What happened to Coldest on Shark Tank?

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.

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Entertainment

The Evolution of Messaging: From Text to Emojis and the Meaning Behind the White Heart Emoji

by George Mensah 2025-03-20

Communication has come a long way since the first text message was sent in 1992. British software programmer Neil Papworth kicked off the era of texting with a simple “Merry Christmas” greeting. Fast forward to today, and messaging has evolved into a rich, multimedia experience, complete with emojis that help us express emotions and ideas more vividly. Among these, the white heart emoji has emerged as a versatile symbol with multiple meanings. Let’s explore the fascinating journey of messaging and dive into the significance of this unique emoji.

The Evolution of Messaging: A Brief History

The Birth of Text Messaging (1992–2002)
The first text message was sent in 1992, marking the beginning of a communication revolution. By 1993, Nokia launched the Nokia 2110, the first phone capable of sending texts. A decade later, Sony introduced the Ericsson T68i, the first phone to support multimedia messaging (MMS), allowing users to send pictures, videos, and audio.
The Rise of Messaging Apps (2011–Present)
The 2010s saw the rise of messaging apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, which transformed how we communicate. These platforms enabled billions of messages to be sent daily, making them a cornerstone of modern communication. Today, messaging apps offer more than just text—they include voice notes, video calls, stickers, and, of course, emojis.
The Emoji Revolution
Emojis have become a universal language, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. With over 200 popular emojis, they allow users to convey emotions, ideas, and reactions more effectively. One such emoji is the white heart, which has a unique and nuanced meaning.

What Does the White Heart Emoji Mean?

The white heart emoji (🫶) is a versatile symbol that can convey a range of emotions depending on the context. Here are some of its most common uses:

Expressing Love and Affection
Like the classic red heart, the white heart emoji is often used to express love. It can be sent to a partner, family member, or close friend to show how much they mean to you. For example, you might use it in a message to your parents to let them know how special they are.
Showing Emotional Support
The white heart emoji is also a powerful way to offer comfort and support. If someone is going through a tough time—whether it’s a job loss, a breakup, or the loss of a loved one—sending a white heart can convey empathy and solidarity.
Appreciating Aesthetic or White-Themed Content
The white heart is often used to appreciate things related to the color white or minimalist aesthetics. For instance, if a friend shares a photo of their new white car or a snowy landscape, you might comment with a white heart to show your admiration.
Symbolizing Purity and Peace
In some contexts, the white heart represents purity, innocence, or peace. It can be used in messages about new beginnings, spiritual connections, or moments of calm.

How to Use the White Heart Emoji on Different Platforms

The white heart emoji is widely available across devices and platforms. Here’s how to access and use it:

On Smartphones

iOS and Android
Open your messaging app (e.g., WhatsApp, Instagram, or iMessage) and tap the emoji icon on your keyboard. Search for “white heart” and select the emoji to insert it into your message.

On Windows

Using Keyboard Shortcuts
Press Windows Key + . (period) to open the emoji panel. In the search bar, type “white heart” and select the emoji from the results.

On macOS

Accessing the Emoji Palette
While typing in a text field, press Control + Command + Space to open the emoji palette. Search for “white heart” and click to insert it.

The Cultural Impact of Emojis

Emojis have become more than just fun symbols—they’re a cultural phenomenon. They allow us to communicate emotions and ideas quickly and effectively, making them an essential part of digital communication. The white heart emoji, in particular, has gained popularity for its versatility and subtlety. Whether you’re expressing love, offering support, or appreciating something beautiful, this emoji adds a meaningful touch to your messages.

Tips for Using Emojis Effectively

Consider the Context
The meaning of an emoji can vary depending on the situation. For example, a white heart might convey love in one context and support in another. Always think about how the recipient might interpret it.
Don’t Overuse Emojis
While emojis can enhance your messages, using too many can make your text hard to read. Use them sparingly to emphasize key points or emotions.
Stay Updated on Emoji Trends
Emoji meanings and usage can evolve over time. Stay informed about new emojis and how they’re being used to ensure your messages are always on point.

Conclusion: The Power of the White Heart Emoji

From the first text message in 1992 to the rise of emojis in the 2020s, messaging has undergone a remarkable transformation. The white heart emoji is a testament to how far we’ve come—it’s a simple yet powerful tool for expressing love, support, and appreciation. Whether you’re sending it to a loved one, a friend, or a colleague, this emoji adds a touch of warmth and meaning to your messages.

As we continue to embrace new ways of communicating, emojis like the white heart remind us of the importance of connection and empathy in our digital interactions. So, the next time you want to express something heartfelt, consider reaching for the white heart emoji—it might just say exactly what you mean.

Entertainment

Understanding Malvertising: A Growing Threat in the Digital Age

by George Mensah 2025-03-20

In recent years, malvertising—malicious advertising—has emerged as a significant cybersecurity threat, impacting millions of users worldwide. From high-profile attacks like Microsoft’s Storm-0408 campaign to the rise of SEO poisoning, cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics to exploit unsuspecting victims. This article delves into the history of malvertising, how it works, and actionable steps you can take to protect yourself from these insidious attacks.

