TMBA 314: The 3D Revolution

Nearby nipa huts and a view of a garden

Podcast 27:32 | Download | Stitcher | iTunes | Comment

In this week’s episode Dan and Ian invite you to share in one of Bossman’s many interests: 3D printing.

This technology has been around for a while - mostly used by designers and engineers to conceptualize and test prototypes. But, as 3D printers become cheaper and more sophisticated, might it begin to revolutionize not only the world of retail but also DIY? What are the opportunities and potential pitfalls for entrepreneurs? Lawyers like Alan Rothenbuecher are already advising firms on how to handle the growing number of IP issues that crop up in relation to 3D printing.TMBA also talks to one of the co-founders of The Pirate Bay, Tobias Andersson, about why he thinks 3D printing is going to have the same impact on design as file-sharing sites have had on the music business.

Listen to this week's show and learn:

  • Why Ian decided to buy a 3D printer. (2:32)

  • What kind of impact 3D printing may have on the future of commerce. (4:30)

  • Ways that small businesses can protect their intellectual property with the rise of 3D printing. (10:25)

  • Why traditional contractual agreements are still going to be an important part of 3D printing manufacturing. (17:02)

  • How bigger businesses are starting to prepare for this technology. (20:02)

Mentioned in the episode:

The Dynamite Circle
The Pirate Bay
Ice Miller
Tesla Motors
Elon Musk
Tobias Andersson on Twitter
Jane Beresford on Twitter
Shapeways

Enjoyed this podcast? Check out these:

TMBA250: Designing and Prototyping Your Own Consumer Product
TMBA265: Visiting China - Why Entrepreneuers Travel to the Canton Fair
TMBA236: Thoughts on Getting Your First Product Manufactured in China

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HAVE COMMENTS ABOUT THE SHOW?

Do you have ideas for things you'd like Dan and Ian to discuss on future episodes?

Our producer Jane would love to hear from you at jane@tropicalmba.com or leave us a voice message using the record button below.

Thanks for listening to our show! We'll be back next Thursday morning 8AM EST.

Cheers,

Dan & Ian

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TMBA 315: Talking Smart Drugs

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TMBA 313: Should I Cut Bait On This Business?