Podcast appearances and mentions of ben eagle

In this episode, host Ben Eagle speaks with Jack Bradley, a first-generation dairy farmer in Iceland. Jack shares his unique journey from the UK to Iceland, detailing his experiences in the military, a pivotal holiday in Kavos that indirectly sparked his interest in farming, and his time working in New Zealand. He discusses the cultural differences between the UK and Iceland, the challenges of herd management, and the importance of community. Jack also explains the Icelandic milk quota system and his aspirations for the future, including establishing a tourism business alongside his farming. Throughout the conversation, Jack emphasizes the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone and the need for transparency in the agricultural industry.Timecodes:00:00 Introduction to Jack Bradley's Journey03:17 Life in Iceland: Landscape and Community05:52 Childhood Influences and Early Aspirations10:50 Military Career and Lessons from Failure14:53 Cultural Observations: UK vs. Iceland19:34 The Pivotal Holiday in Kavos23:44 Transitioning into Dairy Farming24:39 The Importance of Fit in Job Recruitment26:28 Challenges of Herd Management28:13 Navigating Education and Career Paths29:17 A Leap of Faith to Iceland30:42 Life in Iceland: A New Beginning33:11 Cultural Adjustments and Language Barriers37:16 From Farming to Owning a Farm40:12 Building a Future Together44:12 The Efficiency of Business in Iceland45:14 Understanding Iceland's Unique Milk Quota System48:14 Challenges of Expanding Dairy Operations50:47 Future Aspirations and Business Ventures55:28 Cultural Insights and Unique Traditions59:19 Messages of Encouragement and Change for Farmers 

In this week's episode, we're joined by the freshly crowned Farmers Weekly Dairy Farmers of the Year, Nicola and John Young. Hosts Will Evans and Ben Eagle dive into the Youngs' remarkable journey—from starting with just 80 cows to building a thriving herd of over 500, averaging 14,000 litres and almost 1,000kg of milk solids per cow per year. Joined by Kite's David Keiley, the conversation explores the history of their business growth, early-stage succession planning, technical herd performance, genetic strategy, key focus areas, business performance, current investments, and future plans. They also reflect on what it means to be recognised at the top of their industry—and what that recognition means to others. Sadly, there isn't nearly as much positivity in Chris Walkland's milk market report this week, but it's essential listening for anyone keeping an eye on dairy trends. Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Ian Pullen, a beef farmer from Wotton Under Edge, Gloucestershire. Ian shares his journey into farming, the challenges he faces with TB in cattle, and how he has successfully integrated YouTube into his farming business. He discusses the importance of diversification, the direct sales model for his beef, and the future of farming amidst changing policies and market demands. Ian emphasizes the need for farmers to adapt and find new income streams while maintaining a connection with their customers.TakeawaysIan Pullen took over the family farm in 1993 and has been farming for generations.He transitioned from sheep farming to cattle due to the challenges of sheep management.TB in cattle is a significant concern, affecting farm operations and income.YouTube has become a lucrative side business for Ian, sometimes earning more than farming.Ian emphasizes the importance of being authentic and having thick skin when sharing farming experiences online.The tree surgery business has been crucial in supporting the farm financially.Direct sales of beef have created a loyal customer base, with people traveling long distances to buy from Ian.Future plans include diversifying the farm's income through potential tourism and local sales.Ian's daughter is showing interest in taking over the farm, which brings hope for the future.The farming community needs to adapt to changing policies and find innovative ways to sustain their livelihoods.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ian Pullen and His Farm02:56 The Journey into Farming: From Sheep to Cattle06:01 Navigating the Challenges of TB in Cattle Farming08:59 The Rise of YouTube: A New Income Stream11:54 Balancing Farming and Tree Surgery14:52 The Future of Farming: Diversification and Sustainability17:48 Direct Sales: Building a Customer Base for Beef20:50 Planning for the Future: Challenges and Opportunities23:44 Messages for the Public and Fellow Farmers

In this episode, Ben Eagle visits Thomas Gent, a fourth-generation farmer from the Lincolnshire-Cambridgeshire border. Thomas, his father and grandfather have transitioned the family farm to regenerative agriculture methods since 2008. Thomas is also the founder of Gentle Farming. The conversation covers Thomas' personal journey into farming, the transition to regenerative practices, the role of innovation and technology, and his views on the future of agriculture in the UK.

