From Bagels to Big Impact: Erin Stieglitz of Bagel Rescue Shares Her Mission on DeKalb Talks Tourism
In the latest DeKalb Talks Tourism episode, we sat down with Erin Stieglitz, Founder & Chief Rescue Officer of Bagel Rescue, to learn about her inspiring journey of bringing fresh, hand-rolled bagels to communities while championing food waste reduction. Bagel Rescue is more than a bakery—it's a mission-driven venture focused on making a difference one bagel at a time.
How Bagel Rescue Began
Erin shared the origin story of Bagel Rescue, explaining how she combined her love for baking with a passion for environmental sustainability. It began with the realization that bagels could be a vessel for change. Her focus was not just on creating a delicious product but on minimizing waste and rescuing perfectly good food items that might otherwise go unused.
A Bagel for Everyone: Inclusivity in Food
One of the highlights of the episode was Erin’s dedication to creating an inclusive food experience. At Bagel Rescue, everyone is welcome, with a variety of bagels and spreads catering to different dietary needs and preferences. Erin’s enthusiasm for inclusivity and ensuring that everyone has access to freshly baked bagels shines through her work and fuels her commitment to the community.
Reducing Food Waste and Giving Back
Erin’s mission doesn’t stop with bagels. Bagel Rescue actively works with local food banks, shelters, and organizations, redistributing excess food to those in need. Erin highlighted how DeKalb has been a supportive community for her business, allowing her to connect with organizations that align with Bagel Rescue’s values. She explained how these partnerships are central to Bagel Rescue’s model, ensuring that every bagel is enjoyed and that food waste is minimized.
Tune In and Get Inspired
Whether you’re a bagel lover, a sustainability enthusiast, or a fan of community-driven businesses, this episode of DeKalb Talks Tourism with Erin Stieglitz is one you won’t want to miss. Discover how one woman’s vision is reshaping the way we think about food, waste, and community.
To watch the full episode and be inspired by Erin’s story, visit our YouTube channel here.