shark tank

If you’ve ever dreamed of operating heavy construction equipment like bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, Extreme Sandbox might just be your ultimate playground. This unique entertainment concept, which made its debut on Season 7 of ABC’s Shark Tank, offers thrill-seekers the chance to get behind the controls of real construction machinery in a massive sand pit. But what started as a quirky idea has evolved into a multifaceted business with a fascinating journey—one that includes a rare Shark Tank deal, a pivot during the pandemic, and a vision for the future that goes beyond entertainment.

The Birth of Extreme Sandbox: A Dream Built on Sand

The brainchild of Randy Stenger, a former police officer turned entrepreneur, Extreme Sandbox was born out of a simple yet brilliant idea. After moving to Minnesota with his family, Stenger sought a more stable career and briefly worked in retail management. It was during this time that his children’s fascination with construction equipment sparked the idea for Extreme Sandbox. In 2012, Stenger launched the business as a weekend side hustle, allowing customers to operate heavy machinery in a controlled environment. What began as a part-time venture quickly gained traction, growing into a full-time operation with impressive revenue growth.

The Shark Tank Pitch: A Rare Double Shark Deal

In 2016, Stenger appeared on Shark Tank seeking a 150,000investmentfora15150,000investmentfora15300 and 400fortheexperience,andthebusinesshadgrownfrom400fortheexperience,andthebusinesshadgrownfrom144,000 in its first year to $1 million in revenue by its third year. His frugal approach—leasing equipment instead of buying it—helped keep costs low while reinvesting profits into the business.

While some sharks, like Lori Greiner and Robert Herjavec, struggled to see the scalability of the concept, Mark Cuban and Kevin O’Leary saw potential. In a rare moment of collaboration, the two sharks teamed up to offer the $150,000 for a 20% stake. Stenger accepted, recognizing the value of their combined networks in major cities like Dallas and Boston.

Life After Shark Tank: Growth, Challenges, and Evolution

Despite the initial excitement, the partnership with Cuban and O’Leary didn’t last. During the due diligence phase, the deal fell through, and Extreme Sandbox continued its journey independently. However, the exposure from Shark Tank provided a significant boost. The company’s website saw a surge in traffic, and inquiries about franchising poured in. Stenger successfully opened a second location in Dallas and secured a sponsorship deal with Komatsu, a leading construction equipment manufacturer.

By late 2016, Extreme Sandbox was on track to hit $1 million in annual sales. But as the business grew, so did its challenges—especially when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020.

Pivoting During the Pandemic: From Sandbox to Drive-Thru

The pandemic forced Extreme Sandbox to rethink its business model. With in-person experiences on hold, Stenger and his team launched the Heavy Metal Drive-Thru, a construction-themed eatery where guests could enjoy meals while watching heavy equipment in action. This innovative concept not only kept the business afloat but also opened new avenues for growth. Post-pandemic, the company expanded with additional concepts like the Heavy Metal Dine In and Quarry Taphouse, blending entertainment with dining experiences.

Extreme Sandbox Today: A Temporary Hiatus and a Bright Future

As of 2023, Extreme Sandbox has temporarily closed its original Minnesota location and its Texas site to focus on a new vision. The company announced plans to reopen in 2025 with a revamped experience in the Twin Cities area. While the physical locations are on pause, Extreme Sandbox continues to offer mobile experiences for corporate events and private groups. Additionally, the company has ventured into training and education through Heavy Metal Learning, a platform designed to teach future construction professionals through hands-on camps and classes.

What’s Next for Extreme Sandbox?

The future of Extreme Sandbox looks promising. Stenger’s vision extends beyond entertainment, aiming to inspire the next generation of construction workers. By combining fun with education, Extreme Sandbox is positioning itself as a leader in both the entertainment and training sectors. The planned 2025 relaunch promises to bring an even bigger and better experience, solidifying Extreme Sandbox as a pioneer in the world of heavy equipment entertainment.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Resilience

Extreme Sandbox’s journey from a Shark Tank pitch to a thriving business is a testament to Randy Stenger’s creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. By adapting to challenges and exploring new opportunities, the company has carved out a unique niche in the entertainment industry. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to operate heavy machinery or a future construction professional seeking hands-on training, Extreme Sandbox offers an experience like no other. As the company prepares for its next chapter, one thing is clear: the sandbox is far from empty.

In the high-stakes world of Shark Tank, entrepreneurs often believe that showcasing massive sales and rapid growth is the key to winning over the sharks. However, the journey of Coldest, a Florida-based brand known for its premium insulated water bottles and cold-temperature products, proves that even impressive numbers aren’t always enough to secure a deal. This is the story of how twin brothers Joe and Dave Ahmad built a thriving business, faced tough scrutiny on Shark Tank, and emerged stronger by staying true to their vision.

The Birth of Coldest: From Engineering Careers to Entrepreneurial Dreams

Coldest was founded in 2015 by twin brothers Joe and Dave Ahmad. While both had successful careers in engineering, they shared a dream of building a business that could make a mark in a competitive market. The idea for Coldest was born when Dave noticed a flaw in his brother’s water bottle and decided to create a better version. Joe joined as the marketing director, and together, they launched a brand that would soon disrupt the insulated drinkware industry.