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Bronagh Dempster, a passionate new entrant from Northern Ireland. Bronagh shares her journey into farming, her education at Queen's University Belfast, and her experiences working on a dairy farm. She discusses the challenges and opportunities facing the dairy industry, her involvement in the Nuffield Next Gen scholarship, and her aspirations to start her own small-scale beef operation. Bronagh emphasizes the importance of attitude in agriculture, the value of sports in her life, and offers advice for newcomers to the industry. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of farming and the excitement for the future of agriculture.Timecodes:00:00 Introduction to Bronagh Dempster02:46 Bronagh's Journey into Farming10:15 The Dairy Industry Landscape14:27 Nuffield NextGen Scholarship Experience19:21 Starting Her Own Cattle Venture24:16 Balancing Farming and Processing Work26:35 The Importance of Sport in Life28:24 Future of Dairy and Farming29:46 Advice for New Entrants in Agriculture31:48 Messages to the Public and Farmers 

This week on the Kite Podcast, hosts Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Rob Daykin, Managing Director of Daykin Partnership and organic farmer Will Armitage, as they delve into the current state of the organic milk sector. The episode explores milk flows, forage availability and the challenges faced by organic farmers in today's climate. Rob shares insights from his extensive experience in organic farming and consultancy, while Will discusses the impact of weather conditions on forage stocks and the strategies he's employing to navigate these challenges. The conversation highlights the resilience of the organic sector amid ongoing pressures and the importance of maintaining a stable supply for consumers. Chris Walkland also returns with his market report, providing a detailed analysis of the latest developments affecting the dairy market, including significant fluctuations in prices and the implications for organic producers. Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Miranda Webster from Webster's Rural about the challenges and opportunities in recruitment within the professional and farm manager side of the agricultural and rural sectors. They discuss the evolving landscape post-Brexit and post-pandemic, the importance of attracting and retaining talent, and the skills that are currently in demand. Miranda shares insights on how rural businesses can make themselves more appealing to potential employees and the differences in recruitment strategies for small versus large organizations. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in recruitment and the importance of maintaining a human touch in the hiring process. 

This week Ben Eagle and Will Evans welcome Shelagh Hancock, Chief Executive of First Milk, to discuss the cooperative's impressive annual financial results and the broader implications for the dairy industry. Shelagh reflects on the significant progress First Milk has made over the past year, including the successful integration of BV Dairy into their operations. Additionally, Shelagh shares insights into First Milk's commitment to regenerative farming and its impact on sustainability and farm resilience, as well as the cooperative's strategic initiatives, community engagement, and future growth plans. The conversation also explores the ongoing challenges in the milk market, with Chris Walkland providing his expert analysis on current trends and price fluctuations affecting dairy producers. Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

In this poignant episode of the Kite Podcast, hosts Ben Eagle and Will Evans are joined by Cheshire dairy farmers Tom and Karen Halton, who share their heartfelt journey of deciding to sell their herd after a remarkable career in dairy farming. Winners of the Dairy Farmer of the Year category at the British Farming Awards 2024, the Halton's reflect on their successful tenanted dairy business and the emotional challenges surrounding their decision to step away from the industry. As they discuss the factors that led to this significant life change, Tom and Karen delve into their experiences of navigating the ups and downs of dairy farming, from market fluctuations to personal aspirations. The conversation also touches on their future plans, including property development and the joy of exploring new opportunities. Chris Walkland returns with his insightful milk market report, with an update on current market trends and challenges facing the dairy sector. Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle speaks with beef and sheep farmer James Warwick from north Cornwall about how he moved to Cornwall from Cambridgeshire to live with his grandparents and learn to farm. He now farms South Devon cattle and 350–400 ewes. James shares his passion for farming, financial challenges of farming and the mental strain it can sometimes bring. We talk about:The story of how James moved to Cornwall to farm with his grandparentsLife on the farm today and the balance between sheep and cattle.His apprenticeship on another farm and what he learnedBeing open about the mental strain farming can bring.The financial pressures of farming and how he tackles cashflow uncertaintyHis vision for the future of the farm over the next decadeJames offers a heartfelt and honest perspective on the rewards and realities of farming, blending tradition with a willingness to speak openly about issues that matter to farmers everywhere.Photo credit: James Warwick

