Farming Focus

Today, we're taking a look back at some of the key moments and themes from series 4, exploring what we've learned and what it all means for the future of farming. Joining Peter is Emily Norton, a farmer and independent strategic adviser based in Norfolk. Emily works with farmers, investors, politicians and businesses on rural policy and emerging trends, with expertise in natural capital influences on land, food and farming. She writes a regular opinion column in Farmers Weekly and holds non-executive board positions at various organisations including the Duchy of Cornwall. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.uk Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the episode.01:25 Emily introduces herself. 02:55 CLIP 1 Izak van Heerden talks about working on the business. 04:13 Emily reflects on the key challenges that prevent farmers from working on the business rather than being 'in' it all the time. 07:07 CLIP 2 on rewilding with Jim Bliss08:01 Emily reflects on nature recovery and the future of nature in the UK.15:46 Working off the farm CLIP 3 with Rhian Marchant.16:36 Emily reflects on the definition of what it means to be a farmer today. 20:46 CLIP 4 with Ben Mortimer talking about farm clusters. 21:30 Emily reflects on collaboration and clusters. How can we encourage more collaboration in future?25:40 Beaver anecdotes from Peter.27:00 'Educating' people28:54 CLIP 5 with John Gilliland looking at farm data and baselining projects in Northern Ireland. 31:02 Emily reflects on the importance of baselining when it comes to influencing policy and investment. Are we doing enough to make this data useful and accessible for farmers?38:11 Where do the opportunities sit for farmers right now?41:54 Peter closes the episode and the series. 

ARC Zero started as a European Innovation Partnership (EIP) Operational Group made up of a co-operative of 7 farms in Northern Ireland.It sought to measure and manage carbon flows at the individual farm level to empower farmers to make positive change towards carbon zero farming.Make sure you listen to episode 9 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the bonus. 00:41 Intro to ARC Zero from John.03:25 Landscapes as a rich tapestry of carbon.04:20 GWP100 v GWP*05:58 Measuring and managing on farm - for John. 08:43 What is the data being used for?11:42 Farms as circular systems.13:05 One hint or tip for farmers to start relating to their carbon footprint. Seek good advice and know your numbers. 14:52 Peter rounds up. 

In this episode we're diving into the big topic of land use. Joining host Peter Green is Professor John Gilliland OBE, a farmer from Northern Ireland. John is also Professor of Practice in Agriculture and Sustainability at Queens University, Belfast. He's an advisor for AHDB, Chair of Sustainable Farm Networks at Harper Adams University, a former President of Ulster Farmers Union and has experience in many other roles besides. Peter asks John about his experience and views with regards to the land sharing v land sparing debate, especially what he has been doing and seeing on his farm in Northern Ireland. They also discuss baselining and use of data when it comes to land use to see what we could learn in the south west of England. Are there topics you'd like us to cover or guests you'd love to hear from? Get in touch by emailing us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.uk or by connecting with us on our socials @cornishmutual. Your feedback helps us shape the podcast to meet your needs.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.uk Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the episode.01:29 John comes in.01:48 John gives more detail on his background in farming and sustainability. 02:49 John's broader experience and how they have impacted his perspective on sustainable agriculture. 04:56 John's estate in Northern Ireland.06:55 Looking at things through a different lens. 09:00 Farmers run complex businesses that are all disconnected. 10:45 The Land Use Framework11:11 Baselining project in Northern Ireland13:00 Carrots and sticks.15:40 Does this feel too good to be true?17:00 The need to measure. 20:00 Empowering farmers to make their own decisions. 20:22 How does this relate to the south west of England?21:19 ARC Zero24:05 The various land uses on John's farm.26:55 Peter rounds up.27:12 Showstoppers29:38 Peter rounds up the episode as a whole.   

Make sure you listen to episode 8 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the bonus. 00:35 Tim summarises his farm enterprise. 01:20 Tim's Nuffield trip and travels to Polyface Farm and how it inspired him. 02:25 What is success for Tim?03:10 Avoiding competition and interaction between the businesses on the farm. 04:10 Growing the business and opportunities for succession. 04:30 Lifecycle of businesses. 06:14 Being involved with different businesses - how does Tim deal with this?07:00 What gets Tim out of bed in the morning? 08:44 Growth over time. 9:25 Peter rounds up. 

In this episode we're talking about increasing your overall business turnover, and in turn business resilience, through enterprise stacking. But we're also talking about an innovative and exciting business pitching opportunity called ‘Pitch Up' which was started by one of our guests on his farm in Hampshire. Pitch Up! is an annual call-out for anyone with a start-up or growing business in the countryside looking for a farm to call home. It's all about farmers sharing land, raw materials, retail space or production space as well as ideas, knowledge and contacts but also seeing the benefits. Joining host Peter Green is Tim May who is the founder of PitchUp and Managing Director of Kingsclere Estates in Hampshire. Peter is also joined by Dave Oates, a Nuffield scholar and mixed farmer from south Cornwall who is part of the Pitch Up programme.  Are there topics you'd like us to cover or guests you'd love to hear from? Get in touch by emailing us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.uk or by connecting with us on our socials @cornishmutual. Your feedback helps us shape the podcast to meet your needs.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.uk Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the episode.01:26 Tim introduces his business.01:45 Dave introduces his business.02:17 Tim introduces the concept of Pitch Up05:42 Farming in 3D.07:25 How did Dave get involved with Pitch Up?08:50 Where does Pitch Up go for Dave?09:38 What are the wider plans for Pitch Up?11:05 The Michaelmas Fair12:20 How do people get in touch and get involved?13:06 Dave's Nuffield on stacking land uses. What is enterprise stacking?14:44 Shift in thinking from a reductionist mindset to one of abundance.17:10 How do other farmers see this?19:00 Mindset - how do we change the perception of farming to multi output land use?22:14 Tim's takes on the question of being a tenant and how this can work with tenants?23:10 What advice would Tim give to interested farmers?24:20 Dave's thoughts on this. 25:40 What is the low hanging fruit here?27:17 Showstoppers.28:35 Peter rounds up. 

Make sure you listen to episode 7 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the bonus. 00:35 Andrew summarises his Nuffield.01:06 Why did Andrew decide to look into this subject?02:22 Travels04:00 Highlights from the travels.06:21 Lessons learned07:55 The most surprising things - challenges. 09:09 The power of word of mouth.09:45 How have Andrew's findings changed the way he thinks?11:00 Peter rounds up. 

