National Inventor Club

Hosted by Brian Fried

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Jun 2026

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As an inventor, when we come up with an idea, it can be challenging and lonely navigating through the steps of bringing your ideas to reality. That’s why the National Inventor Club was “invented”, for you to become part of a community of like minded inventors and resources for inventors to help each other keep our invention journey moving forward, together. Inventors, Entrepreneurs and resources for inventors welcome. Become a member today! www.nationalinventorclub.com Thank you and keep on inventing! Brian Fried Founder National Inventor Club

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41 recent

June 13, 20261 hr 13 min

Licensing vs Manufacturing: What’s Best for Your Invention?

National Inventor Club Founder Brian Fried went LIVE for a powerful discussion on one of the biggest decisions inventors face: Should you license your invention or manufacture it yourself?If you had an invention idea and were trying to figure out the smartest next step, this session was for you. Brian drew on his extensive experience in both licensing and manufacturing, with products featured on QVC, in Target, Walmart, catalogs, online retailers, and more. During the live session, he broke down the real differences between these two paths and what inventors needed to know before investing serious time or money.In this LIVE session, attendees learned:The difference between licensing and manufacturingThe pros and cons of each pathWhat companies look for when evaluating productsWhat inventors often get wrongHow to choose the best route based on your goals and budgetManufacturing realities most inventors are not prepared forHow to protect yourself and your invention along the wayWhether you were just getting started or already moving forward with your idea, this session helped clarify your options and avoid costly mistakes.About Brian Fried Brian Fried is The Inventor Coach™. A serial inventor with 15 issued U.S. patents, Brian has lived every stage of the invention journey from idea to patent to licensing deal to retail shelf. His products have been featured on QVC and sold in major retailers including Target and Walmart. He is the founder of the National Inventor Club with over 15,000 members worldwide, a three-time author on invention commercialization, and host of the Got Invention Show. Brian is the creator of uinvent.ai, an AI-powered platform built specifically for inventors, and the Inventor Smart Community App. He provides licensing representation, manufacturing guidance, and commercialization coaching to inventors at every stage. He is an Alibaba Ambassador, serves on their SME Advisory Committee and International IP Enforcement Team, and is the Official Inventor Liaison for Licensing International. He has testified before Congress on patent programs and spoken at USPTO Inventor Day, SCORE, and major industry events nationwide.Watch the episode here: https://youtube.com/live/6R-1PLallzw-----------------------Become a member today @ https://nationalinventorclub.com. Unlock Your Invention's Potential with Inventor Smart! Inventor Smart Community - The Ultimate APP for Inventors to connect, collaborate, network, and drive invention ideas forward! Join social networking, participate in group chats, events, visit the library, and find the support you need! Download the Inventor Smart Community app on Google Play or Apple App Store or here http://inventorsmart.app Join us today! Have a great invention idea? Do you want to know if your idea will make you money? If you're just getting started, need help with product development, engineering, prototyping, finding a product licensing agent, or with bringing your invention idea to reality manufacturing, schedule a call with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach @ https://brianfried.com

May 25, 202648 min

Inside the USPTO: A Special Conversation with Director John Squires with Host Brian Fried

