Brian's Dragons' Den Journey: Inspiring Entrepreneurs Everywhere
We’re excited to announce that our Founder and CEO, Brian Scudamore, is returning to the Den to join the panel of investors for Season 20 of CBC’s Dragons' Den! Brian is known for pioneering the professional junk hauling industry, having started a one-man junk removal business with a $700 pickup truck at just 18 years old. He’s since grown 1-800-GOT-JUNK? into a global success with 174 franchises across Canada, the US and Australia, and started two other successful home services brands.
A lifelong passion for entrepreneurship
Being on Dragons' Den is the perfect fit for Brian. He has always been passionate about helping others pursue entrepreneurship and has helped many people do just that through his franchise brands 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, WOW 1 DAY PAINTING, and Shack Shine. He’s also written two books (WTF?! (Willing To Fail): How Failure Can Be Your Key to Success and BYOB: Build Your Own Business, Be Your Own Boss) about entrepreneurship, highlighting stories from his own journey and offering road-tested advice about how to create a successful business.
Being on Dragons' Den has been a longtime goal of Brian’s. In fact, he auditioned twice before without making the cut. While it was difficult to face rejection after his first two auditions, upon reflection, he realized that it was because the timing had never been quite right. This year, Brian knew the right time had finally arrived, noting, “I’ve never felt more passionate or clear around how I can help other entrepreneurs.”
With Brian’s leadership, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? has become dedicated to fostering innovation. Dragons’ Den gives him the opportunity to continue this focus on innovation by investing in new businesses that are disrupting other industries, while also creating a positive impact in communities everywhere.
An action-packed season celebrating entrepreneurship
Get ready for fresh new business concepts and see what pitches lock in a deal with Brian. Last season, Brian invested in purpose-led businesses like Mint Cleaning Products and Apricotton. Beyond the numbers, Brian is looking for passionate entrepreneurs with a clear vision and a “Willing To Fail” attitude. For him, it’s all about people!
Of course, he is beyond excited to get the chance to work with a special celebrity guest star, Drew Scott! The Property Brothers star joins the panel this season, and we can’t wait to see how the new Dragon shakes things up.
We’re so grateful for the support and enthusiasm of our customers—it’s because of you that we’re able to continue to grow, innovate, and support other entrepreneurs on their journeys to success. In Canada, you can tune in to watch Brian and incredible pitches from entrepreneurs on CBC and CBC Gem starting Thursday, September 25th. In the US, you can follow along on Instagram and TikTok, where new pitches will be added every week.
As a bonus, you can find behind-the-scenes action, sneak peeks, and other fun extras by following @cbcdragon and @brianscudamore on Instagram. We’ll see you in the Dragons’ Den!
