Shark Tank Stars Surprise Small Business Owners

NEW YORK -- The COVID-19 pandemic has decimated the economy. Shutdowns and restrictions have left small businesses scrambling to adapt and many have been forced to close. But there are two sides to every coin, and even in these dark times the American entrepreneurial spirit is strong.

As of mid-September, applications to start new businesses are up 19% compared to last year and applications from businesses likely to hire employees are up about 12% nationwide.

Today, More in Common is celebrating the American entrepreneur the best way we know how: by swimming with the Sharks. From encouraging a new generation of founders with Mark Cuban to celebrating Black-owned businesses with Robert Herjavec we're checking in with some of the most memorable entrepreneurs from Shark Tank history.