"I relate to them" — Shark Tank’s Lori Greiner discusses being an investor on the show

Lori Greiner, a well-known investor on the reality TV series Shark Tank, shared insights on why she connects so deeply with entrepreneurs pitching their ideas on the show. In an Instagram video posted on January 21, 2025, Greiner explained,

"I relate to them and I know that moment on this carpet means everything."

Her experience as an inventor and entrepreneur allows her to empathize with those seeking investment, as she understands the emotional and professional significance of their pitches.

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Shark Tank investor Lori Greiner's perspective as a Shark

Her connection to entrepreneurs

In her Instagram video, Lori Greiner reflected on the emotional weight that entrepreneurs face when they step onto the Shark Tank set. She stated,

"I sit here paying forward because I've been an entrepreneur and an inventor and I know what it feels like to be them."

Greiner’s approach is informed by her path to success, where she transitioned from being an inventor to becoming a prominent investor. She highlighted how she understands the moment when entrepreneurs pitch their ideas to the Sharks, acknowledging how important that moment is for them.

"Hearing their stories and learning about who they are, it's a lot about the heart and soul and changing people's lives," she added.

She referred to the human element that makes a business proposal more interesting, indicating that such is one of the reasons she wanted to invest in innovative entrepreneurs.

She said that what keeps her going is the opportunity to help change lives by offering a person support and guidance in pursuing their dreams. Greiner considered herself more of a guide and a mentor to these people she seeks to assist by using her expertise to push them forward.

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Lori Greiner's early success and business philosophy

Greiner’s journey as an entrepreneur began with the invention of a single product, which evolved into a multi-million-dollar international brand. Over the years, she has created over 400 products, earning 120 U.S. and international patents. As she noted in her Shark Tank bio, Greiner is regarded as one of the most prolific inventors in the retail space. She shared in her bio,

"I can sell hundreds of thousands of dollars in minutes, not months."

She has been able to leverage her sharp business instincts and ability to market products effectively, especially on platforms like QVC, where she has been a prominent figure for over 16 years.

Her extensive experience in retail product creation allows her to evaluate product ideas from a comprehensive perspective. As she put it in her bio,

"I can tell instantly if a product is a hero or a zero."

This intuition has helped Greiner succeed both as an entrepreneur and an investor, guiding her investments on Shark Tank with precision. She is also known for her hands-on involvement in the legal and patent processes, a vital component of her business operations.

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Lori Greiner’s giving back to the community

Throughout her career, Lori Greiner has underscored the importance of giving back, particularly to budding entrepreneurs. Greiner has stated that one of her most gratifying moments is when she can help others turn their ideas into successful products.

She views this as an opportunity to pay forward the support she received during her journey. In her Shark Tank bio, she also shared her belief that if people are lucky enough to be successful, they have a responsibility to give back.

Greiner has committed to helping young entrepreneurs through mentorship and investing in their ideas, further solidifying her role as a guide in the entrepreneurial community. Beyond her work with entrepreneurs, Greiner's philanthropic efforts also reflect her values.

Her company annually donates a substantial portion of its profits to various charities, demonstrating her belief that success should be shared with those in need.

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