How I Built This with Guy Raz Torchy's Tacos: Mike Rypka
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Jul 28, 2025 
Mike Rypka, founder of Torchy's Tacos, shares his inspiring journey from battling addiction to building a thriving taco empire. He discusses how cooking gave him purpose and led to the launch of a food truck in Austin. Rypka recounts early struggles, including financial challenges and innovative marketing strategies that helped establish a loyal customer base. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining quality and the role of creativity in his culinary success, all while celebrating over three decades of sobriety.
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Lead by Serving Your Team
- Work alongside your team to gain respect and demonstrate leadership.
- Set up your employees for success to build confidence and a supportive culture.
Starting Torchy's Tacos Truck
- Mike Rypka started Torchy's Tacos in 2006 with a single food truck in Austin using a secondhand BBQ trailer.
- They differentiated by creating gourmet street tacos with bold, unique flavors, not replicating traditional tacos.
Pumpkin Patch Boosts Business
- Mike's partner invested $15,000 in pumpkins to create a pumpkin patch attracting customers to the taco truck.
- A local pumpkin shortage led to a news story, boosting sales and exposure significantly.