Show Notes
What does it take to build a small business that lasts for more than 15 years in one of the most competitive industries in the world?
For Andrew Ahn, founder of Boo's Philly Cheesesteaks in Los Angeles, the answer starts with family, hard work, and a willingness to do whatever it takes.
Born to Korean immigrant parents, Andrew grew up watching entrepreneurship firsthand before eventually building Boo's into one of Los Angeles' most beloved cheesesteak destinations. But staying successful has required more than great food. As customer habits, technology, and marketing continue to evolve, Andrew has embraced new ways to reach customers while staying true to what made Boo's successful in the first place.
In this episode of Becoming Self Made, Andrew shares lessons on entrepreneurship, small business marketing, community building, and how to grow a small business without losing its identity. He and Mike discuss family, resilience, social media, going viral, adapting to change, and why long-term success comes from serving your local community long after the buzz fades.
More from Becoming Self Made
Small businesses don't just support local economies, they create the communities we want to live in.
When David Stark graduated from art school, he wasn't following a blueprint for entrepreneurship. He was arranging flowers in his apartment, taking on small creative projects, and searching for a way to turn his artistic vision into a career. What followed was something he never could have predicted: the creation of one of the world's leading experiential design firms, and the pioneering of ideas like the modern pop-up shop that would reshape how brands connect with people.
The greatest competitive advantage in business isn't always your product. Sometimes, it's the community that believes in it.
What does it take to lead a family business into its next generation?
What do you do when there’s no blueprint for the career you want? For Tim Milgram, the answer was to create one.