TRUDY AND Lewis Guthrie, drawn to the tranquility and challenges of farm life, found a fulfilling new chapter on a farm here in Tullahoma. They remarkably transitioned from urban living in Marietta, Georgia, to stewarding their beloved farmland just over a decade ago. The tech lovers at heart continue freelancing in the software industry but devote their hearts and most of their time to Journey Farm Pasture Beef. The couple handles the daily tasks of life on the farm and remains optimistic about the lifestyle that lies ahead.
“The positives of this lifestyle are beyond compare,” Trudy reflected. “The opportunity to sit here in this acreage, in this beauty, and watch all that happens every day — it’s incredible.”
Venturing into the world of farming has been an eye-opening experience for the couple in many ways. Trudy shared that the economics and costs of running the business have grown. Despite being grass farmers and not utilizing feed, the expenses for inputs like fertilizer and minerals have significantly increased. Additionally, the couple had no prior agricultural experience, so they relied on webinars and advice from organizations like the Soil Conservation District to learn the ropes.
Trudy’s charisma and humor capture the true beauty of everyday farm life.
“In the 100-degree heat of June in Tennessee, we’re suited up in boots and long sleeves because of red bugs and ticks. But then you walk into a field and see a tiny Chihuahua-sized baby deer scamper across because you startled it. How many people see that? It’s truly miraculous.”
After settling into a rental in 2014, they dedicated themselves to turning their developing farm into a thriving oasis. Despite the lack of infrastructure, fencing, and water, they pursued the cattle-rearing industry in 2014. And they quickly learned the realities and rewards of sustainable agriculture.
Journey Farm’s success is largely due to the grass farming practices, which have led the couple to techniques that enhance the environment rather than deplete it.
“We are grass farmers — that’s what we do. If we don’t have grass, we don’t have anything,” Trudy explained.
Their rotational grazing and adaptive multi-paddock grazing techniques have turned their farm from a pile of broom sage into a thriving ecosystem.
“Our cows don’t even know what grain is. They trust us to give them fresh grass every day. They have us very well trained,” she said.
Building healthy soil and rotational grazing practices has not only revitalized their pastures but also earned them recognition, such as the Rotary Club’s 2023 Farmer of the Year award.
Journey Farm Pasture Beef has an open-door policy. The couple wholeheartedly believes that transparency leads to stronger community connections. They welcome visitors to see their process and understand the importance of knowing where their meat comes from.
Growing fresh, locally sourced ingredients attracts customers from across the country, including Texas. For some, their grass-fed beef is more than just another healthy choice. It’s a source of nourishment.
“One of our customers has a grandson with Crohn’s disease, and he loves and has no reaction to our beef. It’s amazing,” Trudy shared.
Trudy and Lewis find their life on the farm keeps them active and engaged with the community. They’re deeply committed to the agricultural community, supporting youth programs and generously sharing their knowledge with anyone eager to learn. Lewis and Trudy hope to inspire others, especially younger generations, to pursue sustainable farming and to appreciate the value of knowing where their food comes from.
Trudy encourages everyone to recognize and honor the sacrifices farmers make to nourish our communities.
“They are doing all they can do, and people may need to be more appreciative and respectful because they have no idea how much work is involved.”
At Journey Farm Pasture Beef, hard work and harmony connect, and every day brings new lessons and blessings.
“We are so beyond grateful for the opportunity. It’s a lifestyle that everybody should have the opportunity to enjoy.” GN
