Topic: Unexpected Markets - Pivoting When Your Customers Aren't Who You Thought They Were!

Topic: Unexpected Markets - Pivoting When Your Customers Aren't Who You Thought They Were!

Author: Rita Crompton March 15, 2026 Duration: 26:17

From Cradles to Cattle: How Two Inventors Scaled Unlikely Products.


In this episode of Invent America TV, we sit down with Russell Kramer and Nick Norman to discuss the reality of the "Inventor’s Pivot."


Russell shares how his TrueView blind spot mirror evolved from a 4-inch design for trucks to a high-demand 3-inch model for sedans like the Prius. Meanwhile, Nick Norman explains how his Polar Protector, originally a cold-plunge accessory for "crazy people sitting in ice," became a must-have tool for farmers and ranchers to prevent water evaporation and algae growth.


Key Takeaways for Solo Inventors:

  • Why the "3PL" (Third Party Logistics) model might be your best friend when scaling.

  • How the R&D Tax Credit can save you thousands (it’s a credit, not just a deduction!).

  • The importance of checking fear at the door and focusing on execution.



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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: Avoiding the Marketing Word Salad [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:17
Session 1: Rita and Michael will talk about The Marketing Word Salad. Session 2: Inventor: Jean Moody Phone: Wrap-A-Candle Email: jmoody@carecredit.com Questions: 1. Jean, tell us about Wrap-A-Candle 2. You plan to marke…
Topic: Every Inventor Has a Story [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:44
Join us for an engaging discussion on the stories behind innovative products!Session 1:Rita and Michael delve into the world of inventors with their topic "Every Inventor Has a Story!"Session 2:🌟 Inventor Spotlight: Merc…
Topic: Time Is Not Your Friend! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:22
Session 1: Rita and Michael talk about Time Not Being a Friend. Session 2: Inventor: Duane GenzlingerProduct: The Box Slider and the SnapperWebsite: www.Hammerskilhomes.comPhone: 970-402-5088Email: Duanegenzlinger76@gmai…
Topic: The Trademark Wars [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:54
Session 1: A discussion led by Rita and Michael on "The Trademark Wars! Session 2: Inventor: Rita Widener Introducing the Practeze Folder: - A versatile tool for professionals and students, doubling as a practice aid and…
Topic: Inventing - Beware The Big Black Abyss! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:56
Session 1:Rita and Michael will talk about The Big Black Abyss! Session 2: Inventor: Michelle FuhrerProduct Name: LibertePhone: 505-710-3598Email: chelley63@icloud.comWebsite: Bio: The Liberté device is the pinnacle of p…
Topic: Rebuilding with Purpose - The Story of Great Plate [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:54
Rebuilding with Purpose The Story of Great Plate: The story of Great Plate is one of resilience and innovation. Its creator, Rick Kellow, understands that when everything falls apart, the only way forward is to rebuild f…
Topic: New Sponsors Appreciation Day [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:34
This week on Invent America TV, Michael King and I are thrilled to introduce two new sponsors to our Invent America Radio, Podcast, and TV shows. In our first session, we unveil exciting details about the new Radio and P…
Topic: American Inventions Made in America [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:34
In this episode of Made in America Podcasts, Rita Discusses the Secrets of Being Able to Make Products in America with Leo York and Rick Kellow. Leo York is a commercial copywriter and advisor to inventors in Kentucky, a…