#BeSomebody is an app that allows people who are interested in learning the same things to connect. Or as Texas Monthly writer Dan Solomon wrote: “It’s like a prettier Craigslist for things like tuba lessons.” #BeSomebody has been around for a couple of years. In 2014, it raised $1 million and had Mr. T as a spokesperson. The founder of #BeSomebody, Kash Shaikh of Austin, Texas, will pitch the business on Shark Tank (November 4). He has an impressive resume – marketing at Procter & Gamble, social media for GoPro – but his aggressive pitch turns many people off. “I call every one of you out!” is how he begins his pitch. Kevin O’Leary responds by calling him out.
[Related: 27 Favorite ‘Shark Tank’ Products at Amazon — New List]
How many people has Shaikh turned off? After giving his #BeSomebody presentation at a local high school, where he spoke about his passion and struggle — quitting his high-paying job, selling his BMW, and investing his own $250k to start the app — the students responded with a parody of Shaikh’s presentation. It’s called #bekahs (see below). Shark Tank airs Fridays at 9pm on ABC.
[#BeSomebody is available for free on iTunes]
Note: The video below was produced by the Advanced Media Arts students at Austin High School.
