Chasing Heritage From Hustler to Owner, The Faith Behind Big Dave’s Rise | Derrick Hayes
Mar 3, 2026
Derrick Hayes, founder of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks and a philanthropist, rose from West Philadelphia to build a fast-casual brand and a foundation. He discusses legacy built after his father’s death, the grind from gas-station beginnings, systems for scaling, financial lessons from losing millions, faith as a foundation, and ambitious plans to scale and impact communities.
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Foundation Rooted In Father's Legacy
- The David and Derek Hayes Foundation honors Derrick's father by serving youth, feeding communities, gifting laptops, and underwriting life insurance for Black men.
- Derrick connected philanthropy to fatherhood legacy, paying $25k life policies and funding scholarships and struggling small businesses.
Losing Millions Taught Real Financial Literacy
- Financial literacy requires lived experience; Derrick says losing millions taught him to rebuild and avoid a 'rich mind, broke pockets' trap.
- He frames failure as necessary learning so pain hurts less and recovery becomes repeatable.
How A Viral Moment Led To A Life Partner
- Derrick met his wife Pinky after his windows were broken post-George Floyd video; she reached out to help and they collaborated on community actions and investments.
- Their partnership evolved from activism to joint investing and mutual operational support in franchising.