Today we're diving into a topic that's at the heart of productive farming: making the most of muck. From slurry to compost, we'll explore how to get more from less and maximise the value of organic manures.Are there topics you'd like us to cover or guests you'd love to hear from? Get in touch by emailing us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.uk or by connecting with us on our socials @cornishmutual. Your feedback helps us shape the podcast to meet your needs.Joining Peter today is Andrew Sincock, Managing Director of Agriton UK and Agro-Vital UK, and a 2023 Nuffield Scholar researching organic manures.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:15 Peter introduces the episode.01:30 Andrew introduces himself. 3:48 Bokashi6:30 Rothamsted research study.8:34 What does soil organic matter do?11:15 How do farmers value the nutrients on their farm?13:37 How to analyse a muck heap?15:24 Get away from calling muck a waste product. 15:58 What are the common mistakes when it comes to applying muck?18:00 Costs. 19:05 Announcements about capital items.19:30 Grants that people should be looking at?21:50 incremental changes. 24:38 Applying ammonium nitrate. 30:20 C:N ration of muck 33:50 Showstoppers. 35:44 Peter rounds up. 

Make sure you listen to episode 6 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the bonus. 00:35 What is the first step with starting a farm cluster?01:48 Is there an upper limit to an effective cluster group?03:30 Mix of members to the cluster. 04:50 Facilitators of farm cluster groups. 05:40 Stakeholder management. 06:25 Directions of travel of the cluster. 07:44 Mel keeps the wheels turning all the time. 09:10 Meetings are generally informal.09:20 Access to grants and funding. 11:05 Having a subscription fee. 12:15 Do clusters encourage collaboration on a smaller scale?15:05 Peter rounds up. 

For this episode we're talking about farm clusters, what they are, how they work and the benefits for farmers. We're also talking about the benefits of collaboration generally. Farm Clusters have become increasingly popular recently with dozens now in existence across the country. In short, a farm cluster is a collaborative network of farmers, landowners, and sometimes agricultural stakeholders in a specific geographic area, with members working together to achieve shared goals, often related to conservation, resource management, and sustainable farming practices.Host Peter Green is joined by Mel Bradley who works with various groups in the regenerative space and has 15 years of experience in bringing people together and building networks, including helping to deliver south west farming event Rootstock; and Ben Mortimer, a Devon farmer and Chair of the Kenn Valley farm cluster group. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:15 Peter introduces the episode.01:53 Mel introduces herself.03:22 Ben talks about farm clusters and explains what they are. 04:17 Kenn Valley - Ben talks more about it and the diversity of farming there.06:05 Mel has worked with many groups in regenerative farming - what are the benefits of collaborating. 08:22 Are there particular goals that clusters tend to focus on or is there room for flexibility?10:00 How long has Kenn Valley been going? - around a year.10:33 Common barriers to collaboration. 12:15 How events like Rootstock can be a spark for collaboration?13:49 What leadership lessons has Ben learned from managing a group of farmers?15:29 The importance of relationships. 16:35 The future for farm clusters18:55 Actions for listeners - how can you get involved or start a cluster? What advice would our guests give?21:21 Showstoppers22:42 Peter rounds up.  

Make sure you listen to episode 5 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the bonus. 00:50 Laura talks about peer to peer learning and knowledge exchange. 03:30 The School of Sustainable Farming04:47 A broader network. 05:40 Opportunities according to Rhian and Jack - they mention Farm Cornwall. 07:35 Coming up with a tenancy application - how to start. 09:30 Laura's experience. 11:20 Peter rounds up. 

For this episode host Peter Green  is joined by three Cornwall based farmers who are going about things a bit differently compared to the traditional farming model.First up us Laura Awdry who farms in partnership with her husband Sam on a Duchy of Cornwall farm tenancy running beef and arable. She is also a Nuffield scholar and works within the dairy team for AHDB. Peter is also joined by Rhian and Jack Marchant who are first generation farmers, farming on a Lord Falmouth estate farm about 10 miles outside of Truro. The couple keep ducks for eggs, zwartble, Devon and Cornish Longwool and Suffolk sheep and water buffalo. Rhian is also a registered vet nurse working mostly in small animal practice and balances this career alongside farming. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:14 Peter introduces the episode.01:33 Laura introduces herself.02:40 Rhian introduces herself and her farming journey.03:16 How did Rhian and Jack start?03:47 Jack comes in. 04:45 How has Laura and her husband Sam built their farming business?07:19 Jack talks about their route into farming and wanting to stand out. 08:34 How are buffalo different to cattle in terms of husbandry?09:46 How did Jack know that buffalo would be a good fit for him?10:50 Balancing working on and off farm. 14:09 Rhian explains how she and Jack balance working off farm with the farming. 18:30 The future of balancing working on and off farm21:10 The benefits of working on and off farm. 22:10 Words of advice to listeners. 24:03 Showstoppers.25:57 Peter rounds up.  

Peter is joined by Nuffield scholar Jim Bliss to learn more about his Nuffield scholarship which was about marginal farming and rewilding. Make sure you listen to episode 4 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the bonus. 00:50 Jim summarises his report. 01:15 What inspired Jim to do his topic?02:33 Which country or place left the strongest impression on Jim?05:50 Jim's Nuffield experience. 07:30 Resistance and how to engage with this?10:20 Episode with Anna Jones and Kendra Hall; also mentions Jonny Hanson.11:20 Message to leave listeners with. 

In this episode we're talking about the ‘R' word, which still raises eyebrows in some circles – ‘rewilding' – alongside the concept of ‘circular farming' and we'll ask how they both fit with the sustainable farming incentive? How could you rewild parts of your farm, what does rewilding really mean today and how can the sustainable farming incentive help you to improve nature value on your farm, alongside your bank balance?Host Peter Green is joined by Jim Bliss who runs a consultancy called ‘Blissfully Wild', and worked at the Lowther Estate in Cumbria for a number of years. He's also a 2023 Nuffield scholar and he did his research on the links between rewilding and marginal farming.  Hugo Ellis is also on the panel. Hugo is a regenerative agronomist with regenerative consultancy group Terrafarmer. After studying at Duchy College and working in the dairy industry, Hugo worked as a trials manager for six years across a broad range of crops. He has also lectured in Agronomy and Crop Science and worked as an Assistant Manager on an estate in London.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:14 Peter introduces the episode.01:41 Jim introduces himself.02:47 Hugo introduces himself. 04:06 Jim talks about his own journey with rewilding. 06:30 Rewilding at Lowther Estate. 07:48 The power of network and connections. 08:30 Definitions of rewilding and circular farming.11:10 Is rewilding 'active' or 'passive'14:08 Diversification through the environment14:35 The principles of circular farming.17:00 Partnerships and joint ventures as part of a circular economy. 19:47 The transition - are there issues with transitioning from conventional to another model of farming or managing the land?21:25 Jim's thoughts on the SFI.25:00 Tapestry/ patchwork of different elements of habitats. 26:20 Market access to habitat creation. The importance and opportunity of an environmental story. 27:34 Cornish Mutual is running SFI workshops. 27:55 Advice for accessing SFI 30:23 Summing up - how does each guest see the future of land management in the UK evolving and will we see more rewilding on farms in future?33:46 Showstoppers.36:06 Peter rounds up the episode.  

