Episode 6 | Derrick Hayes

The Atlanta Story

In this episode Jon Birdsong sits down with Derrick Hayes, Founder of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks.

Derrick named his growing cheesesteak company in honor of his late father. Six years ago, Derrick opened up his first shop outside of a gas station in Dunwoody, Georgia. Today, he has a line out the door at his downtown location and is soon opening in Chamblee. We also talk about how he’s delivering food to frontline healthcare workers during the coronavirus, why Big Dave’s is the “land of second opportunities” for team members, and how a small world connection to Eve put his name and brand on the social media map. After listening to today's podcast, we’re confident you’ll be inspired to follow your heart and dreams.

The Atlanta Story is put together by the folks at Atlanta Ventures -- and we can’t wait to share some of the personalities behind the brand. Atlanta Ventures invests in entrepreneurs through community, content, and capital -- most notably through our Studio with companies like Greenzie and Intown Golf Club. We believe the best entrepreneurs learn from other great artists in different fields.

In this episode, we discuss…30

1. What is Big Dave’s doing during the Coronavirus season? (2:05)
2. How did Derrick decide to build a Philly cheesesteak business. (6:15)
3. What are some cultural values that Derrick brings to Big Dave's? (12:00)
4. How did Derrick know people would come and that it would be a success? (14:11)
5. How did Dave’s Cheesesteak build its social media presence. (16:35)
6. Derrick explains the art of making a good cheesesteak. (18:07)
7. Was there any competition evaluation of the Atlanta market? (19:43)
8. Derrick talks shop about the menu. (23:14)
9. More about the Downtown location. (25:48)
10. When does the next location open? (28:30)
11. What’s the big vision of Big Dave’s? (28:55)
12. What is the Big Dave’s hiring process? (30:25)
13. Pepsi v. Coke. (32:13)
14. Why Atlanta and what has Atlanta done for you? (33:46)

How you can get involved:

Visit atlantaventures.com/studio if you’re interested in learning more about Atlanta Ventures and the Studio.

Where you can find us:

Website: www.atlstory.com

Twitter: @theatlantastory

Instagram: @theatlantastory

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