One Man's Career Path: From Real Estate Agent to Veggie Dog Vendor

ST. PETERSBURG – Until a few years ago, Jim Janolek was like other local real estate agents  – desperate for the economy to recover. Then, Janolek suffered a stroke, and the only way to salvage his health was to reduce stress.

He quit the real estate business and took a long vacation.

Janolek hiked the Appalachian Trail for six months. Along the way, he saw a vegan hot dog vendor and decided --right there on that hiking path -- his future career path: healthy hot dog hawker. It fit his own lifestyle, since Janolek is a long-time vegan.

Janolek opened his stand in late December, on 1^st Avenue North and 2^nd Street, near the entrance to BayWalk. He named his veggie hot dog cart, “Lettuce Eat Healthy,” though he also sells Philly Cheese Steaks and Sausage Hoagies. 

Janolek chatted with Patch about his new profession and life journey.

Q. What are your most popular items?

A. I would say the Philly Cheesestakes and Veggie Dogs. The Veggie Dog is pretty inexpensive, so it is a good option for healthy eating on a budget.

Q. What does your food consist of?

A. Well, gardein beef tips, veganaise, vegan cheese, all stuff that people can buy at the grocery store.

Q. Was it difficult opening your own stand?

A. Actually, this was an easy business to open, not expensive at all. The forms and red tape are inexpensive, and the stand does not cost that much.

Q. Do you enjoy this new line of work where you can be outside and interact with people?

A. I love the outdoors, so this is great. I also like answering questions about vegan foods, and all that goes into making my food the way that it is.