Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Ryan.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Flying Squirrel Coffee Company was founded with a simple vision: to bring people together over excellent coffee while creating a space that reflects faith, community, and connection. What began as a dream inspired by family values and a desire to serve others has grown into a multi-location coffee company rooted in purpose. Our first shop opened with the mission of offering more than just coffee—we wanted to provide a welcoming place where neighbors could gather, friendships could be built, and lives could be encouraged.
As the community embraced us, we expanded to a second location to reach even more people with that same mission. From the very beginning, Flying Squirrel Coffee has been about more than business; it’s about creating impact, both inside our shops and out in the community, through service projects, fundraisers, and faith-centered initiatives. Our story is one of growth, gratitude, and staying true to the heart behind why we started in the first place: to serve with love, excellence, and purpose.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not been an easy road, but every step has been worth the fight. We opened our doors just a few months before the challenges of COVID-19 and have since faced rising costs of goods and other obstacles that have tested our resilience. Through it all, our commitment to quality, community, and purpose has kept us moving forward. Each challenge has strengthened our vision and deepened our belief that what we’re building is worth it—not just for us, but for the community we serve.
As you know, we’re big fans of Flying Squirrel Coffee Company. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Flying Squirrel Coffee Company is more than just a coffee shop—we’re a faith-based community space that brings people together over great coffee, creativity, and connection. We specialize in crafting high-quality drinks and are known for constantly keeping things fresh and exciting. Every month we introduce new drinks that highlight seasonal flavors and creative combinations, giving our customers something new to look forward to. Along with our menu, we love refreshing our décor and artwork monthly, creating an environment that feels fun, welcoming, and full of life.
What truly sets us apart is the heart behind what we do. Our brand is built on faith, community, and service. We’re proud not only of the coffee we serve, but of the impact we make—whether through community projects, fundraisers, or simply offering a space where people feel seen, valued, and cared for. Our vibe is creative and fun, but it’s also deeply rooted in love and purpose.
We want readers to know that Flying Squirrel Coffee isn’t just a place to grab a latte—it’s a place to belong. From trying our rotating specialty drinks to enjoying the changing art on our walls, every visit offers something new and meaningful. Brand-wise, we’re most proud of the way our mission and creativity blend together, making us a shop that not only serves amazing coffee but also brings joy and light to our community.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
For those just starting out, know that building a business is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and faith. There will be challenges, but trust that God has a purpose in every step. Stay encouraged, keep your vision in front of you, and don’t give up when things get hard. One piece of practical advice is to prepare a financial cushion—ideally saving at least 12 months of monthly expenses. This safety net will give you the strength to face unexpected situations, both financially and emotionally, and help you weather the storms that may come. Above all, keep the faith, remain grounded in your purpose, and trust that with hard work and God’s guidance, you can overcome and thrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://flyingsquirrelcoffeeco.com
- Instagram: @flyingsquirrelcoffee
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flyingsquirrelcoffeecompany
- Twitter: @fscoffeeco
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/flying-squirrel-coffee-co-mansfield
Image Credits
Stephanie Fenton
