Contributors & Guests

Andrew Varner is the inventor of the I-Level, a patented smart leveling tool that uses LED color indicators to instantly signal perfect alignment. With no formal engineering background, Andrew dreamed up the concept and brought it to life through self-taught prototyping, 3D printing, and electronics. He later partnered with design experts and engineers to refine the product, ultimately securing a licensing deal with Franklin Sensors, who now distribute the I-Level globally. Based in Cleveland, Andrew is passionate about solving real-world problems through innovation and continues to develop practical tools for the DIY and construction space.

Angela Fairhurst is an experienced television producer turned inventor and founder of Geri-Gadgets®, a line of high-quality sensory and manipulative tools designed to foster connection, engagement, and calm for individuals with cognitive decline and adults with sensory needs. Drawing on her background in entertainment production and lifelong curiosity, Angela turned a personal caregiving challenge into a patented product system that emphasizes safety, durability, and meaningful interaction. Her work combines thoughtful design with practical innovation—using non-toxic, dishwasher-safe materials and engaging textures to support interaction and well-being. Angela has successfully navigated market research, product development, trademarking, and international distribution, building a brand that resonates with caregivers, professionals, and families.

Bob Brown is the founder of Transparent Engineered Solutions and the creator of SpatialVision™ (spatialvision3d.com), a 3D visualization software platform that helps engineers, inspectors, and contractors accurately map and interpret floor elevation and foundation movement. Known as “The Dirt Whisperer,” Bob brings decades of hands-on experience in construction, real estate, and foundation repair—specializing in diagnosing complex soil-driven structural issues like expansive clay heave and moisture imbalance. After building and selling a foundation repair company, he retained and commercialized his intellectual property, licensing practical innovations to contractors nationwide. His product portfolio includes SpatialVision™, NeverRust (non-ferrous stem wall repair components), MoistureLevel (soil drying and stabilization), and Needle Pile (small-diameter lifting technology).

Brian Poetter is the founder, owner, and CEO of FanBags Cornhole, where he pioneered a patented interchangeable playing-surface system that lets users swap out board designs in under 30 seconds. What began as a student project blossomed into a full-fledged business offering customizable, pro-grade cornhole boards and gear. Brian brings a rare blend of inventive thinking, product development savvy, and entrepreneurial grit to the world of game and sports gear innovation.

Beyond FanBags, Brian also holds credentials as a financial professional (CHFC) and balances multiple roles in investment advisory and business operations. His journey underscores a commitment to building both playful and practical solutions—from backyard fun to professional competition—while navigating the rigors of growing a brand from the ground up.

Dr. Charles Martin is a seasoned AI researcher and serial innovator with decades of experience dating back to the early 1990s. With a PhD in theoretical physics and post-doctoral work in AI, he served as a scientific advisor to the family of Google co-founder Larry Page and worked on open-source projects at University of California, Berkeley. Today, he leads WeightWatcher.ai, a pioneering platform that audits and evaluates large-scale AI models for performance, safety, and bias—functioning as a “Consumer Reports” for machine-learning systems. Charles is passionate about demystifying AI, improving model transparency, and helping organizations build high-quality, risk-aware systems.

Chris Clarke, PhD, is an independent AI consultant and founder of East Village AI, helping startups and established product teams turn ambitious ideas into practical, shippable AI solutions. Trained as a theoretical physicist (PhD, 2004), Chris spent years in defense before moving into renewables, big data, customer experience analytics, and fintech, where his work blended advanced statistics, large-scale modeling, and software engineering. Along the way he developed deep experience in innovation workflows and IP, including drafting and supporting patent work around data/AI-driven systems. Today, Chris operates as a “fractional innovation” partner—rapidly assessing technical feasibility, guiding teams on product strategy, prototyping when needed, and assembling specialized talent to accelerate delivery. He’s known for a pragmatic, human-in-the-loop view of AI and a bias toward iteration that drives clarity and real-world impact.

Doug Crowe is a veteran publisher, author strategist, and founder of Author Your Brand, where he helps CEOs, founders, and thought leaders transform their expertise into influential, powerfully written books. After a 20-year career in real estate and media—including hosting an ABC radio show—Doug discovered the secret behind bestselling authors: many don’t write their own books. Combining journalism, storytelling, and marketing, he built a premier ghostwriting and publishing system designed for impact, credibility, and legacy. Doug has guided countless entrepreneurs in crafting compelling narratives, securing media attention, and elevating their brands through high-quality nonfiction books. With a focus on authenticity and results, he champions purpose-driven leaders who want to make the world better—one book at a time.

Doug Hunter is a product design and engineering consultant with decades of experience developing complex mechanical systems, particularly in automotive powertrain, lubrication, and pump technologies. Over his career, Doug has led advanced engineering programs for global OEMs and is credited with 30+ issued patents worldwide, reflecting a deep commitment to innovation and practical problem-solving. He is the founder of Altarium Technical Consulting, where he works with startups and mid-sized companies in fractional roles to strengthen product design capability, guide technical strategy, and accelerate development without the overhead of building large internal teams. Known for his hands-on approach, IP fluency, and real-world manufacturing insight, Doug helps clients move ideas from concept to production while avoiding costly missteps.