Inventor's Edge Podcast

Ari Krzyzek’s journey from Bali to Chicago highlights the power of stepping out of your comfort zone to grow. Originally pursuing graphic design, she transitioned into entrepreneurship with her husband, building a branding and marketing agency serving B2B clients. Along the way, Ari overcame self doubt, leaned into community, and embraced mentorship to find her place and voice.

Today, she not only runs a successful agency but also gives back by mentoring startups and sharing insights through her book Made to Sell. Her story emphasizes clarity in business strategy, especially aligning digital presence with real goals, and shows how resilience and the right mindset can turn unconventional paths into meaningful success.

Key Takeaways:

• Growth often requires leaving comfort and familiar environments

• Community and mentorship accelerate progress and confidence

• Your unique background is an advantage, not a limitation

• Entrepreneurship often evolves from unexpected opportunities

• Clear goals drive effective branding and digital strategy

• Learning from others helps avoid costly mistakes

Connect with Ari - Website & Social Media Links:

Company Website

LinkedIn (Personal)

LinkedIn (Company)

Instagram (Personal)

Instagram (Company)

Book on Amazon: "Made to Sell: Creating Websites that Convert"

At Inventor’s Edge, we offer:

Click here to learn more about all Inventor’s Edge has to offer: https://www.inventors-edge.com

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn and scroll down to check out his testimonials from past clients HERE

Want to connect with like-minded inventors? Join our private Facebook group for inventors HERE

Get started on your own product ideas today with our free guides

🚀IE Scorecard: Is Your Idea Ready?

🚀5 Common Mistakes Inventors Make and How to Avoid Them

🚀5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Get Your Product to Market

Summary:

In this conversation, Nick shares his entrepreneurial journey from a rural upbringing to creating innovative stock tank accessories through his company, Polar Protector. He discusses the importance of execution, understanding customer needs, and the challenges of scaling a business. Nick emphasizes the value of customer feedback in driving innovation and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the significance of persistence and mentorship.

Key Takeaways: 

 Learn about our guest, Nick Norman:

Connect with Nick: LinkedIn HERE

Polar Protector Website

@polarprotector on all social medias

https://www.tiktok.com/@polarprotector

https://www.facebook.com/polarprotectorusa

https://www.instagram.com/polarprotector

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/TankCoverIceWaterTherapy/page/8C357F1D-B5FE-4AD5-B967-A1186EF615EB?ref_=ast_bln

Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PolarProtector

At Inventor’s Edge, we offer:

Click HERE to learn more about all Inventor’s Edge has to offer

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn and scroll down to check out his testimonials from past clients here.

Want to connect with like-minded inventors?

Join our private Facebook group for inventors HERE

👉Get started on your own product ideas today with our free guides:

🚀IE Scorecard: Is Your Idea Ready? Check HERE

🚀5 Common Mistakes Inventors Make and How to Avoid Them: Click HERE

🚀5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Get Your Product to Market: Click HERE 

Summary:

In this conversation, Steve Greenspon shares his entrepreneurial journey, detailing the inception and growth of his company, Honey Can Do. He discusses the importance of understanding market needs, the challenges of product development, and the strategies that led to the company's success. Steve emphasizes the significance of innovation, sustainability, and the role of e-commerce in modern business. He also reflects on his experiences and offers valuable insights for aspiring inventors and entrepreneurs.

Key Takeaways:

- Steve's entrepreneurial journey began with his father's influence

- Honey Can Do was inspired by a gap in the home organization market

- Understanding the market is crucial for product success

- E-commerce was a significant growth avenue for Honey Can Do

- Building relationships with retailers is key to business success

- Innovation doesn't always mean creating something entirely new

- Sustainability and scalability are essential for long-term success

- Patience is necessary when developing new products

- The basics often sell better than complex innovations

- Engaging with the community can provide valuable support and insights.

Learn about our guest, Steve Greenspon:

Board Level Strategic Advisor – Company Founder & CEO | Steering Business Strategy, Accelerating Growth, & Facilitating Turnarounds | B2B/B2C | Thought Leader - Quoted in WSJ, Bloomberg, Financial Times, CNBC & CNN

Connect with Steve: LinkedIn

At Inventor’s Edge, we offer:

Inventor Help Product Development Courses

1-1 Expert Coaching Group Coaching

Membership

Insightful Blogs

Podcast Featuring Industry Experts

And More!