Peter is joined by farmer and farm consultant Anna Bowen  and Izak van Heerden from AHDB's Agrileader programme, to discuss advice on farm. Make sure you listen to episode 3 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the bonus. 00:50 What should farmers be looking for when considering how to receive advice and who to get it from?03:16 Defra funded advice 05:52 Experience v new advice08:05 In the relationship between a farmer and a consultant - what is the dynamic of leadership?09:42 The dynamic between farmers and consultant - what is Anna's approach?11:08 How does Anna use the information she receives?13:00 The importance of listening to what is going on in our own business.15:00 What can farmers do immediately after the consultant's meeting to get best value from it?17:35 Not all actions can be actioned immediately - how should someone who is looking at the output of a report prioritise where they start? 19:28 Peter rounds up.  

Host Peter Green is joined by two Nuffield scholars: Anna Bowen is a dairy farmer from Ceredigion, the current Dairy Industry Woman of the Year and also works as a farm business consultant and freelance writer. Her Nuffield scholarship was on the subject of cow calf contact in dairy. Izak van Heerden is a Senior Knowledge Exchange Manager at AHDB and heads up their Agrileader Programme. His Nuffield topic explored leadership in agriculture. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. Things we mention:The Eisenhower Matrix  For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:14 Peter introduces the episode.01:15 Izak comes in and introduces himself. 04:25 Anna comes in and introduces herself. 05:07 Leadership in agriculture - Nuffield strapline is leading for positive change. 06:07 It is easy to get stuck in the urgent in agricuilture. 08:12 Running a farm can be 24/7 - how to manage setting aside time for business development. 11:11 Have multiple people taking notes at a meeting and make sure these are circulated. 11:45 Tips from Anna.12:58 Progress not perfection. 13:18 What makes a good leader?16:16 Is there anything that it is important to not delegate?17:05 How important is it for everyone to understand the vision?18:32 What do the best farms do?19:20 What questions should listeners ask?20:55 Some of the most effective processes that farmers can implement to free up time? 23:38 The importance of regular team check ins. 25:14 What do you and your staff enjoy and not enjoy?27:00 Showstoppers29:27 Peter rounds up. 

Make sure you listen to episode 2 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here.  Timestamps00:15 Peter introduces the bonus. 01:17 Eddie introduces the project. 04:18 The booklet and the importance of visioning. 06:38 Understanding where you are going and what it looks like. 07:25 What are some of the practical steps farmers can take to connect with the nature on their land?10:20 The importance of convening and engaging.13:10 Being present in meetings.14:28 The importance of listening. 17:40 Sharing knowledge.20:30 The future of the project. 21:20 Peter rounds up. 

Today we're talking about our relationship with the land, communities and nature on our farms. We all know that farms are a place of food production, but they have so many other purposes and potential to meet the varied challenges we face as farmers and as a general population. Host Peter is joined by two farmers who alongside keeping livestock have a particular interest in wellbeing and fostering strong and positive mindsets. Eddie Rixon farms sheep and beef on 81 hectares at Lopemede Farm in Buckinghamshire. In 2017 he experienced a series of events on the farm that led to him transforming the way he managed it, with an ambitious plan focused on restoration and leveraging natural capital to bring people onto the land for nature connection, to help address both the biodiversity and mental health crises. From December 2023 to May 2024 the Roots and Rhythms Project, funded by Innovate UK, worked with Eddie to explore farm futures through nature recovery and connection. Today we'll hear Eddie's story. Peter is also joined by Ellie Sturrock who is a sheep farmer from Dorset and wellbeing coach specialising in resilience and mindfulness. She is also the West Dorset Area Lead for Steps2Wellbeing, a free NHS talking therapies service for anxiety and depression. Useful signposting for anyone impacted by this episode. Support for farmers - mental health | AHDBFarm Safety Foundation / Yellow Wellies - YellowWellies.orgfarmwell.org.uk/personal-resilience/Social prescribers at GP surgeries are excellent at signposting to agencies that can help.Farming Community Network: 03000 111 999 or help@fcn.org.ukRABI. Particularly good for financial support but also an emphasis on mental health. 0800 188 4444,MIND 0300 123 3393Steps 2Wellbeing/S2W: 0800 484 0500, NHS Talking Therapies FREESamaritans: 116123 or jo@samaritans.orgConnections 24/7 crisis line: 0800 652 0190NHS direct: 111SHOUT. Text service 85258 for mental health crisisKooth (kids and young adults, online support. www.kooth.com)See a GP especially for pain, poor sleep, depression, or long term conditions. GPs now have teams of people called social prescribers who are well networked with local initiatives. They are good signposters. REACH Addiction services 0800 043 4656 www.edp.org.ukGP for symptoms of trauma, low mood, anxiety or anything that may be indicative of illness. The GP is a good doorway to HELP.Ellie Sturrock/S2W link person: 07980 089470, ellie.sturrock@nhs.net general advice on where to signpost. NHS Talking Therapies (NHS TT) are a FREE short term psychological therapies service. Find an NHS talking therapies services - NHSTypically people can self refer or be referred b any health professional including GPs.At referral they are offered a comprehensive assessment with a trained psychological therapist which can be face to face, by phone or by video call. It is around a 45 minute session at the end of which most people will be offered a talking treatment that is based on NICE guidelined therapies.Our treatments usually last for 4-max 20 sessions and if a person is not anxious, stressed or depressed or does not want to receive an offered treatment then we signpost to other agencies best suited to need.Therapists are trained, supervised and registered with recognised professional groups such as the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapist (BABCP) or British Association of Counselling Psychotherapists (BACP).Treatments are offered for depression, anxiety disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorder, social phobia, post traumatic stress disorder, difficult grief reactions, mental distress connected with long term health conditions such as stroke, heart disease, diabetes, fatigue, long covid, pain etcNHS TT are largely counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy based but also use mindfulness, interpersonal therapy, EMDR (a strategy for treating trauma). Most teams have developed course based treatments in order to maximise efficiencies and move into a range of more contemporary ways of delivering recovery based treatments at scale. This is a move away from couches to courses reflecting the benefits of a more modern and efficient yet efficacious way to treat people psychologically. Feedback from courses is excellent and some courses offer better recovery than 1:1 delivery. Some work is done individually especially trauma focused treatment.NHS TT services do not treat everyone and do not offer fully comprehensive therapy for more severe, enduring or acute mental illness. For more information look here NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression - NHS and each geographical area will have its own ways of delivering that may vary from above. Find your local service using this link Find an NHS talking therapies services - NHS Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:14 Peter introduces the episode.02:07 Ellie introduces herself.02:57 Eddie Rixon introduces his farm and himself. 04:54 In 2017 Eddie experienced a series of events that led to Eddie making changes.06:28 Two weeks after the breakdown other things happened.07:56 Ellie comes in.10:20 What resources are available for farmers to speak to?12:05 Eddie explains how his farm changed after the incidents.16:14 How can nature help our wellbeing?18:30 Forest bathing.19:00 Eddie's learning points from his projects. 21:05 Pocket guide - search for it on the Rots to Rhythms substack. 21:24 What else can support our mental health?26:00 Connection with nature. 28:19 'Get on our land'29:03 Final thoughts from Ellie.30:55 Showstoppers.33:36 Peter rounds up. 

