About Dustin

Dustin is the founder and farmer behind Seven Deers Farm in Maryville, Tennessee. As a proud Native American, his passion for farming and crafting authentic hot sauces is deeply rooted in his heritage and a lifelong connection to the land.

Yet, Dustin didn't always dream of making hot sauce. It took years of farming and a quiet passion for growing food before he even considered it. The seeds of this journey were planted long ago at family dinners, when his grandpa would say, "Go grab me a pepper." Dustin, along with his brother or cousins, would race off to find one—often sneaking a curious bite themselves. Sometimes they regretted it, sometimes they didn't, but the curiosity never faded.

Around age 28, Dustin began seriously cultivating his land, transforming a small plot with just a few pepper plants into rows upon rows of thriving crops. Cooking became essential to keep up with the harvest, leading him to deeply appreciate fresh ingredients and flavor. With each harvest, he wondered, "What can I create with this? How can I make it even better?"

Fermentation provided the answer. Initially just a way to preserve his abundant pepper crop, it soon evolved into something more meaningful. Dustin began crafting hot sauce in small batches, sharing them first with friends and family. The turning point came when he received approval from his dad’s side of the family—the "hot pepper people." Their validation transformed his hobby into a real passion.

Restrictive state laws initially delayed the dream, making it difficult to sell vinegar-based sauces. But when Tennessee finally changed those laws, Dustin was ready. Years of hard work in the soil merged with years of quiet ambition, giving birth to Tennessee Red Man hot sauce—from seed to sauce, crafted with honesty and care.

Today, Seven Deers Farm represents more than just heat. Each bottle reflects Dustin’s dedication, authenticity, and respect for the earth. Collaborating closely with local artisans, restaurants, private chefs, and community members, Dustin supports local businesses and brings his vision of farm-to-table quality to life. He continues working the land every day, growing what he eats, preserving what he grows, and proudly sharing the genuine flavor and meticulous care that define every handcrafted batch of Seven Deers Farm hot sauce.