How a Military Vet Turned Decluttering Into a Lasting Small Business
In 2016, Angela Cody-Rouget stepped onto Shark Tank in full camouflage gear to pitch her decluttering business, Major Mom. The former US Air Force Satellite Commander and Missileer sought $150,000 for a 20% stake in the company. But despite her bold entrance and military credentials, none of the Sharks chose to invest.
Major Mom was founded in 2006 to help clients tackle clutter with the help of a team of professional organisers, known as 'liberators'. The business offers a range of services, from residential and office organising to paper management, unpacking, and child-proofing. It also assists with downsizing, merging households, and creating plans to maintain long-term order.
The company operates across five US states, with branches in San Antonio, Columbus, Colorado Springs, Denver, Phoenix, and Indianapolis. Cody-Rouget’s Shark Tank pitch was memorable—she declared, 'If the President can trust me with the keys to the nukes, the Sharks can trust me with their money.' Yet, the investors raised concerns about her franchise model and the challenges of scaling the business.
Although Major Mom did not secure a deal, the exposure led to 18 new clients and $1,675 in revenue. Today, the company continues to provide decluttering services, with a notable presence in the Ashland, Massachusetts area, where local events promote its offerings.
Major Mom remains active over a decade after its founding, serving clients in multiple states. The Shark Tank appearance brought temporary growth, but the business still operates without outside investment. Cody-Rouget’s military background and hands-on approach continue to define the brand’s identity.
