An Interview With Travelstacks’ Nancy Casimir

Now that Travelstacks is almost shipping, we thought we’d catch up with ideator Nancy Casimir, a science teacher and invention-lover from Miami.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I’m from Miami, Florida. I am a science teacher, but one day I hope to go back to school for Orthotics/Prosthetics. I’m single with no kids (for now ). I love music, I play the bass guitar (female musicians rule!). I’m a very spiritual person. I love volunteering in my community with the elderly and the homeless. And last but not least I love, love inventing.

2. When did you join Quirky and how did you find out about us?

I joined Quirky in the summer of 2009. I found out about Quirky through another invention site where someone mentioned in a blog that our ideas would more likely be viewed and given immediate feedback at Quirky.

3. When and how did you think up the idea for Travelstacks?

I came up with the idea for this product in the summer of 2009. I wanted somewhere to pack my sandwich and have it ready to eat while still having space for my drink in my car.

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

I did not try to do it myself because I knew it would take a long time to produce and a lot of money, so I knew Quirky would be the best resource to make this idea into reality.

5. What do you think of the final product?

I love the final product. As a matter of fact, removing one of the stacks and making it more compact is great because it allows more space in your car and is more appealing.

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

This is a tough one. There are many, but if I had to choose one I would have to say the Snuggie (just kidding… even though I do wish I had come up with it). Seriously, I would say the most innovative product is the iPad.

7. What inspires you?

I’m constantly inspired by people’s determination to never give up on their dreams.

8. What are some of your quirks?

I only like the beach at night. I have Justin Beiber fever.

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

My favorite cereal is Rice Chex cereal. My favorite deli meat is Boar’s Head turkey.

10. Any parting words?

I want to thank Quirky for giving me the opportunity to share my idea and making it into reality. You guys are truly great at what you do and the future of Quirky is only getting better and better.