Ever wonder what it’s really like to stand in front of the Sharks? For Billie Asmus, founder of Repaint Studios, the journey to Shark Tank was anything but glamorous. From spur-of-the-moment auditions and last-minute pitch practice to a holding room ominously nicknamed “Mordor,” Billie’s experience was full of behind-the-scenes moments you’ll never see on TV. We sat down with her to hear the real story – uncut, unpolished, and unforgettable.
How did you end up auditioning for Shark Tank?
It was totally spur of the moment. The business had kicked off but finances were still a little tight. I thought, “why not?” I applied online, drove over four hours to Kansas City for a one minute pitch, and, by fate, the casting director recognized me as “that paint tray lady.” (I’ll take it!)
What happened once you found out you’d be on the show?
Immediately they were sending me endless lists of things I needed to do. Prepping for Shark Tank is no joke. I was fast-tracked into season 17 instead of waiting for season 18, which gave me just about three weeks to prepare. Cue the dramatic music as I practiced my pitch over and over again. And again.
Tell us about walking into the Tank.
Keeping it real: I was sweating bullets. The wardrobe stylist even gave me sweat pads so I wouldn’t end up on national television with stains on my shirt. Once I finally stepped onto that stage, my adrenaline spiked. My heart was pounding. I couldn’t believe I was standing in front of the Sharks, ready to pitch my company that I had been pouring my heart into for the last several years.
What sticks out most from the experience?
Besides being ON Shark Tank? The waiting room was nicknamed “Mordor.” (Yes, as in Lord of the Rings.) Not exactly comforting before walking into one of the biggest moments of my life. When I asked a crew member why it was called that, he didn’t know, which somehow made me laugh. The ominous name was strangely fitting for what came next!
So, what was it ACTUALLY like pitching to the Sharks?
Imagine your biggest job interview for your dream job… times a thousand, with cameras, bright lights, and six billionaires staring you down. That’s Shark Tank. The moment those doors opened and I started walking down that long hallway, it felt surreal. My heart was racing, my hands were clammy, and every ounce of adrenaline in my body was on overdrive.
It was terrifying, thrilling, and empowering. All at the same time.
Would you ever want to be a Shark yourself?
Absolutely. I know it comes with pressure, but I’d love the chance to celebrate other entrepreneurs and support small businesses by investing in their growth.
What advice would you give future Shark Tank hopefuls?
Get as far along in your business as possible before applying. I first auditioned when the Repaint Tray was just a prototype and never heard back. This time, I had proven sales and a solid business plan, which made all the difference.
What motivates you to keep going?
Seeing people love a product I created. Every time I hear from a customer who’s using the Repaint Tray to solve the same problem I had, it fuels me. Beyond that, I love building a company where people genuinely enjoy their work, can be creative, and still have time with their families. Repaint Studios is more than a business. It’s about giving people the opportunity to live their dreams, just like I’m living mine.
Want to know how Billie’s time in the Tank turned out? You’ll have to tune in to ABC on Wednesday, October 8th, at 9pm CST to see for yourself. One thing’s for sure – whether it’s sweaty palms, “Mordor” holding rooms, or the thrill of pitching to the Sharks, Billie’s behind-the-scenes journey is every bit as unforgettable as the show itself — just like the Repaint Tray, the smarter, cleaner way to tackle any paint job.