To kick start the new series, host Peter Green looks back on 2024 with Jeremy Oatey, owner of the mixed farming business, Agricola Growers, and Robin Jackson, Director of the Rural Business School (Duchy College). The conversation also looks ahead to 2025, exploring the latest innovations, sustainable practices, and the evolving landscape of British agriculture.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps

Today on the show Peter Green is joined by Cornish Mutual's Chief Executive Officer, Peter Beaumont, to look back on 2024 and reflect on the year for farmers and Cornish Mutual. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.00:55 Peter welcomes Peter.02:10 Peter Beaumont begins to reflect on the year. 03:26 How can Cornish Mutual support members?04:04 The headlines for Cornish Mutual in 202407:05 What have been the biggest challenges for members in 2024?08:30 Farming has the operational side but also administrative side. 11:17 The aftermath of the budget - succession and planning for it. 12:20 Mutual v insurance company14:10 Rising costs - how has Cornish Mutual been reacting?15:55 Farm walks and supporting members. 17:27 Health and safety 20:00 Collaboration.21:54 Risks and Opportunities for members.23:13 SFI24:18 What has been the biggest achievement for Cornish Mutual this year? 27:25 Peter Green wraps up. 

Today on the show we take a look back on series 4 and glean any learning points from the episodes. Host Peter Green is joined by Tom Tolputt, founder of TerraFarmer, and Rebecca Tonks, CEO of St Ewe Free Range Eggs. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us by using podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.1:03 Tom Tolputt introduces himself.1:23 Rebecca Tonks introduces herself. 1:44 We begin to look back on the series. 2:10 Chris Berry talks about the farming year 2023-242:57 Peter asks Tom about the farming situation at the moment. 4:55 Rebecca talks about the changes that we are seeing at the moment.6:19 We look back on episode 4 and the matter of farm incomes. 6:53 Professor Matt Lobley excerpt. 7:49 Discussion on farm incomes. What might the impact be if farm incomes continue to fall? 10:05 Tom Tolputt follows up. 13:45 We turn to the topic of soil health with Sally Ann Spence.14:49 Tom talks about the change that has taken place over the past few years with regards to soil health. 17:47 We talk about careers and the wide variety of careers in the broad ag sectors. Dan Grist talks about the breadth of backgrounds of members of Devon Young Farmers. 19:34 What skills sets is Rebecca looking for as an employer?21:44 In episode 8 we were talking about thinking differently - one of the themes was the ways that farmers and food businesses engage with consumers.  Abby Allen elaborates. 23: 27 Has our food system changed beyond recognition?26:16 Rebecca - where is the relationship between the consumer and their food?29:20 Final clip is from episode 9 - Kevin Hoare talks about the methane project taking place on their farm. 31:22 Rebecca explains how the poultry sector has adapted in previous years. 35:16 What are Rebecca and Tom excited about in terms of the future of farming in the south west?38:39 Where can listeners go to find out more?40:00 Peter rounds up. 

Make sure you listen to episode 9 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter introduces the bonus01:00 Katie explains what happened. 03:20 Katie talks about the event itself. 06:18 Many people are involved in agriculture because they love it. 08:05 A message to young women in agriculture. 10:02 Peter rounds up. 

Today on the show we're talking about farm sustainability, slurry management and methane capture (and we promise that it won't be a lot of hot air!). Peter is joined by Cornish dairy farmers Kevin and Katie Hoare to learn about the work they have been doing to use their farm's captured methane gas as fuel on farm. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Send us an email to podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.00:55 Katie Hoare introduces their farm.01:50 The investments that have been made since they came to the farm. Kevin Hoare introduces the slurry storage as it was. 03:12 What was the motivation to look into methane capture?04:08 Katie talks about the lagoon.05:34 How the store works in practice. 7:28 How big is the lagoon?10:22 Store is anaerobic. 11:20 The cost is fertiliser saving. 13:15 Costs of installing methane systems on dairy farms.14:35 Tiles for existing lagoons. 17:14 New developments in future. 17:50 Methane powered tractor from New Holland.19:50 comparing diesel v methane tractors. 21:15 What are the advantages to the business of going down the biomethane route?22:35 The financials.24:24 The personal piece of the benefits. 26:10 Farming is circular. 27:40 Tips to farmers.28:48 Peter's showstoppers.30:48 Peter rounds up

Make sure you listen to episode 8 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter introduces the bonus00:33 How do we define community and what value does community have for Bertie?03:30 How have Bertie and Abby used social media to build their communities?06:45 Create a space where communities feel that they can be open with the business.08:36 Peter closes the show.

Today on the show we're talking about ‘thinking differently', perhaps outside the box, and different ways to connect with consumers and build communities. Host Peter Green is joined by Abby Allen from Pipers Farm in Devon, renowned for its commitment to sustainable and ethical farming practices, and Bertie Matthews, Managing Director of Matthews Cotswold Flour based in Oxfordshire, an eighth-generation family business celebrated for having the widest range of specialist flour in the UK from conventional and regenerative farming systems.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Send us an email to podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.01:24 Abby introduces Pipers Farm and explains how they are thinking differently as a business.05:10 Bertie introduces Matthews Cotswold Flour and again explains how they are thinking differently as a business.09:42 'Partners' rather than customers and a commitment to stick with it for the long term.10:14 Advice to south west farmers and businesses who want to take a different approach. 13:10 Finding what aspect of the business that you enjoy. 14:00 What 3 things do you really want to get rid of in your job and what three things do you want to do more of. 14:26 What led to the pivot towards the Baking Club for Bertie?16:14 How can we think differently about the stories we tell. The importance of storytelling. 20:03 Bertie's view on storytelling and marketing. 21:25 Where is the value of working together?24:00 Showstoppers.25:47 Peter wraps up the episode. 