Brian Fried, Founder of the National Inventor Club, sits down exclusively with John A. Squires, the 60th Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office and Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property, for one of the most powerful conversations in the inventor community this year.Director Squires shares his extraordinary journey from IBM and Goldman Sachs, where he served as their first Chief IP Counsel, to surviving the attacks of September 11th and using patents to combat terrorism financing. Now leading America's Innovation Agency with nearly 15,000 employees and a nearly $5 billion budget, Director Squires has a clear message for every inventor:"You're not doing it alone. We've got your back."In this conversation you will discover:✅ What the USPTO actually does and why it matters to YOU✅ Why inventor rights are the only right written directly into the Constitution✅ Free tools and resources available right now at USPTO.gov✅ The rise of independent inventors and what is changing in 2026✅ New AI tools helping inventors search and protect their ideas✅ How patents attract capital, investment and talent✅ Words of wisdom and inspiration straight from the topWhether you are just starting out with an idea or deep in the patent process, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence and inspiration.Stay the course. Protect what you dream. Keep dreaming.Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/DMwPgBqv890-----------------------Become a member today @ https://nationalinventorclub.com.Unlock Your Invention's Potential with Inventor Smart! Inventor Smart Community - The Ultimate APP for Inventors to connect, collaborate, network, and drive invention ideas forward! Join social networking, participate in group chats, events, visit the library, and find the support you need! Download the Inventor Smart Community app on Google Play or Apple App Store or here http://inventorsmart.app Join us today!Have a great invention idea?Do you want to know if your idea will make you money?If you're just getting started, need help with product development, engineering, prototyping, finding a product licensing agent, or with bringing your invention idea to reality manufacturing, schedule a call with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach @ https://brianfried.com

March 22, 202649 min

TRADEMARK ESSENTIALS: Building Your Intellectual Property Assets

Here's something most inventors didn't realize until it was too late: your invention could be manufactured, sold, or knocked off anywhere in the world - and your U.S. patent didn't protect you outside U.S. borders.That's where WIPO and the PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) came in.Matthias Reischle-Park, Deputy Director and Head of PCT Legal and User Support at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), joined host Brian Fried, Founder of National Inventor Club, and broke down everything you needed to know about protecting your invention globally.Here's what was covered:✅ PCT basics - What it was, how it worked, and why it mattered no matter where you were in your invention journey✅ The real costs - What you actually needed to budget for global protection (no surprises) ✅ Strategic timing - When to file PCT vs when to go direct (the 30-month decision that could save or cost you thousands)✅ Resources available - How to use WIPO tools and get help navigating the system ✅ Enforcement overseas - How you actually protect and enforce your IP if someone was ripping you off in another country✅ Common mistakes - What Matthias saw inventors doing wrong and how to avoid those pitfalls ✅ Success stories - Real examples of inventors who used PCT to protect and monetize their inventions globally✅ Future updates - Changes and improvements coming to international filingMatthias had been with WIPO since 1998, helping inventors and patent professionals navigate the PCT system. He had written the guidelines, trained thousands of applicants, and knew every move needed to protect an invention internationally without getting burned.This event was for you if:You were just starting and wanted to understand your global IP options from day oneYou were developing your invention and needed to know when international protection matteredYou had filed or had a U.S. patent and wondered what was next for international coverageYou were manufacturing overseas and needed to protect your IP thereSomeone was already knocking off your product internationally and you wanted to know your optionsYou were confused about PCT costs, timing, and what WIPO could actually do for youYour invention deserved global protection. It was time to learn how to do it right.Watch the episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-zZmwF0uL4-----------------------Become a member today @ https://nationalinventorclub.com.Unlock Your Invention's Potential with Inventor Smart! Inventor Smart Community - The Ultimate APP for Inventors to connect, collaborate, network, and drive invention ideas forward! Join social networking, participate in group chats, events, visit the library, and find the support you need! Download the Inventor Smart Community app on Google Play or Apple App Store or here http://inventorsmart.app Join us today!Have a great invention idea?Do you want to know if your idea will make you money?If you're just getting started, need help with product development, engineering, prototyping, finding a product licensing agent, or with bringing your invention idea to reality manufacturing, schedule a call with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach @ https://brianfried.com

