What does it take to turn a simple idea into a life-saving innovation?
In this episode, Rob Yonover shares his journey from Hawaii’s waves to Shark Tank, where he pitched his invention, See Rescue, a device now saving lives worldwide.
Rob's story is a powerful testament to perseverance and innovation. He discusses the inspiration behind See Rescue, a simple yet effective device used by the military, astronauts, and search-and-rescue teams. Rob also reveals his challenges, from balancing his day job to the long process of getting his invention to market.
In addition to the technical aspects of invention, Rob shares insights on the importance of patience, persistence, and networking.
He emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to embrace both the slow and fast parts of the journey and how even small steps can lead to big successes.
Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments
- Rob Yonover shares his experience as a Shark Tank entrepreneur, highlighting the pressure of the pitch and the reality behind the scenes.
- The creation of the See Rescue Streamer, a life-saving device, and how it’s revolutionizing search and rescue efforts.
- Insights into how Rob turned his idea into a patented, military-approved product used by astronauts and military personnel.
- The importance of perseverance and grit when facing failure and how to keep pushing forward.
- How to balance day jobs with building a business and why taking small steps is important.
- Lessons learned from years of hard work and never quitting—entrepreneurship is a long-term journey.
About Rob Yonover
Dr. Robert Yonover is a Ph.D. geochemist and volcanologist with an extensive background in scientific innovation, technologies, and patents. His groundbreaking work includes multiple ALVIN submersible dives to two miles deep off the Galapagos Islands to collect submarine lava samples, with laboratory research conducted at NASA Johnson Space Center and MIT.
An avid North Shore big wave surfer and Molokai Channel rough-water fisherman, Dr. Yonover has harnessed the ocean as his laboratory to create survival technologies, earning U.S. Military/DARPA funding and multiple U.S. patents. His notable inventions include the military-approved SeeRescue® Streamer, Pocket Flotation technology, Portable Emergency DeSalinator, Video Search and Rescue (vSAR) technology, Inflatable Rescue Board, and Inflatable Paddleboards used globally.
A respected media figure, Dr. Yonover has been featured on CNN, PBS, and the Discovery Channel and is the author of Hardcore Inventing and Brainstorm Islands. Passionate about education, he is dedicated to nurturing creativity and innovation across generations. Dr. Yonover continues to inspire and empower people to embrace the spirit of invention and resilience.
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