By 2017, Coldest had already generated nearly 1millioninrevenue.Thebrandexpandeditsproductlinetoincludeinnovativeitemslikepillows,dogbeds,andothercold−temperatureaccessories.By2022,Coldest’srevenueskyrocketedto1millioninrevenue.Thebrandexpandeditsproductlinetoincludeinnovativeitemslikepillows,dogbeds,andothercold−temperatureaccessories.By2022,Coldest’srevenueskyrocketedto15.1 million, with projections to hit $22 million by the end of 2023. Despite these staggering numbers, the company faced challenges that would ultimately shape its future.

Coldest on Shark Tank: A High-Stakes Pitch

In Season 15, Episode 15 of Shark Tank, Coldest made its debut alongside other innovative products like the Psyonic Bionic Hand. The Ahmad brothers brought their A-game, showcasing their charisma and even using smoke machines to blast cold air during their presentation. They sought a 600,000investmentfora2600,000investmentfora230 million.

The sharks were initially impressed by Coldest’s explosive growth, but cracks began to show during the discussion. Despite generating millions in revenue, the company was not as profitable as expected. In 2022, Coldest reported a 400,000lossduetoheavyreinvestmentinmarketingandproductexpansion.Additionally,thecompanyhad400,000lossduetoheavyreinvestmentinmarketingandproductexpansion.Additionally,thecompanyhad2.5 million worth of inventory, which raised concerns about overextension.

While most sharks bowed out, citing the company’s risky growth strategy, Kevin O’Leary (Mr. Wonderful) made an offer. He proposed 600,000fora7600,000fora72.25 royalty fee until he recouped $3 million. However, the Ahmad brothers declined the deal, believing that the royalty structure would hinder the brand’s long-term growth.

Coldest After Shark Tank: Lessons Learned and Strategic Shifts

Rejecting Kevin O’Leary’s offer might have seemed like a risky move, but the Ahmad brothers stood by their decision. On their website, they explained that a royalty deal would have been a “quick fix” solution, potentially harming the brand’s future. Instead, they chose to focus on sustainable growth and profitability.

The Shark Tank appearance brought significant attention to Coldest. During the episode’s airing on February 23, 2024, over 8,000 live shoppers visited the company’s website. Taking the sharks’ feedback to heart, Coldest streamlined its operations by reducing its product categories and focusing on its core offering: premium insulated water bottles. The company also held a 30% closeout sale on non-core items like bedding, dog beds, and ice packs to clear slow-moving inventory.

In late 2023, Coldest relocated to a larger warehouse facility in Fort Myers, Florida, and even opened its first retail store in Naples. These strategic moves helped the company achieve greater profitability and operational efficiency.

Is Coldest Still in Business?

Yes, Coldest is still thriving. The brand continues to focus on its flagship water bottles, which are available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and styles. Prices range from 19.99to19.99to55.99, with most products falling in the 30−30−40 range. Coldest’s bottles consistently receive near-perfect ratings on Amazon, with thousands of satisfied customers praising their durability and performance.

The company also offers an app, available on iOS and Google Play, where customers can access exclusive discounts and product updates. While the 30% closeout sale on non-core items is still ongoing, Coldest remains committed to delivering high-quality products that align with its brand identity.

What’s Next for Coldest?

Coldest has big plans for the future. While the brand is scaling back on product expansion, it’s not slowing down when it comes to innovation. One of the most ambitious projects in the works is Coldest World, a theme park designed to immerse visitors in the brand’s icy, adventurous ethos. Set to open by 2030, the park will feature an icy theme and interactive experiences that showcase Coldest’s products in a unique and engaging way.

In addition to the theme park, Coldest is exploring new retail opportunities and expanding its presence in the insulated drinkware market. The Ahmad brothers’ ability to adapt and evolve their strategy demonstrates their commitment to long-term success.

Why Coldest Stands Out in a Crowded Market

Coldest’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, strategic thinking, and staying true to your vision. While the Shark Tank experience highlighted some operational challenges, it also provided valuable insights that helped the company grow stronger. By focusing on its core products, streamlining operations, and planning innovative projects like Coldest World, the brand is poised to remain a leader in the insulated drinkware industry.

For consumers, Coldest offers more than just a water bottle—it’s a lifestyle brand that prioritizes quality, innovation, and adventure. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a fitness fanatic, or simply someone who appreciates a well-designed product, Coldest has something to offer.

Final Thoughts

Coldest’s story is a reminder that success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about vision, adaptability, and the willingness to learn from challenges. By staying true to their mission and making strategic decisions, Joe and Dave Ahmad have built a brand that continues to thrive in a competitive market. As Coldest looks to the future, one thing is clear: this brand is far from cooling down.

Explore Coldest’s premium products today and join the movement that’s redefining the way we stay hydrated. Whether you’re sipping from their iconic water bottles or dreaming of a visit to Coldest World, this brand is all about embracing the coldest, boldest, and most adventurous version of life.

Extreme Sandbox: From “Shark Tank” Dream to Construction-Themed Empire