Torchy's Tacos Founder Mike Rypka shares his journey from addiction to influence— an inside look at the rise of the beloved taco brand episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 14, 2026 · 38 MIN

Torchy's Tacos Founder Mike Rypka shares his journey from addiction to influence— an inside look at the rise of the beloved taco brand

from Corporate Competitor Podcast · host Don Yaeger

Ep. 249: Before food trucks were cool, Mike Rypka had a used trailer, a red Vespa for deliveries, and a bold dream of building a taco joint. In this raw and inspiring conversation, he shares how overcoming addiction—and earning respect by leading from the line—shaped the culture behind one of America's most beloved taco brands, now with more than 100 locations. Read our book The Devil Is In the Details: Mike Rypka and the Torchy's Tacos Story: https://a.co/d/96JXGWu Our BONUS RESOURCE for this episode includes Don's favorite quotes from today's episode and a reflection question so you can apply today's insights.  Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we're making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: https://books.forbes.com/don/  Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers these live and virtual presentations built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness.  Special thanks to Anthony Dickinson and Karson Hills for making this episode possible.

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Torchy's Tacos Founder Mike Rypka shares his journey from addiction to influence— an inside look at the rise of the beloved taco brand

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