The Co-Owner of the Polyface Farms in Virginia, Joel Salatin.

Joel Salatin proudly calls himself the lunatic farmer.
Joel is a farmer, author, and speaker recognized for promoting regenerative, pasture-based farming practices. He co-owns Polyface Farm in Virginia, where he raises animals in ways that restore soil health and respect natural ecosystems.
He has written 16 books, appears in The Omnivore’s Dilemma and Food, Inc., and speaks globally on food, freedom, and sustainability. His talks blend humor, insight, and hands-on wisdom from decades in the field.
Often called the “Lunatic Farmer,” Joel challenges industrial agriculture with bold ideas and practical solutions, encouraging a food system rooted in responsibility, local resilience, and personal liberty.
Joel shared about:
- How they ended up with a pasture livestock business after doing a lot of experiments on a cheap farm lot that his family bought when he was a kid.
- How they maximized their business to where it is now.
- Developing an efficient system that helps the operation save expenses.