Make sure you listen to episode 7 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter introduces the bonus00:38  Peter talks about his experience at Groundswell. 01:30 Benefits of growing a more diverse sward. 02:43 The science behind the impact that mob grazing has on the soil. 04:22 Is there an optimal frequency for grazing or leaving? 06:05 Using a plate meter06:45 Ben's rotation.08:26 What inspired Ben to start mob grazing?12:35 What has been the impact for Ben?15:00 Peter starts to round up. 15:25 Finish.

Today on the show we're talking about mob grazing, what it is, its benefits and how to do it most effectively. Peter is joined by Cornish farmer Ben Thomas who farms beef cattle on the edge of Bodmin Moor and Hannah Jones who is a carbon and soils advisor with the Farm Carbon Toolkit. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Send us an email to podcast@cornishmutual.co.ukTimestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.00:54 Ben introduces himself. 04:30 What is the lasting impact of 6 Inches of Soil film?06:30 Hannah Jones introduces herself.07:53 Mob grazing - what is it and how does it differ from other ways of grazing?09:30 What does mob grazing look like in practice for Ben?13:10 Stocking density.15:25 Follow up with Hannah.17:20 How quickly can farmers expect to see changes to their soil health when starting with mob grazing?19:30 Is most of the benefit from reduced compaction and rest or trampling and leaving some plant matter behind?20:50 Challenges with a mob grazing system. 24:08 Mob grazing is when we go in with higher levels of cover. What is true mob grazing? How much cover to leave?25:25 Soil types.26:11 Practical tips and messages to farmers.31:12 Showstoppers33:15 Peter rounds up. 

Make sure you listen to episode 6 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter introduces the bonus00:46 Are young people aware of and sufficiently able to access information on careers in the wider agricultural space?02:30 Is there any friction on farms? Is there too much pressure placed on young people to take on a family farm?05:43 Appointing on merit?08:37 Are we outward looking enough when it comes to attracting new people to the industry from outside farming?10:55 What are the most common obstacles that face people who want to start farming?14:45 Dan finishes up. 16:28 Peter rounds up. 

Today we're taking a look at the different directions that people take in the farming sector. Some grow up in farming and choose it as a career, some move into a related or supporting industry, some move away from farming completely and some come into the industry from other backgrounds. Today we're exploring all of these paths and underlining how important it is to find your own particular route in life. Peter is joined by Dan Grist who is the current Chair of Devon Young Farmers and co-host of the It's In Our Roots Podcast which celebrates people with countryside roots. He is also joined by Emily Peters who grew up on a family dairy farm in Devon before moving away and then returning to run her milk vending machine business The Udder Stuff. Emily won the Rising Star category in this year's Devon Farm Business Awards. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.01:40 Dan introduces himself. 03:50 Careers advice into farming. 04:30 Emily introduces herself. 07:27 Dan is chair of Devon Young Farmers - what variety of jobs does he see members going into?10:40 Peter talks about his own experience. 11:50 Was Emily always thinking of going back to the family farm?14:40 Emily talks about the growth of her business.15:40 How many young people who go back to family farms set up their own ventures?17:40 Advice to others thinking of coming back to the family farm.19:30 Tips on making a plan.23:05 Mindset and mental health. 24:50 What does it mean to have farming roots?27:13 Showstoppers29:15 Peter rounds up. 

Make sure you listen to episode 5 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter introduces the bonus.00:35 How can invertebrates contribute to soil fertility?04:08 Ants farming fungi.05:54 Examples of seeing change from a thriving ecosystem on farms. Where does it work?08:20 What timeframe can we see change in?09:08 How can farmers integrate soil health strategies? Future soil health plans?11:45 Tip for farmers thinking about improving soil. 14:30 Cornish Mutual jingle

Today we're looking at livestock beneath the soil. Host Peter Green asks his guests to make the case for why we should be thinking about life beneath the soil surface as much as our livestock above the ground. He is joined by entomologist and Wiltshire farmer Sally Ann Spence who is a champion for dung beetles and Joel Williams who is a leading independent plant and soil health educator. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.00:57 Sally Ann introduces herself.01:44 Joel introduces himself. 02:22 Why should farmers be considering livestock below the soil as well as those above it?03:00 What about farmers' interest in soil and how attitudes have changed?04:21 The balance between physics, chemistry and biology. What is soil biota and why is it so crucial for soil health?07:30 Sally Ann responds08:45 How can soil health link to the health of livestock?10:04 The science behind this. 12:20 Dung beetles and their role.17:30 Member focus.20:03 Thinking about soil biodiversity - some practical things that farmers can do. 22:32 Classic blockers?24:00 Suggestions from Sally Ann and farm cluster groups 26:00 Insects as pests29:00 Where to contact?29:49 Showstoppers32:00 Peter rounds up.  

Make sure you listen to episode 4 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the bonus.00:40 Farming as a lifestyle and the non cash benefits.02:20 Response from Matt. 07:04 Moving away from subsidy - is there a danger that payments to farmers  just prop up loss making farms?09:33 Should consumers be willing to pay more for food?11:45 Thinking about wealth distribution - how can farmers get a greater share of the value of produce?14:08 How can farmers influence policy?16:28 Engage with others. 19:40 What does the future look like in terms of the way farming looks?20:50 Peter rounds up. 

What is the average farm income? Should farmers be receiving some form of basic income or living wage? This is the focus for our discussion today. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.01:08 Matt Lobley summarises the challenges of farmers and the background regarding farm incomes. 03:08 What is the average wage for a farmer and how does this compare to the living wage?04:48 Geoff Williams introduces himself. 07:00 What are the primary factors for Geoff that pressurise farm income?08:30 How does the concept of a living wage for farmers feed into sustainable agriculture?09:47 Thinking about sustainability there is a direction of travel with ELMs for example with an emphasis on the environment - is this right?12:50 To what extent do the public value farmers providing public goods?17:30 Defra's communications.18:02 Member focus feature with James and Sarah Richards20:50 The concept of a universal basic income in relation to farming. 22:10 What is the path forward to ensure that farmers receive a living wage?24:10 Lots of different systems and what is happening in countries outside the UK?25:00 The issue of new entrants.26:40 Prospects for the future of the industry and barriers to entry. 27:47 Showstoppers.30:08 Peter rounds up the episode

Make sure you listen to episode 3 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the bonus.00:43 The importance of market trends for Mark and Phil. 04:34 What impact has the diversified business had on the overall farm business?06:50 Has the diversified business made life easier or harder for Phil and Mark?10:10 Peter rounds up. 

