Jessica Haynes of Emerson, Arkansas pitched her business, JesKa Shoe Company, on Shark Tank. Jeska Shoes are modular or interchangeable shoes – with magnetic attachments, a high heel turns into a wedge in seconds. When she appeared on Shark Tank, she had just a prototype. While Kevin O’Leary ridiculed Haynes, fashion guru Daymond John saw potential in Haynes and offered her $70,000 for 70 percent equity. Haynes accepted the deal knowing she would essentially become John’s employee.
JesKa Shoe Company didn’t make it after Shark Tank. As Haynes wrote on Facebook: “While I will always cherish the experience and the dream of the JesKa shoe, I must admit that this process has reached diminishing returns.” She added: “The time has come for me to close this door and take with me the experience and values it has taught me.” Haynes also made sure to thank Daymond John “for the support and mentorship he provided through this endeavor.”
