Podcast appearances and mentions of Andrew Little

Implementing conservation practices like prairie strips or cover crops on your farm might feel like an overwhelming or confusing process. But private lands biologists and other conservation professionals are an invaluable resource to help farmers and landowners navigate the process and choose the best options. This month, we are joined by longtime Nebraska farmer Ed Olson along with Rob Peterson, a Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist with Pheasants Forever. From decision-making and motivations to mishaps and problem-solving, we get a unique inside look into the working relationship between a farmer and biologist. Whether you are a farmer, landowner, conservation professional, or just interested in the interplay of conservation and working lands, this is a unique episode you won't want to miss. Resources: Pheasants Forever: Find a Biologist USDA: Conservation Reserve Program Sand County Foundation: Ed and Leta Olson recieve Leopold Conservation Award   Ed Olson Rob Peterson [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants quailforever of ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

There's an air of arrogance and butt-covering to the stench that is Moa Point. In a nutshell, the council, its water management company, and the contractor were all a bit shit at their jobs. And Wellington's South Coast has been shat on – 14 billion litres of raw sewage, to be precise. None of them took charge of and ownership of the water treatment plant. And they didn't talk to each other or listen to some quite critical information and warnings. Anyone getting Mount Manganui vibes here? But the part that gets me, and should get us all, is the no show from ratepayer-funded bureaucrats ducking for cover. Council infrastructure leaders, who clearly are leaders in job title only, did not meet with the Crown Review team to tell them about their role in this shambles. They were asked for in-person meetings. They were asked to sit down in front of somebody and explain themselves. And they ran. They ducked. They gave written responses. 14 billion litres of Wellington's digested breakfasts on the beach deserves more than written answers. It's like the politicians who dodged the Covid inquiry. Why would you do not front up in person unless you had something to hide? Why would you not speak in person, unless you were worried about what you'd say? Did lawyers and comms staff, at the ratepayers' expense, review all those written responses before you hit send? People don't necessarily lose trust in councils over mistakes. Mistakes happen to us all. Coverups and accountability dodgers – they're the ones who flush our trust down the toilet. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington's Mayor says new rates cap could mean cutting back on important work. The Government's clarified key aspects of its plan to cap council rate hikes at 4%, which is expected to come into force in 2029. Councils would be expected to prepare for it from next July, although the scheme excludes water services. Wellington Mayor Andrew Little told Ryan Bridge they currently have a work programme underway to shore up the city against potential slips. He says not continuing with this goes against another government instruction to make sure they're climate resilient. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us in celebrating the 100th year of pheasant hunting in Nebraska! In this episode of the WildAg Podcast, we welcome Lonnie Shafer, hunter and author of Shafer's Nebraska Pheasant Hunting Almanac, to explore the history of the Ring-necked pheasant in Nebraska and across the United States. Schafer traces the bird's origins in Asia, its introduction to North America, and the events that led to its establishment as one of the nation's most iconic game birds. The conversation also examines the evolution of pheasant hunting in the U.S., highlighting how changing landscapes, wildlife management, and conservation efforts have shaped hunting and stocking over time.  Resources: Shafer's Nebraska Pheasant Hunting Almanac on Amazon Nebraska Pheasant Introduction 101 on Pheasants Forever   Lonnie Shafer [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

Neale Jones was Chief of Staff to Labour Leader Jacinda Ardern, and prior to that was Chief of Staff to Andrew Little. He is the director of public affairs firm Capital. Andrew Ketels was the Act Party's chief of staff from 2020 to 2025 and has worked as an advisor to the National Party. He is currently head of government relations for corporate affairs firm Sherson Willis. [picture id="4JJWSRK_Image_13_jpg" crop="16x10" layout="full"] Andrew, Neale and Kathryn discuss recent events in politics including the failed National leadership coup. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Neale Jones was Chief of Staff to Labour Leader Jacinda Ardern, and prior to that was Chief of Staff to Andrew Little. He is the director of public affairs firm Capital. Andrew Ketels was the Act Party's chief of staff from 2020 to 2025.

