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Turning setbacks into success, the power of vulnerability in leadership, and building a thriving company culture.
Imagine stepping into a struggling business at just 26 years old, facing financial turmoil, and being told by corporate leaders that you should walk away. That was the reality for Doug Augustine when he unexpectedly took over his family’s Taco Bell franchise after his father’s sudden passing. Instead of giving up, Doug leaned in—transforming his struggling locations into award-winning stores and scaling the business from seven to 33 restaurants.
In this episode, Doug shares his remarkable journey of resilience, the leadership lessons he learned the hard way, and why vulnerability and asking for help are crucial for any CEO. He also dives into the importance of disciplined execution, people development, and how to create a performance-driven culture without sacrificing your team’s well-being.
Episode Highlights
- (7:03) How Doug took over a failing business at 26 and turned it around
- (8:43) The mindset shift that transformed his leadership style
- (10:45) Why vulnerability makes you a stronger CEO—not a weaker one
- (17:41) The key to scaling a business without losing its culture
- (33:22) What leaders often get wrong about accountability and performance
- (40:25) Why his book, When Pigs Fly, is more than just a memoir—it’s a leadership playbook
Doug’s story proves that success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about learning how to navigate it. If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure about your next move as a leader, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you approach obstacles and opportunities.
Episode Guest
About Doug Augustine, Retired – Former Taco Bell and Wendy’s Franchisee, President and CEO
Doug was a second-generation Taco Bell and Wendy’s franchisee with over 25 years of experience. He has been president and CEO since 1998. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Auburn University and has a background in accounting.
