From Founder to Franchisee: How Chronic Tacos Built a Brand That Still Breaks Through

Founderology

What happens when a visionary Founder and a passionate franchisee come together to build something bigger than burritos? You get a conversation packed with insight, real talk, and game-changing strategies that every restaurant Founder needs to hear.

In this episode of Founderology, I sit down with Randy Wyner, Founder and franchisor of Chronic Tacos, and Caleb Walker, multi-unit franchisee and entrepreneurial powerhouse. Together, they share the inside story of building one of the most craveable brands on the market—and the human relationships and bold moves that made it all possible.

Why Founders Should Listen In:

• Two Sides, One Vision: Randy brings the franchisor's lens—brand building, scale, innovation. Caleb brings the franchisee's boots-on-the-ground perspective—operations, team leadership, customer experience. The magic? How aligned they are in purpose and values. This is a masterclass in healthy, high-impact franchisor/franchisee partnerships.
• The Real Cost of Going Too Fast: Both Randy and Caleb talk candidly about the importance of not rushing into franchising. Founders, if you're thinking about scaling—this episode offers a front-row seat to the right way to do it: with integrity, strategy, and a whole lot of heart.
• Culture Isn't Just a Buzzword: From taco values to real-life leadership, they reveal how intentional culture—both in corporate and in the restaurants—drives loyalty from employees, customers, and franchisees alike.
• How to Make a Brand That Lasts: Chronic Tacos launched in 2002. In 2025, it's still cool, still cravable, and still growing. Founders—if you want staying power in a fast-moving market, this episode delivers the mindset and moves that matter.

Common Ground Between Randy & Caleb:

• Passion for hospitality that goes way beyond the plate.
• A relentless commitment to building great teams and strong relationships.
• Deep respect for the brand and each other.

What Sets Them Apart (and Why It Matters):

• Randy's focus is scaling with purpose and protecting the brand.
• Caleb's focus is delivering every day in-store and in-market.

Together, they show what franchise success really looks like—aligned values, shared vision, and mutual respect.

Whether you're a Founder dreaming of franchising or a restaurant operator ready to expand, this episode will open your eyes, spark ideas, and give you a roadmap for what's possible.

Tune in now. Get inspired. Get moving.