In this week's episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle is joined by Shane and Val Wallis, who run a family farm in Indiana in the United States raising Shorthorn cattle alongside corn, beans, and hay. Shane and Val share insights into their day-to-day operation, why Shorthorns are important for them and the story of their farm. They reflect on the unique challenges and rewards of farming in their part of Indiana and the pressures facing U.S. farmers today from their perspective. The conversation also looks ahead to the future of their farm and the values that drive their work.Image credit: Shane and Val Wallis

In this episode, Ben Eagle is joined by David Exwood, Deputy President of the National Farmers' Union (NFU), who farms over 1,200 tenanted hectares just south of Horsham in West Sussex. David shares insights from his multi-enterprise farming business—featuring arable, beef, sheep, and a farm shop—as well as his leadership journey within the NFU.They discuss:David's farming background and philosophyHis leadership style and priorities at the NFUThe challenges facing UK agriculture, including ELMS, inheritance tax changes etcThe role of politics in shaping farming's futureOpportunities for younger farmers and the role of innovationWith candid reflections on decision-making, long-term motivation, and what he'd change with a magic wand, this episode offers a deep dive into the person behind the leadership role and the direction of British farming today.Final thoughts include messages for both the public and farmers.Photo credit: Lawrence Looi / NFU.

In this episode, hosts Ben Eagle and Will Evans explore the role of on-farm anaerobic digestion (AD) in the UK dairy sector with guests Gary Hague, UK Sustainability and Development Manager for Biolectric, and Kite's Sustainability Lead, Helen Dent. The discussion provides an overview of AD technology, its role in managing slurry and manure more sustainably, and its potential to reduce the environmental footprint of dairy farming. Helen and Gary share insights on adoption rates, farmer perceptions, financial incentives, and whether AD can help processors meet carbon reduction targets. They also explore the differences between large-scale and small-scale AD systems, and the viability of operating plants solely on slurry without the need for additional feedstock.Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle explores how SMART farming is reshaping the UK dairy sector. From herd management to sustainability and automation, Ben is joined by a panel of farmers and agri-tech experts to discuss how digital tools, data, and intelligent systems are helping dairy businesses become more efficient, resilient, and future-ready.Together, the panel examines real-life examples of SMART farming in action, the benefits and barriers of adopting new technologies, and the innovations on the horizon. Whether it's camera technology, AI, slurry monitoring, or pasture measurement, this episode is packed with practical insights into the future of dairy farming.

After Chris Walkland's dairy market update this week, Ben Eagle is joined by Kevin Ziemba, Global Applied Genetic Consulting Manager at STGenetics (parent company of Cogent Breeding) and Steve West, Senior Consultant with Kite to explore the latest in genetics and genomics in dairy farming. They discuss the financial benefits of breeding for Ecofeed to improve feed efficiency and profitability, as well as how to build a genetic strategy to best fit your business. They also discuss the newly discovered gene responsible for muscle weakness in calves and the impact this could have. Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

In episode 260 of the Kite Podcast, hosts Ben Eagle and Will Evans explore major upcoming developments at Yew Tree Dairy, including a £45 million investment in its Skelmersdale production site—just nine months after acquisition from Muller. This strategic move is not only aimed at expanding the business but also at further aligning Yew Tree Dairy offering farmers new and updated supplier contracts, Joining the conversation are Rob Hutchison, CEO of Muller Milk & Ingredients, and podcast producer Becki Reay, who shares valuable insights into the future of dairy processing and what it means for farmers. The episode also features Chris Walkland's latest milk market report, highlighting recent trends and challenges in the dairy market.Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

