Topic: The Challenge of Determining Product Marketability

Topic: The Challenge of Determining Product Marketability

Author: Rita Crompton May 10, 2025 Duration: 38:14

In this week’s episode, in both the show’s second and third segments, America’s Inventor Lady, Rita Crompton, interviews Bob Labbe, a retired environmental systems engineer who’s invented the Ultimate Coaster. Earlier in his life, Bob earned his bachelor's degree in engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology in 1968 and began studying for his master's in engineering and business; in 1972, he embarked on his career in air pollution control, engineering, manufacturing, and installing industrial systems throughout North America and in other parts of the world. He began his career with American Air Filter in 1968 and in 1972 became a founding member of the first of three air pollution control companies he led over forty-nine years.


In the show’s fourth segment, Rita, with her industry expert, Kevin Cody, Founder and CEO of FLI Products, the in’s and out’s, opportunities and challenges of manufacturing in America as well as challenges and of selling and distributing American-made products at home in the USA against foreign competition with products having a much lower labor-based manufacturing costs. FLI Products, which has a division which sells only “Made in America” products, is currently expanding to include more American-made products in the kitchen housewares, gadgets storage and lighting lines. Kevin explains how his company’s commitment to quality is what’s driving the efforts to include more products manufactured in the USA, giving recognition that foreign-made products often have quality problems that, despite the lower labor costs, ultimately results in higher-end costs being delivered to the consumer than would otherwise be the case.. Come, view, listen and learn what it takes to be successful as inventor, whether you’re doing it as a side hustle, as a “once-in-a-lifetime” gambit or even if you think that you’d like to become a serial inventor and turn your imagination and talents towards bringing new ideas and products into the world!


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Ever wonder why some brilliant ideas become household names while others never make it off the shelf? That’s the central puzzle explored in Invent America Podcasts with America's Inventor Lady, Rita Crompton, and the Cajun Contractor, Michael King, Founder of HomeTalkUSA. Each week, Rita and Michael pull back the curtain on the entire journey from concept to consumer, moving beyond simple inspiration to tackle the real, often messy work of bringing an invention to life. Their conversations are grounded in practical reality, featuring candid talks with inventors who have been in the trenches and specialists who understand manufacturing, marketing, and legal hurdles. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of both setbacks and breakthroughs, getting a honest look at what “mind to market” truly requires. This isn’t just theory; it’s a roadmap built from shared experiences. The dynamic between Rita’s inventive expertise and Michael’s contractor’s perspective on building things that last creates a uniquely balanced discussion. Tuning into this podcast feels like getting actionable advice from two seasoned guides who are genuinely invested in demystifying the path to success. Whether you’re tinkering in your garage or are ready to pitch to investors, the insights gathered here offer valuable lessons on resilience, adaptation, and the specific ingredients that can turn a clever idea into a viable product.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Invent America Podcasts with America's Inventor Lady, Rita Crompton, and the Cajun Contractor, Michael King, Founder of HomeTalkUSA
Podcast Episodes
Topic: The Inventor's Dilemma - Royalty Checks or Retail Stress? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:00
Are you an inventor with a solution sitting on your workbench? In this episode of Invent America, we break down the most critical crossroads every solo independent inventor faces: Should you manufacture it yourself or li…