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What happens when you leave a high-tech aerospace career working on the Star Wars defense program to open a taco joint for surfers? Wing Lam, co-founder of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, shares his inspiring journey of taking risks, embracing authenticity, and building one of California’s most iconic lifestyle brands.

In this episode of Making Maverick Moves, Wing reveals how he turned a simple idea into a cultural movement by aligning with the surf and skate community, empowering his team, and leading with purpose. He also discusses lessons in leadership, resilience during COVID-19, and why creativity and community will always win in business.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Meet Wing Lam: From aerospace to tacos

01:34 – Fitting in vs. standing out: the power of authenticity

04:48 – Why Wing quit aerospace after a single conversation

06:41 – How surfing inspired the birth of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos

08:23 – Partnering with Billabong & the surf community

11:10 – Business relationships: loyalty, transparency & trust

14:10 – Building a team culture of respect and legacy

15:31 – Sponsoring surf events & athletes: authentic marketing

21:49 – Wing’s leadership style: empowering people to own their work

24:19 – California Love Drop: pivoting to philanthropy during COVID-19

31:40 – Why creativity & community matter more than ever in the age of AI

38:00 – Authenticity, healthy food, and creating a lifestyle brand

42:10 – Wing’s inspiration today & leaving a legacy of impact