Western Small Business Feature: Welcome to Our Farm Life

Here at Cowboy Lifestyle Network, we are all about supporting small businesses which is why I wanted to start a monthly small business series. In this series, I will be highlighting small businesses from across the country that has a focus on or around the western industry. This month, I am excited to introduce Stephanie, a fifth-generation farmer who owns “Welcome to Our Farm Life”.

Q: Can you tell our audience a little about yourself?

Stephanie: I am from Odessa, Mo., where my husband and I farm full-time, raise livestock, show pigs and I am a freelance writer for wildlife and agriculture publications. I was raised farming and ranching in southern Missouri. Before working full-time on our farm, I had a career in radio, director of communications for the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, and traveled as a livestock photographer. I now currently write children’s books that advocate and educate for both the ranch and farm industries and the people who live them.

Q: How did you get started in your business?

Stephanie: I have a deep passion for sharing the story of the agricultural industry. With my writing experience, I decided why not create something that can be used in classrooms and sold in stores!

Q: What motivates you in your business?

Stephanie: The lack of information for consumers to buy and share with their families about how are food is raised and cared for is alarming. What is also alarming is people’s disconnect with the actual people who work in the industries. My motivation comes from my need to preserve this way of life for my future children.

Q: What makes your business unique from others?

Stephanie: My audience is not just those on the ranch and farm, but most importantly those who are not! I have traveled sharing my books and stories, along with fun hands-on agriculture experiences, all across the United States. Connecting with kids from all forms of understanding is an experience and I am happy to walk out knowing they have a better understanding of where and who grew their food.

Q: Where do you hope to see your business in the next 3 years?

Stephanie: I would like to see more book published, of course! I am currently sold in over 80 retail stores, but my goal is to hit over 200.

Final Thoughts From Stephanie

Being able to create and share the stories of those in the industry is an opportunity I do not take lightly. I have been so lucky to connect with great people and educate people of all ages on the importance of our food system and the great people who care for both the environment and livestock.

If you are interested in learning more about Stephanie and her children’s books, please visit welcometoourfarmlife.com.