From Jaipur to Jackpot: How a Burrito Dream Conquered India!

NaM That's a Business Idea!

Okay besties gather 'round! You know me I'm all about the good vibes and of course the good eats. So get this: there's this dude Bert Mueller right? He went to India for a study abroad program and guess what? His American food got the 'NaM' treatment from his host family. Ouch! But his classmate's Mexican food? Total hit! *insert surprised Pikachu face* That's when the lightbulb went off – maybe just maybe he could bring some SoCal burrito love to India. Talk about a glow up from music and public policy!

From College Grad to Burrito Boss

So Bert graduates packs his bags and says 'Bye Felicia!' to Virginia. He's off to India to start California Burrito. Can you imagine? He's 22 probably rocking a serious case of wanderlust and about to dive headfirst into the food scene in Bangalore. He picks Bangalore because it's an IT hub full of people who probably know what a burrito even is. Smart move Bert! It’s like when I strategically place my setup so you can see my amazing gaming skills you know? Gotta play the game right!

IRL Fundraising: Friends Family and Burrito Dreams

Now starting a business isn't all rainbows and butterflies. Bert needed cash like $100,000 kinda cash. So he hits up his friends and fam for $250,000 to be safe. Turns out the first year raked in $500,000! PogChamp! That's enough to open two more stores! Seriously who needs venture capitalists when you have supportive relatives and a killer burrito recipe? Talk about believing in your dreams! I’m taking notes because maybe I should open a Poki themed boba shop…

The Crooked Area Manager Saga

But here's where things get spicy and not in a good way. Bert hires this area manager who seems legit but surprise! He's shady AF. Double charging suppliers plotting schemes and basically trying to steal Bert's burrito baby. Honestly some people are just built different... in the worst way. But Bert being the boss he is doesn't let it stop him. He channels his mom's marathon running spirit and keeps going. 'You have to keep going until you've reached the finish line,' he says. Preach Bert preach!

Elephants vs. Avocados: Farming Fails and Wins

So California Burrito gets so big they start growing their own ingredients. Talk about commitment! They're planting avocado trees which sounds super cute until you realize elephants might stomp them. Then a bunch of rain wipes out all their tomatillos. Mother Nature is savage no cap. But Bert and his team keep innovating. If that is not a sign to never give up I do not know what is! They're thinking in decades now not just years. That's the kind of long term commitment I have with my streaming career.

India is Home and Burritos are Forever

And here's the kicker: Bert originally planned to stay in India for five years but now? He's not even thinking about leaving. 'India feels like home to me,' he says. 'And being home you don't think so much about leaving.' Honestly that's kind of beautiful. From a random study abroad trip to building a $23 million empire all thanks to burritos and a whole lot of hustle. So next time you're doubting yourself remember Bert and his avocado stomping tomatillo drowning burrito slinging journey. And remember to stay hydrated!