CEO Andrew Dogonyaro
1. The idea of CEO and Spirits revolves around the official alcoholic drink of choice. Can you reveal your go-to drink and the story behind why it’s your favorite?
Andrew: My go-to drink is a smoked old fashioned. It’s a slow sipper with a bold rich taste fit for a Boss. With aged whiskey and sweet luxardo cherry, garnished with an orange peel and light Smokey taste, it’s sure to keep a player on his toes.
2. What inspired you to start Big Boy Toys Rentals and Purpleberry Co, and how did the idea come about?
Andrew: I started Big Boy Toys during COVID after purchasing a few high-end bikes to ride in the canyons where I live. After experiencing how fun it was, I wanted to share the experience with adventurous people who did not own their own bikes. After a little local advertising, I noticed the great response through the messages and inquiries I received. Months passed with my bikes rented out for 6 plus days, and I quickly realized I needed to add more bikes to my fleet. Purpleberry & Co came about as a family idea to share our great-tasting New Orleans-style Sno balls and Acai bowls at events and festivals while working and having a great time with family.
3. Being a native of Long Beach, how has the local community influenced and supported your ventures?
Andrew: Being a Long Beach native, the local community taught me how to stay motivated and not give up on my dreams. I always knew I was going to be successful as long as I didn’t give up. It also taught me to be strong both physically and mentally.
4. In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, how do you manage to balance work and personal life, and do you have any rituals or routines that help you stay focused and rejuvenated?
Andrew: In a fast-paced world, I stay prayed up because without God I am nothing! My faith and family keep and help me stay motivated. I balance work and personal life by keeping them completely separated and respect the time I need to spend with them both.
5. Share a story of a business deal or collaboration that was sealed with a toast. What was the drink, and how did it symbolize the partnership?
Andrew: A few years back, my business partner and I sealed a nice deal with Planet Fitness. We celebrated that deal by popping a bottle of Ace of Spades ♠️. To me, that bottle symbolized the beginning of greatness along with many more deals to come.
