From Startup to Standout: A Young Entrepreneur's Growth Story

What does it take to turn an idea into a growing local business? In this episode of Local Cents, we sit down with young entrepreneur Custer’s Cones & Candy founder Hunter Custer and Pillar Bank’s Neil Mathwig to talk about what it really looks like to start—and scale—a business from the ground up. Hunter launched the business at just 18 years old. Now, six years later, he’s expanded to multiple locations, added concession operations at local games, and is preparing to open another location—this time with plans to purchase the building. From bootstrapping his first location to reinvesting profits for growth, Hunter shares the realities of entrepreneurship, the lessons learned along the way, and why having the right financial partner matters. As Hunter puts it: “Working with good people we can depend on is so important.” If you’ve ever thought about starting your own business—or taking it to the next level—this episode is packed with insight you won’t want to miss.