Photo: Kindel Media

How accurate is Shark Tank?

The 5-minute deal Forbes tracked hundreds of on-air deals from the first seven seasons of “Shark Tank” and found that more than 40 percent actually fell through off-camera, while another 30 percent went through significant changes.

sbnonline.com - A look at what's real and what's not on 'Shark Tank'

Can exercise tighten loose neck skin?

Exercise is good for your health and can tone your muscles, but it doesn't eliminate excess skin. So, while exercises might help tighten up your...

Last updated May 10, 2022

Do you lose more weight with Ozempic or Wegovy?

Clinical trials of Wegovy® 2.4 mg showed average weight loss of 15.8% after 68 weeks. With Ozempic®, clinical trials showed an average 6% reduction...

Last updated Mar 19, 2019

Promotion

This summer, ABC announced a ninth season for its Emmy-winning reality TV show, “Shark Tank.” The show, which features entrepreneurs pitching a panel of celebrity investors, including Mark Cuban, has brought venture capitalism into homes across the nation and established the “Shark Tank” pitch as part of pop culture. On the plus side, the show has engaged and hopefully inspired millions to think about pursuing the entrepreneurial dream. On the other hand, this is reality TV, so it is built to engage and entertain, not depict the reality of venture funding. Here are a few reality checks:

The 5-minute deal

Though the magic of television, a bold, inspired investor can get a million-dollar deal done in five minutes flat. Make your pitch, get your check. In truth, for the show (and for venture investors), the deal isn’t “done” until long after the pitch. Forbes tracked hundreds of on-air deals from the first seven seasons of “Shark Tank” and found that more than 40 percent actually fell through off-camera, while another 30 percent went through significant changes. “Shark Tank” doesn’t try to hide any of this, nor should it. The investor pitch is only the start of the process, not the end. Conducting diligence and working through investment terms takes time and can sometimes derail an investment, particularly when there are meaningful dollars at stake.

The made-for-TV pitch

“Shark Tank” is on the money when it comes to the importance of creating a concise and compelling business pitch. It’s not easy to get an audience with an investor. When the opportunity strikes — whether it’s a formal pitch or an impromptu meeting — it’s important to make a good first impression. However, for television a good portion of the actual pitch often gets lost in the editing suite. Producers obviously need to maximize entertainment value by selecting only the most compelling sound bites. The back and forth between investor and entrepreneur in a typical pitch will dig much deeper into the details and business fundamentals.

The big reveal

Investor decisions rarely have the same tinge of drama as they do on television. Even when they say “no,” it’s rare for an investor to insult an entrepreneur, slam the door on working together in the future and risk creating a reputation of being unapproachable. Still, candid feedback is something that is essential for investors to give and entrepreneurs to accept, even when uncomfortable.

The celebrity sales bump

Even when an entrepreneur leaves “Shark Tank” without a deal, the on-air exposure can create meaningful impact. Akron-based food startup Peaceful Fruits was featured on the program and immediately saw its orders skyrocket, despite not receiving an offer from the sharks. Although entrepreneurs have no control over what part of their pitch will air, it’s often worth considering pitching the show for the national exposure. Even pitch competitions that are not broadcast can provide entrepreneurs with exposure that can lead to meaningful connections. ●

Jerry Frantz is managing partner, entrepreneurial services and investing, at JumpStart Inc.

How to lose weight fast with protein shakes?

Protein shakes are good for weight loss because they are satiating and may boost metabolism. Replace a meal, like dinner, with a low-calorie, no...

Last updated Mar 31, 2019

How can I lower my A1C quickly?

7 Ways to Improve Your A1C Exercise. Physical activity helps your body use insulin more efficiently, so it can better process the glucose in your...

Last updated Jun 27, 2020

Promotion

Why is only my belly so fat?

Gaining weight solely in your stomach may be the result of specific lifestyle choices. The two S's — stress and sugar — play a significant role in the size of your midsection. Certain medical conditions and hormonal changes can contribute to abdominal weight gain.

insider.com - 10 reasons why you might be gaining weight in your stomach - Insider

Gaining weight solely in your stomach may be the result of specific lifestyle choices. The two S's — stress and sugar — play a significant role in the size of your midsection.

Certain medical conditions and hormonal changes can contribute to abdominal weight gain.

Top editors give you the stories you want — delivered right to your inbox each weekday. Loading Something is loading. Thanks for signing up! Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. download the app Email address By clicking ‘Sign up’, you agree to receive marketing emails from Insider as well as other partner offers and accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Do you ever feel like your stomach takes on a life of its own? From bulging and bloating to flat and firm, the shape of your midsection changes daily. But what happens when the size of your stomach seems to keep growing, without any relief in sight?

If you're gaining weight in your stomach, it could be related to your diet or it could be the result of a new medication or other health issues. INSIDER spoke to experts to determine the more common reasons you're gaining weight in your stomach.

How can I permanently reverse diabetes?

Although there's no cure for type 2 diabetes, studies show it's possible for some people to reverse it. Through diet changes and weight loss, you...

Last updated Jan 15, 2021

How long does it take to lose belly fat?

The American Council on Exercise says a 1 percent body fat loss per month is safe and achievable. Given that math, it could take a woman with...

Last updated Jul 6, 2019

Promotion

How long can I stay on phentermine?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) limited treatment to 12 weeks or less. Mar 22, 2019

Last updated Aug 12, 2018

Promotion

How do you drain fat from your body?

Most research recommends 150–300 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week, or roughly 20–40 minutes of cardio each day ( 35 ). Running,...

Last updated Mar 25, 2022