Click here to learn more about all Inventor’s Edge has to offer HERE

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn and scroll down to check out his testimonials from past clients HERE

Want to connect with like-minded inventors? Join our private Facebook group for inventors HERE

👉Get started on your own product ideas today with our free guides:

🚀IE Scorecard: Is Your Idea Ready?

🚀5 Common Mistakes Inventors Make and How to Avoid Them

🚀5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Get Your Product to Market:

In this conversation, Aaron Tompkins shares his journey from a toy collector to a successful toy inventor, discussing the challenges and triumphs of navigating the toy industry. He emphasizes the importance of creativity, persistence, and thorough research in the invention process. Aaron also highlights the role of AI in design, the significance of building relationships within the industry, and offers valuable advice for aspiring toy inventors.

Key Takeaways:

Learn about our guest, Aaron Tompkins:

Aaron Tompkins is a toy inventor & toy designer from NYC. A graduate of FIT toy design 1996. Aaron has never had a job, has always been a toy inventor, freelance toy designer and or property inventor. Most notably Creator of Swear Bears, Co-Creator of Grossery Gang, and Co-Inventor of Chow Crown.

Connect with Aaron:

At Inventor’s Edge, we offer:

Click here to learn more about all Inventor’s Edge has to offer HERE

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn to check out his testimonials from past clients HERE

Want to connect with like-minded inventors? Join our private Facebook group for inventors HERE

👉Get started on your own product ideas today with our free guides:

IE Scorecard: Is Your Idea Ready? Click HERE

5 Common Mistakes Inventors Make and How to Avoid Them: Click HERE

5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Get Your Product to Market: Click HERE

Summary:

In this episode, Scott Putnam interviews Edward Ayres, Co-founder of Inventor Process, about the Inspired Home Show and its significance for independent inventors. They discuss the unique opportunities available in the Inventor's Corner, the importance of preparation, and the potential for networking and securing deals with retail buyers. Edward shares success stories from past exhibitors and emphasizes the value of attending the show for inventors looking to launch their products in the home and housewares industry.

Key Takeaways:

Learn about our guest, Edward Ayres: President & Co-Founder, Inventor Process, Inc. Host – The Inventors Corner at The Inspired Home Show® 2026. In 2026, Ayres serves as Host of The Inventors Corner at The Inspired Home Show®, North America’s largest home and housewares industry event. Under his leadership, the Inventors Corner has become a focused, results-driven platform where innovators connect directly with brands, retailers, and media outlets seeking new products.

Connect with Edward Ayres:

LinkedIn

Website

At Inventor’s Edge, we offer:

Click here to learn more about all Inventor’s Edge has to offer HERE

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn and scroll down to check out his testimonials from past clients HERE

Want to connect with like-minded inventors?

Join our private Facebook group for inventors here: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/154BRhrRY5/?mibextid=wwXIfr 👉Get started on your own product ideas today with our free guides:

🚀IE Scorecard: Is Your Idea Ready?

🚀5 Common Mistakes Inventors Make and How to Avoid Them

🚀5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Get Your Product to Market

Summary:

In this conversation, Scott Putnam interviews Shawn Moye, an inspiring inventor and entrepreneur, who shares his journey from a young inventor to the creator of the Smart Sports Trainer. Shawn discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges of product development, and the impact of his invention on young athletes. He emphasizes the need for continuous improvement, community support, and the value of customer feedback in refining his product. The conversation highlights the balance between family life and entrepreneurship, as well as the personal growth that comes from overcoming obstacles in the invention process.

Key Takeaways:

Learn about our guest, Shawn Moye:
Shawn Moye's journey began at 16 with a product idea and no funds. Instead of giving up, he taught himself about patents and filed a provisional patent, eventually launching a successful invention. Later, as a dedicated father and coach, he saw the lack of affordable, consistent training tools for young athletes like his son. This led to the creation of The Smart Sports Trainer, a wearable device that tracks over 20 performance metrics in real time to improve consistency, muscle memory, and mental toughness in sports like basketball and golf. Shawn built both the hardware and software to deliver science-based feedback without expensive accessories. Through personal struggles—balancing family, finances, and product development - Shawn remained committed to solving a real-world problem. He believes consistent training shouldn't be limited by cost, and his product aims to help young athletes build skills, confidence, and resilience. Now CEO of The Moye Group, Shawn’s mission is clear: make high-quality sports training accessible for all and help every athlete reach their full potential.

Connect with Shawn:

At Inventor’s Edge, we offer:

Click here to learn more about all Inventor’s Edge has to offer here. 

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn and scroll down to check out his testimonials from past clients here.

Want to connect with like-minded inventors? Join our private Facebook group for inventors here. 

👉Get started on your own product ideas today with our free guides:

🚀IE Scorecard: Is Your Idea Ready?

🚀5 Common Mistakes Inventors Make and How to Avoid Them

🚀5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Get Your Product to Market

Summary:

In this episode of the Inventor's Edge show, Liz Garcia shares her journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, detailing her experiences in founding multiple businesses, including GW Spice Co. and Storage Theory. Liz discusses the personal catalyst that drove her to pursue her passions, the innovative products her company offers, and the strategies she employs to scale her business. She emphasizes the importance of feedback, authenticity, and the need to declutter both physically and mentally to enhance productivity. Liz also offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and highlights the significance of coaching and collaboration in business growth.

Key Takeaways:

Learn about our guest, Liz Garcia:

Liz Garcia is Owner of Storage Theory, a 7-figure home organization brand known for its genius home organization/decluttering products sold on Amazon, Walmart.com, and TikTok Shop. She’s also Co-founder of G.W. Spice Co., a fundraising company supporting schools and student-driven organizations with dry salsa mixes, dip mixes, and taco seasoning.

Liz is the host of The Liz Garcia Show, where she inspires busy, purpose-driven go-getters to take bold action towards the things that light them up—sharing real-life stories, business strategies, and fun decluttering tips along the way.

Most recently with her husband, she now coaches product-based business owners and Amazon sellers on how to grow and scale to 6 and 7 figures.

At her core, Liz is a multi-passionate entrepreneur who leads with boldness, authenticity, and a whole lot of heart—and she's on a mission to help others do the same.

Connect with Liz:

At Inventor’s Edge, we offer:

Click here to learn more about all Inventor’s Edge has to offer.

 Connect with Scott on LinkedIn and scroll down to check out his testimonials from past clients here.

Want to connect with like-minded inventors? Join our private Facebook group for inventors here.

👉Get started on your own product ideas today with our free guides:

🚀IE Scorecard: Is Your Idea Ready? 

🚀5 Common Mistakes Inventors Make and How to Avoid Them

🚀5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Get Your Product to Market

Summary:

In this conversation, Scott Putnam and Jon Corbett discuss Jon's journey into entrepreneurship, particularly focusing on his experiences with Amazon. They explore the importance of making mistakes, learning from failures, and the significance of understanding keywords and product research. Jon shares insights on optimizing listings, the importance of product quality, and the challenges of managing multiple products. The discussion emphasizes the need for resilience, continuous learning, and the value of seeking guidance from knowledgeable individuals in the field.

Key Takeaways:

Learn about our guest, Jon Corbett:

From Freemont, CA, Product developer for 15 years. 7 figure seller on Amazon. Brands: Brosash - Wedding decorations. Secret Stash - Diversion Safes. Experienced Professional with a demonstrated history of working in the Licensing industry. Strong business development expert skilled in Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Public Speaking, Social Media, IP Strategy, and Small Business.

Connect with Jon:

At Inventor’s Edge, we offer:

Click here to learn more about all Inventor’s Edge has to offer.

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn and scroll down to check out his testimonials from past clients here.

Want to connect with like-minded inventors? Join our private Facebook group for inventors here.

👉Get started on your own product ideas today with our free guides:

🚀IE Scorecard: Is Your Idea Ready?

🚀5 Common Mistakes Inventors Make and How to Avoid Them

🚀5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Get Your Product to Market

Summary:

In this episode of the Inventor's Edge podcast, Scott Putnam interviews Steven Puri, who shares his journey from film to tech and his insights on creativity, focus, and productivity. They discuss the importance of flow states, overcoming distractions, and the value of community in fostering innovation. Steven emphasizes the need for execution over ideas and offers practical tips for managing time and maintaining focus. The conversation highlights the significance of taking the first step towards one's goals and the power of connection in the creative process.

Key Takeaways:

Learn about our guest, Steve Puri:

Steven is the Founder and CEO of The Sukha Company with the mission to help millions of people find their focus, achieve more and have a healthy work life.

Steven's career started as a newscaster/interviewer for the #1 youth news show in the DC/Baltimore market (on WTTG-TV) and then as a junior software engineer & Thomas J. Watson Scholar at IBM. After attending USC in Los Angeles, he began working in film production and produced computer-generated visual effects for 14 movies including Independence Day which won the Academy Award for Visual Effects.

Steven’s first tech company was Centropolis Effects that produced those CGI effects, and he eventually sold it to the German media conglomerate Das Werk when he was 28. Steven then produced some indie films and eventually went studio-side to develop and produce live-action features as a VP of Development & Production at 20th Century Fox (running the Die Hard and Wolverine franchises) and an EVP at DreamWorks Pictures for Kurtzman-Orci Productions where he worked on Star Trek, Transformers and more.

After Fox, Steven returned to building tech companies and founded The Sukha Company - ‘sukha’ means ‘happiness from self-fulfillment’ in Sanskrit. The Sukha is a focus app that bundles all the tools necessary to have a focused experience and a healthy, productive Workday. Steven lives in Austin, TX now.

Connect with Steve Puri:

At Inventor’s Edge, we offer:

Click HERE to learn more about all Inventor’s Edge has to offer!

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn and scroll down to check out his testimonials from past clients HERE.

Want to connect with like-minded inventors? Join our private Facebook group for inventors HERE.

👉Get started on your own product ideas today with our free guides:

🚀IE Scorecard: Is Your Idea Ready?

🚀5 Common Mistakes Inventors Make and How to Avoid Them

🚀5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Get Your Product to Market

Summary:

In this heartfelt episode, Scott interviews his daughter, Paige Putnam, a third-year business student and young entrepreneur. Paige shares her journey from childhood inventions to founding Paige Putnam Enterprises. The conversation covers her experiences in entrepreneurship, her plant-based cookbook and her role as the Chief Creative Officer at Inventor’s Edge. The episode highlights the importance of family support, perseverance, and the balance between personal and professional life.

Key Takeaways:

Learn about our guest, Paige Putnam:

Paige Putnam is a third-year undergraduate business student at DePaul University, majoring in Entrepreneurship with a minor in Theatre Studies, where she is also a student assistant at the Coleman Entrepreneurship Center. In this role, she plans events, coordinates the monthly newsletter, and serves as a connector to student clubs and partner organizations.

Paige is the founder and CEO of Paige Putnam Enterprises, a personal brand focused on teaching people how to live more intentionally and develop better habits to live their most joyful, successful lives. Through her brand, Paige promotes her cookbook Plant-Based Snacks, Apps, & Desserts (published March 2023) as well as online lifestyle and meditation courses.

Paige is also the Chief Creative Officer at Inventor’s Edge, a product development coaching company. In this role, she focuses on web design, online course design, video content creation and editing, podcast creation, social media marketing, email marketing, and more. Additionally, she is part of the marketing team at Swat-N-Scoop, primarily focusing on social media content creation and marketing.

Connect with Paige:

Check out Swat-N-Scoop here.

At Inventor’s Edge, we offer:

Click here to learn more about all Inventor’s Edge has to offer.

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn here and scroll down to check out his testimonials from past clients.

Want to connect with like-minded inventors? Join our private Facebook group for inventors here.

👉Get started on your own product ideas today with our free guides:

🚀IE Scorecard: Is Your Idea Ready?

🚀5 Common Mistakes Inventors Make and How to Avoid Them

🚀5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Help Get Your Product to Market