Becoming a Homesteading Maverick

From fleeing machine guns to saying "no" to drug addicted ground, to being labeled "lunatics" and "trouble makers" for their views and convictions, the Salatin family has quite the story. ...And it didn't start with Joel.

Wild, right? And it’s those very values—courage, independence, and refusing to follow the crowd—that eventually shaped what would become Polyface Farm. There’s something grounding about hearing how Polyface grew—not from a grand vision or big funding, but from a deep belief in doing things differently.

I stumbled across this video (originally posted in 2023) this week, and I love how Joel tells this story of how he found his way into homesteading and farming.

This story weaves across continents and decades, showing how Joel and his family slowly built what would become Polyface Farm—a place grounded in thoughtful choices, resilience, and a whole lot of grit.

Today, Polyface Farm has the privilege of providing life-changing foods and being a beacon of hope and inspiration to patrons from all over the US. 

Because of the maverick thinking that got Polyface started, and the values and common sense we've never given up, Polyface is what it is today.

Polyface is still going strong, offering good food and, more importantly, a different way of thinking about land, life, and health.

If you’ve never been, definitely plan a trip soon. We have so many great events planned for 2025!

Even if you don’t make it here in person, Joel’s story is worth a listen. It might just get you thinking and eating a little differently, too.