February 27, 202652 min

The Parts of a Patent Every Inventor Should Know

Ever stared at a patent and thought… “What am I even reading?”Join me and Raymond Van Dyke, Intellectual Property Attorney, as we walk you through every part of a patent in plain English — piece by piece.What You'll Learn:• Utility patents vs design patents — what's the difference and which do you need?• How to decode your claims — the most critical part of your patent • What all those reference numbers actually mean in your drawings• The real purpose of your patent summary and specification• How to spot the strong parts and weak spots in your patent• What examiners are looking for when they review your applicationWhether you're about to file or you already have a patent, this session gives you the power to understand your intellectual property like a pro.Perfect for inventors preparing to file, patent holders who want to actually read their own patent, and anyone ready to stop feeling confused by legal jargon. Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/t2lQg7feAMs-----------------------Become a member today @ https://nationalinventorclub.com.Unlock Your Invention's Potential with Inventor Smart! Inventor Smart Community - The Ultimate APP for Inventors to connect, collaborate, network, and drive invention ideas forward! Join social networking, participate in group chats, events, visit the library, and find the support you need! Download the Inventor Smart Community app on Google Play or Apple App Store or here http://inventorsmart.app Join us today!Have a great invention idea?Do you want to know if your idea will make you money?If you're just getting started, need help with product development, engineering, prototyping, finding a product licensing agent, or with bringing your invention idea to reality manufacturing, schedule a call with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach @ https://brianfried.com

February 21, 20261 hr 16 min

TRADEMARK ESSENTIALS: Building Your Intellectual Property Assets

You’ve got a brilliant invention, innovative service, or startup idea—but have you thought about protecting your brand name, logo, product design, or slogan? That’s where trademarks come in—and most people don’t realize how powerful they are until it’s too late. In this episode, host Brian Fried sits down with Jason Lott, Managing Attorney for Trademarks at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), to break down everything you need to know about trademarks—no legal jargon, just clear, actionable guidance. Topics covered include:✅ What trademarks actually protect—names, logos, slogans, colors, sounds, product shapes, and more✅ The best timing to file for trademark protection✅ A simplified, step-by-step registration process from someone who’s reviewed thousands of applications✅ How trademarks build real business value and create assets you can leverage✅ Trademarks vs. Copyrights vs. Patents—clearing up the confusion once and for allWith over 24 years of experience at the USPTO, Jason helps inventors, entrepreneurs, and startups understand how to protect what they’re building, turning complex legal topics into strategies you can actually use. This episode is perfect if you:Are naming a business, product, or service and want to do it rightAre building something unique that needs protectionHave launched but haven’t secured your trademark yetWant clarity on what trademarks cover and how they workWant to build valuable intellectual property assets that increase your company’s worthYour intellectual property is an asset. Learn how to protect it and make it work for you.Watch the episode here: https://youtube.com/live/oxqLw65ugT8-----------------------Become a member today @ https://nationalinventorclub.com.Unlock Your Invention's Potential with Inventor Smart! Inventor Smart Community - The Ultimate APP for Inventors to connect, collaborate, network, and drive invention ideas forward! Join social networking, participate in group chats, events, visit the library, and find the support you need! Download the Inventor Smart Community app on Google Play or Apple App Store or here http://inventorsmart.app Join us today!Have a great invention idea?Do you want to know if your idea will make you money?If you're just getting started, need help with product development, engineering, prototyping, finding a product licensing agent, or with bringing your invention idea to reality manufacturing, schedule a call with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach @ https://brianfried.com

January 28, 202638 min

What Will You Accomplish in 2026? Ready-Set-GO(AL)!

