Blog

Matt and Jessica Douglas’ entrepreneurial journey began with their Kona Ice truck, where they discovered a passion for serving their community and grew a thriving shaved ice business. Yet, as Midwest winters brought icy temperatures, they realized Kona Ice's seasonal nature felt too short. Inspired to keep working year-round and fueled by their love for coffee, Matt and Jessica found the perfect solution: Travelin' Tom's Coffee—a mobile coffee concept that aligned perfectly with their goals and interests.

“We thought, ‘OMG! How exciting is a coffee truck?!’” Matt recalled. “Everyone loves coffee—especially us. It was a match made in heaven.” By November 2023, they were rolling out their first Travelin' Tom's Coffee truck and were warmly welcomed by the community.

As seasoned business owners, the couple prioritizes exceptional customer service in every venture. “Jessica and I always say that guest experience is the #1 priority,” Matt explained. Their commitment shines through every interaction, starting with a warm smile and friendly greeting. “At the end of the day, we’re just serving drinks - but making someone’s day better means the world to us,” he added.

Building a Business with Community Support

Throughout their entrepreneurial journey, Envista Federal Credit Union’s Commercial Services team has been a valued resource. “Envista has been a fantastic business partner for Travelin' Tom's,” Matt shared. With Envista’s guidance, Matt and Jessica crafted a financial plan that made launching their coffee truck a reality.

When asked how their experience with Envista and their Kona Ice business influenced their decision, Matt explained, “Over the last decade, I have partnered with Envista on at least seven loans. Envista has made the process so easy for me, it was a no-brainer to continue this relationship with Travelin' Tom's.”

“The customer service we receive is second to none. We just love that we can walk into many different branches and they know us by name,” he added, noting the genuine support from Envista’s staff.

Overcoming Challenges and Delivering Variety

Like any business, running a mobile coffee operation comes with obstacles.

“What challenges haven’t we faced?!?” Matt joked. One ongoing hurdle is raising brand awareness. “We’re called Travelin' Tom’s Coffee, but we offer so much more than coffee,” he explained. “The menu includes lemonades, teas, hot chocolate, and energy drinks: there’s truly something for everyone.”

Matt acknowledges that the highlights of the business far outweigh the challenges. “Our favorite part is working together as a family,” he said. Alongside their children, the Douglas family meets people from all walks of life while bringing joy to events like airshows, football games, church gatherings and teacher appreciation days.

“We are 100% a family-run business. My two daughters are amazing little baristas,” Matt said proudly. “They’re incredible employees, delivering top-notch customer service, professionalism and fantastic drinks. Honestly, I get a bit jealous—they always earn more tips than I do!”

As much as Matt loves working alongside his daughters, they enjoy being part of the business, too.

“They love getting to go to all kinds of events, and they love having daily access to all kinds of coffee drinks, lemonades, refreshers, and frappes,” Matt shared. “They’re a little bit spoiled in the drink world.”

Looking Ahead

Currently operating one Travelin' Tom's Coffee truck that services Topeka, Lawrence and surrounding areas,, Matt and Jessica have big plans to further expand in the future. Matt envisions more Travelin’ Tom’s trucks around northeast Kansas and additional offerings to the menu.

From hot cocoa on chilly days, to energizing drinks at bustling events, Matt and Jessica’s mobile coffee business has become more than just a livelihood—it’s a way to connect with their community, share joy and create lasting family memories.

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