Ian Smith, the thirty-something co-creator of Yappari, was born up North, but now lives down South where the internet connection speed is pretty quick.

Making reference to Ian’s creative writing, his English tutor described his abilities as “the icing on the cake… without the cake”. And so it became apparent that Ian would end up in the world of Marketing Communications.

Of his academic achievements, Ian comments, “My Geography tutor told me not to keep my fingers crossed, prior to sitting my final exam. But you never really lose those colouring-in skills; and though I may not have received the formal qualification, my fridge door’s plastered with crayon sketches of igneous rock formations – I suppose it’s my way of reminding myself what could have been.” Ian has an IQ over 100 and less than 150, but as he’s quick to point out, “Don’t worry if you get less than that – IQ tests simply prove that you are good at doing IQ tests.” It’s a comment he often makes in order to prove his EQ scores are off the scale. 

Daniel Phillips, the other co-creator of Yappari (and fellow Northerner), remains somewhat of an Enigma - which means the allied forces found him in a captured U-boat and were able to use his amazing abilities to help save thousands of lives during World War II. The truth is far less exciting, and he can now be found sitting staring at the computer screen playing poker for hours, browsing various forums, or watching or participating in some sporting activity. Dan and Ian met in the UK headquarters of a well-known fire and security company, and from the dizzy heights of the eighth floor they learned to take life with a huge pinch of salt.

Yappari Now working hundreds of miles from each other (they're more productive that way) the two of them created Yappari to post opinions on topical subjects such as the state of modern educational learning toys; debate more serious issues like the top 5 days of the week; and raise questions that they hope will inspire visitors to post their views such as how to combat the effects of global warming. Life is odd, funny, emotional, and far too short - themes that underpin all the postings on Yappari. Of course…