Barbara Corcoran
Full Name and Common Aliases
Barbara Ann Corcoran, commonly known as Barbara Corcoran, is a name synonymous with entrepreneurial success and real estate prowess. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a household name in business circles is both inspiring and instructive.
Birth and Death Dates
Barbara Corcoran was born on March 10, 1949. As of the latest available information, she is alive and continues to be an influential figure in the business world.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Barbara Corcoran is an American entrepreneur, investor, author, and television personality. She is best known for her role as a "Shark" investor on the popular television show Shark Tank and as the founder of The Corcoran Group, a leading real estate brokerage in New York City.
Early Life and Background
Born in Edgewater, New Jersey, Barbara Corcoran was the second of ten children in a working-class Irish-Catholic family. Her father, a printing press foreman, and her mother, a homemaker, instilled in her the values of hard work and resilience. Despite struggling with dyslexia, which made her academic journey challenging, Barbara's determination and creativity shone through from an early age. She attended St. Cecilia High School and later graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas College in 1971 with a degree in education. However, her career path took a different turn when she decided to venture into the world of real estate.
Major Accomplishments
Barbara Corcoran's most significant accomplishment is the founding of The Corcoran Group in 1973. With a mere $1,000 loan from her then-boyfriend, she started the company in a small office in Manhattan. Over the years, she grew it into one of the largest and most successful real estate firms in New York City. In 2001, she sold The Corcoran Group for a reported $66 million, cementing her status as a formidable businesswoman.
In addition to her real estate success, Barbara became a prominent figure on television as one of the original investors on Shark Tank. Her sharp business acumen and charismatic personality have made her a fan favorite, and she has invested in numerous successful ventures through the show.
Notable Works or Actions
Barbara Corcoran is also a prolific author, having penned several books that offer insights into her business philosophy and personal journey. Her notable works include "If You Don’t Have Big Breasts, Put Ribbons on Your Pigtails" and "Shark Tales: How I Turned $1,000 into a Billion Dollar Business!" These books provide a candid look at her life and the lessons she learned along the way.
Her role on Shark Tank has not only showcased her investment prowess but also her commitment to mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs. Barbara's investments have helped launch and grow numerous businesses, contributing to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Impact and Legacy
Barbara Corcoran's impact extends beyond her business achievements. She is a trailblazer for women in business, demonstrating that with grit and determination, success is attainable regardless of one's background. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and innovation, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
Her legacy is also evident in her philanthropic efforts, as she actively supports various charitable causes, particularly those focused on education and entrepreneurship.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Barbara Corcoran is widely quoted and remembered for her insightful and often humorous take on business and life. Her quotes reflect her no-nonsense approach and her ability to distill complex ideas into relatable and actionable advice. Whether discussing the importance of perseverance, the value of creativity, or the lessons learned from failure, Barbara's words resonate with audiences worldwide.
Her presence on Shark Tank has further amplified her voice, making her a trusted source of wisdom for entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts. Barbara Corcoran's journey from a struggling student to a successful entrepreneur and investor serves as a powerful reminder that with vision and tenacity, anything is possible.
Quotes by Barbara Corcoran
Barbara Corcoran's insights on:
I became a larger than life figure for one reason only. When you're quoted in the 'Wall Street Journal', the 'New York Times', constantly as the expert in the business people assume you're a lot bigger than you are. And then I had to run like hell to catch up with my own image.
When you're a big money earner and your husband isn't, it makes you question how feminine you are. I felt I was less feminine than if I was a supporting wife, or a second fiddle, or 'Mrs. Higgins.'
I gave up years ago on the concept that you could actually have balance in your life, I think it’s a phantom chase.
Figure out what past efforts amounted to nothing and label them your “not to do” list. Post the list where you’ll see it.
I have found, whether you have a tiny business or a big business, if you don’t jump on something right away, it’s like a bird flying by-it flies off.
I hadn’t learned to read by third grade, which wasn’t unusual for some kids. I knew something was wrong because I couldn’t see or understand the words the way the other kids did. I wasn’t the least bit bothered – until I was sent back to the second-grade classroom for reading help after school.
Instead of assuming everything you’re being told is the truth, ask plenty of questions.
It’s rumored that doing well in real estate is to be able to close a deal. I did not find that to be the case for myself, I was probably the worst closer out there and I didn’t find that was true of my top super stars either.
When you’re in business, if you have some sort of gimmick it’s a huge advantage.