In this milestone 300th episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle sits down with Tim Parton, farm manager of a 300-hectare arable enterprise in Staffordshire and a leading voice in regenerative agriculture. Tim shares his journey from conventional farming to pioneering biological, no-till methods that have dramatically cut synthetic inputs while boosting yields and soil health.We discuss his innovative drill modifications, the importance of cover crops and microbial brews, and the challenges and rewards of shifting to a regenerative system. Tim also opens up about the life-changing accident he suffered in 2024, his remarkable resilience, and how he continues to inspire and consult within the farming community.

In this episode, hosts Ben Eagle and Will Evans delve into the current harvest prospects as combines begin to roll across the UK. Joined by James Bolesworth, Managing Director of CRM AgriCommodities and Chris Pickles, Procurement Manager from KW Feeds, they examine the impact of recent dry weather in the UK on forage stocks, complexities of the feed markets and the factors influencing supply and prices. The conversation also touches on the impact of geopolitical events, currency fluctuations and the ongoing challenges faced by farmers in the current climate. With an optimistic yet cautious outlook, they highlight the importance of strategic planning as the agricultural landscape continues to evolve. Chris Walkland also shares his usual insights in the milk market report, discussing the recent GDT drops and their implications for milk pricing. Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

In this big-picture episode, Ben Eagle is joined by two expert voices—Emily Norton and James Bolesworth—to unpack how global forces are shaping the future of UK farming. From the war in Ukraine and climate extremes to trade policy and political unpredictability, we examine how these shocks are influencing prices, planning, and resilience on the ground.

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle heads to Stithians in Cornwall to meet Peter Green, a fifth-generation farmer, Nuffield Scholar, and host of Cornish Mutual's Farming Focus podcast. Peter shares his remarkable journey from studying physics and working as a chartered accountant, to returning home to Cornwall to rebuild the family farm after the tragic loss of his parents in 2007.Now running a grass-fed Stabiliser beef herd, Peter talks about:Transitioning from corporate life back to farmingManaging grief and responsibility following the death of his parents in a car accident. The decision to sell, and then restock, the farm's herd. Building a sustainable, low-input beef business in CornwallSelling direct to customers through beef boxesHis work with the Prince's Countryside FundCo-hosting the Farming Focus podcast and engaging the South West farming communityBalancing life as a farmer, podcast host, and dad to five-year-old twinsThis episode is a powerful reminder of how purpose, resilience, and people can shape a meaningful farming future.

In this episode, hosts Will Evans and Ben Eagle continue their exploration of Irish agriculture with an inspiring story from Frank Dunne and his farming journey after he bought his first dairy farm at 26 years old. Joined by podcast producer Becki Reay and dairy market analyst Chris Walkland, the team delve into Frank's evolution from leaving his uncle's dairy farm, to beef and progressing onto become a successful dairy farmer; discussing his innovative approaches and future aspirations, redefining success in dairy. Chris shares insights from the latest milk market report, highlighting significant developments in the European dairy industry, including the recent Arla and DMK merger discussions. The conversation also touches on the challenges of land availability in Northern Ireland and the importance of strategic planning in farming. Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

