83-acre woodland farm and retreat in Waldoboro, Maine
Originally established in 1936 as a working farm and family sanctuary
Now hosts retreats, weddings, culinary experiences, and glamping stays
Built around intentional experiences, nature, and connection
Sarah’s Journey
Grew up on a farm in rural Maine, initially resisted that lifestyle
Built a career in marketing and entrepreneurship, including a national food brand
Felt a deep pull back to Maine and hands-on living
Purchased Topsl Farm in 2016 with no formal business plan—just intuition
Key Themes from the Conversation
From Hustle to Stillness
Transitioning from startup culture and constant motion
Learning that rest is not a reward—it’s a requirement
Out of the Head, Into the Hands
The power of physical work: farming, cooking, creating
Reconnecting through tangible experiences
3. Building Without a Blueprint
Trusting intuition over strategy in the early days
Letting the business evolve organically
4. The Power of Experience Design
Creating spaces where people feel immediate calm
Prioritizing how people *feel*, not just what they do
5. Culture Over Everything
Building a team rooted in care, communication, and shared intention
Nurturing internal culture as much as guest experience
6. The Next Chapter
Reconnecting with the land and original mission
Expanding into more hands-on, homesteading-inspired experiences
Slowing down personally to create more meaningful work
Memorable Takeaways
“Sometimes the richest work comes from giving yourself room to breathe.”
"It’s not about how many people show up—it’s how they feel when they leave.”
“Wherever you go, there you are… unless you choose to change it.”
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