Say it's Erica Stanford as leader, does she swing your vote? What about Bishop? Do things materially change because he is suddenly the leader? This is the madness of what National are up to. There's the panickers in the back, some of whom might lose their jobs, because when they arrived as the tide pulled in in 2023, they didn't work out some of them have to lose three years later, because that's what tides do. They turn. National of course have form in Bill English and Judith Collins. We all remember the calamity that seems to grip the party when they put self-interest first. But this time things are different. Polls have them returning for another term. And even if you're angsty about that, replacing Luxon does not change a thing. Direction doesn't change, policy doesn't change and the coalition doesn't change. Do the optics change? Maybe. Is that what the majority of people vote on? The optics? This election is about whether the country is going in the right direction, or not. Your mind will not be changed based on Stanford, Bishop, or Luxon. The work they have done to get us here has already got your vote, or it hasn't. As for Chris Penk and his dirty work in this whole exercise – what a doofus. How did he get sucked into this? Being disloyal is one of human nature's lowest traits and National seem to be comfortable with it. Even if you argue Luxon never quite fired, and a lot do, he is not individually holding National back from winning an election. Given all the polling this should not be happening. That's how mental it all is. If they were on 22% and losing, if it was Andrew Little and Labour, if it was English in 2002, then maybe. But it isn't. The Opposition is barely alive, one of their three parties is imploding, and the Poll of Polls has little, if any, path to Government. So the good old Nats decide to put their best self-interest foot forward and shoot themselves in it. As one senior Nat put it to me yesterday; "you can't write this stuff". See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The deadline has passed, and two amalgamation proposals have been submitted by the Wellington region's councils. The two plans are one big regional council - supported by Wellington City, Lower Hutt, Porirua and South Wairarapa, and a separate Wairarapa council supported by Masterton and Carterton. Upper Hutt and Kapiti have decided to go alone. Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little joins the show to share details of the submission, what's likely to happen next, and how he thinks the government will take on the proposals. Also, the deal with South Wairarapa, and the likelihood of a separate Wairarapa unitary authority. Does he expect the government will accept the proposals as is? Then the Mayor shares his memories of Takapū/Northern Ward Councillor Tony Randle who sadly passed over the weekend. He is remembered as a devoted councillor, family man, provided valued analysis and quality decision-making for the council, and was a staunch advocate for transport services in the city. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us in celebrating the 100th year of pheasant hunting in Nebraska! In this episode of the WildAg Podcast, we welcome Lonnie Shafer, hunter and author of Shafer's Nebraska Pheasant Hunting Almanac, to explore the history of the Ring-necked pheasant in Nebraska and across the United States. Schafer traces the bird's origins in Asia, its introduction to North America, and the events that led to its establishment as one of the nation's most iconic game birds. The conversation also examines the evolution of pheasant hunting in the U.S., highlighting how changing landscapes, wildlife management, and conservation efforts have shaped hunting and stocking over time.   Resources:  Shafer's Nebraska Pheasant Hunting Almanac on Amazon  Nebraska Pheasant Introduction 101 on Pheasants Forever    Lonnie Shafer [website]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

Horowhenua is unlikely to be included in amalgamation plans for the capital, according to Wellington Mayor Andrew Little. With the deadline for councils around the country to submit their voluntary merger or unitary authority plans around amalgamation less than a week away, Little told Wellington Mornings with Nick Mills that thorough discussions are continuing this week. The Mayor also discussed residents' new Tiaki Wai water bills, and apologised if the bill amounts have caused anxiety to residents. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington City Mayor joins Nick Mills in the studio for his monthly chat, one week out from the amalgamation deadline. Mayor Little takes your calls and Nick's questions including what happens if Upper Hutt doesn't cooperate? Will they be, as Hutt City Ken Laban says, "on the menu"? He says the focus of the amalgamation is keeping constituents connected with their council and avoiding distance others like Auckland experience. Also on the agenda, the arrival of Tiaki Wai's first water bills and Wellington transport issues. Mayor Little says "you've got to wonder" if the second Mt Victoria Tunnel will be completed in his lifetime. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Public Service Association says it will be discouraging Wellington City Council's from cutting roles, as it proposes a major restructure. Our newsroom understands up to 50 staff could be impacted from the council's climate change response, planning, communications, property and events teams. PSA Assistant Secretary Tom Buckley told Ryan Bridge Wellington's been through a lot in recent years, and this isn't the right time to cut jobs. He says it also comes ahead of the Government's proposal to amalgamate councils, which is already creating uncertainty within the Council's workforce. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Because in the latest RNZ Reid research poll, more than half the people surveyed said they could be persuaded to vote for a different party. Which says a lot about the state of the parties currently ... but also got us thinking about what political parties need to do to target these so-called swing voters and how much energy would go into creating policies that could appeal to them. Clint Smith has held a variety of roles in Government, including in Jacinda Ardern's Government, And as Senior Policy Strategist for her predecessor, Andrew Little. He is now Director at Victor Consulting, and he joins Emile to discuss.