In this week's episode, we explore the proposed Nutrient Action Programme (NAP) in Northern Ireland, which has sparked significant debate within the agri-food sector. Join hosts Will Evans and Ben Eagle, along with guests Aileen Lawson from the Ulster Farmers Union, Jason Rankin from AgriSearch and dairy market analyst Chris Walkland, as they delve into the implications of the NAP, the concerns raised by farmers and the potential impact on the agricultural landscape. With insights from their recent trip to Northern Ireland, the team discusses the balance between environmental responsibility and agricultural productivity, highlighting the urgent need for constructive dialogue and collaboration between farmers and policymakers.Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle is joined by Will Arden — arable and deer farmer from Lincolnshire, founder of The Farmyard Gym, and head judge of Britain's Fittest Farmer. With five competitions under his belt and a recent win in the men's under-40s category, Will shares his passion for fitness, mental health, and how farmers can stay strong in both body and mind, on and off the farm.Apply for Britain's Fittest Farmer 2025 competition here - Farmers Weekly - Britain's Fittest Farmer - About the competitionImage credit: Will ArdenMeet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural podcast production agency. Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here. About Ben and  RuralPod MediaBen Eagle is the founder and Head of Podcasts at RuralPod Media, a specialist rural podcast production agency. He is also a freelance rural affairs and agricultural journalist. You can find out more at ruralpodmedia.co.uk or benjamineagle.co.uk If you have a business interested in getting involved with podcasting check us out at RuralPod Media. We'd love to help you spread your message. Please subscribe to the show and leave us a review wherever you are listening. Follow us on social mediaInstagram @mtf_podcastTwitter @mtf_podcastWatch us on Youtube here

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle catches up with James and Katie Allen, a dynamic couple whose journey into farming began with conservation grazing and has evolved into something much bigger. Originally featured during the Meet the Farmers on Tour series in 2019, James and Katie return to the podcast with exciting updates from their new 170-acre holding near Swindon.James and Katie have built a thriving, nature-led enterprise focused on native breed cattle and sheep.Recently, their business took a major leap forward with the opening of a new on-farm tannery and classroom, funded by a £254,000 grant. These new facilities are already playing a vital role in their mission to connect farming, sustainability, and education — particularly in the realm of fashion. The Allens now host fashion students and others on the farm, sharing insights into the journey from hide and wool to finished product and their links with farming. We discuss their vision for the future, what the grant has enabled, sustainable leather production, and how they're bridging the gap between agriculture and fashion. Topics covered:Starting out with conservation grazingMoving to the new farm. Building a sustainable tannery and educational spaceJames's Churchill scholarshipEngaging with the fashion industry and design studentsEngaging with the local communityImage credit: James and Katie AllenMeet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural podcast production agency. Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here. About Ben and  RuralPod MediaBen Eagle is the founder and Head of Podcasts at RuralPod Media, a specialist rural podcast production agency. He is also a freelance rural affairs and agricultural journalist. You can find out more at ruralpodmedia.co.uk or benjamineagle.co.uk If you have a business interested in getting involved with podcasting check us out at RuralPod Media. We'd love to help you spread your message. Please subscribe to the show and leave us a review wherever you are listening. Follow us on social mediaInstagram @mtf_podcastTwitter @mtf_podcastWatch us on Youtube here

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle is joined by US author and journalist Stephanie Anderson to discuss the transformative role women are playing in regenerative agriculture. Stephanie's latest book, From the Ground Up: The Women Revolutionizing Regenerative Agriculture, shines a spotlight on female farmers and changemakers who are rethinking how we grow food in the face of climate change.From battling conventional norms to pioneering new practices rooted in sustainability and equity, these women are proving that leadership in agriculture can be diverse, resilient, and regenerative. Stephanie shares intimate stories, key insights from her research, and her vision for a more just and climate-conscious food system.Guest:

In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle sits down with Alex and Emily Crawley, co-directors of Grazing Management Limited, to explore the concept of conservation grazing and their journey starting their business. Based in the Forest of Dean, the Crawleys are using native breed cattle, sheep, and goats to deliver environmental benefits on land managed by charities, government agencies, and private owners.Neither Emily nor Alex began their careers in agriculture. Emily comes from a background in the charitable sector (and also as a pilates instructor!), while Alex transitioned from a military and diplomatic career into land management, later earning a Graduate Diploma in Agriculture and becoming a Nuffield Scholar.Together, they've built a contract grazing business that earned them the British Farming Awards' New Entrant accolade within just two years. This conversation dives into three core themes: the power of farming to support environmental goals, the realities of starting a land-based business without owning land, and the bold personal journeys that led them to agriculture.

