Micha Hertzano - "Imagination more important than knowledge..."

What exactly do you do in the industry?

Tough question….in practice am the typist , telephone operator, forklift driver, export manager yet funny enough on me business card it says ‘CEO’ .

What is your claim to fame in the industry?

I would say my ambition and dedication, making Rummikub one of the most enjoyed and played board game around the globe, including many celebrities!

Why and how did you get into the Toy and Game industry?

Simply , born into it ! My late father was an entrepreneur and had a great vision . He started his own production in our ‘back yard’. I was at an early age helping out painting and packing games, so I guess it’s in my DNA. And I also have a great love for board games.

What are you working on now?

We are always striving for new designs and technology, to give our customers the best game experience possible. I can’t reveal it yet… it is pending IP protection.

What trends do you see in toys or games that excite or worry you?

We are very excited about the growth in the board game industry…..The more technology and evolves - the more people come back to their ’human face’ and there is no better way to get people know each other while entertain themselves.

We are a bit worried about the evolution of online as well as offline infringements that are more and more complicated and expensive to have removed.

What advice can you give to inventors who are presenting new toy or game ideas to you?

It is the Million Dollar question. Answer : stick to short play time , 3 rules for playing it , for 2 players and more , simple and witty at the same time.

What advice would you give a young adult graduating from high school or college today?

Remember Einstein’s words “imagination more important than knowledge – since knowledge is limited”

Do you have a typical workday and how does it play out for you?

Every day is like the first day of my life – I know how it starts – but not how it will end .

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Receiving a request for a missing Tile from a group of players in Katmandu ( Nepal), Seeing people all over the world enjoying a game of Rummikub. Doing what I love and working with people I appreciate.

What is the worst job you’ve ever had and what did you learn from it?

Never had another job!

What’s a problem you’re still trying to solve?

Removing copy cats from the market .

What and/or who inspires you?

My father’s work of life.

How do you define creativity?

Creating something new that did not exist.

How do you define innovation?

Seeing something so simple – asking myself – Why did I not do it ?

How do you recharge or take a break?

Great question…..I would like to know that!

What was your favorite toy or game as a child?

Rummikub! - You don’t want to know why …..

Where were you born?

Romania.

What was your life like growing up?

Am writing a book right now – it all be there .

What is one mistake you’ve made, and what did you learn from it?

Don’t trust in eyes closed.

What do you read every day, and why?

Toy News – and dreaming on the day will read one of the 10 books next to my bed side.

What is your favorite gadget, app or piece of software that helps you every day?

Google, Alexa.

How do you jumpstart your creativity when you find yourself stalled on a project?

Put it aside for a while. Start another one, then return ..

When is the last time you laughed out loud? What caused it?

Almost every day …. Life is fun ..

What is the last time you did something for the first time?

I treat every day as the first day of my life ..

Are you named after anyone?

No! I have chosen my own name.

Do you have any kiddos?

Ronna and Adam.

Do you have any pets?

Yes ! “Cyndi” my dog ( Shautzer).

What’s next?

I wish I knew .