Entrepreneurship is not just about having a great idea. It’s about persistence, decision-making, managing people, and staying motivated even when things go wrong. And while books and podcasts are great, sometimes a good show can teach just as much, if not more.
In the last decade, some business-themed TV shows have attracted attention not only for being entertaining but also for being educational. From learning how to make a pitch to investors to observing how billion-dollar businesses run from the inside out, the greatest business TV series for entrepreneurs are filled with useful lessons.
Let’s examine five shows which not only entertain them but also motivate and educate individuals who are pursuing their business ideas.
Shark Tank
Debuting in 2009 on ABC, Shark Tank has evolved into one of the US’s most popular business TV series. As of 2023, it has produced more than 300 episodes and still attracts millions of viewers per season. During the show, actual business owners present their concepts to a group of investors, or “Sharks.” The investors are individuals such as Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, and Barbara Corcoran, individuals who have created huge business dynasties.
What makes Shark Tank such a great business TV series for entrepreneurs is its real-world influence. Forbes reports that more than $200 million has been invested in startups due to the show. Brands such as Scrub Daddy and Bombas socks had their sales spike after appearing.
For anyone who cares about investor expectations, pricing, product-market fit, and approach to business, just watch Shark Tank, it’s like a free course, just with more drama and entertainment. It also often introduces guest sharks, giving new insights for entrepreneurs from various industries.
The Profit
The Profit, which premiered on CNBC in 2013, stars successful entrepreneur Marcus Lemonis. He enters flattered businesses and provides them with not only money but also his own hands-on assistance. What makes this show different is the way that it targets the heart of the business: people. The process. And the product.
With more than 100 episodes under its belt, The Profit has turned around almost-dead restaurant businesses and many other small enterprises. A Nielsen report in 2017 pointed out that the show increased awareness and sales for most American businesses featured on the program shortly after their episodes were broadcast.
It’s among the top shows for tech entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in learning about everyday operations, fixing team dynamics, and leadership. These valuable lessons are what make the show a must-watch.
Dirty Money
A 2018 original from Netflix, Dirty Money explores corporate greed, financial frauds, and immoral approach to business practices. It does not teach how to start a company, but it’s instrumental in showing what not to do.
The series has covered such scandals as Volkswagen’s emissions fraud and Wells Fargo’s fictitious accounts. These aren’t fictional tales, they’re a real story, with billions of dollars and thousands of jobs in jeopardy. These episodes help expose the dark side of some tech companies and other major industries.
Dirty Money offers valuable lessons on ethics and long-term sustainability. It’s especially important for anyone hoping to run a family business or maintain credibility in today’s startup ecosystem.
StartUp
Premiering on Crackle in 2016 and later acquired by Netflix, StartUp is a drama that follows a successful startup trying to survive in the face of legal trouble, funding gaps, and moral decisions. While the show includes crime and conflict, it mirrors the messy side of building in the Silicon Valley-inspired world.
As of 2021, according to Parrot Analytics, StartUp experienced a 290% demand boost after it landed on Netflix, proving how closely it echoed real business presentations and early-stage founder struggles.
StartUp introduces characters that remind viewers of controversial real-life figures like Adam Neumann, showing how charisma and chaos can often go hand in hand. It gives tech entrepreneurs and viewers an honest look at what it takes to push through obstacles.
Undercover Boss
Since its launch in 2010, Undercover Boss has remained one of CBS’s highest-rated reality series. The format is simple, executives go undercover to work among employees and discover what’s really happening behind the scenes of American businesses.
As The Washington Post noted, many companies changed their approach to business after appearing on the show. There were new training programs, promotions, and a stronger connection between management and frontline staff. It especially resonates with anyone managing a family business, where empathy often matters just as much as expertise.
The show teaches that behind every policy are people, and that emotional intelligence is often what separates successful business people from the rest. Episodes from the sixth season and seventh season remain some of the most impactful for viewers looking for insights for entrepreneurs. It’s one of the best business TV shows for entrepreneurs who want to learn about team culture, internal operations, and the human side of running a company.
Why These Shows Are Worth Watching
All of these five series offer something unique. Some teach you how to pitch and scale. Others warn about mistakes that can destroy your company. From startups in Silicon Valley to mom-and-pop shops, they each bring something practical to the table.
Unlike traditional education, these shows let you absorb complex lessons through real stories and characters. Whether you’re a student, a new founder, or someone managing a growing team, these are the best business TV shows for entrepreneurs to watch and re-watch.
Final Thought
Building something lasting takes courage, clarity, and a willingness to learn. These shows aren’t just meant for fun, they’re packed with valuable lessons, emotional stories, and sharp business presentations. Whether you’re learning from a successful entrepreneur, watching how guest sharks evaluate ideas, or seeing a small-time lawyer build something from nothing, there’s inspiration everywhere.
Let entertainment meet education. Let your next awesome business idea take root from the screen.
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