Kevin Harrington, the “Original Shark” from Shark Tank, has spent decades transforming great ideas into global success stories. As an investor, mentor, and business leader, he’s helped countless entrepreneurs find their footing, scale their ventures, and spark industry-wide change.
In this exclusive spotlight, Harrington names 10 entrepreneurs who exemplify what it means to think big and execute boldly. From disruptive startups to established innovators, each of these leaders embodies the qualities that have fueled Harrington’s own journey: vision, perseverance, and a passion for making a difference.
Lior Shifer
Currently pursuing his Executive MBA, Lior Shifer is the Product Manager at Wiz, where he stands among the company’s earliest product team members and is a driving force behind its global expansion. With deep expertise in cloud management platforms, cybersecurity, and big data, Lior has played a central role in shaping Wiz’s product vision and strengthening its presence across Israel, Europe, and the East.
Renowned for his ability to balance technical precision with strategic foresight, Lior has led product teams in developing innovative solutions that address the evolving challenges of cloud security. His work at Wiz reflects a commitment to delivering scalable, high-impact products that empower organizations to operate securely and efficiently in complex digital environments.
Before joining Wiz, Lior spent more than six years in leadership positions spanning project management, product development, and team leadership, consistently guiding cross-functional teams to success through a combination of technical mastery and effective communication.
At the intersection of technology and strategy, Lior continues to shape the next generation of cybersecurity solutions, leveraging his technical depth, market insight, and leadership experience to help Wiz maintain its position as a global leader in cloud security innovation.
Rebecca Alm
Rebecca Alm is the founder of Legacy Imaging, a creative studio established in 2001 that has become known for its excellence in fine photography and master photo restoration. With a four-year degree in photography and more than two decades of experience as a sole proprietor, Rebecca has built a reputation for meticulous attention to detail and artistic precision. Beyond capturing and preserving images, she has extended her craftsmanship into the world of bridal couture. Over the past 14 years, she has perfected more than 9,000 gowns, each tailored to reflect a bride’s unique vision. Her dedication to artistry, preservation, and client care has positioned her as a leader in creative problem-solving across industries.
Rebecca is also a published author, having written His Journey Through Time, a graphic biography chronicling her grandfather’s World War II service, reflecting her deep commitment to preserving history and honoring legacy.
In 2020, Rebecca’s focus expanded from moments of personal significance to a broader vision for the planet with the founding of Tibbleburrow Shire Retreat. Designed as a Tolkien-inspired eco-resort, Tibbleburrow blends sustainable technology with timeless charm, offering a joyful, practical model for eco-conscious living and community connection.
Anne Delery McWhorter
Anne Delery McWhorter is the founder of QC Consulting Global, LLC and Quiet Calm, LLC, companies dedicated to turning bold ideas into practical solutions. Guided by the motto, “Making dreams a reality. Designing a better world for better future lives,” Anne focuses on innovation that bridges science, policy, and lived experience.
Her inventions and initiatives include sensory solutions for individuals with invisible disabilities, policy development around neurodiversity and Long COVID, and global awareness campaigns. She is currently advancing a medical device, based on her own design and prototypes, that addresses Long COVID, epilepsy, and cancer, with cross-market applications in disaster response, elder care, and military settings. This device is rooted in a career that spans petrophysics, sedimentology, software engineering, geophysics, writing, lobbying, and public health, a rare combination that fuels her multidisciplinary approach to innovation.
Nominated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to its Long COVID Steering Committee, she has influenced national policy while also driving grassroots impact. Her work with the American Red Cross and FEMA pioneered the integration of sensory therapy into disaster response, supporting millions of families worldwide.
Christopher Iorg
Christopher Iorg is the General Contractor and owner of Golden Rule Construction, a Salt Lake City-based company known for its commitment to quality, integrity, and community impact. With a diverse professional background spanning construction, manufacturing, agriculture, marketing, and mining, Christopher brings a multidisciplinary perspective to every project he undertakes.
At Golden Rule Construction, he has built a reputation for precision, creativity, and client-centered service, overseeing projects from concept to completion with an emphasis on sustainable practices and long-term value. His approach is guided by the belief that craftsmanship and ethical responsibility go hand in hand, principles that define both his leadership and the Golden Rule brand.
Beyond his work in construction, Christopher is the author of Building a Kingdom for Good In Our World Today, a book that explores how critical infrastructure projects can drive positive global change. His ability to unite technical expertise with a sense of moral purpose distinguishes him as both a builder and a thought leader.
Through Golden Rule Construction, Christopher continues to shape the built environment with professionalism, vision, and compassion, delivering spaces that serve not only their clients but the broader communities they support.
Kathy Hayden
Kathy Hayden is the owner of Hayden’s Tax Service and the creator of the proprietary 401(k) Tax Analyzer℠, an innovative tool designed to help clients build a lifelong roadmap for minimizing taxes in retirement. With more than a decade of experience in tax preparation and planning, she specializes in guiding retirees and pre-retirees through the complexities of tax-efficient retirement income strategies, including optimal withdrawal and conversion planning.
Through the 401(k) Tax Analyzer℠ Kathy not only helps her own clients make informed, confident financial decisions but also equips other professionals with the ability to deliver the same level of insight and precision to their clients.
Before founding Hayden’s Tax Service, Kathy served as a U.S. Navy officer and instructor at the Naval Nuclear Power School, where she developed the analytical rigor and discipline that continue to define her approach to problem-solving. She later spent more than 20 years as a data analyst, applying her background in applied mathematics to complex business challenges across multiple industries.
An Enrolled Agent authorized to represent clients before the IRS, Kathy combines technical expertise, strategic foresight, and clear communication to make complex tax concepts understandable and actionable. Hayden’s Tax Service, based in West Michigan, proudly serves clients nationwide.
