Roger von Oech is an author, inventor, and speaker. His seminars and products have enriched the creativity of many millions around the world.

He is the author of the creative thinking classic A Whack on the Side of the Head, as well as A Kick in the Seat of the Pants, Expect the Unexpected, and also the Creative Whack Pack and Innovative Whack Pack.

His newest product is the Ball of Whacks -- a set of magnetic design blocks that acts as "a creativity tool for innovators."

He earned his Ph.D. from Stanford University in the "History of Ideas." He’s married, the father of two grown children, and lives in Atherton, California. He enjoys Masters swimming, travel, and reading history and science.