In this episode of “Free Your Voice,” hosted by Dustin Plantholt, listeners can expect an enthralling conversation with Kevin Harrington, a renowned entrepreneur, investor, and original “Shark” on the hit TV show “Shark Tank.”
The episode begins with Kevin reflecting on his early days, growing up as the fourth of six children in a Catholic family in Cincinnati, Ohio. He shares his journey from sealing driveways and running an air conditioning installation business to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Kevin emphasizes the importance of recognizing and seizing opportunities, a skill he honed over years of hard work and dedication.
As the founder of several businesses and a pioneer in the direct response television industry, Kevin recounts the pivotal moment when he saw a demonstration of Ginsu knives at a trade show. This encounter led him to revolutionize the infomercial industry by utilizing the downtime on cable TV channels. He shares fascinating stories about working with pitchmen like Arnold Morris and Billy Mays, and the innovative strategies that propelled his businesses to success.
Kevin also discusses the challenges and rewards of scaling businesses globally. He describes his experience of launching infomercials in various languages and markets, setting up operations in multiple countries, and the impact of these ventures on his personal life. His candid reflections on work-life balance, including the toll it took on his marriage, offer valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Throughout the conversation, Kevin highlights the importance of mentorship and giving back. He speaks about his involvement with the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) and his commitment to helping other entrepreneurs succeed. Kevin’s philosophy of “helping enough other people get what they want” as a path to achieving one’s own goals is a central theme of the episode.
Listeners will also learn about Kevin’s recent endeavors, including his role in the success of Celsius, a leading energy drink company, and his ongoing passion for mentoring and investing in new businesses. His stories of perseverance, innovation, and strategic thinking provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone looking to make their mark in the business world.
Join us for an engaging and insightful episode as Kevin Harrington shares his remarkable journey, the lessons he’s learned, and his vision for the future.