In this episode host Peter Green is joined by sheep and beef farmer Phil Heard and sheep farmer Mark Rees to hear about how they have diversified their businesses. Phil farms on Dartmoor and has diversified into cattle driving holidays. Mark farms Gotland sheep and has diversified into gin making. In this episode we hear the ins and outs of their stories and how they have got to where they are today. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.00:56 Phil introduces himself and his farming business.02:28 Using horses to round up cattle and sheep. 03:28 How long has Phil's family been on Dartmoor?05:34 Introducing the cattle driving diversification. 08:10 Growth of the business.10:00 The diversification business alongside the farming business.12:08 Mark Rees comes in and tells his story. 14:38 How did Mark start? 17:17 The importance of passion in diversification. 19:40 Creating the first batches of gin. 21:06 Challenges of diversification.24:00 Employment, people and balancing time. 26:15 Advice to others looking to diversify. 27:48 Showstoppers. 30:21 Peter rounds up.               

Make sure you listen to episode 1 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the bonus.00:55 Climate change and the challenges that it brings.06:57 Regulation - is there too much or is the balance right?10:06 Water management and its future. 14:06 What is next for Graham and Chris?16:20 Peter closes the show.  

In this episode of Farming Focus, host Peter Green interviews two farmers, Graham Eggins and Chris Berry, to discuss the challenges and opportunities they face in the Southwest region. Graham farms on the island of Brier in the Isles of Scilly, while Chris farms near Exeter. Graham talks about the logistical challenges of farming on an isolated island, including the transportation of livestock and machinery. He also shares how he diversified his farm by starting a chili operation. Chris discusses the importance of reducing reliance on inputs and the need for adaptability in the face of price volatility and changing labor dynamics. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities facing farmers in the Southwest of the UK. The main challenges discussed include a shortage of people wanting to work in farming, the impact of climate change on water resources, and the burden of regulations. The farmers also discuss the importance of diversification and the need to promote and market their products. The main opportunities highlighted include the use of social media to engage with customers and the potential for direct marketing. The conversation ends with practical tips for farmers, such as pushing themselves out of their comfort zones and improving water management.TakeawaysFarming on an isolated island presents unique logistical challenges, including transportation of livestock and machinery.Diversification can be a successful strategy for farmers, allowing them to find new markets and increase resilience.Reducing reliance on inputs and focusing on self-sufficiency can improve profitability and sustainability.Adaptability is crucial in the face of price volatility and changing labor dynamics in the farming industry. There is a shortage of people wanting to work in farming, and farmers need to find ways to attract and retain workers.Climate change is impacting water resources, and farmers need to adapt by implementing water management strategies.Regulations are a necessary part of farming, but there is a need for support to simplify paperwork and ensure food security.Diversification is important for farmers to explore new opportunities and markets.Social media can be a powerful tool for farmers to promote their products and engage with customers.Improving water management and soil health can help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions.Farmers should push themselves out of their comfort zones and be open to trying new things.Direct marketing and engaging with customers can lead to higher profits and customer loyalty.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.00:57 Chris Berry introduces himself. 01:45 Graham Eggins introduces himself. 03:08 What brought Graham to Bryher?06:08 Graham does everything and has to wear many hats. 06:57 Graham has heavily diversified  - what has influenced this? 07:45 Graham's chilli business - how did this start?12.15 Trying different things. Has Graham always been like this? 14:02 Chris's reaction to Graham's story. 15:20 Keep things simple.18:57 Being aware that things need to change - Chris's story and how he is planning for the future. 20:42 Keep things fun to attract people. 21:26 'Member Focus'24:58 The main challenges for agriculture as an industry. [Graham]27:49 Chris adds his thoughts. 29:09 Practical tips to farmers. - try things outside of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself.  Split your fields into two. 30:59 Showstoppers. 33:29 Peter ends the show. 

Make sure you listen to episode 1 to get the most from this bonus episode. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the bonus and Prof Mike Coffey / Jim Dixon.00:33 What is next for cattle genetics and what breakthroughs do we still want to make?03:05 How useful is it to reduce breeding values down to a single figure?05: 57 Lessons from traditional and heritage breeds?07:51 Comments from Jim on other breeds. 08:43 Make sure that the animals you have are fit for purpose where you are.   

In this episode of Farming Focus, host Peter Green explores the topic of breeding the perfect cow. He is joined by James Dixon, a farmer who raises stabilizer cattle in Cumbria, and Professor Mike Coffey from SRUC. They discuss the benefits of composite breeds like stabilizers, the history of cattle genetics, and the use of genomics in breeding. They also touch on the importance of feed efficiency and its impact on methane emissions. Overall, the conversation highlights the ongoing efforts to improve cattle genetics and the challenges and opportunities in breeding the ideal cow. The conversation explores the importance of feed efficiency and carbon footprint in cattle farming. It discusses the priorities for genetic improvement, including the use of estimated breeding values (EBVs) and visual selection. The conversation also touches on the role of genetics in disease resistance, cost efficiency, and meat quality. It highlights the need for data-driven decision-making and the importance of recording phenotypes. The guests emphasize the goal of breeding animals that are economically viable, low-maintenance, and fit for purpose. We also have a new feature on the show in which we meet Cornish Mutual members. TakeawaysThe perfect cow is subjective and varies depending on the farm and its specific needs.Composite breeds like stabilizers offer the benefit of hybrid vigor and the ability to introduce new bloodlines.Genetic improvement in cattle has come a long way, with a focus on traits like milk yield, fertility, and feed efficiency.The use of genomics has revolutionized the breeding process, allowing for more accurate selection at a younger age.Feed efficiency is an important trait that can lead to cost savings and reduced methane emissions in cattle farming. Feed efficiency and carbon footprint are important considerations in cattle farming.Genetic improvement can be achieved through the use of estimated breeding values (EBVs) and visual selection.Disease resistance, cost efficiency, and meat quality are key focuses for genetic improvement.Data-driven decision-making and recording phenotypes are crucial for genetic progress.The goal is to breed animals that are economically viable, low-maintenance, and fit for purpose.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show.01:38 James Dixon introduces himself. 02:45 Looking more at the stablizer breed.03:58 Jim's switch from dairy to beef.05:30 Prof Mike Coffey introduces himself.06:00 How far have we come with genetic improvement?08:25 Have half an eye on the efficiency of the business when thinking about genetic decisions. 12:00 How has breeding itself changed and what opportunities does this present?14:20 Peter summarises the points so far.16:00 Jim talks about genomics in beef herds.18:18 Feed efficiency of cattle.19:29 Member focus feature - Peter goes to Royal Cornwall Show.21:52 Jim's priorities for genetic improvement. 23:30 What are the key focuses for genetics at large?25:22 How much of an issue is it that decisions of beef genetics are being made by dairy farmers? 26:35 Peter's perfect cow - what would the guests' perfect cow look like?29:18 Advice to farmers from Mike and Jim. 30:30 Showstoppers32:46 Peter rounds up the episode. 

