QuestX Episode 8: From Burritos to Billion-Dollar Principles: Clovis Young on Building Mad Mex with Purpose

In this powerful episode of QuestX, Mad Mex founder Clovis Young sits down with host Tania Gomez to reflect on a journey that spans Wall Street trading, a childhood surrounded by poetry and purpose, and the creation of one of Australia’s most recognised Mexican food brands.

Clovis opens up about how growing up in a values-first household shaped his view on business, how a love for food and frustration with fast-food led him to build Mad Mex, and why staying true to your mission — even when it’s harder — is the real path to long-term impact.

He talks candidly about:

• Why he refused to sell early (even when the money was tempting)

• How attention to every single store keeps quality high

• Lessons from failed expansions in New Zealand and Singapore

• What it means to build a values-based business in a fast-paced world

• Why he doesn’t serve fries — and never will

• The case for vegan burritos and food made transparently

• And the motto that keeps him going: “Shit’s too easy”

With reflections on leadership, purpose, and redefining success, Clovis shows that you can scale without selling out, lead without ego, and still have fun along the way (just wait for the piglet prank story!).

If you’re a founder, aspiring entrepreneur, or just someone who loves a burrito and a good business story, this one’s for you.