By now most people know what quantum physics is generally about: The ability of particles to be in multiple places simultaneously (superposition), but to instantly adopt a single location when observed. True creativity, remaking how we think about something, requires the creative be able to hold multiple inconsistent positions simultaneously, lining up concepts and comparing them against a host of possible futures and outcomes.
Accidents happen, and more often than we realize, they lead to remarkable breakthroughs. From labs to kitchens, the history of
Cartoons are free of any of the real world limitations on innovation. Want a working video call system in the 1960’s? The Jetsons had it. In many ways, technology has caught up with the imagination of cartoonists from the mid to late 20th century. Most good inventions start with the thought “wouldn’t it be cool if….”. Cartoons are written with the same thought in mind. Now that technology has matured, many of those fanciful, then-impossible ideas expressed in cartoons are ready for reduction to a real invention.
Modern rock and roll guitar owes as much to inventors and engineers as to iconic musicians. From the first electrified strings to today’s digital processing, key U.S. patents have marked turning points in how guitars sound and play. Each breakthrough – pickups, amps, effects, and even playing techniques – expanded the instrument’s sonic vocabulary. Let’s journey through the most seminal guitar-related patents and their impact on rock music, with a nod to the technical artistry behind the noise. Sadly, Nigel Tufnel never filed for a design patent on his amplifier that goes to 11, so we’ll have to skip Spinal Tap’s innovation.
They say the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office will grant a patent for “anything under the sun made by man.” Some inventors seem to have taken that invitation to heart. There is no “and it can’t be a bad idea” limitation to patentability, so in theory you could patent a new generator design that uses more energy than it creates. Human creativity, combined with inventor bias in that tends to overstate the importance of one’s own inventions, has driven countless strange ideas to issue as patents.
Success hinges on calling yourself what you aspire to be before you feel you’ve fully “arrived.” By printing those two words—inventor or innovator—on your business card and using them in your day-to-day interactions, you can psychologically and socially pave the way toward becoming the future you’ve envisioned.
When we think of “innovation,” images of high-tech labs or bustling Silicon Valley startups likely come to mind. Rarely, if ever, do we think of the prison system. Yet, in the latest video on Innovation Café, I dive into the surprising connection between the conditions of incarceration and the creativity it can foster. From makeshift cheesecakes to improvised tools, the resourcefulness of people behind bars not only reflects human ingenuity but also highlights a powerful case for prison reform—one that harnesses creativity for positive change and reduces recidivism.
Many inventors dream of making it big—selling a patent for a billion dollars, striking an enormous licensing deal, or landing the next blockbuster product. But have you ever stopped to consider how much you actually need to live the life you want? In this installment of Innovation Café, I discuss a simple but profound question: if a comfortable retirement or a dream lifestyle could be achieved with a fraction of that “big win,” why risk losing it all for the possibility of a little more?
Have you ever found yourself staring down a looming financial crisis for a tech project, only to have a sudden “aha!” moment offer a way out? That’s exactly what happened when I was running a free web hosting service just as the dotcom bubble burst. With online ad revenue evaporating, my team and I needed a new model—fast. In this post, I share the story of how letting that problem “bounce around” in my head for a week led me to a distributed computing concept, the patent it birthed, and why we never quite got to see it fully realized.
We often think of innovation as a straightforward process: first identify a problem, then craft a brilliant solution. However, as I discuss in this episode of Innovation Café, the real world doesn’t always work that way. Sometimes, the solution shows up first, long before we’ve identified the problem it solves. This phenomenon holds true not only in inventing but also in advertising, where you might plant the seed of a solution in consumers’ minds—well before they recognize a need for it.
We often think of fusion power as the ultimate “holy grail” of clean, abundant energy—something scientists have chased for decades. But as I discuss in this brief segment from Innovation Café, there’s a bigger perspective we sometimes miss: every single energy source we use can be traced back to fusion reactions in the stars, one way or another. By stepping back and shifting our viewpoint, we see that the quest for fusion on Earth is really about localizing what the cosmos has been doing for eons.
We innovators thrive on possibilities. We spend our days sketching blueprints in our heads, conjuring prototypes in our workshops, and reminding ourselves that nothing is impossible if we just approach it creatively. Yet, as I share in this deeply personal reflection, there are some challenges that even the most determined, problem-solving mind cannot conquer—like stage IV metastatic breast cancer.