In this episode, Peter is joined by Catherine Mead OBE who is the owner of Lynher Dairies, the home of Cornish Yarg cheese; and David Fursdon who is the Chair of both Dyson Farming and The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture as well as a trustee of the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission and the Royal Countryside Fund. David recently joined the board of Cornish Mutual.In this second series of Farming Focus we're asking the question 'does my farm have a future?'.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show01:22 Catherine Mead introduces herself.01:48 David Fursdon introduces himself. 02:21 Going back to episode 1 - Jake Freestone talks about the future for his farm in Worcestershire.03:53 How do we find more certainty in farming?05:34 Catherine gives her thoughts on the uncertainty of today.07:34 Peter introduces the episode with Peter Craven in it. 09:00 How significant an issue is succession for farming families?11:35 David's thoughts on succession.12:49 Peter introduces the episode with Chris Manley in episode 3.14:30 Are we getting better at talking about health and wellbeing?17:15 Peter introduces episode with Simon Haley. 18:38 How can farmers balance the main business with diversified income?22:00 Peter introduces episode with Adele Jones. 23:20 Net zero - are we moving quickly enough and do we have the resources to do it?26:16 Catherine's thoughts on the shift towards net zero.29:55 We have a positive story and we can keep it simple. 30:35 Peter introduces episode with Amy Jackson on communication and animal welfare.32:03 Thoughts on what we should be communicating towards 2050?33:42 The 3 skills or attributes that farmers will need to be successful in the future?35:40 What does the future of farming look like and what will farming look like in 2050?38:32 Peter rounds up the episode. 

In this episode Peter speaks to Dr Amy Jackson, founder and director of Oxtale Communications about animal health and welfare, including the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the bonus and Amy Jackson. 00:38 What is the government's animal health and welfare pathway? 03:42 The difference between standards and attainment. Vet visits encourage farmers to be more proactive. What is the ceiling from using these visits? 05:37 Get value for money from your vet. 06:06 The role of the vet is changing. 06:48 How can higher welfare add value to an operation?08:18 Show that the animal takes priority - this carries credibility.08:36 A benefit to the team dealing with the livestock. 09:26 Jingle09:31 Peter rounds up. 

In this episode, Peter is joined by Amy Jackson who founded Oxtale Communications. Peter and Amy discuss the topic of communication through the lens of animal health and welfare. In this second series of Farming Focus we're asking the question 'does my farm have a future?'.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show01:09 Peter's Future Farm in 60 seconds.02:38 Peter introduces Dr Amy Jackson. 03:02 Amy introduces herself and her work. 03:40 Does the UK have the highest welfare standards in the world?04:28 What's the difference between 'health' and 'welfare'?07:56 Indoor and outdoor systems. 09:20 How do farmers communicate to the public when it comes to health and welfare and where does health and welfare rank in terms of importance to the public?13:05 Some farmers may be apprehensive or defensive about talking about welfare but farmers can accentuate the positives. 14:24 We don't always get everything right. 15:08 Own your situation and don't have a victim mindset. 15:30 Obama podcast. 18:03 Consumption is still rising for a lot of agricultural products. 19:39 Social licence to farm.19:50 How can farmers tell their story?23:30 A practical tip from Amy - talk to people and listen.24:45 What 3 skills or attributes will farmers of the future need? - be resilient; be empathetic; have holidays. 27:31 Showstoppers.29:45 Peter rounds up the episode. 

In this bonus episode we hear more from last week's guests Pete and Jenny Olds. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the bonus and today's guests.00:40 Pete Olds talks about their Open Farm Sunday event. 01:43 What are the benefits of hosting Open Farm Sunday for the Olds? 03:49 There is a huge appetite to learn.05:27 Other things that the Olds do to engage with people. 07:35 Jenny's advice to a farmer who is not sure where to start and might be wary of holding an event.08:55 How to ensure a farm event is successful? Jenny's top tips. 10:20 What can go wrong with farm events?12:30 Peter rounds up. 12:50 Closing message. 

In this episode, Peter is joined by Steve McLean, Head of Agriculture and Fisheries Sourcing at M&S to discuss connecting with the public. What can farmers and retailers learn from each other? In the middle of the show Peter speaks to Cornish farmers Pete and Jenny Olds from Cornhill Farm to discover their secrets of connecting with the public. In this second series of Farming Focus we're asking the question 'does my farm have a future?'.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show01:07 Peter's Future Farm in 60 seconds.02:15 Peter introduces Steve McLean, today's guest.02:28 Steve comes in. 03:16 The Buy British aisle and how M&S supports UK ag. 04:14 Valuing UK produce and British sourcing. 05:49 What do consumers pick up on when it comes to messaging around food?07:48 What is the role of the farm in marketing messages?09:00 Who's job is it to engage with customers?11:43 How can the supply chain work together in future?13:35 Peter speaks to Pete and Jenny Olds. 14:02 Pete introduces Cornhill Farm. 14:42 @cornhillfarm on instagram and Jack Cam.14:58 Jenny talks about social media and marketing.17:44 Why is it important for farmers to engage with the public?19:05 Others in the industry are reliant on agricuilture.19:42 What 3 skills or attributes will farmers of the future need in order to be successful? - adapt, be good at communicating and be diverse. Reactive; friendly; chatty. 22:00 Returning to Steve McLean - on engaging with the public. 23:20 Steve's 3 skills/attributes that farmers of the future will need - communication; be different; open to the next gen. 24:58 Showstoppers.27:04 Peter rounds up. 

