The Sidekick Notepad enhances ergonomics for note-taking and to-do lists.
The manufacturing process of the Sidekick Notepad faced challenges like paper sourcing.
Cortex Brand aims to attract new customers with direct-to-consumer products.
Innovative materials like extract paper were used for the notepad cover design.
Transitioning towards a focused branding approach involves expanding product range.
Deep dives
Introduction of the Sidekick Notepad
The Sidekick Notepad is introduced as the second major product from the Klodex brand, following the success of the theme system journal. The podcast delves into the design process and journey of creating the notepad from inception to completion. Transforming the concept from scratch, it reflects a behind-the-scenes look at the 18-month manufacturing process, highlighting the challenges and achievements faced during its creation.
Design Features and Versatility
The Sidekick Notepad is described as a landscape format notepad with 60 perforated pages, utilizing high-quality paper similar to the theme system journal. Its unique layout incorporates a three-quarters dot grid for note-taking and a one-quarter section for to-do lists. The notepad's 30x18 cm design is optimized to comfortably sit between the user and their keyboard, enhancing ergonomics and usability for various tasks, including note-taking and list-making during meetings.
Innovative Product Concept and Naming
The name 'Sidekick Notepad' is derived from its purpose as a companion or aide while working, symbolizing its functionality to assist users seamlessly in various tasks. The concept emphasizes the notepad's transitional role between physical and digital note-taking workflows, offering a convenient platform for jotting down ideas, to-dos, and other actionable information. The notepad's 60-page capacity is designed to guide users in organizing daily tasks and thoughts effectively.
Manufacturing Process and Challenges
The podcast elaborates on the intricate manufacturing processes involved in creating the Sidekick Notepad. From selecting specific materials and designs to addressing technical challenges like folding the cover and ensuring proper perforation, the journey was marked by meticulous attention to detail. Overcoming obstacles such as sourcing paper amid global supply chain issues and perfecting the product's functionality required extensive collaboration and problem-solving with manufacturers, resulting in a 12-month production timeline.
Introduction of Sidekick Notepad and Brand Focus
The episode delves into the release of a new product, the Sidekick Notepad, signifying a shift in focus towards direct-to-consumer branding. The host emphasizes the importance of attracting new customers unfamiliar with their podcast content by creating products with less preamble, making them easier to understand and market based on their inherent utility.
Product Design Process and Material Innovation
The discussion highlights the meticulous product design process, showcasing the innovative use of extract paper made from recycled coffee cups for the Sidekick Notepad cover. The host describes the meticulous selection of materials, including a customized paper weight, to ensure structural integrity and sustainability, with a focus on conveying the environmental and functional benefits of the product.
Reflection on Transition to Serious Branding Approach
The podcast reflects on the strategic transition towards a more serious and focused branding approach for Cortex Brand, involving targeted marketing, content pillars, and expanding the product range to cater to a broader consumer base. The host discusses the evolution from a podcast-related audience to a direct-to-consumer customer base, aiming to establish a distinct brand identity and enhance product visibility and relevance in the market.
Reduction in Editing and Prep of Shows
The speaker discusses a significant reduction in editing and preparing their shows for 2022. Consolidating various tasks like copywriting and aftercare into one category labeled 'sponsors' has streamlined their workload, with a focus on reducing this category further in the coming years. The speaker highlights the decreased frequency of mentorship calls and plans to increase these interactions in 2023, aiming to maintain a balance similar to that of 2021, when significant time was spent on setup.
Transition to Mastodon Social Network
The speaker shares their transition to Mastodon, emphasizing a move from Twitter to this new platform for a different social media experience. Despite concerns about noise and criticism, the speaker prioritizes a cautious approach, limiting time spent on Mastodon and employing tools like app limits to manage engagement. They aim to use Mastodon primarily for broadcasting updates, answering questions, and promoting projects, distancing themselves from using it for content consumption like Twitter.
