From Passion to the Pit: A Conversation with James Maggard of Ford’s BBQ & Local No. 7

At Discover DeKalb, we love spotlighting the people who give our community its flavor—and this latest episode of DeKalb Talks Tourism is a must-listen for anyone who believes great food starts with a great story.

In this episode, we sit down with James Maggard, the mind (and heart) behind two beloved DeKalb staples: Ford’s BBQ and Local No. 7. James walks us through his journey into the restaurant industry, sharing what first sparked his love for barbecue and how that passion grew into businesses that feel like home to so many locals.

From the early days of learning the craft to the intentional choices that shaped each restaurant’s identity, James opens up about what it really takes to build something lasting in the food world. A big theme of the conversation? People. James talks candidly about the importance of building a strong team, investing in staff, and creating a workplace culture that keeps both employees and guests coming back.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Ford’s smoky classics, a regular at Local No. 7, or just love hearing the stories behind your favorite neighborhood spots, this episode offers an inspiring look at entrepreneurship, community, and the power of good food done right.