In this episode, we chat with Josh Murman and Colton Rathman to explore how PTx Ag is bringing autonomous technology to the farm by transforming compatible tractors into self-operating machines. We discuss how the system works and how it helps farmers tackle labor shortages, improve efficiency, and complete critical fieldwork on time. But we also look beyond productivity, exploring how autonomy could make conservation practices such as cover cropping, reduced tillage, and other stewardship efforts more practical and accessible by reducing the time and labor they require. Whether you're curious about autonomous farming or the future of sustainable agriculture, this episode offers an inside look at the opportunities this technology can create.   Resources: PTx Ag: OutRun Retrofit Autonomy Kit PTx Ag: Find a Dealer   Josh Murman [LinkedIn] Colton Rathman [LinkedIn] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

In this episode, we chat with Josh Murman and Colton Rathman to explore how PTx Ag is bringing autonomous technology to the farm by transforming compatible tractors into self-operating machines. We discuss how the system works and how it helps farmers tackle labor shortages, improve efficiency, and complete critical fieldwork on time. But we also look beyond productivity, exploring how autonomy could make conservation practices such as cover cropping, reduced tillage, and other stewardship efforts more practical and accessible by reducing the time and labor they require. Whether you're curious about autonomous farming or the future of sustainable agriculture, this episode offers an inside look at the opportunities this technology can create.    Resources:  PTx Ag: OutRun Retrofit Autonomy Kit  PTx Ag: Find a Dealer    Josh Murman [LinkedIn]  Colton Rathman [LinkedIn]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

