Dating Coach Shares Why She Walked Away From a Deal With Mark Cuban

Blaine Anderson, the CEO of online dating coaching company Dating by Blaine, recently revealed why she declined an offer from billionaire Mark Cuban after initially accepting the deal on "Shark Tank." Anderson's company, which provides online dating courses and personalized coaching, was pitched on the ABC reality TV show, seeking $100,000 for a 2% stake in her company, which would have valued it at $5 million. Founded in 2020 after Anderson lost her job due to the pandemic, the company has since generated over $2.2 million in sales, with a profit of around $500,000 on sales worth $1 million in 2022.

Despite initial interest from the Sharks, Anderson's inability to provide detailed revenue breakdowns led to some Sharks dropping out. However, with assistance from Shark Barbara Corcoran, Anderson struck a deal with Cuban for $100,000 in exchange for a 10% stake, reducing the company’s valuation to $1 million. Although the deal was agreed upon on the show, Anderson later decided not to proceed with Cuban’s investment, citing the complications of having an external investor as the reason for her decision.

Anderson's decision to reject Cuban's investment highlights the challenges faced by entrepreneurs when considering external investments. While such investments can provide much-needed capital, they can also introduce complexities and potential conflicts of interest. Anderson's experience also underscores the importance of entrepreneurs being able to provide detailed financial information about their companies. Her inability to provide a detailed revenue breakdown was a significant factor in some Sharks' decision to drop out.



Anderson's company offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to equip men with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to navigate the modern dating landscape successfully. The company's approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to helping men achieve their relationship goals. Services include courses and coaching programs that cover topics such as building confidence, self-marketing, attraction, and relationship skills.

Anderson's experience serves as a reminder to other entrepreneurs of the importance of being prepared and understanding the potential implications of external investments. Her decision to walk away from the deal with Cuban demonstrates the importance of weighing the pros and cons of external investments and considering the potential impact on the company's long-term goals and vision.