Deborah A. Taylor
Deborah A. Taylor is the founder of CalQLogic, a Los Angeles-based technology firm redefining real-time analytics and automation. With a career spanning aerospace, federal R&D, and university environments, Deborah combines technical mastery with strategic vision, driving CalQLogic’s mission to deliver innovative solutions through its proprietary TriggerWare platform. She holds a Master’s degree in Safety Systems (with a specialization in Network Security) and in Public Administration, both from the University of Southern California, blending deep engineering expertise with the leadership skills essential to guiding a high- performing technology enterprise.
Under her leadership, CalQLogic integrates the creative energies and technical abilities of its team to compete credibly against major industry players. Deborah previously founded Cs3, a company that successfully pursued federal R&D projects, leveraging cutting-edge technology to secure patents and build lasting intellectual property.
Co-founder Swamy Narayanaswamy brings complementary technical and operational expertise, helping scale CalQLogic’s innovations into commercially viable products and solutions. Together, Deborah and Swamy foster a culture of collaboration, calculated risk-taking, and breakthrough innovation, ensuring the company thrives in a competitive marketplace.
As a technology company, Deborah’s journey exemplifies resilience, determination, and visionary entrepreneurship. Through CalQLogic, she continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in analytics and automation, inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Shathi Govender
Shathi Govender is the President of Transworld Business Advisors of Detroit South, where he leverages over 30 years of global experience to help businesses achieve sustainable growth and maximize shareholder value.
With a diverse background spanning Publishing and Media, Mining, Oil, Telecommunications, Manufacturing, Security and Risk Management, Retail, Transport, and Logistics, Shathi brings a wealth of knowledge to every client engagement. His expertise includes strategic planning, budgeting, cash-flow projection, process re-engineering, and managing objectives.
He works closely with management teams to enhance leadership effectiveness, delivering tailored solutions aligned with each organization’s mission and goals. A seasoned business owner himself, Shathi understands the challenges of growing teams, optimizing operations, enhancing customer service, and managing cash flows, reputation, and brand presence.
From 2017 to 2021, Shathi also served on the Board of the Institute of Management Consultants USA (IMC USA), where he contributed to advancing professional standards and supporting the development of management consultants nationwide.
He is dedicated to creating measurable value for organizations by applying proven strategies and techniques that improve overall performance and long-term success. Known for his integrity, commitment, and collaborative approach, Shathi has built a strong track record of success through trusted partnerships and a deep understanding of business dynamics.
As President of Transworld Business Advisors of Detroit South, he continues to guide companies in navigating complex business challenges while driving growth, operational efficiency, and organizational excellence.
Jennifer Barbee
Jennifer Barbee is the owner and president of Telephone Marketing Services, Inc. (TMS), one of the leading call centers specializing in generating high-quality telemarketed leads for health insurance agents across the United States. Under her leadership, TMS has grown from 20 employees to nearly 50, driven by a culture of excellence, opportunity, and community.
Barbee’s journey to success is nothing short of extraordinary. More than 14 years ago, she was battling addiction and found herself incarcerated 23 times, facing three felony convictions and few opportunities for a fresh start. Determined to turn her life around, she took a job at a call center, one of the few places willing to give her a chance. Through dedication and consistency, she rose through the ranks, proving that perseverance and integrity can rewrite even the hardest chapters.
Her professional journey reflects resilience, vision, and entrepreneurial spirit. After nearly a decade of proving herself within TMS, she assumed ownership in 2022, demonstrating both business acumen and leadership excellence. Barbee has also expanded her influence beyond the office by building local networks that connect employees with housing and resources, further reinforcing her commitment to community impact.
Jennifer Barbee’s leadership is defined by innovation, empathy, and results-driven strategy. Her story exemplifies how dedication, integrity, and belief in others can transform a business, elevate communities, and inspire meaningful change.
Madhu Basu
Madhu Basu is the CEO, and Dipankar (Danny) Basu is the Managing Director of Madi Decor, a premier, designer, and diversified reusable eco-alternate natural fiber materials company.
Madi Decor is led by Madhu, an experienced and visionary CEO who is deeply committed to advancing sustainable, no-waste, circular-economy products. The company has now grown into a trusted name in providing eco-friendly packaging and natural fiber products. With a focus on innovation, functionality, and environmental responsibility, she has steered Madi Decor toward creating optimal bespoke solutions and helping sustainable-minded businesses and organizations across a wide range of industries.
With over 25 years of experience in marketing and 20+ years in management consulting, Danny brings a rare blend of strategic insight and hands-on expertise. An advocate for innovation and education, Danny has also served as a guest lecturer at Loyola Marymount University and California State University, Fullerton.
Laura Baxer
Laura Baxter is an internationally recognized leadership presence expert, author, and coach, dedicated to helping executives connect more deeply with themselves, their teams, and their audiences. As the owner of The Voice for Leadership and Castle Mount Media, she works with leaders to strengthen their authority, develop their authentic leadership voice, and communicate effectively across cultural boundaries.
With over 30 years of experience studying the impact of voice and body, Laura brings a unique blend of stage expertise and executive coaching to her work. Her background as both a performer and director gives her a powerful perspective on presence, whether on stage, in the boardroom, or in daily interactions. She is a certified master trainer and coach, offering seminars, one-on-one coaching, and keynote talks that empower professionals to lead with confidence and clarity.
A TEDx coach and former voice faculty member at Duke University, Laura currently teaches at the Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg in Germany. She has worked with executives and speakers from leading global organizations across Europe, Asia and North America and has spoken in fourteen countries across four continents.
Laura is also the author of the Amazon #1 international bestseller, Dealing with Divas and Other Difficult Personalities, as well as numerous publications on presence, communication, and mindful leadership.
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