EZ-Pee-Z Potty Seat
NO DEAL
EPISODE SUMMARY
🕓 Air Date: October 16, 2015
Asking For:
$50,000 for 15%
Investor:
No Deal
Deal:
No Deal
PRODUCT SUMMARY
EZ-Pee-Z is a revolutionary toilet training product that transforms an adult-sized toilet seat into a child-friendly seat with a simple flip of the lid.
WATCH HERE
IN A RUSH?
Click these to jump to the section you want to read.
Background Story
Brian Kleinschmidt, a dad-entrepreneur from Tampa, Florida, founded EZ-Pee-Z after facing the challenges of potty training as a stepdad. Disappointed with the outdated foam doughnut method still in use, he envisioned a better solution. Brian’s background includes experiences in sales and marketing after college, followed by flipping houses in Nashville.
Despite setbacks during the 2008 recession, he returned to Tampa, started a successful gym business, and eventually ventured into developing EZ-Pee-Z. Inspired by his own parenting journey and recognizing the need for an improved potty training approach, Brian created the innovative product.
The Product
EZ-Pee-Z is a child-friendly toilet training solution that transforms an ordinary adult-sized toilet seat into a kid-friendly seat with ease. The product is currently in the prototype phase, featuring a seamless design with a living hinge for a comfortable and safe experience. Unlike traditional foam doughnuts, EZ-Pee-Z is not only padded but also introduces children to sitting on an actual toilet.
The design accommodates the need for a smaller seat for children up to 6 years old, ensuring safety and comfort during the potty training phase. The patent-protected product addresses concerns about pinching and discomfort associated with traditional methods.
How It Went
The company’s position before Shark Tank
Brian Kleinschmidt has a diverse background, including success in the gym business. The development of EZ-Pee-Z, currently in the prototype phase, reflects his commitment to ensuring proper intellectual property protection and decision-making. The company has obtained a full U.S. utility patent for the product. However, during the pitch, it was revealed that no sales had been made, and the product was still in the prototype stage. Brian’s decision to delay production was attributed to his desire to secure all intellectual property rights and make informed choices to avoid financial pitfalls.
The Negotiations:
The Sharks expressed concerns about the market potential and practicality of replacing existing toilet seat covers. While Brian’s salesmanship and background were acknowledged, the lack of a proven concept, the absence of sales, and the perception that the product may not address a significant problem led to several Sharks opting out.
Despite Brian’s efforts to emphasize the product’s benefits, Robert, Barbara, Mark, and Kevin declined to invest. Kevin, in particular, advised Brian to abandon the idea, stating that there was no market for the product. Ultimately, Brian left the Tank without a deal, and the Sharks expressed skepticism about the viability of EZ-Pee-Z in the current market.
