Making a Difference (and Making It a Business) | Shirah Benarde - Co-Founder and CEO of NightCap

Elevator No. 198: Shirah Benarde is the co-founder and CEO of NightCap, a Forbes 30 Under 30 entrepreneur, and a Shark Tank-backed founder. She created NightCap—a drink spiking prevention company—at just 16, after learning how easily unattended drinks could be spiked. Her first prototype, made from a scrunchie and her mom’s stockings, turned into a globally recognized product that has sold over 700,000 units in 40+ countries, partnered with 160 universities, and is helping push for stronger drink safety laws.

In this episode, Shirah shares how taking risks, embracing discomfort, and leveraging social media helped her turn an idea into a global movement.

00:00
Navigating Family Dynamics in Business

07:11
The Journey of Entrepreneurship from a Young Age

12:45
The Decision to Drop Out of College

15:36
Understanding the Red Zone and Its Impact

18:49
Leveraging TikTok for Awareness and Growth

23:05
Personal Growth and the Challenges of Young Adulthood

29:03
Memorable Moments from Shark Tank

36:33
Mental Motto: Embracing Discomfort for Growth