We have some thrilling news to share! Our latest innovation, Forever Sponge, was featured on Amazon Prime’s new game show, “Buy It Now,” hosted by the hilarious JB Smoove. We wanted to take you behind the scenes of this incredible experience—from the unexpected phone call to the exhilarating pitch and the unforgettable connections we made along the way.

The Unexpected Invitation

It all started with a phone call that caught us completely off guard. We were pitched an opportunity to be on a new Amazon show called “Buy It Now.” Details were scarce, but the excitement was palpable. The catch? We had less than 72 hours to create a 90-second pitch video to showcase our product to the producers.

The 72-Hour Challenge

With the clock ticking and the weekend upon us, we sprang into action. We spent hours crafting the perfect pitch that highlighted the unique features of Forever Sponge. Scripting, memorizing, and rehearsing became our life for those intense days. Our makeshift studio consisted of a fold-out table, a curtain backdrop, and a tub full of water to demonstrate the sponge’s capabilities. Filming in 4K, we pulled it all together just in time. Exhausted but proud, we submitted our pitch, hopeful for what might come next.

The Waiting Game and Selection

A few weeks passed, and life returned to its usual rhythm. Then came the call we’d been dreaming of—we were selected to appear on the show! The producers loved our pitch for the Forever Sponge, the world’s first cut-resistant, antimicrobial kitchen sponge designed to last forever. Excitement and nerves set in as we prepared for the next big step: pitching live on national television.

Off to Los Angeles

We were instructed to book flights to Los Angeles immediately. The producers promised an amazing set, and we couldn’t wait to see it. We landed in the afternoon and spent the evening going over our pitch repeatedly. Sleep was elusive; the mix of anticipation and anxiety kept us awake. We spent most of the night rehearsing our pitch in one of our hotel rooms kitchen. It was a very nice hotel. Thanks Amazon!

Behind the Scenes: The Day of the Shoot

Arriving at the studio early the next morning, we were hit by the sheer scale of the production. The set was a hive of activity, with crew members bustling about, cameras rolling, and other contestants rehearsing. We expected to be one of the first to pitch, but as the hours ticked by, it became clear we’d be waiting a while.

The Fire Pole Surprise

Midday, we were finally shown our set, and it was beyond anything we could have imagined. The studio was massive, the lights were dazzling, and the attention to detail was impeccable. There was, however, one unexpected element: Scott, our firefighter co-founder, was supposed to slide down a fire pole as part of our entrance. We hadn’t rehearsed this. Scott had to climb a ladder, grab the pole, and hold on as they removed the ladder—a nerve-wracking feat, especially in 20 pounds of firefighter gear.

Our one rehearsal didn’t go smoothly. Scott was left dangling for what felt like an eternity, leaving him out of breath for our pitch. For the actual take, a crew member helped hold his feet as long as possible before filming began to conserve his energy.

The Moment of Truth: Our Pitch

Finally, it was our turn. We were ushered onto the main set, standing before The 100—a live audience of potential customers whose votes would determine our fate. The atmosphere was electric, and the weight of the moment hit us.

A Boost from JB Smoove

As we took our marks, JB Smoove walked by and gave Anthony a reassuring air fist bump, signaling “You got this!” It was a small gesture, but it meant the world and calmed our nerves. Maybe he was complimenting our outfits—who knows? But his confidence was contagious.

Delivering the Pitch

The sirens blared, signaling the start of our 90-second pitch. All the hours of rehearsing paid off. Despite the adrenaline and Scott’s unconventional entrance, we delivered our pitch flawlessly. The audience was engaged, and we could feel their energy feeding back to us.

The Audience Reaction

When it came time for The 100 to vote, our hearts were pounding. The results lit up: 99 out of 100 green lights! Noticing the lone red light, Anthony couldn’t resist engaging the holdout.

“Come on, we need 100! What’s holding you back? Don’t make me come up there!” he playfully challenged.

The audience member laughed and switched her light to green, giving us a perfect score. The room erupted in cheers, and we were overjoyed.

JB made a joke about peer pressure making Anthony immediately feel a little guilty.

Facing the Judges

Advancing to the judges’ panel was exhilarating and a bit intimidating. We stood before:

 • Christian Siriano: Award-winning fashion designer.

 • Carmen Nestares: Vice President of U.S. Prime and Marketing Tech at Amazon.

 • Jamie Siminoff: Founder of Ring and Resident Entrepreneur Judge.

Valuable Feedback

Christian Siriano suggested we introduce more color options for the Forever Sponge. Carmen Nestares agreed, offering additional insights into market potential. We took their feedback seriously. As soon as we returned home, we began working on a new Light Blue Forever Sponge, now available for purchase!

Unexpected and Inspiring Connections

A Personal Chat with JB Smoove

After our pitch, JB Smoove pulled us aside for a conversation. He told us about his upcoming comedy tour, The Philosophy of a Fool Tour, coming to West Palm Beach, Florida, near our Boca Raton offices. We chatted about comedy, watches, and general business. We were amazed to hear everything he had going on at one time. He invited us to his show when he’s in town—an invitation we’re thrilled to accept.

Meeting Jamie Siminoff

As our conversation with JB wrapped up, we noticed Jamie Siminoff patiently waiting to speak with us. A billionaire entrepreneur waiting to talk to us? We were floored.

He expressed admiration for our pitch and shared his respect for firefighters. Jamie encouraged us to stay in touch, and true to his word, we had a Zoom call with him a week later. He offered invaluable advice and introduced us to the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), suggesting it would be a perfect fit for us given our business growth and entrepreneurial spirit. He gave us a ton more details about who we would meet and how it works, but honestly, we were just thrilled to be chatting with someone who pitched on Shark Tank, a show very similar to this one, did not walk away with a deal, but later sold Ring to Amazon for $1 Billion. Since we advanced to the Buy It Now store on Amazon, we’re technically ahead of his progress, right? 😅

The Grand Finale

While we’ve already given too many spoilers, you should watch the full episode on Prime Video. We can say that the experience was priceless. Congratulations to Chris Osse from Armbie for winning the episode’s grand prize of $20,000! We might not have walked away with the cash, but the connections and exposure we gained were worth so much more.

Celebrating with Fellow Entrepreneurs

After filming, all the contestants gathered for sushi. We shared stories, laughed about the day’s events, and forged friendships that continue to this day. Being part of this group of innovators was inspiring and reaffirmed our passion for what we do.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Thank you to Amazon for allowing us to be part of the first season of “Buy It Now.” And a massive thank you to our supporters—you fuel our passion and drive us to keep innovating.

Experience the Forever Sponge for Yourself!

Curious about the product that wowed the audience and judges?

👉 Shop the Forever Sponge Now

 • Cut-Resistant: Say goodbye to torn sponges.

 • Antimicrobial: Keeps your kitchen cleaner and healthier.

 • Built to Last: A sponge that never needs replacing.

As a thank you, enjoy 10% off your purchase with the code BUYITNOW when you buy directly from our website.

Don’t Miss Our Episode!

 • Air Date: November 20, 2024

 • Where: Exclusively on Prime Video in the U.S.

 • Episode: Episode 6 of “Buy It Now”

Gather your friends and family, and join us for this unforgettable moment.

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Final Thoughts

From a whirlwind 72-hour pitch creation to rubbing shoulders with industry giants, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. We hope our story inspires you to chase your dreams, embrace unexpected opportunities, and always be ready for the next adventure.

Thank you for being part of our story. Your support means the world to us!

Disclaimer: This article shares our personal experience on “Buy It Now.” To see the full outcome, please watch the episode on Prime Video.