Founder Jimmy John Liautaud was fresh out of high school when he was inspired to start his own business. However, his initial idea was a far cry from the sandwiches served up at the chain today ...

The sandwiches are made with ingredients like hand-sliced turkey and tuna salad made in-house. By the way ... Roark acquired a majority stake. Jimmy John Liautaud remained the chair of the ...

Between fishing outings near his home in Key Largo, Fla., Jimmy John Liautaud traded emails with Crain's on a wide variety of subjects, from his new role at his sandwich chain to his favorite sub.