#4: Dylan Tellam - From Ab Amigo to AbMat, "Collaboration not Competition," American Manufacturing, the Future of the Industry, and What to Do if you have a Good Idea

Dylan is currently a Co-Owner and a product developer with AbMat, which has evolved into a "platform for single product inventors over the past few years. It's much more than just the "AbMat" now, and a whole lot of the credit goes to Dylan. This chat is an overview of how he got to where he is today, what AbMat is doing and includes several other miscellaneous questions.  ______ Show Notes: (1:44) The story begins with Dylan's dresser breaking while holding his feet during sit-ups. He ends up going to Home Depot and puts together a V1 version of the Ab Amigo. (2:57) Dylan explains many of the issues and costs of launching a product from scratch (and by yourself). (9:48) Connects with AbMat for the first time. (15:54) He randomly meets NFL Pro Bowler and Super Bowl Champ. (23:32) Shark Tank opportunity falls though but a business relationship forms (26:47) Dylan was just 19 when he first created the Ab Amigo. He explains his life circumstances at the time, which were heavily impacted when his family business "sank." (35:25) Dylan makes the full time leap to AbMat (36:52) AbMat's evolution over the past few years. It's no longer a "one-trick pony." (40:50) "Collaboration, not competition." AbMat has turned into a platform for single product inventors. (47:25) What are the characteristics that you'd like to see in an inventor that you work with? (51:58) There are many pros, but what are some cons of American manufacturing? (56:44) Dylan's sales pitch to a large company selling a "knock-off" product. (60:45) How has the industry changed since you've gotten involved, and what will its future look like? (65:42) Where do you see AbMat in 5 years? (68:00) If someone has a product idea, what are the steps necessary to contact AbMat?