What Is Malvertising?

Malvertising refers to the practice of embedding malware within online advertisements or using ads to redirect users to malicious websites. It’s a deceptive tactic that leverages the trust users place in legitimate websites and search engines. According to Gen Digital’s Q4 2024 report, malvertising accounted for 41% of all blocked cyberattacks, making it the most prevalent threat type.

Malvertising can take many forms, including:

Embedded malware in ads: Malicious code hidden within seemingly legitimate ads.
Fake download links: Ads or websites that trick users into downloading malware.
SEO poisoning: Manipulating search engine results to promote malicious links.

The Evolution of Malvertising: From Banner Ads to Modern Scams

Malvertising isn’t a new phenomenon. It was first identified as a threat in 2007, when cybercriminals began embedding malicious code in banner ads on reputable websites. Over the years, the tactics have evolved:

The Early Days (2007–2010s)
In the 2010s, malvertising campaigns often exploited vulnerabilities in browser plugins like Flash and Microsoft Silverlight. High-profile attacks targeted websites like the New York Times, Newsweek, and the BBC, infecting users with ransomware through drive-by downloads—where malware was installed without any user interaction.
The Decline of Plugins
As browsers phased out plugins like Flash and Silverlight, drive-by downloads became less common. However, cybercriminals adapted, shifting to tactics that require user interaction, such as clicking on fake ads or downloading malicious files.
Modern Malvertising (2020s)
Today, malvertising campaigns are more sophisticated. Attacks like Storm-0408 demonstrate how cybercriminals use fake ads on illegal streaming sites to lure users into downloading malware from platforms like GitHub. These attacks often target sensitive information, including login credentials, cryptocurrency wallets, and personal data.

How the Storm-0408 Attack Worked

The Storm-0408 campaign, uncovered by Microsoft Threat Intelligence, is a prime example of modern malvertising. Here’s how it unfolded:

Fake Ads on Pirated Movie Sites
Cybercriminals embedded malicious ads within movie frames on illegal streaming websites. When users clicked on these ads, they were redirected to fake tech support or security websites.
Malware Downloads from GitHub
The fake sites prompted users to download a file from GitHub or other code repositories. Once downloaded, the malware installed hidden software that stole sensitive information.
Widespread Impact
Despite being limited to a few pirated movie sites, the attack affected nearly one million devices, including enterprise systems. This highlights the risks of using work devices for personal activities like downloading pirated content.

SEO Poisoning: A Growing Threat

SEO poisoning, also known as SERP poisoning, is a tactic where cybercriminals manipulate search engine results to promote malicious links. This often involves:

Typosquatting: Using misspelled domain names (e.g., “SlasshGear.com” instead of “SlashGear.com”) to trick users.
Spoofed URLs: Displaying legitimate-looking URLs in search results that redirect to malicious sites.
Fake Download Pages: Creating counterfeit websites that mimic legitimate software download pages.

A notable example occurred in 2023, when users searching for the Arc web browser were directed to fake download pages through sponsored Google ads. These pages installed malware instead of the intended software.

How to Protect Yourself from Malvertising

While malvertising is a serious threat, there are several steps you can take to safeguard your devices and data:

Install and Update Security Software
Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software, and ensure it’s always up to date. Tools like Microsoft Defender and Norton are constantly updated to combat new threats.
Use an Ad Blocker
Ad blockers can prevent malicious ads from loading on websites, reducing your exposure to malvertising.
Avoid Pirated Content
Illegal streaming and download sites are hotbeds for malvertising. Stick to legitimate platforms to minimize risks.
Be Cautious with Downloads
Always verify the source of any file you download. Avoid clicking on sponsored links in search results, and double-check URLs for typos or inconsistencies.
Enable Browser Security Features
Modern browsers have built-in protections against malicious sites and downloads. Ensure these features are enabled.
Stay Informed
Keep up with the latest cybersecurity trends and threats. Awareness is your first line of defense.

Defending Against SEO Poisoning

SEO poisoning requires extra vigilance, especially when downloading software. Here’s how to protect yourself:

Verify URLs
Always check the URL of the website you’re visiting. Look for misspellings or unusual domain extensions.
Avoid Sponsored Links
Scroll past sponsored results on search engines and opt for organic listings instead.
Research Before Downloading
Use trusted sources like official websites or reputable tech publications to find legitimate download links.
Inspect Website Pages
Malicious sites often lack detailed content. If a website has no “About Us,” “Contact,” or “Terms and Conditions” pages, it’s likely a scam.
Beware of macOS Tricks
On macOS, avoid sites that instruct you to right-click to open links. This is a common tactic to bypass Gatekeeper, Apple’s security feature.

Conclusion: Staying One Step Ahead of Cybercriminals

Malvertising and SEO poisoning are constantly evolving threats, but with the right precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk. By staying informed, using robust security tools, and practicing safe browsing habits, you can protect yourself and your devices from these insidious attacks.

Remember, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Spread awareness about malvertising and help others stay safe in the digital world. Together, we can outsmart cybercriminals and create a safer online environment for everyone.

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