December 09

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Birdseye served as a naturalist in Labrador, Canada. He observed indigenous freezing methods and experimented with rapid freezing. In 1924, he founded the General Seafood Corporation to commercialize frozen fish. His innovations led to the establishment of Birds Eye Frozen Food Company in 1929. The flash-freezing process preserved food texture and nutrition, transforming retail and home cooking. Birdseye's legacy lives on as frozen foods remain a staple worldwide.

Ryūzō Sejima served as a staff officer in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II, participating in major campaigns in Asia. After the war, he transitioned to the private sector and rose to prominence as a senior executive, guiding major Japanese corporations through periods of rapid economic growth. Sejima was known for his strategic acumen and leadership in corporate restructuring and international expansion. He held board positions at several companies and advised government agencies on industrial policy. His dual experience in military planning and business management made him a respected figure in postwar Japan's economic development.

Born in 1944 in Pittsburgh, Bob O'Connor began his career in the private sector, founding and leading several local enterprises. He transitioned to public service and was elected as the 57th Mayor of Pittsburgh in 2005. During his tenure, he championed neighborhood revitalization and education reform while engaging directly with residents. Known for his approachable leadership style, he implemented initiatives to boost economic development and improve city services. Although his time in office was cut short by illness, his legacy of civic dedication endures.

Lori Greiner holds over a hundred patents for innovative consumer products and built a successful business empire through QVC and retail partnerships. She rose to fame with her ability to identify market trends and create products that resonate with everyday consumers. Since joining Shark Tank in 2012, she has invested in dozens of startups, guiding entrepreneurs with her retail expertise. Greiner’s own inventions, like jewelry organizers and food storage solutions, have generated billions in sales. Her influence extends beyond television into mentorship programs empowering aspiring business leaders.