We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Davon Goodwin. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Davon below.
Hi Davon, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
In 2010, my life changed forever when I was injured in Afghanistan. The road to recovery was not just physical but also emotional and mental. During this time, I sought a new sense of purpose—something that would not only heal me but also allow me to give back to others. This journey led me to college, where I studied biology and botany, and eventually to farming, which became both a personal refuge and a means of strengthening my community.
Returning to college after my injury was a crucial step in my healing process. Studying biology and botany deepened my understanding of the natural world and provided me with the scientific foundation that would later influence my farming practices. I learned about plant life cycles, soil health, and ecological sustainability—knowledge that would become essential as I transitioned into agriculture.
Shortly after completing my studies, I turned to farming, which quickly became more than just a profession; it was therapeutic and healing. Working the land allowed me to reconnect with nature, find peace in the daily rhythms of growth and harvest, and create something tangible out of the soil. Beyond personal healing, farming also became a way to serve my community. Through OTL Farms and The Market Place, I have been able to provide fresh, locally grown food while fostering connections among local farmers, customers, and food-insecure communities.
My background in biology and botany continues to shape how I approach farming. I apply sustainable and regenerative practices, focusing on soil health, biodiversity, and season extension to ensure that our land remains productive and resilient. This scientific knowledge, combined with my lived experiences, has allowed me to build a farm that is not only productive but also deeply connected to the community.
Farming and community work have given me a renewed sense of purpose. What started as a way to heal has grown into a mission to support and uplift others. Through agriculture, I have found balance, fulfillment, and a way to turn hardship into something meaningful. My journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the healing nature of working with the land.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
At OTL Farms, I focus on growing muscadine grapes, blackberries, and season-extension vegetables while also developing The Market Place at OTL Farms as a hub for fresh, locally sourced food. Farming is more than just growing crops—it’s about creating connections, supporting the community, and fostering sustainability. What excites me most is seeing the impact of our work, from providing nutritious food to building relationships with customers and local farmers.
What makes OTL Farms special is that it’s rooted in both science and personal healing. After being injured in Afghanistan in 2010, I found farming to be a therapeutic way to reconnect with nature and my community. With a background in biology and botany, I apply sustainable and regenerative practices to ensure that our land remains healthy and productive for future generations.
Right now, we’re focused on expanding our offerings at The Market Place at OTL Farms, bringing more fresh, local products to the community. We’re also working with local organizations to address food insecurity, helping make fresh food more accessible. Whether it’s through farming, education, or collaboration, OTL Farms is about more than just food—it’s about building a stronger, healthier community.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three key qualities and skills that had the most impact on my journey were resilience, scientific knowledge, and community-building.
Resilience – Transitioning from military service to farming after my injury in Afghanistan required perseverance and adaptability. Farming, like life, is full of challenges—unpredictable weather, crop failures, and business obstacles. The ability to push through setbacks and keep moving forward has been essential. My advice to those starting out is to embrace challenges as learning experiences. Farming and entrepreneurship require patience, so stay committed and don’t be afraid to fail forward.
Scientific Knowledge – My background in biology and botany has played a crucial role in shaping my approach to farming. Understanding plant life cycles, soil health, and sustainable practices has helped me grow healthier crops and maintain productive land. For those early in their journey, I recommend taking the time to learn the science behind what you do. Whether through formal education, workshops, or self-study, developing a strong foundation in your craft will set you apart and help you make informed decisions.
Community-Building – Farming is not just about growing food; it’s about connecting with people. Whether it’s working with other farmers, engaging with customers, or collaborating with local organizations to address food insecurity, relationships are at the heart of what I do. My advice to newcomers is to start building their network early. Connect with mentors, join local farming groups, and engage with your community. The more you invest in relationships, the more opportunities and support you’ll find along the way.
Ultimately, success comes from a balance of persistence, knowledge, and strong connections. No one builds something great alone, so keep learning, keep pushing forward, and never underestimate the power of community.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my mother did for me was instilling in me a love for learning and resilience. She taught me to ask questions, stay curious, and never stop growing, no matter the challenges life throws my way. Her unwavering support and belief in me gave me the confidence to pursue my passions and turn setbacks into stepping stones.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.otlfarms.com
- Instagram: @otlfarms
- Facebook: @otlfarms
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