I helped build a bootstrapped startup that sold for $200M+. Now I have the privilege of helping founders grow profitably with partnerships, enterprise deals, and M&A. From NYC -> SEA -> Gardens in TN.
I started and built my career in New York City for 14 years (and Seattle for three)—now I live in a town that's 1/180th the size of NYC. From Wall Street and the VC-backed startup world to a solo advisor/operator for founders while squashing actual "squash bugs" in our garden in between calls. While I will always be grateful for my network and career highlights in some of the most dynamic cities in the world, it became crystal clear that we were yearning for something more: We wanted to get our hands dirty, literally, as in dirt. So, in 2022, I moved my family from big city life to small town living with a plot of land that we could call our own. And we've been grateful for every minute of it. What's so special about Columbia, TN? It's the gateway between the city and the farm. It's a "garden-city." There's something deeply earthy and heavenly going on—so much natural beauty and land, so much opportunity to shape and enrich. Just an hour south of Nashville so we're picking up tons of trickle-down growth (new businesses are popping up everywhere), yet slow enough where you no longer feel like you are a cog in a wheel. For us that means our boys can study life by raising chickens, planting seeds and harvesting them, and using physical tools that I had no clue were at our disposal as an urbanite glued to his smart phone and laptop all day. But at the end of the day, what makes everything so special about this part of the world? The people. I've had the privilege of meeting a tech entrepreneur who gladly serves as a county commissioner during the day and a fine dining restauranteur at night. I've gotten to know a mayor who can't imagine life without God and the family farm, and is as good as any Fortune 500 CEO in getting what Columbians need from state and national leaders. And I've met dads who who want nothing more than to teach their boys how to hit a baseball just right or build a workshop from scratch—all because that's what their dads taught them. So why am I sharing this? Partly because some people have asked for an update. Partly because life on Main Street is what being an everyday American is really like (and I'm here to tell you that that's actually a good thing). But mainly because you might be afraid of taking a risk for the sake of your family's well being. It might not be a physical move, but whatever it is—going independent, starting a business, taking responsibility over your children's education—you know deep down, if you play the long game, it will only immeasurably bless your family. I haven't told you yet about the sacrifices that we had to make; nothing on this side of life is perfect. But I can tell you that without a doubt, it is one of the best decisions we've made. Solve that big problem for your family's sake. Don't ignore the daily reminder that all is not right. Be wise, of course, but don't be afraid to make your move. ...Just make sure you've got strong internet access.
Dude, this is going to inspire so many people! What has been the fav vegetable from the garden?! And you are making me want to move to the country NOW!
Chris, this is incredible! Thanks for the update. We also decided on 'land' over city life and couldn't be happier! Chickens are the best, right?! Best wishes to you and your family!
Love this update!
I love this! We moved to Columbia for the exact same reasons. I’m in downtown Nashville today for meetings, but there is nothing better than being able to escape the city to a house in the woods. Let’s grab coffee at Bradley Mountain some time.
What a beautiful story that's still unfolding!
Congrats on your move! My wife, two girls and I are up in Franklin but we love Columbia as well!
Columbia is a great area Chris Hwang! Lived in Nashville for 5 years and love that area! My wife and I have also adopted the model of living outside large cities but close enough to venture in if we want! Excited to hear about your journey!
We’re glad you’re here, Chris! 🙌🏼
Chris, you my friend are truly blessed. I would kill to have what you are talking about here. And I wholeheartedly agree, that nothing could be better than moving away from a "big city" to a piece of land that you own, where your family can move, play, grow and just have space to do whatever it is that they wish to do. God be with you!
Account Manager at DGTH | Business Development & Sales Strategist | Digital Marketing & Customer Loyalty Expert | Consistently Exceeding Sales Goals
1moChris Hwang, I was inspired by and relate to your story. Five years ago I moved back to my home country upon returning from the US. The city where I was born and raised was a mess, especially in my old neighborhood. After traveling for 20 years across 4 continents, I grew weary of big cities and decided on a radical change. In 2020, during the pandemic, I moved to a rural community—a small village in the northeastern mountains of my country where my family is originally from. This area is peaceful, with clean streets, no crime, no homelessness, no traffic, and no neighbors. I discovered a beautiful property surrounded by stunning, untouched nature. The property has vineyards and fruit trees. The house, built in 1921 in solid granite with charming rustic interiors, was remodeled 15 years ago. I made several changes to create a self-sustainable living environment. Installed solar roof tiles and panels, drilled another well, and learned how to grow a vegetable garden. Later, I got chickens to have fresh eggs. What I have achieved here, is a situation in which I am in control of the electricity, water, and food I need to survive without relying on stores, the economy, or any other external factors. I call this true wealth.