In a world where family legacies sometimes fade into obscurity, Jim Coleman symbolizes hope and inspiration. A fourth-generation steward of Coleman Crest Farm, the Kentucky-based landowner not only embodies the essence of generational wealth, but is passionate about imparting his wisdom. Whether it is through his three books, Hang ‘Em in the Middle, Don’t Sell the Goose That Lays the Golden Egg (both illustrated by Trevor Claiborn), and Cut the Crap and Close the Gap: The Urgency of Delivering Desired Results, his scholarship and internship, his popular podcast, the Jim Coleman Show, and his community work, he is on a mission to share how farm life can lead to prosperity, and what he calls, freedom.
“My great grandfather was enslaved and within his 65 years of life went from being enslaved to being a land owner in Fayette County, the wealthiest county in Kentucky,” Coleman tells So Booking Cool. “That’s basically going from slavery to being a millionaire. What excuse do you have? None. And talking about that daily, I love it. It is the most enjoyable thing, whether it’s through this kind of conversation online, speaking, or mostly directly to students is the most fun that I have. And I found my purpose. That is my ministry, to inspire and to explain down to the detail of what they need to do to be wealthy.”
Check out part one of our conversation to learn more about Coleman’s journey including the legacy of Coleman Crest Farm, community and generational wealth, challenges of farm ownership, business strategies for modern farming, and more.