As the highly anticipated Season 17 of Shark Tank approaches, Barbara Corcoran, one of the show’s original investors, shares her insights on entrepreneurship, the housing market, and even birthday celebrations during a recent conversation with Boardroom. Known for her keen ability to differentiate between mere talkers and those who follow through, Corcoran attributes her success to a simple principle: invest in the person, not just the pitch.
Having spent nearly two decades on Shark Tank and built a real estate empire, Corcoran emphasizes that great products often fail, but great founders possess the resilience to succeed. With billions in revenue generated from businesses launched on the show, the behind-the-scenes dynamics among the Sharks contribute to its cultural phenomenon. Corcoran revealed her genuine enjoyment of the relationships she has built with her fellow investors, which adds depth to the competitive nature viewers typically witness.
Corcoran is particularly passionate about the challenges facing young prospective homeowners in today’s market. As an industry veteran, she closely observes shifts in property values and offers pragmatic, actionable advice for navigating the complexities of homeownership, steering clear of empty optimism.
In a surprising twist, Corcoran also shared a poignant and humorous anecdote about her unconventional 70th birthday party. After discovering that her friends were planning a surprise celebration for her, she decided to turn the tables and instead hosted a mock funeral for herself, surprising everyone and creating a memorable experience.
As Shark Tank embarks on its seventeenth season, Corcoran remains a cornerstone of the show, bringing invaluable insights from her extensive experience. Her ability to evaluate risk and talent continues to inspire both entrepreneurs and audiences alike, reminding everyone of the tenacity and spirit that fueled her own journey from a waitress to a successful business mogul.