Hot Dog Innovation and Brand Evangelism (Podcast)

Did you know one of the first restaurant brands is one of the most innovative today? Listen to the episode of The Main Course as host Barbara Castiglia  speaks with James Walker, Senior Vice President, Restaurants for Nathan’s Famous about the brand’s push into ghost kitchens, virtual brands and more. 

Walker is a true brand evangelist specializing in rebranding and repositioning iconic American comfort food brands. He is an industry-leading authority in restaurant technology and delivery channels, specializing in mergers and acquisitions, domestic and international operations, franchising, and new product development. 

“What initially attracted me to the hospitality industry is a passion for food,” Walker said. “One of the things I’ve said, if there was a James Walker quote, ‘Food is the only art form you experience with all your senses, and you must experience to live.’”

His time spent in the back of the house and kitchens transitioned over the years to the service side of the business. This is something that he brings a passion for at Nathan’s. When he got the call to work for them, the thing he was most excited about was the brand itself. He loves the food, the locations, and the way the company works. But that’s not all.

“Yes, the possibility of discounted hotdogs was probably one of those things that got me excited,” Walker said cheekily. “But, it was a brand I could see myself really being a passionate brand evangelist.”

A new episode of The Main Course, our podcast series with MarketScale, is served up every Tuesday and Thursday.