While I have nothing against the Baby Einstein products, I can’t honestly say that I’ve ever seen the videos, listened to the CDs, or played with the toys. I can see why Erica of GNMParents took my enthusiastic congratulations of Aigner-Clark as a promotion of her product.

In actuality, I was congratulating Aigner-Clark on harnessing her passion, sharing it with the world, and being able to make a living on it. Isn’t that the hope of us all? To be able to do what we love and find a way to support ourselves and our families on it? Isn’t that our hope for our children?

Since Aigner-Clark was mentioned in the speech, she has been blasted in several places for being recognized for doing nothing but creating videos for babies who should not be put in front of the TV. Since I’ve not seen the videos, I don’t have an opinion on them specifically. However, I have been known to throw a Wiggles video in on occasion (ha), and I’m sure neither Aigner-Clark nor I could be the first to be accused of using TV as a babysitter to TRY TO GET JUST ONE THING DONE. However, I also bottle-fed my eldest child, and still use disposable diapers, so maybe I’m not the one you’re looking to for child-rearing advice.

And, FINALLY, why has eveyone failed to mention the child safety video, The Safe Side – Stranger Safety, that Aigner-Clark produced with America’s Most Wanted guru John Walsh? Reading the text of the speech (you can find that portion here), it seems to me that this project was as instrumental in getting Aigner-Clark recognized in the presidential speech as her entrepreneurial spirit and success. I haven’t seen the safety video, yet (thanks for sending it, you know who!), but will give it a review when I do.

Anyway, I am proud to be nominated for the Hot Stuff Award, and will check out the other posts to see the company that I’m in. If you’d like to vote for me, head over to this post and vote in the comments. Thanks!

Post from: Play Library

Here’s what POTUS (I love saying that) had to say:

After her daughter was born, Julie Aigner-Clark searched for ways to share her love of music and art with her child. So she borrowed some equipment, and began filming childrens videos in her basement. The Baby Einstein Company was born and in just 5 years her business grew to more than $20 million in sales. In November 2001, Julie sold Baby Einstein to the Walt Disney Company, and with her help Baby Einstein has grown into a $200 million business. Julie represents the great enterprising spirit of America. And she is using her success to help others producing child safety videos with John Walsh of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Julie says of her new project: I believe its the most important thing that Ive ever done. I believe that children have the right to live in a world that is safe. We are pleased to welcome this talented business entrepreneur and generous social entrepreneur Julie Aigner-Clark.

Way to go, Julie!!! I’d love to get my hands on a copy of her new video series. My kids are at that age where the “safety” talks are coming more frequently. I’d love more tips on how to keep them safe!

What about you? Do you have an idea within you that’s waiting to get out into the world? What’s stopping you?

Post from: Play Library