Launch Your Product: Inspiration Can Come from Anywhere —Even Your Cat!

Great ideas often come from unexpected places. In this interview, Jamaal shares how his cat sparked the idea for his product, turning a simple moment into a business opportunity. Learn how he brought his idea to life, launched his product, and is now successfully selling online. Watch now to get inspired and see how creativity can lead to success!

Launch Your Product: He spent $600,000 on patents. Was it worth it?

Most great inventions start with a real problem. For contractor Beau Sitzmann, that problem was physical pain from years of demanding construction work. Watch entrepreneur Stephen Key interview Beau about how one exhausting night on a job site led to a powerful invention idea. While working late on a tile floor one Christmas Eve, Beau realized he had been supporting his entire body weight on one arm for hours. When his arm went numb, he had a simple but powerful thought: What if I had a third ar

Launch Your Product: How This Simple Product Is Breaking Amazon and Shopify Records

Most inventors believe their product is the star of the show. But according to serial entrepreneur Tom Mitchell, that mindset can actually hurt your chances of success. In this interview, Stephen Key talks with Tom about his invention—the Dex Fingerlight—and the surprising lessons he learned while bringing it to market. From designing a prototype to ordering 10,000 units for the first production run, Tom shares the real challenges of manufacturing, marketing, and building a new product category.

Launch Your Product: License or Manufacture? Which Path is Right for You?

Bringing a product to market isn't one-size-fits-all. Do you license your idea or manufacture it yourself? Sometimes, it comes down to your personality-how much control you want, the time you have, and your experience level. In this interview, Stephen sits down with Matt Butler to discuss his entrepreneurial journey. What's really amazing? He started this while serving in the military! Tune in to hear his inspiring story and learn how to choose the right path for your product.

Launch Your Product: Got a Dream? Start Today!

Every great journey begins somewhere. If you're a creative person with a big idea, this is the video for you! Steve shares how he launched his product from home and turned his passion into something bigger-now inspiring kids through books, cartoons, and more. You just have to dream. Watch and get inspired!

Launch Your Product: How He Turned One Product Into a Hands-Off Business

What does it take for a simple physical product to keep selling for nearly 20 years? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key interviews entrepreneur Gary, creator of the Super Peel — a deceptively simple kitchen product that has generated long-term sales through licensing, manufacturing partnerships, catalogs, Amazon distribution, and word of mouth. Learn more about Greg and his product here: https://superpeel.com/ Gary shares how a personal problem turned into a patented product, why his

Launch Your Product: Selling on Amazon? Beware of Copycats!

You've got a great product, sales are going strong, and then-bam! A copycat shows up. Don't get discouraged! In this interview with Brendan, you'll learn exactly how to fight back and protect your business. Discover one of the most powerful intellectual property tools you need to stop copycats online and keep your sales growing. Tune in to get the insights you need to defend your brand!

Launch Your Product: He Launched a Product Line — Then Inventory Became the Hard Part

What does it really take to launch a physical product that people actually buy — and keep improving it as the business grows? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key talks with Jimmy, founder of Joe & Bella, about building a product company around real customer needs, data-driven design, and continuous product iteration. Find Joe & Bella at: https://joeandbella.com/ After witnessing a painful everyday problem while helping care for a family member, Jimmy set out to create clothing that com

Launch Your Product: What It Really Takes to Get a Product Manufactured

What does it really take to turn a creative idea into a manufactured physical product — and keep moving forward even when the path changes? In this episode of inventRightTV, Stephen Key talks with Greg, creator of SurfBand Pro (now SafeBand Pro), a wearable dispensing device designed to deliver sunscreen, sanitizer, and other protective solutions directly from your wrist. Visit: https://surfbandpro.com/ Greg shares how a personal frustration during COVID sparked the idea, and how the journey qui

Launch Your Product: From Your Garage

Got a product idea but want to start slow? In this interview with Lowell, we dive into how he turned his idea into a reality— starting right in his garage. Learn how he used 3D printing to manufacture his product, the steps he took to grow his business, and how he's now successfully selling online. Whether you're just starting out or looking for inspiration, this conversation is packed with valuable insights!

Launch Your Product: What Does it Take to Create a Hit Toy?

Stephen interviews inventRight coach Martin Lombardini, who shares the story of how he created a hit toy. Martin explains that some ideas are more challenging to license than others and discusses how he pivoted to develop what he believes is an evergreen toy—a product that continues to sell year after year!

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Product: Why He Decided to License After Launching

Inventing a product is one thing. Getting companies to respond to you about licensing it is another. In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key sits down with inventor Logan, the creator of AutoEars—an innovative electronic hearing protection headset that turns on and off automatically. Find Logan's product at https://autoears.com Logan shares the full behind-the-scenes journey of bringing his invention to life, from identifying a real market need to developing a working solution after 12 desi

Launch Your Product: What Does it Take to Start a Business?

What do you do when you have a hit toy? It’s not as simple as it seems. David Beker shares with Stephen the challenges and triumphs of managing a hit toy. From navigating inventory control to keeping the retail pipeline stocked, the process is more complex than you might expect. David tells his story!

