A Man on a Mission: Spreading the Gospel of Franchising

Former Dallas Cowboys’ linebacker Bradie James spreading the “gospel of franchising.”

There are those who talk in theory about connecting professional athletes with opportunities in franchising, but Bradie James is doing more than talking, he is actually doing it in practice. You may ask who Bradie James is and why is he on a mission? Let us give you a peek inside.

Born and raised in the Bayou State, Louisiana, James has always been driven to succeed. A two-time all-SEC and All-American athlete while at LSU, he was the school’s second leading tackler by the time he graduated. The university’s defense was nicknamed “the James Gang defense” in recognition of the leadership he displayed on and off the field. 

Drafted in the fourth round by the Dallas Cowboys, he would put his talent and skills to work. He held the longest streak in Dallas franchise history for leading in tackles for six consecutive years. Also noteworthy is that he missed only two games during his career with Dallas. After a brief stint with the Houston Texans, he signed a one-day contract and retired with the Cowboys. He would witness the highest of the highs while playing as a professional athlete and the lowest of the lows, losing both parents within three months of each other.

Walking the walk

An entrepreneur at heart, James is a co-owner/partner with Premiere Electronics, a company that safeguards homes and businesses against thieves. Armed with a criminology degree, he was trained in thinking like a criminal. His passion to help others comes out in his roles as “Captain of the Trust,” director of Brand Engagement at MOOYAH Burgers, Fries, & Shakes and as a multi-unit franchise owner. It is in the latter that he is walking the walk.

Powered by the NFL Players Association, The Trust is a set of resources, programs and services designed as a support system for former players with an emphasis on overall health and successful transition from professional football. 

The Trust meets each former player where he is in his transition. The program is comprised of six pillars: Brain and Body Health, Career Transition and Development, Education and Entrepreneurship, Financial Literacy, Lifestyle and Personal Interaction. A customized “game plan” is developed for each player taking into consideration where he is currently, where he should be and how to get there — just like franchising — a plan or system is put into place.

Dual Mission: Recruit entrepreneurs and fight cancer

James’ plan is to get more of his peers into the franchise model. Whether in the locker room or board room, James is spreading the gospel of franchising and bringing diverse players into our business model’s arena. “To whom much is given, much is required” …  and that scriptural guideline drives Bradie James to give back. 

Following the passing of his mother from breast cancer, he established Foundation 56 as a breast cancer outreach program to provide access to quality services and resources to patients and survivors. Additionally, the foundation awards grants to organizations that are committed to diagnostic testing, education, mammography screenings and social therapy.

Expect to see more of Bradie James at franchise programs. He is a man on a mission.  

Miriam Brewer, CFE, is senior director of Education and Diversity for the International Franchise Association. Find her at fransocial.franchise.org.