If there’s one thing I’ve learned from watching countless episodes of Shark Tank, it’s that the show is as much about storytelling as it is about innovative products. Some pitches stick with you, not just because of the product but because of the heart, passion, and sheer grit of the entrepreneurs. That’s exactly how I feel about Milk + Brookies. Their journey, from a clever dessert concept to a thriving business, is a masterclass in perseverance and entrepreneurship. Let me take you through their story—it’s one you won’t want to miss.
What Exactly is Milk + Brookies?
Imagine the rich, gooey decadence of a brownie meeting the buttery, sweet crumble of a cookie. Now, bake it into a muffin-sized treat, and you’ve got yourself a brookie. Milk + Brookies is the brainchild of childhood friends Jovon English, Marques Brooks, and Naimah Harris. The trio combined their love of desserts with entrepreneurial flair to create something truly unique: brookies. The product itself was a hit, but the journey to build a sustainable business was anything but straightforward.
Milk + Brookies made their way into the national spotlight when they appeared on Season 7, Episode 4 of Shark Tank, which aired on October 16, 2015. At the time, their company was still in its early stages, but the trio’s passion for their product and belief in its potential were palpable. And so began their moment in front of the Sharks.
The Pitch That Started It All
When Jovon, Marques, and Naimah stepped onto the Shark Tank stage, they had one goal in mind: to secure $100,000 in exchange for 20% equity in their company. That’s a bold ask, especially for a dessert business just starting to establish itself. But as the founders laid out their pitch, it was clear they weren’t just selling brookies—they were selling a vision.
The founders presented their brookies in an array of flavors: the OG (original), turtle, peanut butter, snickerdoodle, and sugar. Each treat was paired with a mini milk jug, a nostalgic touch that tapped into childhood memories for both the Sharks and viewers. This clever branding move—pairing milk with brookies—was more than just cute; it was a calculated effort to create a signature identity for their product.
But while the Sharks loved the taste of the brookies (Kevin O’Leary even called them “exceptionally rich”), concerns about the business model quickly surfaced. The Sharks noted that the business was still in its infancy and questioned whether the founders—who were working on Milk + Brookies part-time—had the focus and resources to scale the brand.
Mark Cuban, ever the numbers guy, suggested increasing the price point to improve margins. Kevin O’Leary calculated the calorie count of a single brookie to be between 400 and 500, a point he brought up as a potential challenge for health-conscious consumers. Despite their genuine admiration for the product, all the Sharks ultimately passed on the deal.
The Deal That Wasn’t: Shark Tank Investment Details
While Milk + Brookies didn’t walk away with a deal, their time on Shark Tank wasn’t for nothing. The exposure alone was a massive win, catapulting the brand into the public eye. Here’s a quick summary of their Shark Tank episode:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Milk + Brookies |
| Founders | Jovon English, Marques Brooks, and Naimah Harris |
| Season & Episode | Season 7, Episode 4 (October 16, 2015) |
| Ask (Investment & Equity) | $100,000 for 20% equity |
| Final Deal | No deal |
| Shark(s) Involved | None |
| Memorable Episode Moments | Kevin O’Leary described the brookies as “exceptionally rich,” and Mark Cuban suggested raising prices. |
| Current Net Worth | Estimated at over $5 million (2024) |
| Current Business Status | Active |
| Revenue Since Shark Tank | Approximately $3 million annually (2022) |
| Social Media Presence | Active on Instagram, engaging with customers |
| Key Achievements | Partnered with Orleans and York deli chain; expanded flavors and distribution channels |
Life After the Tank: The Post-Pitch Journey
One of the most fascinating aspects of Milk + Brookies’ story is what happened after their Shark Tank appearance. Even though they didn’t secure a deal, the exposure led to an explosion in sales—a reported 3,000% increase overnight. That’s the power of the Shark Tank effect.
With this newfound visibility, the founders quickly got to work scaling their business. They streamlined their flavor offerings to focus on six core options: OG, blondie, turtle, peanut butter, snickerdoodle, and sugar. Prices were adjusted to reflect their premium branding, with a 4-pack of brookies starting at $24. While some might balk at the price, the founders positioned their product as a high-quality, indulgent treat—and customers were happy to pay for it.
Another significant milestone came when Milk + Brookies partnered with Orleans and York, a deli chain that offered their products in multiple locations. This move helped the company reach new customers and expand its distribution network.
Where Are They Now? The Current Status of Milk + Brookies
Fast forward to today, and Milk + Brookies is thriving. The company generates an impressive $3 million in annual revenue and has an estimated net worth of over $5 million. They’ve maintained an active presence on social media, using platforms like Instagram to engage with customers, share updates, and promote new flavors and collaborations.
Their commitment to quality and innovation hasn’t wavered. Whether it’s experimenting with seasonal flavors or exploring new partnerships, Milk + Brookies continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.
Lessons Learned: What Milk + Brookies Teaches Us About Entrepreneurship
If there’s one thing aspiring entrepreneurs can take away from Milk + Brookies’ journey, it’s the importance of resilience. Not securing a deal on Shark Tank could have been a crushing blow, but Jovon, Marques, and Naimah didn’t let it define their business. Instead, they used the exposure to their advantage, refining their product, expanding their reach, and building a loyal customer base.
Another key takeaway is the value of branding and storytelling. By pairing their brookies with milk and creating a nostalgic experience for their customers, the founders built a brand identity that’s as memorable as the product itself. That’s a powerful lesson for anyone looking to stand out in a crowded market.
The Sweet Future Ahead
Looking ahead, the future seems bright for Milk + Brookies. With a loyal customer base, steady revenue growth, and a strong brand identity, the company is well-positioned to continue its success. Whether they expand into new markets, introduce innovative flavors, or explore additional partnerships, one thing is clear: Milk + Brookies isn’t going anywhere.
For me, their story is more than just a business success—it’s a reminder of what’s possible when passion, perseverance, and creativity come together. So the next time you’re craving something sweet, remember Milk + Brookies and the journey that brought them to where they are today.