Wellington looks to me to be in rude health. For a city down in the dumps, with a reputation problem and a previously shocking council, public service issues and any number of surveys talking about negativity, how come Wellington looks so busy? I was down for dinner Saturday night. The drive from the airport around the Bays was packed. Jervois Quay was packed, bumper to bumper. If you had told me there was an All Black test down the end of the road at the stadium I would have believed you. The restaurant was packed. They do two sittings a night and you can't get a table. The restaurant next door was packed. They got a Michelin star earlier in the week but they told me it was always busy anyway. The hotel was flat out. It could be because of school holidays. I stood in the hotel room after dinner looking down on the traffic. I have no idea where they were off to but there were a lot of them. Having lived in Wellington for a decade I think it's probably the best looking of our cities. There is a lot of seriously good architecture, some beautiful buildings and a lot of suburbs with houses with spectacular views. But it's reputation is still a problem. Katie asked on Instagram where the best place to eat in Wellington was. One person said the Koru lounge while another person said anywhere in Auckland. In fact a lot of people made those jokes. There is a strong anti-Wellington vibe around the country and yet, and I guess this is the tourist snapshot problem, one night does not a proper impression make. There were all those international travellers that talked about how fabulous the world was and how miserable New Zealand is when we went around the world the other day. I think we busted that myth because any place, when you are in a hotel or in a restaurant without a care in the world, seems better than home. But it doesn't mean they don't have their issues. Wellington seems like a good looking town. The hospitality scene, despite all you hear, on Saturday night was overflowing. It was busy, it was bustling and as I sat in the restaurant for breakfast at seven o'clock yesterday morning there was a lot more action out and about than you ever see in a place like Christchurch and Auckland at that time on a weekend. And that's before you get to the joggers on Evans Bay Parade running into a southerly and seven degrees. You've got to love that. Wellington the image and Wellington the reality is not the same thing. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little joins Nick Mills in the studio for the July edition of his monthly catch up. Mayor Little takes Nick's and callers questions for the hour on the latest in the capital. They hit the top stories of the week including the council's public defiance of move on orders, solutions to our homeless problem and how we can get the city looking and feeling good again. Then onto the three advisory groups put together by the council to improve the city. Why did the Mayor go back on his opinion he was against forming these boards? And Nick asks how the success will be measured. And Tiaki Wai makes it to day 2. How has the transition gone and what does Wellington have in store with our new water entity. Plus, Nick and the Mayor celebrate the 3 Michelin stars Wellington businesses were awarded this week. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington council has unveiled their new team aiming to help the capital get its mojo back. The council has brought together a lineup of business, property, technology and creative sector leaders to help shape a five-year plan to grow the city's economy. Mayor Andrew Little says Wellington's seen limited economic growth over the last few years, and the council's hoping to turn that around. "We've got our work cut out for us. We do have some strength - beyond being a public service city, we do have some other strengths, and it's about drawing on those things." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington council has unveiled their new team aiming to help the capital get its mojo back. The council has brought together a lineup of business, property, technology and creative sector leaders to help shape a five-year plan to grow the city's economy. Mayor Andrew Little says Wellington's seen limited economic growth over the last few years, and the council's hoping to turn that around. "We've got our work cut out for us. We do have some strength - beyond being a public service city, we do have some other strengths, and it's about drawing on those things." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tell me something: does what's just happened with the Golden Mile upgrade in Wellington restore your faith in the possibility that councils can actually be run properly? Because that thing - I don't know if you've been following it over the years - but the Golden Mile upgrade has been an albatross around the necks of Wellington business owners and ratepayers since probably about 2016. It was always going to be too expensive, especially when it tripled in price. It was always going to kill businesses once construction started and cars were banned from driving on the Golden Mile. And it was always going to be one of the most frustrating examples of a Labour-Green majority council, obsessed with its hatred of cars, forcing through its pet project despite howls of outrage from the public - who would end up paying for it in more ways than one. This went on for years and years: the public saying “please don't,” the council saying, “nah, we're gonna.” It just went on and on.Then Andrew Little arrived - the first good mayor since Kerry Prendergast left office in 2010 - and everything changed. Within six months, the Golden Mile project was dead. Even councillors who had previously voted for it, like Ben McNulty, changed their votes and killed it off - presumably because that's what a good leader does. They take people with them. They change people's minds. Andrew Little is like a new broom in that city. He's killed off the most vexed and controversial project. He's fired a warning shot at the consultants that he is not prepared to pay endless bills for a cast of thousands to tell him what two or three people could. He's forced council staff to cut back on ridiculously high budgets. He's immediately reduced the infighting around the table. He's the grown-up who has taken over after 15 years of the kids trying to run the place themselves. For the first time in a very, very long time, Wellington City Council is not the worst council in the country. It restores your faith, doesn't it? All you need is a decent candidate to put their hand up, and even the worst-run place can actually be rescued. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington's controversial Golden Mile project's been canned, following a three-hour council debate. In their final vote, 14 wanted to discontinue the revitalisation project - with three opposed. Councillor Karl Tiefenbacher stood aside from voting because of a conflict of interest. Mayor Andrew Little says they ran the numbers, and the council can't afford another $60 million. "Some bits don't stack up, some bits might - but we actually just can't afford $60 million, so I'm supportive of us just going back and seeing what we can do, and trying to get some savings at the same time." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington's mayor Andrew Little has declared a state of emergency for the city's Southern and Eastern wards. It comes as a heavy swell warning is issued, with the public asked to avoid beaches and coastal areas around Wairarapa and Wellington. Dan Neely from the Wellington Civil Defence Emergency Management Office spoke to Melissa Chan-Green. 

