Andrew Glueck, Hopi Popi

Andrew Glueck studied English literature at Grinnell College and later earned an MBA from the University of Chicago, specializing in entrepreneurship and marketing. In 1990, curious about what Czechoslovakia looked like after the fall of communism, he came to Šumperk as a volunteer to teach English. There, he met Jana Nováková, also an English teacher. Together, they created a lesson plan focused on American food and started making popcorn during class. The children were amazed to see popcorn being made right in front of their eyes. This simple idea led to the founding of HOPI POPI. More than three decades later, these former teachers are still popping—and they continue to invite children into their factory to experience the magic of popcorn production.