02/05/2026
Freedom for Farmers Summit — Speaker Lineup 1pm EASTERN TIME! 12 pm Central in LOUDON, TN
1. Sandy Eplett
Host • Speaker • Master of Ceremonies
Founder of The Homestead Event in East Tennessee, Sandy is passionate about teaching old-fashioned skills and bringing like-minded people together. She opens the summit, sets the tone, and guides the flow of the event with clarity, confidence, and heart.
2. Rep. Michele Reneau
Building Relationships With Your Legislators
A practical, insider perspective on how farmers and citizens can effectively engage their legislators, build real relationships, and ensure their voices are heard at the state level.
3. Suzanne Thompson-Echo Valley Farms
How Small Farmers Can Have a Voice
Drawing from her experience as a lobbyist who has testified before the legislature—and as founder of the Heritage Farmers Federation—Suzanne explains how small farmers can organize, advocate, and avoid being drowned out by large agricultural interests.
4. Dawn Gorham- The Gorham Homestead-Retired Deputy Clerk, Asst. to Tee Gorham, atty
What to Do When a Government Agency Shows Up
A calm, boots-on-the-ground talk on knowing your rights, protecting your operation, and responding wisely when regulators arrive at your farm or business.
5. Rep. Monty Fritts
A Vision for Small Farms in Tennessee
A forward-looking discussion from a sitting state representative and gubernatorial candidate on protecting, strengthening, and expanding opportunities for small farms across Tennessee.
6. Nicole Sauce
Host of the Living Free in Tennessee podcast and founder of the Self-Reliance Festival, Nicole is a mastermind at bringing people together around shared values, interests, and goals. She closes the summit with inspiration and practical strategies for building a freer, more intentional life rooted in independence, community, and resilience.