Wellington's mayor has voiced concerns with the Government cracking down on local councils. The mayor's outlined his response to the Government debate on council amalgamation - saying he'd vote yes on merging if a vote were held today. Councils have an August deadline to plan potential groupings, and are hold regular discussions. Andrew Little says the three-month deadline isn't enough, citing issues that arose with Auckland council. "I'm responsive to that, let's put together the best thing we can together - but I don't want to mislead the residents of the Wellington region and say that everybody's going to get a fair say, because we just won't have time to." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast with Andrew Dickens for Wednesday, 3 June, 2026, Wellington mayor Andrew Little says he agrees with amalgamation but thinks the government's set an unfair timeframe. We talk to the Hospitality NZ chief executive about a dramatic rise in closures in the industry. Football commentator Jason Pine now fears for what England will do to the All Whites after a humiliating loss to Haiti. And on The Huddle, Jack Tame and Maurice Williamson debate whether the Te Huia train trip between Auckland and Hamilton is worth it after a fares increase. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. Grace Schuster joins co-hosts Andy and Nathan to discuss her PhD research on how bioenergy crop production impacts grassland bird communities in southwestern Nebraska. From the feasibility of large-scale switchgrass production to conservation strategies, this episode explores the balance between fueling the future and protecting our wildlife. Can agricultural landscapes support both renewable energy goals and healthy bird populations? Tune in for a fascinating conversation at the intersection of ecology, agriculture, and conservation.   Resources: Bioenergy Crop Production: Implications for Grassland Bird Communities in Southwestern Nebraska (Thesis) Further information on this research project (AWESM Lab)   Dr. Grace Schuster [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

In this episode, Dr. Grace Schuster joins co-hosts Andy and Nathan to discuss her PhD research on how bioenergy crop production impacts grassland bird communities in southwestern Nebraska. From the feasibility of large-scale switchgrass production to conservation strategies, this episode explores the balance between fueling the future and protecting our wildlife. Can agricultural landscapes support both renewable energy goals and healthy bird populations? Tune in for a fascinating conversation at the intersection of ecology, agriculture, and conservation.    Resources:  Bioenergy Crop Production: Implications for Grassland Bird Communities in Southwestern Nebraska (Thesis)  Further information on this research project (AWESM Lab)    Dr. Grace Schuster [website]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

Wellington's mayor is talking up cost savings, as the council chases a lower 5.8 percent rates rise. It proposed 7.4 percent during public consultation. Some fees and user charges are increasing and big projects like the Town Hall and refurbishing the Botanic Gardens' Begonia House will continue. Andrew Little says they made cuts to keep rates down. "Finding savings isn't an annual activity, it's a daily activity - so they carried on working, they found these projects that aren't going to be finished, that don't have to be depreciated , so we could donate to budget for that." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's time for Mayoral minutes our regular weekly segment where we speak with a local mayor about the challenges they're facing, how they're working to solve them and what makes their community special. Today we're heading to the capital Wellington, from where Mayor Andrew Little joins Jesse.

Wellington mayor Andrew Little responds to the government's announcement that it plans to cut almost 9000 public sector jobs over the next three years. Mayor Little spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Neale Jones was Chief of Staff to Labour Leader Jacinda Ardern, and prior to that was Chief of Staff to Andrew Little. He is the director of public affairs firm Capital. Peter Dunne was the leader of United Future and is a former MP and Minister who has worked within both National and Labour governments.

