COLUMBUS, Ohio — An Ohio business owner is heading into the tank, the Shark Tank. Columbus business Makers Social will appear on Shark Tank at 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 14, putting the DIY craft business in front of millions of viewers.
Makers Social is a hands-on experience built around creativity and connection.
Owner Megan Pando opened the business in February 2020 and describes it as “a full service DIY bar where you can make craft projects from jewelry making to leatherwork and woodwork and even concrete pouring and then sip some cocktails along the way”.
She said the pandemic created many challenges but also emphasized a need for business like this one.
“When we are making things, your hands can’t be checking your phone, so it does bring people away from their screens to spend quality time together,” she said.
And so, as Makers Social grew, so did Pando’s vision for the future. Three years ago, she began exploring her options to franchise the business or open more locations herself. Then came a leap of faith: an audition for Shark Tank. Facing the sharks was intimidating but unforgettable.
“I have definitely never been more nervous in my whole life,” Pando said.
While she can’t say yet whether she negotiated a deal, she said it provided clarity on her path forward and delivered a powerful reminder.
“We should look to our community for help and resources and advice, but the fact that we have the power to write our own story should be really exciting for entrepreneurs everywhere,” she said.
Megan Pando’s episode will be available to stream on Hulu Jan. 15. Whether or not she lands a deal, you’ll have to watch to find out.
