The Hospitality Hangout
The Hospitality Hangout
Join Michael Schatzberg aka Schatzy (The Restaurant Guy) and Jimmy Frischling (The Finance Guy) on The Hospitality Hangout as they explore hospitality, food service, and investment trends while connecting with industry leaders. Each week, receive insider insights and funny stories that shape the hospitality landscape. They live at the intersection of hospitality, food service, technology, and investment, connecting the biggest players and boldest ideas shaping the industry. Each week, they serve up funny, informative, and wildly entertaining conversations with the insiders who are leading a new era of hospitality. From emerging brands and breakthrough tech to industry trends and restaurant success stories, no topic is off the table. It’s where the who’s who of hospitality hangs out – packed with expert insights, laugh-out-loud moments, and must-know trends that keep you ahead of the game. 🍽️ Tune in, grab a drink, and let’s talk shop! 🚀
April 21, 2026

The Bagel That Broke the Internet: Tory Bartlett and the Rise of PopUp Bagels

The Bagel That Broke the Internet: Tory Bartlett and the Rise of PopUp Bagels

What does it take to turn a simple bagel shop into a viral, high-growth brand across major markets—and why is PopUp Bagels winning where others struggle?

Tory Bartlett joins the conversation to break down the rise of PopUp Bagels and what it takes to turn a simple product into a cultural phenomenon. From washing dishes at Hooters to leading one of the fastest-growing brands in hospitality, he shares the journey behind building a business rooted in energy, simplicity, and experience.

The discussion explores how PopUp Bagels disrupted a legacy category by focusing on a limited menu, operational efficiency, and a highly engaging in-store experience. From long lines that feel like part of the product to organic growth fueled by collaborations and community, Tori breaks down how the brand scaled rapidly without relying on traditional marketing or paid promotion.

Along the way, the conversation dives into franchising strategy, the importance of choosing the right partners, and how maintaining brand consistency goes beyond product into culture and execution. The episode also highlights how authenticity, discipline, and a clear point of view can turn a neighborhood concept into a nationally expanding brand.

Episode Credits:

  • Sponsored by: DirecTV
  • Produced by: Branded Hospitality Media
  • Hosted by: Michael Schatzberg, Jimmy Frischling
  • Producer: Julie Zucker
  • Creative Director: Adam Levine
  • Show Runner: Drewe Raimi
  • Post Production: Three Cheers Creative

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Tory Bartlett Profile Photo

CEO, PopUp Bagles

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