I'll be the 1st to admit, I was actually watching Shark Tank for other reasons... Slyde Handboards.
You see, Slyde was in The Tank 2.5 years prior, received investment from Ashton Kutcher and Mark Cuban, and were back on the air to share our "success story."
What I didn't expect on ABC that night, was that a gourmet applesauce would steal the show, capture the hearts of millions, and re-ignite my own entrepreneurial spirit. For that Keisha Jeremie of Sanaia Apple Sauce, I applaud you, thank you, and warmly welcome to you to the Mark Cuban Companies Team.
Yes, It's true, when you close a deal with Mark Cuban, you're instantly part of a team. A team of entrepreneurs, businesses, mentors, and professionals, all wanting you to succeed.
It's been a wild ride in our 2.5 years since joining "the team." Fasten your seat belt, I hope you enjoy a few insights I picked up on the way.
Mark Cuban Companies are designed like high performance sports teams. You "play" alongside an extraordinary network of people (Mark & beyond) who have been thru or are going thru, the growing pains of scaling a business. Utilize this easily accessible dream team of knowledge and resources.
Character Matters, who you are as person and what your company/brand represents matters. Out of the 80+ Shark Tank funded Mark Cuban Companies, You'll find yourself amongst some of the most genuine, solid, and helpful people you'll ever meet. Have trust in your community.
On this team, "the game" never ends. Stay consumer friendly, and future focused. Always make the best product for the now, while never losing site of even greater future innovations.
Remain in your power, be confident in your excellence, and ask for help when something isn't your A-game. As Mark Cuban said "You're impressive, and even though I think you're missing a few things, I think my team could provide it." Let the team provide help, and support when needed.
I hope your entrepreneurial spirit continues to burn bright, and you're the next big Shark Tank success story. Also if you happen to pick up any helpful tips of your own along the way, please share. Congratulations!
Angela Ferendo
Angela Ferendo grew up in Rhode Island, spending her summers on the ocean, both sailing and bodysurfing. Having a passion for sports, fitness and health, she graduated magna cum laude with a bachelors degree, double majoring in Physical Education and Health Education from Plymouth State University. She moved to California 3 different times before making it her permanent home in LA in 2012 - needless to say she has driven across the country 4 times. In her spare time she teaches zumba, runs with Cowboy the Dog, and puts up with Steve's shenanigans. Angela now wears multiple hats at Slyde including: business planning/development, customer service, logistics, sales, and finances.