Now, you would have thought that after all the publicity Wellington City Council has been getting - and the paid staff have been getting - for being caught doing things behind the backs of elected councillors, they probably wouldn't do it again. And yet, here we are. They've been caught doing it again. The latest revelation is that they have decided to exempt themselves from a Government law brought in about three months ago. The law prevents employees who earn more than $200,000 from taking personal grievance cases against their bosses if they are fired. In other words, there will be no golden handshake if you've been sacked while earning that kind of money. But guess what? Wellington City Council bosses decided they weren't going to follow that law and exempted 42 of their staff from it. That's quite unbelievable, because the law is intended to make it easier for employers to remove incompetent managers who have been doing very little for years on end. And Wellington City Council knows it has a problem. A recent report suggests they may have a couple of hundred staff they need to get rid of. They have one of the highest staffing levels in the country when compared with other councils. As I say, they didn't tell elected councillors they made this decision. However, a councillor found out, started asking questions and it turns out it was true. Technically, the council can argue it didn't have to inform elected councillors -this is an employment decision they can make themselves. But even the mayor, Andrew Little, has said this should have gone to the council for signoff. It's not a good look. And it's becoming a bit of a running theme, hasn't it? Not just in Wellington but around the country: unelected staff making decisions in secret that ratepayers probably wouldn't be happy about if they knew. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we're joined by Jake Koenig, Midwest Habitat Program Manager for the Monarch Joint Venture, to explore the fascinating world of monarch butterflies. Jake shares insights into their incredible multi-generational migration, the challenges they face, and what conservation efforts are underway to support their survival and growth. He also takes us along on his recent trip to Mexico, where monarchs gather in breathtaking numbers at their overwintering grounds. From the incredible spectacle of migration to possible ventures in milkweed production, we explore the incredible world of the monarch and the role we can play in it.   Resources: Monarch Life Cycle Cards  Habitat signs for advocacy Remote sensing Mowing management best management practices Community science opportunities  Research reviews Solar synergy program   Jake Koenig [website, Instagram, Facebook] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

In this episode, we're joined by Jake Koenig, Midwest Habitat Program Manager for the Monarch Joint Venture, to explore the fascinating world of monarch butterflies. Jake shares insights into their incredible multi-generational migration, the challenges they face, and what conservation efforts are underway to support their survival and growth. He also takes us along on his recent trip to Mexico, where monarchs gather in breathtaking numbers at their overwintering grounds. From the incredible spectacle of migration to possible ventures in milkweed production, we explore the incredible world of the monarch and the role we can play in it.    Resources:  Monarch Life Cycle Cards   Habitat signs for advocacy  Remote sensing  Mowing management best management practices  Community science opportunities   Research reviews  Solar synergy program    Jake Koenig [website, Instagram, Facebook]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

Concerns have been raised over the new Wellington water entity, as its board members will be paid twice as much as their Wellington Water counterparts. The group's new chair will be paid $110,000 - a higher figure than the $60,000 Wellington Water's previous chair was paid. The entity's CEO will also be paid $645,000 - a higher amount than the previous Wellington Water CEO got. Wellington mayor Andrew Little says this is disappointing news, even if the group has plenty to manage. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you grew up on or near a farm, you might think back fondly on summer days spent fishing in your local pond. From small ponds to large reservoirs, water in working landscapes provides numerous opportunities while also facing challenges. This month we are joined by Jeff Jackson, Aquatic Habitat Program Manager at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to talk about fishery and pond management in agricultural and working landscapes. From water quality and sedimentation to healthy bass fisheries and beyond, Jeff covers the challenges facing our ponds and lakes and what we can do to ensure healthy waters for everyone.   Resources: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Nebraska Game and Parks 2026 Fishing Guide   Jeff Jackson [contact] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

If you grew up on or near a farm, you might think back fondly on summer days spent fishing in your local pond. From small ponds to large reservoirs, water in working landscapes providesnumerous opportunities while also facing challenges. This month we are joined by Jeff Jackson, Aquatic Habitat Program Manager at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to talk about fishery and pond management in agricultural and working landscapes. From water quality and sedimentation to healthy bass fisheries and beyond, Jeff covers the challenges facing our ponds and lakes and what we can do to ensure healthy waters for everyone.    Resources:  Nebraska Game and Parks Commission  Nebraska Game and Parks 2026 Fishing Guide    Jeff Jackson [contact]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

Neale Jones and  Andrew Little. 

