Shark Tank Season 16 Episode 19 recap: AI admissions, sweet treats, cozy gear & persimmon soap

Shark Tank Season 16 Episode 19 | Image via Instagram/ @sharktankabc
Shark Tank Season 16 Episode 19 | Image via Instagram/ @sharktankabc

In Season 16 Episode 19 of Shark Tank, which aired on May 9, 2025, four creative entrepreneurs brought bold ideas to the table. The episode kicked off with a pitch for an AI-powered college admissions assistant designed to guide students through the application process efficiently. The founders aimed to make higher education more accessible and affordable with their technology-driven tool.

There was then a pitch for a natural deodorizing soap that used extract from Japanese persimmon. By emphasizing its origins in traditional Japanese skincare, the company positioned itself as a viable option for customers looking for plant-based, efficient hygiene solutions.

A colorful, edible candy craft kit that lets youngsters create and consume their creations and combines flavor and fun in a hands-on way was also highlighted in the episode.

The last pitch was a comfortable, safe sleeping bag that was kid-friendly. Families searching for sturdy equipment for outdoor excursions were drawn to its features designed for young campers. The entrepreneurs' numbers, growth strategies, and long-term goals were examined by the Sharks, who included Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Kevin O'Leary, Barbara Corcoran, and Robert Herjavec.


4 founders pitched their products on Shark Tank Season 16 Episode 19?


ESAI AI College Admission Advisor

An AI-powered application developed by ESAI was introduced to help students navigate the challenging college admissions process. The founders' vision and forward-thinking strategy intrigued the Sharks, who were looking for $250,000 for 5%. Because of the initial $5 million valuation, Lori, Barbara, and Robert left right away.

By offering $250,000 each for 10%, Shark Tank OGs, Kevin and Mark, were able to cut the worth in half. In response, the founders offered $250,000 for two advisory shares and 5% equity. After negotiating, the two shook hands at 2.5 advisory shares in addition to 5% equity. The closing of the purchase demonstrated Mark's faith in the potential of technology to democratize access to education.


Cricket’s Candy Creations

Cricket made a lively and entertaining pitch for her edible candy creation kits, but the Sharks were swiftly put off by her lack of financial transparency. In one and a half years, she had sold 100,000 kits for a total of $1.7 million, but she kept making mistakes when questioned about expenses and margins.

Her asking for $275,000 for 10% on Shark Tank did not match her understanding of the industry. Her sales were erratic, even though the product retailed for $33.99 and the manufacturing cost ranged from $13 to $17. Citing inadequate financial knowledge and lack of preparation, all five Sharks passed.


Mirai Soaps and Body Care

Mirai Soaps presented their body care line based on Japanese persimmon with astounding figures on Shark Tank. Their pitch revealed $2.2 million last year and $8.7 million in lifetime sales. However, growth projections were hampered by a significant inventory theft that is currently being investigated by the FBI. They are asking for $500,000 at a $10 million valuation for 5%.

Red flags were raised by the large media spend and unresolved legal difficulties, even though the margins were strong, costing $1.85 and retailing at $17.97. The Sharks bowed out one by one. The company model and legal cloud were too hazardous for investment, despite the product's potential.


Morrison Outdoors Sleeping Bags

Morrison Outdoors introduced a cutting-edge, kid-friendly sleeping bag system that adapts to the child's needs. Consumers can get discounts on new sizes and cash back when they return outgrown bags. The figures were impressive, with total sales of $4.3 million and estimates of $1.1 million for the end of this year.

The creators had a good cost-to-retail ratio ($22–$52 to make, $85–$200 retail), and they were asking $300,000 for 10%. Shark Tank investor Mark accepted Barbara's offer of $300,000 for 20%. Both Sharks agreed to an agreement, demonstrating a significant belief in the brand's long-term, family-focused approach.


Watch the entire episode of Shark Tank Season 16 on ABC.

Edited by Abhimanyu Sharma