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Transcript

“The Inventress” Lisa Ascolese on the Realities of Being an Inventor: You Can’t Skip the Work

How Lisa Ascolese turned her move to Brooklyn into the start of an inventive career—and what every innovator should know about patents, marketing, and perseverance.

When I first heard about Lisa Ascolese, known as “The Inventress,” I knew I wanted to bring her story to Clause 8.

Lisa’s path into inventing began after her family moved to Brooklyn, New York, where her creativity and curiosity found room to grow. She started inventing at a young age, driven by the simple desire to solve everyday problems. That curiosity evolved into a lifelong passion for turning ideas into reality. Her first major success—the Bosom Buddy breastfeeding cape—opened doors to retail shelves, QVC appearances, and a deep understanding of what it truly takes to bring a product to market.

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In our conversation, Lisa and I talk about what inventors often learn the hard way: that success requires persistence, self-belief, and an understanding of both patents and business. She shares how she built Inventing from A to Z, a company that helps independent inventors navigate everything from concept to commercialization, and why she tells every creator:

“A patent doesn’t sell your product—you do.”

Lisa also offers insights for patent attorneys—encouraging them to ask inventors where they see their product being sold before diving into legal protection. Her perspective bridges the gap between invention and entrepreneurship, showing how passion and practicality go hand in hand.

For anyone ready to turn ideas into impact, Lisa’s story is both inspiring and instructive. Her new book, “The Inventress’s Guide to Inventing The Right Way: All Or Nothing, Now Or Never”, is an essential companion for creators determined to make their vision real.

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode now on YouTube here
📌 Sponsored by Tradespace – where ideas take flight.