In this episode of Penny for Your Shots, I had the privilege of speaking with Shirah Benarde, the co-founder and inventor of NightCap—a potentially life-saving product designed to protect drinks from being spiked. At just 16 years old, Shirah turned a simple idea into a globally recognized brand, earning an investment from Lori Greiner on Shark Tank. Shirah’s story is one of innovation, determination, and a commitment to safety and empowerment.

The Birth of NightCap

The idea for NightCap came to Shirah in high school after hearing about a friend being roofied. One night, she woke up with a vision for a product that could protect people from this crime.

"I sat down with my dad and created the first prototype using my mom’s old stockings," Shirah recalled.

NightCap, now a scrunchie that doubles as a drink cover, was born from that prototype. Over time, the product evolved into a reusable, washable tool for ensuring safety and peace of mind.

A Mission Rooted in Awareness and Prevention

Shirah’s mission with NightCap extends beyond the product itself. She’s worked to spark conversations about drink spiking, a crime that often goes unreported due to victim-blaming and systemic barriers.

"Our products not only protect but also serve as a deterrent. They send a signal that says, ‘I’m aware, and I’m protecting myself,’" Shirah explained.

NightCap now offers a full product line, including unisex and disposable options, and has partnered with over 170 universities worldwide to distribute their products to students.

Overcoming Challenges: Lessons in Entrepreneurship

Starting NightCap at just 16, Shirah faced her fair share of challenges, from self-doubt to the pressure of entrepreneurship.

"I didn’t know everything, but I didn’t let that stop me. Action brings clarity, and you learn by doing," she shared.

This mindset helped Shirah and her brother Michael, NightCap’s co-founder, navigate the complexities of building a business. Their appearance on Shark Tank in 2021, where Lori Greiner invested, marked a turning point, refining their branding and marketing strategies.

The Power of Advocacy and Education

Through NightCap, Shirah emphasizes education as a critical component of prevention. She frequently discusses topics like the "Red Zone," a period between August and November when assault cases spike on college campuses, and the importance of being vigilant.

"Simple measures like using NightCap, having a code word, or knowing terms like the ‘angel shot’ can make a huge difference," she explained.

Shirah encourages parents to have open conversations with their college-age children about safety and to advocate for their kids in situations where they might feel powerless.

Expanding the Mission

NightCap continues to grow, reaching more universities and markets worldwide. Shirah is also launching season two of her podcast, In Your Dreams, where she highlights stories of entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience.

"My goal is to inspire people to take action, trust themselves, and create solutions to problems they’re passionate about solving," she said.

Closing Thoughts: Stay Safe, Stay Empowered

Shirah Benarde’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact one idea can have when driven by passion and purpose. NightCap isn’t just a product—it’s a movement for safety, awareness, and empowerment.

Where to Find NightCap:
Visit nightcapit.com or find NightCap on Amazon, at Forever 21, and on social media at @thenightcapit.

For more inspiration, tune into Shirah’s podcast, In Your Dreams, available on major platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Stay safe, spread awareness, and remember: It’s never okay to spike a drink or blame the victim. Protect yourself and those you care about. Cheers!