Invention expert and host Brian Fried hosted an inspiring National Inventor Club livestream featuring renowned entrepreneur, investor, speaker, and Chairman of the Napoleon Hill Institute, David Meltzer.This session was created for inventors who were just about to start their journey, as well as those who had already started and found themselves stuck along the way. The discussion served as a powerful “start button” for 2026—focused on clarity, momentum, and the mindset needed to win. Here’s what was covered:New Year's Resolutions That Actually Work – Setting goals you'll execute, not just dream aboutThe Execution Game – Working through your plans and checking progress along the wayBreaking Through When You're Stuck – Strategies to overcome frustration and keep moving forwardSetting Timelines and Expectations – Stop waiting for people and start creating accountability with everyone you work withMindset Mastery – Building the mental game that separates success from struggleNapoleon Hill Wisdom – Timeless lessons from Think and Grow Rich applied to your inventor journeyDavid Meltzer is the former CEO of the Leigh Steinberg Sports & Entertainment Agency (the inspiration for Jerry Maguire) and Executive Producer of Apple TV’s 2 Minute Drill and Entrepreneur’s #1 digital show, Elevator Pitch. His mission is to empower over one billion people to be happy—and he delivered value in every conversation.Watch the episode here: https://youtube.com/live/lkL1pT96a-Y?feature=share-----------------------Become a member today @ https://nationalinventorclub.com.Unlock Your Invention's Potential with Inventor Smart! Inventor Smart Community - The Ultimate APP for Inventors to connect, collaborate, network, and drive invention ideas forward! Join social networking, participate in group chats, events, visit the library, and find the support you need! Download the Inventor Smart Community app on Google Play or Apple App Store or here http://inventorsmart.app Join us today!Have a great invention idea?Do you want to know if your idea will make you money?If you're just getting started, need help with product development, engineering, prototyping, finding a product licensing agent, or with bringing your invention idea to reality manufacturing, schedule a call with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach @ https://brianfried.com

November 19, 20251 hr 14 min

What Happens After You Have the Idea: Licensing, Building, Scaling & Exit

National Inventor Club – Fireside Chat with Steve GreensponThe National Inventor Club sits down with entrepreneur and inventor Steve Greenspon, former CEO of Honey-Can-Do International. Steve built a consumer goods company from the ground up, scaling it to over $110 million before successfully exiting.With 35 patents and decades of experience in product development, licensing, manufacturing, and retail distribution, Steve offers a rare, full-picture perspective—both as an inventor and as a business leader.In this episode, Steve shares insights on:What licensees look for when inventors pitch productsHow licensing deals actually work (royalties, terms, structure)Building manufacturing partnerships and working with factoriesDistribution strategies: buyers, reps, catalogs, and major retailersScaling a consumer goods brand to 9 figuresWhat the exit process really looks like and key lessons learnedWhether you're an inventor developing your first idea, a startup founder growing your product line, or an entrepreneur preparing for a future exit, this conversation is packed with real-world, actionable advice from someone who has done it all.Watch the episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/Zi3K76lvgGI-----------------------Become a member today @ https://nationalinventorclub.com.Unlock Your Invention's Potential with Inventor Smart! Inventor Smart Community - The Ultimate APP for Inventors to connect, collaborate, network, and drive invention ideas forward! Join social networking, participate in group chats, events, visit the library, and find the support you need! Download the Inventor Smart Community app on Google Play or Apple App Store or here http://inventorsmart.app Join us today!Have a great invention idea?Do you want to know if your idea will make you money?If you're just getting started, need help with product development, engineering, prototyping, finding a product licensing agent, or with bringing your invention idea to reality manufacturing, schedule a call with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach @ https://brianfried.com

October 2, 202557 min

Amazon Insiders: Starting Your Amazon Store on National Inventor Club- Free Webinar

The National Inventor Club hosted an exclusive Amazon Fireside Chat featuring two Amazon insiders who shared insider strategies on how inventors, entrepreneurs, and brand builders can succeed on the world’s largest marketplace. Whether you’re still sketching ideas, holding onto a prototype, ready to launch but unsure where to start, or already selling and looking to scale—this highly requested session gave inventors the fundamentals needed to build and grow on Amazon.💡 Highlights & Key Takeaways:How to know if Amazon is the right platform for your invention or productWhen and how to sign up for a seller accountThe different account types and which best fit your businessWhat Amazon offers new sellers and ongoing support optionsStep-by-step guidance on listing your first productResources and tools that most sellers don’t know existTips for setting yourself up for success from day oneWith insider advice from Amazon experts, this session equipped inventors with the knowledge to confidently bring their products to Amazon and grow their business.Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/BKV5kPSmmg4?feature=share-----------------------Become a member today @ https://nationalinventorclub.com.Unlock Your Invention's Potential with Inventor Smart! Inventor Smart Community - The Ultimate APP for Inventors to connect, collaborate, network, and drive invention ideas forward! Join social networking, participate in group chats, events, visit the library, and find the support you need! Download the Inventor Smart Community app on Google Play or Apple App Store or here http://inventorsmart.app Join us today!Have a great invention idea?Do you want to know if your idea will make you money?If you're just getting started, need help with product development, engineering, prototyping, finding a product licensing agent, or with bringing your invention idea to reality manufacturing, schedule a call with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach @ https://brianfried.com

