I have received the Brand Leadership Award from the Asia Brand Congress for global marketing efforts. I was included in the PharmaVoice 100 Most Inspiring People in the Life-Sciences Industry
My wife, Jenny, and I have five children, a golden retriever, and a stray cat. We live in beautiful Boise, Idaho.
In the world of creativity, you can look around and see the people who take a forward-fast approach. They are the ones who are taking charge of their personal and professional lives, making significant choices about how they view things, choosing their attitude with purpose, attracting the right collaborators to support their vision, and most of all, taking action to make things happen.
- Mark Stinson
Previously, I was senior vice president of brand strategy at GSW. My career includes positions as president of a global brand consultancy, president and chief creative officer of an independent healthcare communications firm, and managing partner of an Omnicom medical ad agency.
The job I that shaped my business life was being a paperboy for 7 years in junior high and high school.
Today, we’re exploring the art and process of bringing product ideas to life with David Beker, founder and president of ABetter Design Company — whose innovations, include the Cornhole Shootout nominated for a prestigious award in the toy industry — Toy of the Year in the Outdoor Toys category!
1. Finding Inspiration in Product Development
You’ve worked on products as diverse as toys and gourmet ice cream cones. Where do you typically find inspiration for new ideas? Are there particular moments or experiences that spark your creativity?
2. From Idea to Reality: The Product Development Process
Taking an idea from concept to market is no small feat. Can you walk us through your approach to product development? How do you navigate challenges like prototyping, manufacturing, or marketing?
3. The Story Behind Cornhole Shootout and Bank-A-Ball
Your recent toys, Cornhole Shootout has captured the public’s attention and imagination. What’s the story behind these products? How did they evolve, and what do you think has made them resonate with consumers? Cornhole Shootout, was nominated for a prestigious award in the toy industry — Toy of the Year in the Outdoor Toys category!
4. Lessons from a Global Perspective
Your career spans diverse industries and countries—from Minnesota to Israel, from ice cream to humanitarian aid. How have your experiences in different fields and cultures shaped your approach to business and creativity?
5. Balancing Family and Innovation
As a father of six and a business leader, how do you balance family life with the demands of entrepreneurship? Has your family ever inspired your creative process?
And as always, thank you to our sponsor, White Cloud Coffee Roasters. Enjoy a 10% discount when you use the code CREATIVITY at checkout. Visit whitecloudcoffee.com to explore their handcrafted blends.
Vinnie Potestivo, Editor-in-Chief of
I Have A Podcast®
