Steps I Need To Take To Create/Distribute My Own Physical Product?

Now I've browsed around the web a little and I've gotten some different ideas - But I always like to end my search here on WF. Mainly because of the experience and knowledge here. Plus people just tell you how it is, no B.S.

So, I have a few ideas or "inventions" I want to pursue, all being physical products.

Now I know I need a patent for my idea. That's about all I know.

So:

1. Those invention commercials I always see, are they my friends? ("Call us with your idea!") Do I trust them with my idea? Are they who I need to talk to - to get started?
2. If I don't work with the above company, who do I work with? I'm sure there is a business to handle distribution of my product, sales, etc. Or is there?
3. Is it possible to just patent my idea and possibly sell it to a company? Would a company ever buy something like that without any history or how well it sales in the market?

Those are just some general questions jumping around my head. I'm hoping someone here has created a product before! (Is the inventor of the snuggie here?)

A point in the right direction would be helpful!

Thanks

Kory