Bob Rothwell is the owner of Bob's Ugly Bagels in Shapleigh, Maine, where every bagel is a product of passion, hard work, and a commitment to doing things the right way. Alongside his wife, Irene, and their two children, Felix and Natalia, Bob launched Bob's Ugly Bagels six years ago, hand-rolling, boiling, and baking bagels from scratch out of their home and a food trailer. What started as a family dream has grown into a thriving storefront café known for its fresh bagels, house-roasted coffee, and an incredible variety of homemade cream cheese spreads.
Before becoming a full-time bagel maker, Bob spent 32 years as an elementary school educator, impacting generations of students with the same dedication and care he now brings to his business. Raised in Mid-Coast Maine in a family of seven and a longtime resident of Acton, Bob has deep roots in the community and a genuine appreciation for connecting with people.
In this episode of The 207 Collective Podcast, Bob shares the story behind building one of southern Maine's favorite bagel shops, why quality always comes first, the lessons he carried from the classroom into entrepreneurship, and how an unmatched passion for bagels and coffee turned a simple idea into a local success story. Whether you're an aspiring business owner, a coffee lover, or just appreciate hearing about people chasing their passion, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Send us Fan Mail