Launch Your Product: How He Licensed 6 Products to One Company

What does it take to license an idea for a new product & how many companies do you actually need to contact before you get a yes? Stephen Key interviews a former NYPD officer who licensed a six-product line in the storage solutions category. Over roughly two years, Frank built a list of 45 companies, reached out to 38, made contact with 36, & had 30 companies agree to review his sell sheet. He followed up as many as 21 times with a single contact & tracked every response. From first contact to s

Launch Your Product: She Sold 8,000 Units In 6 Hours — Then Had to Scale

What happens when your product suddenly starts selling and now you have to scale? Learn what it really takes to move from an idea to a physical product selling online and in retail stores with the founder of the Tick Mitt. She discusses how tariffs affected manufacturing costs, why retail packaging is different from direct-to-consumer packaging, and how margins shift when selling to stores instead of online. Topics covered in this interview include: Working with overseas manufacturers and testin

Launch Your Product: What It Takes to Sell 7 Million Products?

Where do you manufacture your product? Rick Kellow shares insights into his decision to manufacture his product in the United States. He also discusses the costs involved in producing the molds and how feedback from one of his online retailers inspired his next big product success. To date, Rick has sold over 7 million GreatPlates!

Launch Your Product: From Testing A New Idea to Protecting and Sell It.

Meet Al Smith Jr.,a prolific, inventor and entrepreneur whose passion for fitness drives his innovative spirit. Al is the creator of the F2 Training System and a range of other fitness related products. As a true garage inventor, he balances his day job as a software architect with evening spent in his garage, crafting new ideas to help people stay, active and healthy. He is eager to share his tried-and-true strategies for testing ideas, building, prototypes, and successfully selling them online

Launch Your Product: From Idea to Product: How He Licensed His Simple Invention

Can a simple idea really get licensed? Stephen Key of inventRight interviews inventor Allan Shaw about how he took a straightforward idea, protected it, and turned it into a licensed product. Allan shares what mattered most in the licensing process, what surprised him along the way, and what inventors should understand if they want to license their own product. If you’re wondering whether your idea is “too simple” to license — this story is for you. Find Allan's product at https://clipnrip.com A

Launch Your Product: From Connecting With Companies, Negotiating, Protecting & And Getting Paid For Your Ideas!

Stephen Key recently sat down with Kevin Curtis to discuss his remarkable journey, licensing electronics in the automotive industry. For the past 20 years, Kevin has successfully earned royalties and built a living by turning his ideas into profitable deals. During the conversation, Kevin shares his insights into reaching out to companies and negotiating agreements that ensure he gets paid. He emphasizes the importance of crafting offers that are impossible to resist. “Stephen”, Kevin explains

Launch Your Product: Everyone Told Him This Idea Was Too Obvious — He Proved Them Wrong

Many inventors assume they need more money before they can move an idea forward. This conversation challenges that assumption — without pretending money doesn’t matter. Chris shares how a simple idea became a real product now sold in over 20 countries, despite limited resources, no outside funding, and no prior experience in product development or manufacturing. Money was a constraint throughout the process. Instead of letting that stop him, Chris made deliberate tradeoffs — staying employed, us

Launch Your Product: What Selling His Own Invention Taught Him the Hard Way

Can you really take an invention from idea to real sales without a big team, big budget, or perfect plan? In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key sits down with Jeremiah, an inventor who did exactly that. Starting with a simple idea—and no formal background in product development—Jeremiah pushed through prototyping, manufacturing setbacks, quality control issues, and early rejection to get his first product onto a retail shelf and into customers’ hands. Find Jeremiah's product here: https:/

Launch Your Product: How Much Does it Really Cost to Launch a Product?

Ready to bring your big idea to life, but feeling uncertain about the financial roadmap? Stephen Key chats with Ryford Estores, a successful entrepreneur who turned his dream into a multimillion-dollar business, selling in major retailers like Walmart and Amazon. Ryford dives deep until his journey, sharing actionable insights on budgeting, tracking manufacturing costs, scaling up, and navigating the challenges of financing a growing business. This inspiring story is packed with hard earned le

Launch Your Product: How He Launched His First Product All On His Own

What happens after you launch your first product — but realize you can’t scale it any further on your own? In this inventRightTV interview, Stephen Key talks with inventor and solopreneur John Chadwell, who shares the real story of taking an idea from concept to a finished, market-ready product — entirely on his own. John walks through what it actually takes to launch a first product: design decisions, prototyping and iteration, protecting the idea with IP, manufacturing locally in the USA, pack

Launch Your Product: From Prototyping, Patenting, Marketing & Sales!

How do you launch a new product? Stephen Key asked Corky Newcomb! With over 40 products on the market, Corky has turned his passion for sports and into innovative creations like automatic curveballs and lighted footballs, featured worldwide from spring training camps night to golf tournaments in 82 countries.

Launch Your Product: How This Veteran and Firefighter Launched His First Product

How do you turn your ideas into products? What if you want to manufacture and employ people in the United States? Join Stephen Key as he interviews Christopher Cooper, a veteran and retired firefighter who has turned his passion for Airstream trailers into a successful business. Cooper shares his journey from solving storage issues in Airstreams to developing a range of innovative products, selling directly to customers. Learn about his creative process, the importance of customer feedback, and

Launch Your Product: Turning $50 Into A $10 Million Dollar Business

Stephen Key speaks with Mohamed Ali, about how he licensed his technology to companies worldwide, gaining valuable knowledge in manufacturing, marketing, and sales. Along with the royalties he received and with that expertise he started his own successful company in Cairo Egypt, showcasing the power of licensing as a path to entrepreneurial success. Today he’s doing over $10 million of business in Egypt with over 70 products.