We were lucky to catch up with Wing Lam recently and have shared our conversation below.
Wing, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.
saying yes to charities when the ROI was not there on the surface , ended up meeting and becoming friends with some amazing people and able to network with great brands
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Wing Lam, the esteemed eldest of the three visionary founding brothers, is the enigmatic personality widely celebrated as the enduring face behind the iconic and beloved Wahoo’s Fish Taco brand. With over three decades of unwavering dedication in the dynamic restaurant industry, Wing Lam has seamlessly woven his unique and captivating presence into the very fabric of the culinary world and beyond.
A true luminary in the field, Wing’s impact transcends the boundaries of his restaurant empire. His voice resonates across the globe as he actively engages in prominent public events, gracing stages as a distinguished panelist and sought-after speaker at renowned conferences such as the IEG Conference. His wisdom and insights extend to the world of academia, where he guest lectures for esteemed MBA programs at Ivy League institutions like Yale, as well as the esteemed campuses of UCLA and USC.
Wing Lam’s magnetic charm has not only captivated audiences in the business and academic realms but has also left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His remarkable journey led him to the small screen, where he became a household name as he starred in the hit ABC show, “The Secret Millionaire.” His captivating presence was also immortalized in a national Merrill Lynch commercial, resonating with audiences across the country. Wing’s culinary prowess was showcased in two Food Network shows, “Unwrapped” and “Beach Eats USA,” cementing his status as a culinary maverick.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Wing Lam remains steadfast in his commitment to giving back to the community. He actively supports and participates in numerous national and local community-based events, embodying the spirit of philanthropy. His dedication extends to the boardrooms of various non-profit organizations, including Share Our Strength, the Juvenile Diabetic Research Foundation, and the Surfrider Foundation, where he lends his strategic insights and unwavering support. Wing’s active involvement in the Asian American Journalists Association showcases his commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in media.
In recognition of his tireless efforts to infuse creativity and kindness into the corporate world, Wing received the prestigious Corporate Creativity and Kindness OC Award, as well as the Innovation Leadership Award from the Child Creativity Lab in 2018. This same year, he was also honored with the 2018 IMPACT Award from the International Executive Council, a testament to his global influence.
Awards and accolades have consistently showered upon Wing Lam and his brothers. They have been rightfully named among the 500 Most Influential by the Orange County Business Journal, a testament to their indomitable influence on the local business landscape. Their culinary masterpiece, Wahoo’s Fish Taco, was bestowed with the Golden Foodie Award and crowned Best OC Brand by the OC Weekly, further solidifying its iconic status.
Rooted in a strong educational foundation, Wing Lam graduated from San Diego State University, holding a Bachelor of Science degree with a minor in Spanish. This academic journey provided the knowledge and skills that have propelled him to unparalleled success, all while embracing his passion for cultural diversity.
Wing Lam’s remarkable journey from a humble beginning to a multifaceted luminary, blending the worlds of business, entertainment, and philanthropy, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world, one taco at a time.
Have you ever had to pivot?
Amidst the unprecedented challenges that unfolded during the early stages of the pandemic, Wing Lam, the visionary behind the iconic Wahoo’s Fish Taco brand, hatched a remarkable initiative that would not only demonstrate his unwavering commitment to the community but also showcase his indomitable spirit of generosity. It was during these tumultuous times that Wahoo’s found itself at a crossroads, compelled to pivot its operations to navigate the stormy waters of the pandemic. It was during this pivotal moment that Wing Lam’s inspiration led to the birth of the California Love Drop, a heartwarming endeavor that would prove to be a beacon of hope and support to those who needed it most.
The California Love Drop was more than just a charitable project; it was a testament to the resilience of a brand and its founder, determined to make a positive impact during a time of crisis. The core idea was simple yet profound: to extend a helping hand to the community in need. This extended far beyond the walls of their restaurants. It meant reaching out to the frontline responders who were working tirelessly to combat the pandemic and ensuring that those who were struggling during these trying times received a warm, nourishing meal.
In the spirit of community and solidarity, the California Love Drop initiative embarked on a remarkable journey of compassion and service. To date, it has completed over 500 drops, each one a symbol of love and support for the community. These drops have not just been mere numbers; they have been lifelines for countless individuals and families. Through these acts of kindness, over 250,000 meals have been delivered to those who needed them the most, offering sustenance and solace in the face of adversity.
The remarkable legacy of the California Love Drop is a testament to the enduring power of compassion and community spirit. What began as a response to an immediate crisis has now become an enduring symbol of the values that Wahoo’s and Wing Lam hold dear. It is a living testament to the idea that in the face of adversity, communities can come together to support one another.
The story of the California Love Drop doesn’t end with the pandemic; it is a living testament to the ongoing commitment of Wing Lam and Wahoo’s to make a positive impact on the world. Even as the pandemic wanes, the California Love Drop continues its mission to serve and uplift the community, reaffirming that the values of compassion, generosity, and community support are not bound by time or circumstance.
In an era marked by uncertainty and upheaval, the California Love Drop stands as a symbol of hope, reminding us that in our darkest hours, the light of compassion and community can shine the brightest. Wing Lam’s vision and the unwavering dedication of Wahoo’s Fish Taco have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many, reminding us all of the power of love and support in the face of adversity.
We’d love to hear about how you met your business partner.
At the heart of the cherished Wahoo’s Fish Taco brand are the two co-founders, inseparable brothers who share not only a profound business bond but a deep-rooted love for the surf and the tantalizing flavors of Baja California. Mingo and Ed, united by blood and a passion for the waves, embarked on an extraordinary journey that would ultimately redefine the landscape of the culinary world and the soul of their business.
From their earliest days as siblings, the duo shared an unbreakable connection with two intrinsic elements of their upbringing: the exhilarating world of surfing and the mouthwatering allure of Baja-style tacos. The ocean and its endless waves, as well as the culinary delights of Baja California, were more than mere interests; they were passions that had the power to stir their souls.
As the years rolled on and they ventured further into adulthood, Mingo and Ed found themselves returning to their beloved surf spots time and time again. These trips were not just recreational escapes but pivotal moments that defined their life’s direction. The magnetic pull of the ocean and the thrill of riding the waves were inseparable from their identities, guiding them towards the path they were destined to tread.
The seeds of the Wahoo’s Fish Taco concept began to take root during these formative years. The brothers recognized a compelling opportunity to intertwine their lifelong love for surfing and the world of action sports with the creation of a culinary haven. They shared an unshakable vision: to forge a business that remained true to its surfing and action sports roots while serving up delectable, Pacific-inspired cuisine that was fresh, flavorful, and a true reflection of their own experiences.
Wahoo’s Fish Taco became the embodiment of this vision, a harmonious blend of passion, purpose, and palate. The Wahoo’s experience isn’t just about savoring mouthwatering dishes; it’s about embracing a lifestyle, celebrating the freedom of the open sea, and relishing in the camaraderie that unites those who understand the thrill of riding the waves. It’s a tribute to the shared moments of bliss on the surfboard and the shared delight of savoring a delicious, authentically inspired meal.
Mingo and Ed, as co-founders, have channeled their unwavering dedication and love for the sea into every aspect of Wahoo’s Fish Taco. The brand stands as a testament to their passion for surfing, their commitment to the action sports community, and their desire to share the flavors of Baja California with the world. With Wahoo’s, they’ve not only created a business but a legacy that celebrates the core values of authenticity, adventure, and the joy of savoring life’s simple pleasures, one delectable taco at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: wahoos.com
- Instagram: @wahooswing
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wing.lam.121398
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wing-lam-2303294/
- Other: Californialovedrop.org