Hello and Welcome to Open Studio, a podcast from the Arts Council of Princeton spotlighting the creative minds shaping our cultural landscape. We sit down with artists, makers, and creative thinkers from our community to talk about the work they do and the ideas that inspire them. Co-hosted by me, Adam Welch Executive Director and the Director of Development and Community Engagement Liza Peck, Open Studio invites you into the stories behind the art. Today it is our very good fortune to be speaking with the one and only Jessica Durie. Jessica Durrie is the co-founder and now sole owner of Small World Coffee, the beloved independent coffee company (with its own roastery and two storefronts) that has been a cornerstone of downtown Princeton, New Jersey, for more than three decades. Since taking ownership, Jessica has continued the company's tradition of creating welcoming spaces where exceptional coffee and community come together. Under her leadership, Small World Coffee has remained committed to sourcing high-quality coffees while fostering a workplace culture centered on kindness and collaboration. Jessica believes that a great coffee shop is about much more than what's in the cup—it's about creating a place where people feel connected and at home. A Princeton resident and business leader, Jessica has guided Small World Coffee through periods of growth, change, and expansion. Her approach blends a deep appreciation for craftsmanship with a forward-looking perspective on entrepreneurship, employee development, and community engagement. She has helped strengthen Small World's reputation not only as a destination for outstanding coffee but also as an organization that invests in people, from its staff to its customers and the broader local community. Jessica's commitment to the Princeton community extends beyond the café. A longtime champion of the Arts Council of Princeton, she served as a Trustee from 1996–1997 and again from 2008–2014. Today, she continues her service as a member of the Arts Council's Advisory Board, sharing her experience, insight, and support for the organization's mission. She also keeps the Arts Council team energized by generously donating four pounds of Small World Coffee's signature Jet Fuel blend each month—fueling creativity one cup at a time. Jessica is passionate about the role that small businesses play in shaping vibrant neighborhoods. She understands the challenges and rewards of leading an independent company in an evolving marketplace, balancing operational excellence with a genuine commitment to relationships. On today's episode, Jessica shares insights from her journey as a business owner, the philosophy behind Small World Coffee's enduring success, and the lessons she's learned about leadership, resilience, and building a company culture that people want to be part of. We'll explore how coffee can serve as a catalyst for connection, why community remains at the heart of her work, and what it takes to preserve the character of a cherished local institution while continuing to evolve. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a coffee enthusiast, or simply someone who values the importance of community, Jessica's story offers thoughtful perspectives on leadership, hospitality, and the lasting impact that a locally owned business can have on the people it serves. So please join me and Liza Peck as we speak with Jessica in our Studio at the Arts Council of Princeton. To support this podcast go to our donation page to make a gift or become a recurring donor. Please "like" our podcast and subscribe!
