If you’ve ever met Derrick Bradshaw, chances are you remember two things: his genuine smile and his unstoppable energy. Whether he’s launching a new business, playing the latest tabletop game, or cracking a dad joke at just the right (or wrong) moment, Derrick brings heart and humor into everything he does.
A Decatur Native with a Big Vision
Born and raised in Decatur, Illinois, Derrick has always had an eye for innovation. From a young age, he was taking things apart just to see how they worked—and occasionally putting them back together. That curiosity eventually grew into a lifelong love of games, technology, and business-building.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit
Derrick is the founder of multiple ventures, including The Hidden Lair, a one-of-a-kind space that blends retail, community, and fantasy under one roof. He’s not just a businessman—he’s a builder. A hands-on leader who’s as likely to be patching drywall as he is hosting a product launch. When something needs doing, Derrick dives in headfirst.
More Than Just Work
When Derrick isn’t working (which is rare), he’s spending time with his wife, kids, and grandkids. He proudly wears the titles of husband, father, and grandfather—and if you ask him, those are his most important roles.
He’s also the first to admit he’s “not the best driver,” but he is the first to volunteer for a road trip or to help someone move. He’s that friend who shows up—with snacks and probably a Bluetooth speaker for spontaneous background music.
A Heart for Games and Laughs
Games are more than a hobby for Derrick—they’re a way of life. From classic RPGs to modern digital strategy games, he finds joy in play and sees gaming as a gateway to connection, learning, and storytelling.
And if you’ve ever heard his laugh echo through a room, you know this: Derrick is funny. Really funny. Not in a stand-up comedian way—but in a “tell you a corny joke and somehow make it gold” kind of way.
Looking Ahead
Derrick is always planning the next big thing—whether it’s a business expansion, a family vacation, or a new game night event. Through it all, he remains grounded in community, driven by curiosity, and fueled by coffee (lots of it).
So if you see him around Decatur—or online—don’t be shy. Say hello. He’ll probably respond with a joke, an idea, or both.
