episode 0011- from tiktok to shark tank: how a table mat invention went viral and is revolutionizing mealtime with little ones with berlyn haughton
In this episode, we interview Berlyn Haughton, the innovative mind behind the silicon table mat that is changing the way toddlers and babies do mealtime: The Table Tyke. Berlyn shares her journey from frustrated mom dealing with messy and mouthy little ones (we can vouch, toddlers and babies put their mouths on EVERYTHING!) to becoming a successful entrepreneur who landed an appearance on ABC's Shark Tank.
We also dive into the viral TikTok video that accelerated her success, and the national attention she has received since then. Listen in as Berlyn reveals the exact steps she took to get this idea out of her head and into the world. She unveils the vital connections she made that saved her thousands of dollars, as well as all of the challenges she has faced along the way.
Show Highlights:
1- What was going on in life when the idea struck, and what were the initial steps to getting it off the ground? (6:30)
2- Berlyn reveals the connection that saved her thousands in start up costs. (11:45)
3- Berlyn describes the focus group that preceded the prototype. (14:00)
4- We discuss overcoming the fear of rejection from friends and family. (16:00)
5- How to find the courage to ask for help and utilize professional connections, even from your 9-to-5. (18:10)
6- Berlyn discusses going viral on TikTok, and how it accelerated her business. (19:45)
7- Every viral sensation has haters; how do you deal with them? (24:00)
8- Learning to identify trends in the market, and getting scrappy to further your business and grow your brand. (25:30)
9- Getting laid off, getting on Shark Tank, and how business is going today post-Shark Tank. (30:15)
10- The surrealness of being featured on local and national media. (39:40)
11- We discuss how other people can play a crucial role in your entrepreneurial endeavors. (41:35)
12- Overcoming the initial fear and doubt when creating something for the first time. (45:00)
13- How much was the initial investment before the product ever made it to market? (49:00)
14- Where can we find more of Berlyn and The Table Tyke? (51:30)
15- Listener question: How did you make your Shark Tank application stand out to get on the show? (53:25)
Check out The Table Tyke Amazon Store!
Follow us on Instagram: @witnessbusiness
Follow Berlyn on Instagram: @thetabletyke
Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and make a purchase. This is no additional cost to you; it just helps us be able to run the best show possible. Thank you for your support!