In the heart of Northeast Tennessee, where the land breathes stories of generations past, an extraordinary journey unfolds. It’s a story of friendship, rekindled dreams, and the birth of a vision that promises not only nourishment for the body but also a soulful connection to the land.
Jacob and I go way back, connected by shared experiences in our church’s youth group. We shared more than just a pew; we shared a deep passion for farming and the land it stands on. Our early conversations were often filled with dreams of cultivating the earth and living in harmony with nature. However, life took us on different roads, and as years passed, we lost touch. Little did we know that fate had other plans for us.
Jacob pursued higher education, finding himself in Virginia, where he embarked on a journey of academic growth. Meanwhile, the world underwent significant changes, including global pandemics and a growing realization of the profound impact of food on our health.
For me, it all started with my career in healthcare. I couldn’t ignore the toll that poor nutrition was taking on my patients. I firmly believed that food could be the best medicine. Our bodies are miracles, capable of healing and thriving if we provide them with the right nourishment. As a father, I felt a deep responsibility to offer my children the best food possible—a nutritional foundation for a healthier, fuller life.
But it wasn’t just about my family. It was a calling to do something more, to contribute to a world where food was clean, free from chemicals, and a source of true vitality.
As I shared this dream with Sarah, my wife and partner in all things life, as well as the mother of our four children, she offered a reality check. She knew firsthand the unpredictability of farming and the immense time and effort it demanded. She reminded me of my many responsibilities—the healthcare practice, my role as a church congregation leader, and, above all, my role as a husband and father.
Reluctantly, I agreed with her practical wisdom, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that this calling was more than just a casual desire. It was a divine nudge, a prompting from a higher power that I couldn’t ignore.
One day, in a moment of prayerful reflection, it came to me—a thought to reach out to Jacob, a friend I hadn’t spoken to in years. Little did I know that Jacob had been on a personal journey of his own. While he pursued an education in veterinary medicine, his heart still yearned for the land and his dream of owning a farm.
When we reconnected, I asked Jacob about his ideal job, and his response was simple yet profound—he wanted to be a farmer, tending to the land and its animals. It was more than a reunion; it was a divine connection, a meeting of two souls with shared dreams.
From that moment, the seeds of Brookhaven Farms began to take root. It was more than just a farm; it was a vision—a vision of a future where the land thrived, where animals lived in harmony, and where food was a source of health and vitality. My healthcare practice, my leadership in our church, and my roles as a husband and father—all converged with the birth of Brookhaven Farms.
But the journey had just begun. Finding the perfect piece of land wasn’t easy. It took a year of searching, with ups and downs, offers made and rejected. Initially, we had hoped to stay close to Washington County, Tennessee, but as our quest continued, we became open to exploring other areas.
During this time, I stumbled upon a documentary titled “The Biggest Little Farm.” It spoke of a profound concept—using nature to heal the land. It emphasized the importance of focusing on the soil, nurturing its microorganisms, and understanding that, when the soil thrives, everything else follows.
This idea resonated with me deeply. I realized that returning to nature, working in harmony with the earth, and prioritizing soil health were the keys to unlocking the true potential of agriculture. We no longer needed to rely on chemicals to mask problems; we could heal the land and let it flourish.
At Brookhaven Farms, our strength lies in our passions. Jacob’s heart beats for animal health, animal husbandry, and genetics designed for thriving on grass. My devotion is to soil health, nutrient density, and healing through food. Sarah’s passion is our family, and her commitment to providing them with a foundation of quality, clean food.
Regenerative farming, at its core, is about balance. It’s a belief that when things are out of balance, they take a terrible turn and eventually return to equilibrium. Our mission at Brookhaven Farms is to use the earth to build and nurture the best possible health for our animals. It’s about maintaining a balanced ecosystem where all elements thrive.
We firmly believe that the foundation of a good life is good food. Food isn’t just sustenance; it’s a social experience, a source of joy, and the cornerstone of health. Brookhaven Farms aspires to be more than just a source of nourishment; it aims to be a keystone in families and communities.
As we continue to grow and flourish, we offer communities the components they need to reach for better. With a steadfast commitment to providing the best the land has to offer, we seek to elevate the nutritional base of families and communities alike.
Brookhaven Farms isn’t just a farm; it’s a journey, a testament to rekindled connections, unwavering dedication, and the pursuit of a dream that nourishes not only bodies but also the spirit. It’s an invitation to join us in cultivating a vision—a vision of a future where the land thrives, where animals live in harmony, and where food is a source of health and vitality. It’s a journey that we wholeheartedly invite you to be a part of.
