We recently connected with John Vilardi and have shared our conversation below.
John, appreciate you joining us today. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your career and how did you resolve those issues?
In the summer of 2001, a car accident changed my life dramatically. It resulted in serious injuries, requiring back surgery and prompting me to reevaluate my future.
The aftermath of the accident was physically and emotionally demanding, forcing me to confront my limitations and face an uncertain future. Despite these challenges, I refused to be defined by adversity. I returned to school, discovering my passion for 3D animation and modeling, marking the beginning of my journey towards innovation.
Though unfortunate, the accident became a catalyst for my transformation, inspiring me to explore new opportunities and reinvent myself. It was the defining moment that led me down a path of creativity and self-discovery, proving that even in the face of unexpected adversity, growth and new possibilities can emerge.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I grew up on Long Island, New York, and my journey took a significant turn when, at 18, I relocated to Montauk. By age 20, I had joined a painting and wallpaper company, gaining valuable experience before venturing into entrepreneurship. Over the years, I worked extensively in the Hamptons, including collaborations with notable figures such as Nora Ephron, writer of “Sleepless in Seattle”; Fred Schuler, cinematographer for “The Deer Hunter”; and Robert Benton, director of “Kramer vs. Kramer.”
My personal life was marked by happiness, with marriage to a wonderful woman and the birth of two sons. For 25 years, I ran a successful wallpaper business until a car accident and subsequent back surgery left me unable to continue. Undaunted, I returned to school in 2001 to study 3D modeling, web page design, and Photoshop.
Shortly after graduation, I received a pivotal call from Billy Tucci, known for creating the comic book “Shi.” Under his mentorship, I applied my 3D animation and special effects skills to contribute to the film “Some Trouble of a Serious Nature.” This experience went beyond creativity; it transformed me, allowing me to work on a film directed by a renowned comic book creator. Billy Tucci’s guidance enriched my artistic journey.
Sol Negron, an accomplished cinematographer, and producer with credits in iconic films such as “Superman,” “Jaws 2,” “Coming to America,” “Robocop,” and “Kojak,” became another significant collaborator. Working with him exposed me to the intricacies of filmmaking at the hands of a true industry veteran. His expertise and dedication to the craft left an indelible mark on my creative journey, enriching my understanding of the art of filmmaking. Our collective effort in “Some Trouble of a Serious Nature” earned Billy Tucci first place at the Long Island Film Festival, affirming the profound impact of our creative collaboration.
Life then brought challenges, including a divorce (my fault), a move to Florida, and a motorcycle accident that shattered my wrist. During recovery, I discovered new 3D modeling software, reigniting my passion.
A friend introduced me to Edison Nation, a platform for inventors. Recognizing that many inventors lacked drawing skills, I leveraged my 3D modeling abilities to help them create presentations for their ideas. My business thrived, but Edison Nation eventually closed its doors in 2021.
Fortunately, Inventor Angels stepped in, securing three licensing deals for me, including the “Follow Me Light Leash,” a related reel, and an innovative “Pitcher and Cup Set.” My journey as an inventor has been deeply fulfilling, driven not only by personal satisfaction but also by the joy of assisting others in realizing their ideas.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
I made a deliberate choice to return to school and explore new horizons. Enrolling in a course that introduced me to 3D animation, Photoshop, and web design marked a significant departure from my previous pursuits. Nonetheless, I approached it with an open mind and a hunger for knowledge.
Learning these new skills presented challenges, especially considering the physical obstacles I was still overcoming. Despite this, I persisted, dedicating countless hours to refining my abilities and immersing myself in the world of digital artistry. My newfound passion for 3D animation and modeling became my driving force.
This transitional phase was not without setbacks and moments of doubt, but my resilience propelled me forward. I embraced challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth, learning from my mistakes, and continually improving my skills.
As I honed my expertise in 3D animation and modeling, I realized that these newfound abilities could extend beyond creative expression. This revelation marked a turning point in my journey, leading me into the realm of innovation. Today, I am not only an enthusiast but also a patented inventor.
My story of resilience in the face of adversity stands as a testament that setbacks can unveil unforeseen opportunities. By embracing change, acquiring new skills, and persevering through challenges, I not only reinvented myself but also discovered a genuine passion and purpose in my life. This resilience, coupled with my status as a patented inventor, remains the driving force behind my pursuit of innovation and shapes my approach to creative problem-solving.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
My reputation in the market has been cultivated through a blend of innovative 3D designs and inventive products. My expertise in 3D modeling enables me to bring imaginative ideas to life, setting me apart and affording me a unique perspective on problem-solving. Inventing has been a central pillar of my career, with a consistent track record of successful and impactful products that resonate with both customers and clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://johnvilardi.com/
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