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The story of Jake Manson and his Brazen Bagels in Dearborn, Michigan, is one of audacity and sheer determination. He never labels himself a baker; instead, he describes himself as a “scrappy home cook” who had the audacity to pursue his passion. In just a short span of four months, Jake transformed from an amateur in the kitchen to the owner of a bustling bagel business, all fueled by his love for baking and the desire to create something special for his wife, Megan.
As Jake recounts the early days of his entrepreneurial journey, it’s clear that the path wasn’t easy. He faced significant challenges, including a tight financial situation just weeks before his mortgage was due. With only $300 in his bank account, he understood the stakes. “If I can just reach those people and say, ‘Deliver 30 bucks. If I deliver three dozen, 100 bucks a day, I’ll survive,’” he recalls, exemplifying the tenacity that has become a hallmark of his character.
The concept of Brazen Bagels began to take shape when Jake recognized an opportunity at a local dealership. It might seem unconventional, but this unexpected location soon became famed for so much more than just car repairs. To the casual observer, the absence of a flashy sign would raise doubts, but those willing to look closely are welcomed into a hidden culinary gem filled with the rich aroma of fresh bagels. “It’s kind of like welcome. You’re part of the club now,” Jake describes, creating a sense of belonging for every customer who walks through the door.
Analyzing his financial growth, the figures tell an inspiring tale: in the first year, Brazen Bagels achieved approximately $130,000 in revenue, which surged to $200,000 in the second year. As of early 2025, they are on track to hit $250,000. This growth story reflects not only the quality of Jake’s bagels but also his innovative approach to business. It’s not just about baking; it’s about understanding his customers and building a community. “A lot of people don’t have control over their days, but they do have control about what they have for lunch, what they get to eat, who they get to eat it with,” he emphasizes, underscoring the importance of shared experiences around food.
What sets Brazen Bagels apart is not just the delicious bagels themselves—whether it’s the jalapeño cheddar that’s gained a cult following or the classic plain bagel, each offering is crafted with a focus on flavor. According to Jake, “The bagel is the star.” His philosophy is simple: high-quality ingredients, minimal gimmicks, and a passion for good food make all the difference.
His journey into baking didn’t come without its trials. With no prior experience, Jake made a myriad of mistakes along the way, using a trial-and-error approach to hone his craft. He began with the basic ingredients—water, salt, malt, barley, and yeast—and gradually introduced new variables, learning and experimenting until he perfected his recipes. “I just started one variable at a time, making every single mistake I could possibly make,” he reflects, illustrating that perseverance can lead to success even in the face of challenging beginnings.
As funding became a pressing issue, Jake took bold steps to keep his aspirations alive. He secured a credit card with a $3,000 limit and promptly maxed it out to purchase essential baking equipment. “The only credit card I got approved for was $3,000. I cash advanced it that day,” he recounts, highlighting the risky but necessary gamble he took to invest in his dreams. With a new mixer and a commercial oven, his capabilities expanded, allowing for greater production and the opportunity to fulfill the growing demand for his bagels.
Opening the shop was a labor of love. Jake meticulously planned every aspect, even sketching layouts on graph paper. “Once I had it all laid out in my mind, I was like, ‘All right, I’m ordering everything,’” he says. This attention to detail reflects his commitment to excellence. Every day, he arrives at the shop early, prepared to roll dozens of bagels, often selling out before the day’s end. “The last bagel sells to the last customer,” he proudly states, hinting at the thrill of running a business that not only serves food but also cultivates community spirit.
In hindsight, as a proud business owner, Jake doesn’t dream of expanding to a second location; he prefers the intimacy of working with his wife in their single shop. “I don’t think a second location would make me happier. There’s no way it could be as good as the one me and Megan run,” he remarks, emphasizing the unique connection they share in building Brazen Bagels together. Their relationship is a foundation of support and inspiration, each motivating the other to strive for excellence.
The reward for such hard work is not just financial stability but also a profound sense of fulfillment. “Some days you get into like 16 hours of work. It feels like you’re watching yourself in a movie. Like, damn, look at me. Like, look at everything I’m doing,” Jake reflects, capturing the essence of a gratifying entrepreneurial journey. His passion for the bagel business, rooted in his love for his wife, manifests every morning as he wakes up at 3 a.m. to prepare for the day ahead, grateful for the opportunity to do what he loves.
As the world continues to evolve, the culinary landscape remains a vital expression of creativity and passion, and Jake Manson’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s dreams. In an era where risks abound, his journey exemplifies that with determination, community support, and a bit of ingenuity, anything is possible—starting with a simple bagel.
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