If you drive across the Midwest, much of the landscape is under production for corn and soybeans. But, it didn't always look like that. Only a couple of generations ago, farmers were planting more diverse fields, many of them including wheat. This month we are joined by Nathan Mueller, Executive Director of Nu Horizon Genetics and producer, to talk about the "third crop" -- winter wheat. Learn how wheat can improve farms, provide valuable habitat for wildlife, and help improve our landscapes and ecosystems.    Resources: Nu Horizon Genetics Nebraska Wheat Production New wheat growers: Avoid these 5 common mistakes Adding Winter Wheat to a Crop Rotation   Nathan Mueller [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin  

If you drive across the Midwest, much of the landscape is under production for corn and soybeans. But, it didn't always look like that. Only a couple of generations ago, farmers were planting more diverse fields, many of them including wheat. This month we are joined by Nathan Mueller, Executive Director of Nu Horizon Genetics and producer, to talk about the "third crop" -- winter wheat. Learn how wheat can improve farms, provide valuable habitat for wildlife, and help improve our landscapes and ecosystems.     Resources:  Nu Horizon Genetics  Nebraska Wheat Production  New wheat growers: Avoid these 5 common mistakes  Adding Winter Wheat to a Crop Rotation    Nathan Mueller [website]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

On today’s show: Ben’s so frustrated that his wife keeps doing this with the fridge! We debate on whether men look hotter wearing hats backwards. Why David Hasselhoff once filmed a music video at a listener’s auntie’s house! Chat with Wellington mayor Andrew Little after swimming to prove the harbour is safe. Weirdest things you've brought on a flight. Producer Troy breaks the sacred rule by heating fish in the office kitchen... Maddie McLean recaps explosive Married at First Sight drama. Instagram: @THEHITSBREAKFASTFacebook: The Hits Breakfast with Jono, Ben & MeganSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington's Mayor is considering taking the city's bus lanes back to the drawing board. People driving in bus lanes are Wellington City Council's biggest money grabber, raking in around $6 million in fines. A new bus lane on Cambridge Terrace caught tens of thousands of people exceeding the 50 metre maximum, worth a penalty fee of $150. Andrew Little told Mike Hosking he doesn't want bus lane cameras to be seen as a source of revenue for the council. He says there's a genuine question on whether they need to be designated bus lanes for 12 hours a day seven days a week. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This month we are joined by Carlie Gizel, Wild Turkey Biologist with National Wild Turkey Federation and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. As a native species of Nebraska, wild turkeys have lived and evolved in the Great Plains for years, at times exploding in numbers and at others succumbing to new threats. Through it all, they have remained an iconic species of the landscape, and hunters from near and far come to Nebraska seeking out this special bird. Join Carlie, along with co-hosts Andy and Nate, to talk about all things turkey.   Resources: Wild turkey hunting in Nebraska (Nebraska Game and Parks Commission) Nebraska State Chapter of NWTF Current Research: Wild Turkey Ecology in Western Nebraska (AWESM Lab)   Carlie Gizel [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

This morning, we spoke to Energy Minister Simon Watts about the government's plan for a new liquified natural gas import terminal. and we had our weekly interview with Labour Leader, Chris Hipkins. We spoke with Wellington mayor Andrew Little about what any independent inquiry into the Moa Point Waste Treatment plant failure could look like. Plus, Kiwirail front after faults are discovered on Auckland's train network. And we joined friends of Zoi Sadowski-Synnott as they cheered her on toward her Silver medal at the Winter Olympics.

Wellington Water says about 70 million litres of raw sewage is pouring into the sea every day the Moa Point Wastewater Treatment Plant is out of action. Wellington mayor Andrew Little spoke to Corin Dann.

This month we are joined by Carlie Gizel, Wild Turkey Biologist with National Wild Turkey Federation and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. As a native species of Nebraska, wild turkeys have lived and evolved in the Great Plains for years, at times exploding in numbers and at others succumbing to new threats. Through it all, they have remained an iconic species of the landscape, and hunters from near and far come to Nebraska seeking out this special bird. Join Carlie, along with co-hosts Andy and Nate, to talk about all things turkey.    Resources:  Wild turkey hunting in Nebraska (Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)  Nebraska State Chapter of NWTF  Current Research: Wild Turkey Ecology in Western Nebraska (AWESM Lab)    Carlie Gizel [website]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