Innovation should not be limited to the laboratory or patentable inventions. This post uses an example drawn from my personal life to show how applying an inventor’s mindset in all areas of your life can make your life far better.
In this special—and extremely spicy—episode of Innovation Café, I challenged my taste buds (and sanity) by downing multiple Thai chili peppers (ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 on the Scoville scale) while venting about the difficulties small inventors face in the U.S. patent system. If you see me sweating, it’s not just the chilies. It’s also the frustration of dealing with a process so skewed toward big corporations, wealthy tech giants, and anyone with a war chest of cash to spend on patent litigation. This post dives into what’s making me so “steaming mad” and the specific hurdles innovators encounter—minus any actual flames.
In this post, I’ll share how I developed a projected light technique for photographing models—a faster, less messy alternative to traditional body paint. It’s a venture that blends artistic vision, technical problem-solving, and a hefty dose of experimentation. If you’ve ever been intrigued by how the worlds of art and innovation collide, read on.
We often assume that innovation requires methodical processes, carefully planned experiments, and meticulous data collection. And it does—to an extent. Yet sometimes, the spark of invention ignites through spontaneity and, yes, even impulsivity. In the latest video from Innovation Café, I share a personal story involving a high-tech lab, my frequent-co-inventor brother, and a cream puff dipped in liquid nitrogen—all of which reminded me just how much my impulsive streak has shaped my life as an inventor.
What’s the secret sauce behind history’s greatest inventors? This fun article reveals the clever tricks and habits that famous innovators like Edison and da Vinci used to spark ideas. From napping with steel balls to daydreaming doodles, find out how these creative minds got their breakthroughs—and get inspired to try their tricks yourself.
Could your parenting style be shrinking your child’s imagination? This eye-opening list reveals ten common mistakes parents make that inadvertently snuff out creativity—from over-scheduling activities to discouraging “silly” questions. Each point comes with tips on fostering innovation and play, helping you raise kids brimming with confidence, curiosity, and creative spark.
How do you go from a lightbulb moment to a real invention? This article breaks down the process of inventing into clear, practical steps. From spotting everyday problems and brainstorming solutions to prototyping and patenting, it’s a roadmap that shows aspiring creators how to systematically bring innovative ideas to life.
Can one patent launch a business empire? Absolutely. This article looks back at modest patents that ignited massive companies—from the telephone to the personal computer. Each example shows how a single innovative idea, once protected, provided the foundation for a brand-new industry or tech giant. It’s a testament to how powerful a patent can be in shaping economic history.
Believe it or not, there was a time when inventors had to subject actual miniatures of their inventions to the patent office! This delightful history piece travels back to the 1800s, when the USPTO demanded scale models of some inventions. Discover why this practice started, what kinds of tiny creations filled the patent archives, and what it says about how innovation used to work.
Staring at a blank page or a stalled project? This encouraging article reminds you that creative blocks happen to everyone—and they can even be a good thing. Learn how to embrace the pause, use techniques like changing perspective or taking breaks, and ultimately turn frustration into fuel. It’s a reassuring guide to help innovators and artists push through slumps and find their spark again.
No one enjoys failing or being criticized, but every innovator needs a tough skin and an open mind. This piece makes the case that setbacks and critiques are actually stepping stones to success. Through examples and advice, it shows how embracing feedback and learning from mistakes can lead to better ideas, stronger designs, and ultimately breakthroughs that might never have happened otherwise.
Sometimes the hardest decision in the invention process is to let go. This article tells the real story of an innovator who chose not to pursue a patent after weighing the costs, competition, and potential payoff. It offers insight into why walking away can be the smartest move—and how focusing on the next idea can be more rewarding than clinging to a stalled project.
Self-driving cars promise fewer accidents, but handing over the wheel isn’t easy for everyone. This article explores the gap between the data (which suggest autonomous vehicles can be safer) and human psychology (which craves control). Find out how our perceptions, fears, and trust issues play into the rollout of this innovative technology—and what it means for the future of transport.
Great inventions can start with a midnight “aha!” moment. This article tells the story of a late-night insight that led to an oxygen-free vaporizer—a device that heats without burning. Follow the inventor’s journey from sudden inspiration to working prototype, and see how a simple question asked in the wee hours led to a novel solution.
