Meet Joseph Sarto of Golden

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joseph Sarto.

Hi Joseph, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My background is rooted in entrepreneurship and self-employment, but over time I realized that the work I felt most proud of wasn’t just efficient or profitable—it created moments people genuinely carried with them. I think many dreamers reach that point, where you pause and start asking what kind of impact your work is really having.

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?
Like most real journeys, it’s been marked by uncertainty and moments where the path forward wasn’t crystal clear. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s the importance of relentlessly asking yourself: What do I actually have control over today? It’s easy to get stuck focusing on what you don’t have. I remember thinking, “I want to advertise, but I have no money.” Instead of stopping there, I asked myself what was within my power. I didn’t have a budget, but I did have email, time, and the ability to reach out. So I contacted travel influencers directly and invited them to visit. That simple shift—working with what I had instead of dwelling on what I didn’t—ended up giving me a 100% return on advertising.

Progress doesn’t come from replaying the list of things you wish you had money or power to do. It comes from taking focused action on the levers that are already within reach.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
We create experiences designed to become “never-forget moments”—well-paced, intentional, and deeply considered. From group size and flow to how guests interact with the animals and the space itself, every detail is shaped with care. I’m very hands-on and detail-oriented, especially when it comes to the small things that quietly shape how people feel while they’re here. Everything we’ve built is intentionally paced, thoughtfully designed, and allowed to grow naturally. That care—for the animals, the space, and the people who visit—is what truly makes our work different.

What I’m most proud of are the free community service events we host. Seeing families return, people bring their friends, and guests share how the experience stayed with them long after they left is incredibly meaningful. That kind of response only comes from consistency, genuine care, and listening closely to the people you serve.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
Peter and Barbara Ziek of Wild Hair Alpaca — my inspiration and a reminder of what big hearts can build

My Wife and Family — for believing in me and being patient when times were tough

Our guests — for showing up, supporting us, and making this all possible

The alpacas — for teaching calm, curiosity, and connection every day

Everyone who has helped shape me along the way — this journey wouldn’t exist without you

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.meetalpacas.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alpaca_encounters
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alpacaencounter
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@smoothalpacaexperience1892
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/smooth-alpaca-experience-golden-2
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@smoothalpacaexperience

Image Credits
Photos Taken by Smooth Alpaca