Robert Herjavec Speaking about your disagreement with a partner shark Tank star Kevin O’Leary. Herjavec believes that sometimes O’Leary gets carried away when business owners are pitching ideas. The two investors recently discussed the show’s heated moments and what happens when they collide. Their exchange also revealed differing views on how sharks should treat entrepreneurs.
Robert Herjavec calls out Kevin O’Leary for insulting entrepreneurs during pitches on Shark Tank
During an appearance on SiriusXM’s Business Briefing with Janet Alvarez, Herjavec, 64, recalled a major argument that led to her and Mark Cuban leaving the stage. He said that the conflicts in the show come from real emotions rather than artificial drama. “When we’re in the moment, it’s very real,” he explained. Herjavec then shared his main concern, saying, “My problem is that sometimes Kevin goes too far.”
O’Leary defended his strict approach and argued that entrepreneurs must handle pressure to succeed. “There’s no ‘too far,'” he said. He said the business world can be harsh and warned, “If you can’t get through the tank, it will blow your honey to pieces.” O’Leary also said that business owners who don’t know how to answer difficult questions in terms of numbers may have trouble in the real world.
When O’Leary explained his approach to vetting business owners, Herjavec pushed back. He told his co-host not to “insult the entrepreneur” when trying to make a deal. O’Leary responded that he attacks the business idea, not the person behind it. He then described venture capital as having a “Darwinian nature”, to which Herjavec responded sarcastically.
“Oh my God, you’re so inspiring,” Herjavec responded, sarcastically praising O’Leary’s comments. This disagreement highlights their differing views on how investors should challenge those seeking funding. Herjavec would like the Sharks to challenge business concepts but not insult the people who are promoting them. Meanwhile, O’Leary believes that rigorous behavior prepares entrepreneurs for the demands of the business world.