October 2, 20251 hr 10 min

What USPTO Offers Inventors: Programs, Resources & Real Support

In this National Inventor Club livestream, we welcomed leaders from the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) to share valuable insights that go far beyond filing patents and trademarks. Many inventors don’t realize that the USPTO offers training programs, educational resources, and community outreach initiatives designed to help innovators succeed. During this session, attendees got an inside look at how the USPTO is expanding support for inventors and entrepreneurs nationwide.💡 Highlights & Key Takeaways:USPTO programs and resources most inventors never hear aboutWhat the agency’s “Return to Basics” focus means for creatorsHow hiring more staff will improve services and streamline processesThe role of regional offices in community outreachFinding the most valuable USPTO training eventsTips for navigating the USPTO website to access hidden resourcesThis was a must-watch session for anyone looking to protect, develop, and scale their inventions with the support of the USPTO.Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/QEVlw9hUgn4?feature=share-----------------------Become a member today @ https://nationalinventorclub.com.Unlock Your Invention's Potential with Inventor Smart! Inventor Smart Community - The Ultimate APP for Inventors to connect, collaborate, network, and drive invention ideas forward! Join social networking, participate in group chats, events, visit the library, and find the support you need! Download the Inventor Smart Community app on Google Play or Apple App Store or here http://inventorsmart.app Join us today!Have a great invention idea?Do you want to know if your idea will make you money?If you're just getting started, need help with product development, engineering, prototyping, finding a product licensing agent, or with bringing your invention idea to reality manufacturing, schedule a call with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach @ https://brianfried.com

October 2, 20251 hr 6 min

Turn Your Invention Into a Business with the Small Business Administration (SBA)

The National Inventor Club welcomed Paul Fitzpatrick, Associate Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Entrepreneurial Development, for an exclusive livestream packed with resources and strategies to help inventors and entrepreneurs grow their businesses. Paul shared how the SBA supports innovation, from funding options and loans to grants, mentorship, and step-by-step guidance for turning ideas into profitable businesses.💡 What You’ll Learn:What the SBA is and how it accelerates entrepreneurial growthFunding opportunities available for inventors and startupsHow to access SBA resources and support programsPractical steps to transform an idea into a businessActionable strategies you can apply right away🎯 Why Listen?Free expert guidance directly from SBA leadershipActionable advice tailored to inventors and startupsInsights on funding and business development resourcesInspiration and real steps to move your invention forwardWatch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/Hi0WfTjW4ao?feature=share-----------------------Become a member today @ https://nationalinventorclub.com.Unlock Your Invention's Potential with Inventor Smart! Inventor Smart Community - The Ultimate APP for Inventors to connect, collaborate, network, and drive invention ideas forward! Join social networking, participate in group chats, events, visit the library, and find the support you need! Download the Inventor Smart Community app on Google Play or Apple App Store or here http://inventorsmart.app Join us today!Have a great invention idea?Do you want to know if your idea will make you money?If you're just getting started, need help with product development, engineering, prototyping, finding a product licensing agent, or with bringing your invention idea to reality manufacturing, schedule a call with Brian Fried, The Inventor Coach @ https://brianfried.com