In this episode of the Deer IQ Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Andrew Little (University of Nebraska) to break down GPS-collared buck data that reveals how much hunting pressure deer will tolerate before their behavior changes.Using real movement data, we explore how many hunters per acre actually creates pressure, how quickly bucks respond once that line is crossed, and why most deer don't leave — they simply avoid hunters.If you manage a property, share a lease, or hunt pressured ground, this episode answers the critical questions:• How many hunters can your land realistically support?• When does good hunting start to decline — and why?• What is the true pressure threshold, and how do you stay below it all season?This episode defines hunting pressure in measurable terms and gives you practical ways to manage it so your land hunts better and stays fresh longer.• 2A DISPLAY PRODUCTS  (10% OFF Code "IQ" ) Here: https://www.2adisplay.com/ • Get a Smart Land & Hunting Plan HERE: https://deeriq.com/land-and-hunting-plans/ • Take the Deer IQ Test 360 HERE: https://deeriq.com/full-assessment/** Season 3 Quiz: https://deeriq.com/season-3-quiz/ • GENERAL INFO about ALL Deer IQ Resources HERE: https://deeriq.com/services/ Website: https://deeriq.com  Facebook Private Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/511109237864762  Deer IQ  FREE Journal: https://deeriq.com/journal/  Pressured Public Lands Hunting Guide:  https://deeriq.com/public-land-hunting-guide/  Newsletter Signup: https://deeriq.com/signup/  Patreon - Contribute Financially to Deer IQ: https://www.patreon.com/DeerIQPatreon   Scent Control Regimen: https://deeriq.com/scentcontrol-regimen/  Episode # 121Guest: Host Adam Lewis, Dr. Andrew LittleIQ ranking - 5 (Intermediate)

This month we are joined by Sam Wilson, Furbearer Biologist at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and Frank Andelt, retired Furbearer Biologist and Sam's predecessor at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to share the amazing story of the river otter in Nebraska. From thriving populations to complete extirpation, river otters were wiped out across the state. But as our guests share, otters are a resilient species. After a few local otter sightings, Frank shares the story of reintroduction of otters to Nebraska and how far they have come since then.   Resources: The River Otter – Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Recovery of a Native Furbearer   Sam Wilson [website] Frank Andelt  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin  

This month we are joined by Sam Wilson, Furbearer Biologist at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and Frank Andelt, retired Furbearer Biologist and Sam's predecessor at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to share the amazing story of the river otter in Nebraska. From thriving populations to complete extirpation, river otters were wiped out across the state. But as our guests share, otters are a resilient species. After a few local otter sightings, Frank shares the story of reintroduction of otters to Nebraska and how far they have come since then.    Resources:  The River Otter – Nebraska Game and Parks Commission  Recovery of a Native Furbearer    Sam Wilson [website]  Frank Andelt   Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

This month we are joined by Dr. Jordan Giese, Research Assistant Professor at the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute at Texas A&M University - Kingsville, to talk about prairie strips and his research on bird responses to prairie strips in row crop acres. From songbirds to Ring-necked pheasants, Dr. Giese shares how prairie strips can be beneficial for a range of wildlife within agricultural landscapes. Whether you are interested in birding, hunting, wildflowers, or soil health, prairie strips offer immense benefits for farmers across the Midwest.  Resources: Science-Based Trials of Rowcrops Integrated with Prairie Strips (STRIPS) Prairie Strips farmer and landowner testimonials   Dr. Jordan Giese [website, @birdnbiologist] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

What makes the Great Plains such a productive agricultural hotspot? And why are some fields just more productive than others no matter what? It turns out the secret is in the soil. This month we are joined by Dr. Ray Ward, founder of Ward Laboratories, to discuss how our soils came to be and how a better knowledge of your soil can lead to healthier farms and ecosystems overall. With a PhD in Soil Fertility and personal farming experience, Dr. Ward shares how practices like cover crops and diversifying an operation can lead to massive benefits – in soil health, water quality, wildlife abundance, ecosystem health and farmer profitability.  Resources: Ward Laboratories Ward Labs Resources   Dr. Ray Ward [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin