From Kingston to National Television: Local Cousins Take Their Business to ABC’s ‘Shark Tank’
Two Kingston natives who grew up just down the street from each other are preparing for a national television appearance Wednesday night, bringing an unusual business idea before some of America's best-known investors.
Joshua Jancewicz and Holly Danko, cousins and graduates of Wyoming Valley West, will appear on ABC's popular business reality show Shark Tank on Wednesday, October 28, pitching their company, Donna's Pickle Beer.
The product is exactly what its name suggests: a beer made with pickle brine. While the combination might sound unusual, the business has already experienced remarkable growth.
What began in 2023 with just 400 cases has grown into a company producing approximately 5,000 cases per month. Its products are now distributed across 19 states and have reached major outlets, including Trader Joe's and even Disneyland.
And it all traces back to two cousins who grew up in Kingston.
A Family Business With Kingston Roots
Jancewicz and Danko grew up near each other in Kingston before eventually moving to California, where they now operate their business.
The company's name has a personal meaning. Donna's Pickle Beer is named after Jancewicz's mother, Donna Jancewicz, who still lives in Kingston and joined the cousins for their appearance on Shark Tank.
The business launched in April 2023, with its first release coinciding with Donna's birthday. Its initial 400 cases reportedly sold out within two days.
Since then, the company has expanded rapidly, with its founders hoping to turn their unusual product into a nationally recognized brand.
An Unexpected Invitation From Shark Tank
According to WVIA, the cousins did not initially apply to appear on the program. Instead, Shark Tank contacted them directly.
Jancewicz reportedly thought the invitation email might be fake. Even after confirming it was legitimate, he was initially hesitant about participating.
Eventually, the cousins recognized the opportunity and began preparing their presentation, practicing their pitch and planning how to introduce their company to the show's investors.
The program features entrepreneurs presenting their businesses to a panel of wealthy investors known as the Sharks, who decide whether to offer funding in exchange for a stake in the company.
Whether the Kingston natives secured a deal remains a secret until the episode airs.
A Kingston Success Story on a National Stage
For local residents, the appearance offers an interesting example of how a business with humble beginnings can reach a national audience.
The cousins have taken an unconventional idea and built a company with thousands of retail and hospitality customers, all while maintaining a strong family connection to their hometown.
Although Donna's Pickle Beer is not yet sold in Pennsylvania, the founders hope to expand distribution to their home state.
Regardless of whether the Sharks decide to invest, appearing on one of America's most recognizable business television programs represents a significant milestone for the Kingston-raised entrepreneurs.
The episode airs Wednesday, October 28, at 10:01 p.m. Eastern on ABC.
Source: WVIA News, October 27, 2026. Broadcast details confirmed by ABC.