Innovation isn’t always flashy; sometimes it’s simply adding a seat to a scooter. This short read and video highlight how paying attention to everyday needs led to a better electric scooter design. It’s a reminder that no idea is too small—by observing daily life and daring to improve it, anyone can create something new that makes a difference.
The convenience of the cloud comes with risks if you’re storing secret sauce data. This article offers clear tips for keeping proprietary information safe online. From choosing reputable services and using strong encryption to understanding terms of service, find out how to enjoy the cloud’s benefits without accidentally giving away your trade secrets or sensitive IP.
Innovation isn’t just for scientists in labs; it’s for everyone with a curious mind. This inspiring piece argues that anyone can become an inventor if they harness their imagination. It explores how daydreaming, tinkering, and even mistakes fuel creativity, and encourages you to see yourself as capable of invention—no PhD required.
Who says an umbrella needs a physical canopy? Enter the “air umbrella,” an inventive concept that uses a jet of air to repel rain. This article explores how I reimagined a common gadget, turning sci-fi-sounding technology into a potential everyday device. It’s a neat peek at creativity in action, solving age-old annoyances with modern flair.
Has your inner artist or inventor gone quiet? This uplifting piece offers tips to reignite your creative confidence. From revisiting past successes to practicing idea-generating exercises, it’s full of practical advice and encouragement. Whether you’re a painter, writer, or entrepreneur, learn how to overcome self-doubt and get back to innovating with enthusiasm.
Sometimes ignorance isn’t a bad thing—it’s fuel. This article celebrates the power of not knowing the limits, which often allows innovators to achieve the “impossible.”
Some people think substances like psychedelics can unlock creativity by lowering inhibitions, but this article pumps the brakes on that idea. It explores the link between disinhibition and creativity, acknowledging that while a freer mind can spark innovation, drugs come with risks and side effects. Instead, discover healthier ways to get “unstuck” creatively without chemically altering your mind.
Inventors are passionate about their ideas—but that passion can sometimes blind them. Enter confirmation bias: our tendency to only see evidence showing that we’re right (and ignore evidence to the contrary). This article urges inventors to stay skeptical of their own assumptions. By seeking out criticism and testing ideas against tough questions, creators can avoid pitfalls, refine their inventions, and ultimately build better innovations.
This article chronicles how my idea for a “smart” prosthetic eye was one I didn’t act on because I thought the market for it didn’t exist — yet it went from concept to prototype in the hands of a different inventor.
Tired of ho-hum brainstorm meetings? This article shares energizing techniques to supercharge innovation sessions. You’ll learn how to transform any gathering—solo or team—into a hotbed of fresh ideas and breakthrough thinking.
Many inventors share a surprising hobby: photography. Is it a coincidence? This article explores the common thread between inventing and taking pictures—a keen eye for detail and a habit of observing the world closely. Find out how capturing images can sharpen your innovative instincts, and why tinkering with a camera might just make you a better problem solver.
Innovation can start with simply paying attention. Here’s a real example: a casual observation at a concert sparked a cascade of new ideas for one creative thinker. This short read emphasizes the value of noticing the little details around you. It just might inspire you to stay curious in your everyday life—because you never know when inspiration will strike.
What if your next great idea comes while you’re asleep? This fascinating piece explores how dreams and twilight thoughts have led to real innovations (like famous scientific breakthroughs that first appeared in a dream). Learn techniques to remember and harness your dream insights, and see how loosening your grip on conscious control can let creativity flow from the subconscious.
A Hollywood star inventing a better diaper? It’s not a movie plot—it’s a real patent! This fun article tells the story of Jamie Lee Curtis’s “super diaper,” a baby diaper that cleverly holds wipes. See how a celebrity mom spotted a practical problem and solved it with innovation, proving that creativity and patents aren’t just for scientists and engineers.
Regret hangs heavy over these two stories of “the ones that got away.” This article recounts a pair of missed chances to patent what could have been blockbuster inventions. By examining what went wrong—hesitation, lack of knowledge, or underestimating an idea—it offers valuable lessons for today’s innovators on acting decisively to protect and pursue promising ideas before it’s too late.
Sometimes necessity (or a legal problem) truly is the mother of invention. This article tells how grappling with a legal challenge—in this case, issues around digital file identification—led to an innovative breakthrough. Follow the story of how a pesky legal headache inspired a new file fingerprinting technology, illustrating how creative thinking can turn problems into ingenious solutions.