This podcast was presented and produced by Ben Eagle for RuralPod Media. To find out more about our work Special thanks for this episode to everybody who contributed including Gabriel Kaye, Bernard Jarman, Berni Courts, Catherine Powell and Alison and John Chapman. Thanks also to Hawkwood College and the Biodynamic Association. Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural podcast production agency. Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here. About Ben and  RuralPod MediaBen Eagle is the founder and Head of Podcasts at RuralPod Media, a specialist rural podcast production agency. He is also a freelance rural affairs and agricultural journalist. You can find out more at ruralpodmedia.co.uk or benjamineagle.co.uk If you have a business interested in getting involved with podcasting check us out at RuralPod Media. We'd love to help you spread your message. Please subscribe to the show and leave us a review wherever you are listening. Follow us on social mediaInstagram @mtf_podcastTwitter @mtf_podcastWatch us on Youtube here

This podcast was presented and produced by Ben Eagle for RuralPod Media. To find out more about our work visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk or find our podcasts on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Special thanks to everybody who contributed to this series including Gabriel Kaye, Bernard Jarman, Berni Courts, Alison and John Chapman,Emma Hams, Gala Bailey Barker, Louisa Ellerker, Peter Darwell and Cattherine Powell. Thanks also to Hawkwood College and the Biodynamic Association. This music for the series was from Flying Heads and CW Music Productions. Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural podcast production agency. Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here. About Ben and  RuralPod MediaBen Eagle is the founder and Head of Podcasts at RuralPod Media, a specialist rural podcast production agency. He is also a freelance rural affairs and agricultural journalist. You can find out more at ruralpodmedia.co.uk or benjamineagle.co.uk If you have a business interested in getting involved with podcasting check us out at RuralPod Media. We'd love to help you spread your message. Please subscribe to the show and leave us a review wherever you are listening. Follow us on social mediaInstagram @mtf_podcastTwitter @mtf_podcastWatch us on Youtube here

In this episode, Ben Eagle is joined by Eric Elgersma and Natasha Foote to discuss the macro and global issues that will shape the world of rural businesses. They explore topics such as transition, connection, and the impact of European and global politics on rural businesses. They also discuss the trends of size and scale, collaboration, and the importance of being fit for purpose in the rural business sector. The conversation touches on the recent EU elections and the potential implications for rural businesses. Overall, the episode provides insights into the challenges and opportunities facing rural businesses in the coming years. The conversation explores trends and themes in rural businesses. Key trends identified include a focus on sustainability, diversification of business models, local consumption, digital transformation, and generational renewal. The importance of infrastructure, both digital and physical, is highlighted. The discussion also touches on the role of government in rural areas, with a potential shift towards more regional and national decision-making. The concept of sustainability is discussed, emphasizing the need for both environmental and economic sustainability. The future of the rural workforce is explored, with a focus on automation and improving working conditions. The conversation concludes with a reflection on confidence levels in rural businesses, highlighting the passion and innovation of young farmers.TakeawaysTransition is a key factor that will shape rural businesses in the coming years, particularly in terms of food quality, consumer needs, environment, climate, and ownership consolidation.Connection is another important theme, highlighting the need to bridge the gap between EU policy and rural areas, as well as fostering connections within the agri-food chain and promoting sustainability.The recent EU elections have seen a rise in right-wing and far-right parties, which may have implications for the direction of green policies and the allocation of funds for rural areas.The trend of consolidation and the importance of being fit for purpose are key considerations for rural businesses. Being able to meet consumer needs, retain local support, and demonstrate sustainability are crucial for long-term success.The EU's focus on food security and the lessons learned from recent crises highlight the need for a re-evaluation of the role of agriculture and self-sufficiency within the EU.The de-ruralisation of the political voice in the UK and the growing divergence between political rhetoric and actual support for rural businesses is a challenge that needs to be addressed.Winners in the agri-food sector are those who can meet consumer needs, demonstrate sustainability, and invest in the future, while losers are those who fail to adapt to changing market demands and regulations. Trends in rural businesses include a focus on sustainability, diversification of business models, local consumption, digital transformation, and generational renewal.Infrastructure, both digital and physical, is crucial for the success of rural businesses.Sustainability encompasses both environmental and economic aspects and is essential for the resilience of rural businesses.Automation and improving working conditions are key considerations for the future of the rural workforce.Confidence levels in rural businesses are influenced by challenges but are also driven by the passion and innovation of young farmers.Make sure to check us out at RuralPod Media. You can follow Rural Business Focus and contact Ben on Twitter @ruralbf_pod or on Instagram @ruralbusinessfocusPlease note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found here. Have you thought about the benefits of podcasting for your business? If you  want to find out more or work with Ben to make your own podcast or to organise some podcast training for your business visit ruralpodmedia.co.uk 

