188. David Wiley Discusses Serenity Knoll Farm and Local Cooking Classes

About the Guest:

David Wiley is the owner, operator, and manager of Serenity Knoll Farm. With a diverse professional background including roles in advertising, education, and even professional sports management, David ultimately found his calling in East Tennessee's local food and farming community. He is deeply involved in cultivating the farming landscape through Serenity Knoll Farm, organizing community events, and hosting unique culinary experiences. David’s vision extends to contra dance and yoga programs, turning his farm into a multifaceted community hub.

Episode Summary:

On this bright June episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with David Wiley, the multi-talented owner and operator of Serenity Knoll Farm. David shares his fascinating journey from working in advertising and professional sports to becoming a leading figure in East Tennessee's local food movement. Through Serenity Knoll Farm, David offers unique culinary experiences, contributes to local farmers' markets, and hosts community-centric events including yoga and contra dance. The conversation provides rich insights into the farm’s role in fostering community and culture while emphasizing sustainable agriculture.

David Wiley opens up about his life story, from being born in Knoxville and growing up in Memphis, to eventually establishing Serenity Knoll Farm in Jonesboro. He elaborates on what makes Johnson City and Jonesboro idyllic places to live, highlighting factors like low population density, scenic beauty, and friendly locals. An advocate for healthy living, David introduced traditional folk dances to Jonesboro and established a thriving cooking school at his farm. Through Serenity Knoll, he aims to connect people with food in meaningful ways—whether through farm-to-table dining, cooking classes, or community events.

Key Takeaways:

• Community and Culinary Experiences: Serenity Knoll Farm is not just about growing food; it's about community gatherings, from cooking classes to yoga sessions.
• The Importance of Farmers' Markets: David stresses that farmers' markets like the one in Jonesboro are ideal for connecting with local growers and understanding the local food scene.
• Culinary Learning for All Ages: The cooking school at Serenity Knoll Farm offers classes that range from knife skills to ethnic cuisines, aimed at both adults and children.
• Future Aspirations: Serenity Knoll Farm has ambitious plans for expansion, including building lodging options and hosting chef's weekends.
• Health and Dietary Choices: David advocates for the impact of healthy, locally-sourced food as a foundation for good health and community well-being.

Notable Quotes:

1. "It's a wonderful area. I've traveled all over the world, and I always look forward to coming back to the mountains of East Tennessee."
2. "The whole premise was to build communities, to have a social event that was alcohol free. It didn't matter what your [background] was."
3. "Thirty percent of Americans do not cook a single meal. And we're talking about millions of people."
4. "If you have no confidence or no skill in that area to prepare food, it takes a lot of the joy away from the dining experience."
5. "I think being able to put my energy and passion into this dream that I've created of building a business, building a brand, being a part of the local food system as a function of public health, that really excites me."

Resources:

• Serenity Knoll Farm on Facebook: Facebook
• Serenity Knoll Farm on Instagram: Instagram
• Website for Class Registrations and Events: Serenity Knoll Farm

For more enlightening episodes, stay tuned to the Johnson City Living podcast. If you're considering a visit to the charming towns of Johnson City or Jonesboro or interested in experiencing the local culinary scene, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to what David Wiley and Serenity Knoll Farm have to offer. Tune in, and see how Serenity Knoll Farm is building a healthier, more connected community, one meal at a time.