Exploring Life & Business with Derek Hooley of Joy Journey Farms

Today we’d like to introduce you to Derek Hooley.

Hi Derek, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today. 
The mobile petting farm business was actually created by a gentleman named Connor Scheumann 12 years ago. Connor was getting out of the business and called me in January of 2023 to see if I was interested in taking over the business. We are looking to continue the foundation of what he began. So, we, Joy Journey Farms, are a new business since Jan of 23 but have maintained what Connor began 12 years ago. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a relatively smooth transition from the previous owner. Some of the struggles have been just navigating the logistics w/ setting up a new business in terms of the legal process of owning a business. Something every business owner goes through. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business.
We are a mobile petting farm offering the chance for visitors to pet and feed farm animals (goats, sheep, calves, pony, alpaca, pigs, chicken, bunny, and even a camel). We bring all these animals to wherever you are located. We also offer pony rides at events. We service everything from backyard birthday parties to daycares, churches, corporate events, and festivals. 

We are a family-owned business, my wife Angela and 3 boys (Lucas, Ethan, Andrew). 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.joyjourneyfarms.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyjourneyfarms/
• Facebook: Joy Journey Farms