Pod Meets Eat at Chain
Sep 14, 2026 · 44m
Summary
Pod Meets World hosts Danielle Fishel, Rad Stringer, and Wilford Dell interview Nicholas Kraft, co-founder of Chain, a company that partners with celebrity chefs to reimagine nostalgic chain restaurant dishes. The episode features a taste test of several creations, including a Cheez-It cinnamon roll, a crispy Cantonese fish sandwich, and a wagyu burger, while discussing the brand’s origins and its current six-month pop-up at the Topanga Mall.
Topics discussed
Sponsorships and show introduction
Banter about being 'the blonde' and identity
Discussion on Topanga Mall and nostalgia
Introducing the 'Chain' restaurant concept
Origin story: From parking lots to Topanga
Debate on recreating the Big Mac
Factor meal sponsorship segment
Tasting Lucky Charms and discussing cereal
Regional fast food chains and favorites
The cultural impact of standardized food
The 'Chain' claw machine bag and design
Graphic design, merch, and Roy Choi
Tasting the Cheese-It Cinnamon Roll
Tasting the Wild Cod and Shrimp dish
Geico sponsorship and athlete story
AT&T and Walmart Plus sponsorship segments
Kohler and cashmere sweater sponsorships
Tasting the Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
Spicy chicken sandwich and NYT review
Tasting the 'Stabby' Bone Marry Burger
Whiskey BBQ sauce and ranch tips
Tasting Golden Grahams Smore Bar
Additional sponsorships and listener pitches
Guests pitch new menu items
Favorite dishes and hot dog discussion
Closing sponsorships and sign-off
Listen ad-free on Castria