You’re more creative than you think—even parts of your mind you’re not aware of are busy innovating. This intriguing article dives into techniques for tapping into your subconscious for inspiration, from daydreaming and meditation to capturing those ideas that surface just as you fall asleep. By trusting and exploring your deeper thoughts, you might unlock solutions and creative breakthroughs that your conscious mind couldn’t quite reach.
Remember the wide-eyed wonder you had as a kid? Rekindling that sense of awe can lead to serious innovation. In this second part of a longer video on creativity, discover how asking “why” like a child and exploring without preconceptions can open up new avenues in your thinking. It offers techniques to re-train yourself to see the extraordinary in the ordinary—fueling fresh ideas and inventive leaps.
As children, we’re natural inventors—building worlds out of cardboard boxes and dreaming up wild ideas without fear. This article (part one of a series) shows adults how to reclaim that boundless creativity. Learn about removing self-imposed limits, playing with ideas freely, and embracing the playful mindset that can lead to genuine innovations and a happier, more creative life.
What do dynamite and the Nobel Prizes have in common? Alfred Nobel. This captivating history piece recounts how the inventor of explosives, troubled by his legacy, founded the Nobel Prizes to leave a better mark on the world. Learn how one innovator’s mix of guilt and hope turned into an annual celebration of humanity’s greatest minds and ideas—a story of redemption that continues to inspire.
Larry David’s comedy gave us a wacky invention—a “car periscope” to see over traffic. It turns out that a car periscope was invented many years ago, but never took off in real life. This entertaining piece unpacks what the fictional car periscope teaches about why some ideas (even funny ones) fail. From market demand to technical hurdles, see how a joke invention offers serious insight into the challenges every innovator faces.
You don’t need to start a company to be an innovator. This inspiring article encourages you to apply innovation on a personal level—solving everyday problems in your own life. From organizing your schedule better to hacky fixes around the house, learn how treating your personal challenges with a creator’s mindset can lead to a happier, more efficient life and maybe even spark bigger ideas down the road.
Who invented the wheel, or the first musical instrument? We’ll never know—but we owe them a lot. This article salutes ancient innovations that changed the world even though their creators’ names are lost to history. From the control of fire to the origin of the wheel and writing, take a moment to appreciate how these anonymous breakthroughs laid the groundwork for all modern creativity and progress.
In just one minute, discover how your subconscious mind can boost your creativity. This ultra-quick read gives you a nugget of insight into why stepping away from a problem—or even sleeping on it—can lead to “aha” moments. It’s a bite-sized reminder that sometimes the best ideas emerge when you’re not actively chasing them, turning your brain’s hidden processes into an innovation superpower.
What key principles guide the world’s best innovators? This article lays out the fundamentals of innovation—think of concepts like “fail fast, learn faster,” collaboration, and user focus. Each principle is explained with inspiring examples, showing how applying these mindsets can unlock creativity in any field and turn simple ideas into real-world progress.
Travel back to 1790, when the ink on the U.S. Constitution was barely dry and the very first U.S. patent was issued—signed by President George Washington himself. This historical snippet reveals who got Patent #1 (a process for making potash, used in soap) and how the early patent system worked. It’s a charming peek at the dawn of American innovation, showing our nation’s commitment to inventors from day one.
Innovation can be a daring—and sometimes dangerous—pursuit. This gripping article honors inventors and pioneers who literally risked their lives for progress. From hazardous experiments to perilous test flights, discover stories of courage and sacrifice that underscore the high stakes and passionate dedication behind world-changing inventions.
If you have too many ideas and not enough time, you’re facing a good problem—but a problem nonetheless. This piece helps inventors figure out which projects to focus on and which to shelve. Learn strategies to evaluate your brainstorms for impact and feasibility, so you can focus your energy on the ideas most likely to succeed and make an impact without burning out.
Believe it or not, feeling like a fraud can actually make you stronger. This uplifting article reframes imposter syndrome—the self-doubt many creators feel—as a superpower. By questioning your own expertise, you stay curious, keep learning, and often over-prepare (which means you do great work!). Learn how to harness that nagging “I’m not good enough” feeling and turn it into fuel for growth, creativity, and confidence.
