An Interview With Digits’ Brian Shy

It’s looking like Digits will be the next Quirky product out the door. We catch up with ideator/mythical creature Brian Shy; he says he couldn’t be happier.

Centaur pic posted by ideator request… we didn’t ask.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I’m 28 and live in Chicago with my fiancée Kim and two cats. I’m in the middle of an MD/PhD program at the University of Illinois, mostly in the lab right now. We study stem cells.

2. When did you join Quirky?

A year ago, give or take.

3. How did you find out about us?

I read about Quirky in one of those in-flight magazines. Good thing I forgot my book!

4. When and how did you think up the idea for this product?

Also about a year ago. I sewed some conductive thread into my gloves so that I could use my phone and thought there should be an easier way.

5. Had you tried to make this thing on your own already?

Well, I made a prototype but I don’t think anyone would have bought it. It involved one of my old socks.

6. What do you think of the final product?

Couldn’t be happier.

7. In your opinion, what is the most innovative product ever invented?

Hmm this is hard. I guess I will go with the personal computer.

8. What inspires you?

Norman Borlaug  – In the 1960’s he developed genetically modified crops (by hand pollination) that were resistant to common pests in Mexico, India, and Pakistan. In doing so he saved about a billion lives from starvation.

9. What are some of your quirks?

I was found in the jungle as a baby and later taught myself to read. I also collect stamps.

10. What’s your favorite cereal? Deli meat?

Cereal: I like variety. Deli meat: prosciutto

11. Any parting words?

I would like to thank the Quirky staff and community. It’s an amazing group of passionate, creative, and motivated people and I am lucky to have found it.