In the heart of Jay County, something special is brewing—literally and figuratively. Two 19-year-old entrepreneurs are not only launching businesses, but also breathing new life into their hometown. Through passion, creativity, and a deep respect for community roots, Brinley Byler and Isaac Springer are redefining what small-town entrepreneurship looks like.

Faith, Coffee, and Community at Rustic Roast

For Brinley Byler, opening Rustic Roast wasn’t just about serving coffee—it was about creating a space with purpose.

Inspired by her experience working in coffee shops alongside her family, Brinley envisioned a place that felt cozy, welcoming, and meaningful. Drawing influence from a Kentucky café she adored, she infused Rustic Roast with a rustic charm and a faith-centered atmosphere. From décor that reflects her beliefs to cups inscribed with Bible verses, every detail is intentional.

But beyond the aesthetic, it’s the experience that’s drawing people in.

Customers can enjoy:

• Specialty drinks like lattes, macchiatos, frappés, and matcha
• Unique creations like The Bonfire energy drink
• Fresh baked goods and breakfast items made to feel like home

And the response? Immediate.

With an estimated 150 customers per day in its first week, Rustic Roast has quickly become a gathering place—where people aren’t just grabbing coffee, they’re building connections.

A Taste of History at Springers

Next door, Isaac Springer is taking a different—but equally powerful—approach to entrepreneurship.

His restaurant, Springers, is more than a pizza and ice cream shop. It’s a tribute to Pennville’s history.

Housed in a building dating back to at least 1865, Springers embraces the past rather than replacing it. Isaac and his family carefully restored the space, preserving its character while transforming it into a modern dining experience.

Inside, guests will find:

• Three dining rooms reflecting the building’s original layout
• A railroad-themed area honoring local heritage
• A nostalgic soda bar featuring phosphate sodas from a 1920s fountain
• Customizable pizzas and specialty menu items

Isaac’s vision is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: historic spaces are part of a town’s identity. By preserving them, he’s helping Pennville tell its story—one meal at a time.

More Than Businesses—A Movement

What makes these stories remarkable isn’t just the age of the entrepreneurs—it’s their mindset.

Both Brinley and Isaac are:

• Investing in their hometown rather than leaving it
• Creating spaces that reflect personal values and local culture
• Generating energy, traffic, and pride in downtown Pennville

And perhaps most importantly, they’re showing others what’s possible.

In a time when many rural communities struggle to retain young talent, these two are doing the opposite—they’re leading. Their businesses complement each other, creating a destination where people can gather, linger, and experience something uniquely local.

Why This Matters for Communities Like Ours

For regions like East Central Indiana, stories like this are more than feel-good headlines—they’re blueprints.

They highlight:

• The importance of supporting young entrepreneurs
• The value of placemaking and historic preservation
• How small businesses drive community connection and economic vitality

Brinley and Isaac didn’t wait for opportunity—they created it. And in doing so, they’re helping ensure that Pennville isn’t just a place people come from… it’s a place people come to.

Final Thought

Two 19-year-olds. Two storefronts. One shared impact.

Whether it’s through a cup of coffee or a slice of pizza, these young entrepreneurs are proving that honoring your roots can be the foundation for building something extraordinary.