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The Story of Swat-N-Scoop 

Learn how Scott created an innovative solution to an every day problem (and how you can too!)

Want to hear Scott tell the full story and show all of Swat-N-Scoop’s iterations from idea to finished product? 

The Problem: A Familiar Household Dilemma

In Dubuque, Iowa, a father faced a problem that many families experience. Every time he heard that scream from his daughter’s room, he knew what was coming: a spider or another creepy crawler had made an unwanted appearance! As any parent would, Scott rushed in like a superhero to save the day. But there was always one frustrating reality—he didn’t have the right tool to get the job done efficiently and humanely.

The traditional solutions were far from perfect. Using a cup and paper, or  tissues meant getting uncomfortably close to the spider or insect, risking stings, and possibly losing track of them. Swatting often left marks on walls and meant finding a tissue to pick them up. The process was time-consuming, stressful, and ineffective for families trying to get spiders and bugs out of the house quickly and easily.

The Idea: Reimagining the Fly Swatter

The frustration turned into inspiration. As a product developer, licensing coach, and entrepreneur, Scott saw an opportunity to design a better solution—a tool that would solve this simple yet universal problem. The goal was to create something practical, easy to use, and versatile, allowing the user to swat and scoop up the dead bug, while also aligning with a humane, natural approach to pest control for those who opt for “catch and release”.

The core questions he asked were:

• How can I create a heavy duty swatter for larger, dangerous spiders and insects that finishes the job?
• How can I safely scoop them up without getting too close?
• Can this tool work for people who want to relocate bugs without killing them?

By focusing on these questions, he set out to design a "better mousetrap”—an evolution of the traditional fly swatter that could finish the job and empower homeowners to deal with all spiders, insects and bugs effectively.

The Solution: Developing the First Swat-N-Scoop Tool

The process of invention started with a clear vision:

• Combine the swatting function of a fly swatter with a built-in scoop to easily remove insects.
• Ensure the tool works on walls, floors, and ceilings without requiring additional materials like tissues.
• Make it sturdy, environmentally friendly, and user-friendly for homes, RVs, boats, and tents.

After years of trial and error, the first prototype emerged—a tool that could swat insects efficiently, scoop them up easily, and allow an option for quick removal of live bugs without harm or mess. It addressed a range of needs:

• For Parents: A stress-free way to respond to bug emergencies.
• For Eco-Conscious Users: A chemical-free, humane alternative to pest control.
• For Adventurers: A portable solution for camping, boating, or RV living.

This journey reflected the essential steps of invention:

1. Identifying a real-world problem.
2. Researching existing solutions and pinpointing gaps.
3. Creating a simple but innovative design that fills those gaps.
4. Prototyping, testing, and refining the idea.

Want to learn more about Swat-N-Scoop? Check out our website!

A Special Opportunity: Buy It Now

A few years after its initial launch, Swat-N-Scoop gained national recognition when Scott and his daughter, Paige, pitched the product on the new Amazon Prime Video show, “Buy It Now,” hosted by J.B. Smoove. The “SWAT Team,” as panel member Jamie Siminoff referred to them, had the opportunity to pitch to an audience of 100 people who voted on whether or not they would buy the product. The number of audience members who voted that they would buy the product determined if Scott and Paige would move on to the next stage of receiving feedback from the panel of experts, including Jamie Siminoff, Michelle Rothman, and Tabitha Brown. Moving onto the panel feedback stage would allow them the possibility of making it into the Buy It Now Store on Amazon and put them in the running for the $20,000 prize given to one entrepreneur on each episode. Click the button below to watch the show and find out the exciting results of the show! Swat-N-Scoop is featured on Season 1, Episode 2.  

The Key Takeaways for Inventors

The Swat-N-Scoop story highlights the critical stages of turning an idea into reality:

1. Start with a Problem: The best inventions come from solving everyday challenges.
2. Ask the Right Questions: Who will use this? What are their pain points? How can you improve current solutions?
3. Keep It Simple: A small, functional improvement to an existing tool can make a big difference.
4. Test and Refine: Prototyping is essential. Early versions don’t need to be perfect—they just need to prove the concept.

Stay Focused on Value: Whether it’s saving time, keeping people safe, or providing a humane solution, your invention must deliver clear value to its users.

Inventor’s Edge: Supporting Your Journey

At Inventor’s Edge, we help inventors navigate this process step by step. From identifying your idea to refining your prototype, our online courses, 1-1 coaching, and membership community are designed to support innovators like you.

The Swat-N-Scoop case study proves that even small, everyday problems can lead to powerful solutions. With the right mindset, tools, and guidance, you can bring your own invention to life and make a meaningful impact.

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