Today we’d like to introduce you to Stacy Ham.
Hi Stacy, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
So my path has had a few twists, but it’s all connected.
I spent over 15 yrs in early childhood education, running my own childcare center and really learning what families and kids need day-to-day. As I wrapped up that hands-on chapter, I found myself shifting into advocacy—supporting childcare providers and helping strengthen the resources in our community. That’s when I got involved with Williamson County’s Success By 6 work, and now I also serve on the Greater Taylor Foundation’s childcare committee, helping with marketing and outreach.
Around that same time, I started pouring my heart into Mini Mischief Ranch, right between Hutto and Taylor. What began as our little family farm slowly grew into a nonprofit care farm where people can connect with animals, slow down, and breathe a little easier. It’s hands-on, a little chaotic at times, and honestly one of my favorite things I’ve ever built.
At the core, everything I do—whether it’s advocacy, community work, or time at the ranch—is about helping people feel supported, welcomed, and seen. It’s been a winding path, but each step has lined up in ways that make sense now.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Oh, definitely not a smooth road. In fact, a lot of my big transitions weren’t really by choice.
Stepping out of childcare—at least in the hands-on way I’d done it for so long—was pushed by rising costs, staffing shortages, and policy changes that made it harder and harder to sustain the level of quality I believed in. It was heartbreaking to let go of something I’d built, but the system made it clear that staying the same wasn’t sustainable.
That shift forced me into a whole new chapter, including advocacy work—which, honestly, does not come naturally to me. I’m not a public speaker by nature, and it’s definitely not my comfort zone. But I also know how important it is to share what I’ve learned, use my experience to support other providers, and be a voice for the changes our childcare community truly needs. So I keep showing up, even when it stretches me.
Building the ranch into a nonprofit came with its own set of challenges too. I run everything myself, so I wear every hat—animal care, marketing, scheduling, programs, fundraising, all of it. It’s meaningful work, but it’s not always easy.
There were personal hurdles as well—trusting the process, navigating uncertainty, and rebuilding after closing a chapter I poured my whole heart into. But every challenge pushed me toward work that feels deeply aligned with who I am now.
So no, it hasn’t been a smooth road. But it’s been purposeful. And every hard turn led me to the advocacy, community work, and the ranch—all things I’m incredibly grateful to be doing now.
As you know, we’re big fans of Mini Mischief Ranch. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Mini Mischief Ranch is my heart in action. We’re a small nonprofit care farm tucked between Hutto and Taylor, and everything we do revolves around connection—connection with animals, with nature, and with each other.
We specialize in private, hands-on animal experiences, small-group programs, and supportive community visits. People come to slow down, breathe, laugh, and reset. Our animals aren’t props—they’re partners. Each one has a personality, a story, and a role in helping people feel calm, grounded, and welcomed.
What really sets us apart is our scale and our philosophy. We’re intentionally small. It’s not a big commercial petting zoo—there’s no rush, no crowds, no chaos, and no feeding animals. I want guests to feel like they’re stepping into someone’s home, not someone’s attraction. That personal, quiet, one-on-one experience is where the real magic happens.
We’re also mission-driven. Everything we earn goes right back into keeping programs accessible, caring for the animals, and offering opportunities for families, kids, and even therapy clients who need a quieter, more supportive environment. I’m proud of that balance: we’re fun and joyful, but deeply meaningful at the same time.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that people feel something when they think about Mini Mischief Ranch—warmth, humor, calm, connection. Our social media is intentionally playful and authentic because the ranch truly is a place where people can show up as they are.
For readers who haven’t visited yet, I want them to know that we offer:
• Private animal encounters for all ages
• Therapy-aligned visits with local clinicians
• Educational programs like Farm Club and Roots Leadership
• Seasonal events like Sip & Snuggle, Farm & Flowers, and volunteer days
• Gift certificates and calendars that support our mission year-round
Whether someone is looking for stress relief, something memorable to do with their kids, a calming place for neurodiverse learners, or just a break from the busy world—we’re here for that.
Mini Mischief Ranch is a little quirky, a little heartfelt, and intentionally simple. And I think that’s exactly what makes it special.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are so many ways people can be part of Mini Mischief Ranch, and I love when new connections form naturally. The easiest way to support us is simply by booking a private visit or attending one of our events—every visit directly supports the animals and helps keep our programs accessible.
We also partner regularly with therapists, homeschool groups, educators, and small businesses. If someone wants to collaborate on a workshop, bring their clients for animal-assisted sessions, or co-host an event, I’m always happy to explore creative ideas that align with our mission.
Because we’re a small nonprofit, community support matters. People can help by:
• Becoming a Mini Mischief Guardian and sponsoring one of our animals
• Sharing our posts and helping spread the word
• Volunteering at the ranch for special projects or community days
• Donating toward our programs or our current project, The Gathering Barn
• Purchasing gift certificates or our photo calendar, which directly fund animal care
And honestly, even simple encouragement goes a long way. I run everything myself, and knowing the community believes in what we’re building here makes such a big difference.
If someone wants to collaborate or get involved in a more hands-on way, I always welcome conversations. Whether it’s a therapist wanting a calm setting for clients, a business looking to partner on a family-friendly event, or an educator seeking unique learning opportunities—I love finding ways to work together that are meaningful for everyone.
Mini Mischief Ranch thrives because people choose to be part of it. And I’m always excited to welcome new partners, supporters, and friends into our little corner of the world.
Pricing:
- Weekdays are $15 person
- Weekends are $18 person
- Enrichment Classes $100/month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.minimischiefranch.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minis.mischief
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/minimischiefranch