In this episode Ian Baggs, a Dorset dairy farmer and Nuffield scholar, talks to Peter about his Nuffield scholarship which was entitled:  'Sustainable Forage Cropping for Dairy Cattle in the Face of Climate Change Challenges'. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the bonus and Ian Baggs.00:45 Why did Ian want to apply for a Nuffield scholarship?06:30 Peter asks Ian to tell him about some specific examples of his Nuffield travels. 14:25 Jingle14:29 Peter rounds up 

In this episode Peter talks to Dorset dairy farmer Ian Baggs and Adele Jones, Executive Director of the Sustainable Food Trust to discuss different ways of farming to adapt to a changing climate. In this second series of Farming Focus we're asking the question 'does my farm have a future?'.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show00:48 Peter's Future Farm in 60 seconds02:07 Peter introduces today's guests02:29 Ian Baggs introduces himself and his family's farm. 03:30 Adele Jones introduces herself and the Sustainable Food Trust04:57 What impact has Ian seen on his farm that could signify a more volatile climate?07:00 Why is it important that all farmers think about preparing their farm for the future in terms of more volatile weather?08:30 Why should farmers question and challenge what they do?10:07 Growing the right plant in the right place.14:30 How can Ian's learnings be applied to other farms?17:30 The Global Farm Metric20:50 jingle20:57 Showstoppers23:10 Practical tips to farmers25:25 Words - openness and being vulnerable; resilience; bravery; open to new ways of thinking; be prepared to change; be happy and fulfilled27:10 Peter wraps up.  

In this bonus episode Rachel and Chris Knowles and Tim Fussell speak more about their businesses and about adding value. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the bonus and today's guests.00:42 What does it mean to add value on farm?04:12 At Trink Dairy, what does adding value look like?05:10 Taking the leap to add value. 06:00 How critical is it to get the marketing of a product right at the beginning of its life?07:20 Welcoming the public on to the farm at Trink Dairy.08:38 jingle08:45 Peter rounds up.   

In this episode Peter talks to Tim Fussell from Fussel's Fine Foods in Somerset and Rachel and Chris Knowles from Trink Dairy in Conrwall about 'adding value' and the journeys that each respective business has been on. In this second series of Farming Focus we're asking the question 'does my farm have a future?'.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the show00:51 Peter's Future Farm in 60 seconds02:00 Peter introduces today's guests02:27 Tim Fussell introduces his business03:41 Rachel Knowles introduces Trink Dairy.04:22 Chris Knowles talks about the herd.05:29 Trink Dairy selling direct06:48 Understanding the pit falls.08:03 Fussel's Fine Foods - why they started to add value. 10:57 Be led by people who know better than you.12:03 Staffing at Trink Dairy.14:42 Staffing at Fussel's Fine Foods.18:12 Future of Fussel's Fine Foods. 20:15 The Future for Trink Dairy.21:28 The role of adding value in the future of farming.23:09 Jingle23:17 Showstoppers25:31 Messages to take away26:46 Three words that farmers will need in the future. 28:04 Peter rounds up.   

In this episode George Dunn, Chief Executive of the Tenant Farmers Association speaks more about tenancies and the wider farming industry. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:14 Peter Green introduces the bonus and George Dunn.00:50 George's key tips for a new entrant's first tenancy application and how they can learn from previous attempts. 03:38 If a new entrant is approaching a landlord for a share farming scheme or joint venture. 06:38 Make sure you document everything.08:06 Share farming, joint ventures and employment - George's mention to younger listeners on building a career. 10:08 Which demographics are well represented in agriculture and how do we encourage greater diversity?15:38 Peter Green rounds up.      

In this episode Peter talks to George Dunn, CEO at the Tenant Farmers Association and Ben and Josh Nicholls, Cornish dairy farmers who won last year's Cornwall Young Farmer of the Year award.  They discuss the future of land access and how new entrants can get on the farming ladder from securing a tenancy to thinking outside the box.  In this second series of Farming Focus we're asking the question 'does my farm have a future?'.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:15 Peter Green introduces the episode. 00:58 Peter's Future Farm in 60 seconds.02:12 Peter introduces today's guests. 02:54 Josh Nicholls introduces himself and his family's business.04:45 Ben Nicholls introduces himself and how he works with Josh. 07:32 What was it like to win the Young farmer of the year at the Cornwall Farm Business awards?08:37 George Dunn comments on Josh and Ben's story. 10:30 How many tenancies are secured by new entrants? 11:56 Is there a lot of competition from other land uses but also what are the opportunities for new markets?14:10 Following the Rock Review, how confident should tenant farmers be?16:04 Ben explains the nature of their tenancy. 16:54 How do landlords find enthusiastic new tenants?18:14 What are the barriers for young people getting into farming?19:36 What help did Josh and Ben get in putting their application together?20:41 Using your network. 23:21 What would Josh recommend young farmers do to secure a tenancy?24:16 Showstoppers26:14 Practical tips from George, Josh and Ben. 27:30 3 words to show what attributes farmers of the future will need.30:15 Peter rounds up.                  

Simon Haley is a rural business adviser based in the north west of England. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:15 Peter Green introduces the bonus episode. 00:50 Simon's advice on where to start with seeking funding. 04:50 Sources of finance.07:45 The five 's's - security; serviceability; sensitivity; sustainability; sensibility.10:02 Business plans. - tell the story. 13:12 Common mistakes with diversification. 14:46 - The 6 'd's - death, debt, dispute, disolution, disagreement; diversification17:40 What is Simon's key piece of advice when getting a plan off the ground. 19:26 Peter Green rounds up. 

In this episode rural business adviser Simon Haley comes on the show to talk about diversification. Peter also speaks to Somerset farmers Rob Addicott and Jeremy Padfield.In this second series of Farming Focus we're asking the question 'does my farm have a future?'.Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. Timestamps00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle00:15 Peter Green introduces the episode. 01:19 Peter's Future Farm feature. 02:43 Peter introduces Simon Haley. 02:59 Simon Haley introduces how he works with farmers in the north west region. 03:36 What are some of the most popular diversifications on farm?06:09 How will I diversify my time?08:26 If we stand still we go backwards. 10:17 Peter introduces Rob and Jeremy - today's farmer guests. 11:12 Rob Addicott introduces himself.13:20 Jeremy Padfield introduces his business.16:15 How did Rob and Jeremy plan their diversifications?17:40 Advice to farmers who are looking to diversify?19:06 What skills or attributes will farmers of the future need to thrive?20:08 Listeners' questions. 23:50 Advice to farmers as to next steps...25:30 Showstoppers.27:00 One practical tip from Simon. 28:17 Key attributes. 30:00 Peter rounds up.