Peculiar Farmer and Farm Mentor Leads Farm to Fork
From Hobby to Full-Time Farm Business: Meet Karin Velez, Inspiring Missouri and Kansas Farmers at the Farm to Fork Summit
We’re thrilled to welcome Karin as the keynote speaker, at this year’s Farm to Fork Summit on March 7, 2025, in Nevada, Missouri. Her story of transforming a small garden into a thriving business mirrors the journey many farm entrepreneurs aspire to take—and her practical insights might be the spark you need to turn your own farming dreams into reality.
A Humble Start in Peculiar, Missouri
Karin’s story begins in Peculiar,Missouri, with a few chickens—“gateway livestock,” as she calls them—and a quarter-acre garden. Farming wasn’t her original plan. She simply loved gardening and shared her extra produce with friends and family.
But as a medically retired Marine and small business consultant, Karin saw potential in her little garden. Could it do more than feed her family? Could it pay for itself? That curiosity led her to start her first CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) subscription program in 2007.
With a bit of trepidation, Karin successfully signed up 15 subscribers in her first year. Today, she and her husband operate Wolf Creek Family Farm, a full-time farming business spanning 40 acres and serving a thriving 75-member CSA.
Her advice to other farmers and food producers? “You don’t know what you don’t know, but you’ll never know if you don’t take a chance.”
From Farmer to Mentor and Podcaster
Karin’s journey didn’t stop at the farm. After earning a degree in horticulture, she began sharing her knowledge at farmers markets and consulting with others on how to grow their own food.
As a mentor with the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program,Karin helps new farmers navigate the challenges of building sustainable and profitable agricultural businesses. She also shares her expertise on her award-winning podcast, Just Grow Something, which has surpassed 175,000 downloads and has listeners across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand! Her podcast was also selected for the 2024 Women in Podcasting Award as the Best Lifestyle Podcast.
🎧 Want a sneak peek of Karin’s expertise? Listen to her podcast episode, “How to Start a Garden Side Hustle,” where she shares actionable tips for turning a garden into a profitable venture. Then, join us at Farm to Fork to hear from Karin in person and get tailored advice for your business!
Why Karin’s Story Matters
Karin’s journey is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and the power of community. She understands the challenges farmers face—whether it’s starting small, diversifying income streams, or preparing for their first or 100th farmers’ market.
At the Farm to Fork Summit, Karin will deliver a keynote address, Income Diversification for Specialty Crop Growers and Small Farmers, and lead a breakout session, Preparing for a Farmers Market. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, Karin’s story and insights will resonate with you.
Why You Need to Be at Farm to Fork
Karin is just one of many outstanding speakers and presenters at the Farm to Fork Summit. Farm to Fork isn’t just about learning—it’s about connecting with a community of like-minded entrepreneurs who share your passion for local food systems. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just starting out, this summit will provide you with the inspiration and tools to grow your business.
At the summit, business owners will discover:
- Strategies to access new markets and buyers
- Financing and funding opportunities to help business thrive
- Tools to overcome challenges and expand reach
Plus, you’ll enjoy a locally sourced lunch that embodies the spirit of Farm to Fork!
Get information on all the sessions and your tickets today for the Farm to Fork Summit & Expo