There was lots for hosts Will Evans and Ben Eagle to discuss with the guests on this week's podcast. Firstly, along with the usual milk market update, Chris Walkland and John Allen discussed the very positive news regarding Muller's acquisition of Yew Tree Dairy and the wider commitment to the sector being shown by UK based processors and how this is supports a positive outlook for UK farmers. Chris & John also joined NZ AgFirst CEO; James Allen and Kite's Edward Lott in reviewing the past NZ dairy season and discussing Fonterra's opening forecast price for the season ahead, including the comparative Cost of Production and how this could impact on farmer confidence, sentiment and investment. James looks ahead to the changing structure of NZ dairy including political, environmental and export market influences and they discuss how this compares to the UK.Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

This week on the podcast, hosts Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Finley Hawkins; Southern Fertiliser Business Development Manager at Frontier Agriculture and Principal Consultant at Kite; Paul Macer to discuss the current fertiliser markets following the news that CF Fertilisers is permanently closing its ammonia production plant at Billingham. Fin shares his thoughts on the outlook for gas prices and the knock on effect on fertiliser pricing for next season before Paul goes on to describe the levels and quality of forage he is seeing on farm along with the resultant impact and outlook for milk flows. Chris Walkland once again sends a milk market update from his holidays.

Rarely does someone need no introduction but Ben is kind of one of them…ESPECIALLY in the rural podcasting game! You may look at me and think my upload schedule is prolific and 106 episodes is crazy…Ben reckons he has uploaded over 500 across all platforms! Over 200 of his original series meet the farmers and hundreds more across his other media businesses! A wealth of knowledge and an interesting mind I could have listened to for hours and I'm sure you'll feel the same! Enjoy!

Ben Eagle is the host of Meet the Farmers and Rural Business Focus, and has just started a new business dedicated to helping others embrace podcasting in the rural world, called RuralPod Media. With so many strings to his bow and such an interesting journey from growing up on a farm in Essex to where he is today, I was keen to hear everything! On this episode, we discuss the power of podcasting to build communities and increase understanding, the diversity in farming, Ben's own journey, entrepreneurship, mental health, and more besides.

You can find out more about Ben Taylor Davies on his website  regenben.comDiscover more about Nuffield Farming scholarships at Contact | Nuffield Farming Scholarships (nuffieldscholar.org)00:18 Intro from Ben Eagle03:18 How would Ben Taylor Davies desribe himself?05:00 Ideas06:55 Ben Taylor Davies talks about his friendship with James Smith09:14 What is an average week for Ben Taylor Davies?13:06 Ben's childhood on the farm16:00 How does Ben see the trajectory of farming in the UK?17:35 Ben's time at the University of Liverpool18:30 Ben becomes an agronomist19:38 Ben's way of thinking then and now22:26 Ben's son Jobe has a severe accident involving a horse30:47 The Ronald Macdonald House35:00 The journey beyond the hospital36:12 Ben's mental health suffers38:17 Regenerating minds41:30 Ben's Nuffield adventure47:23 Life after Ben's Nuffield51:00 Ben's clients start to change52:46 The future of chemistry55:26 Productivity of soils58:25 Ben's new book Moreon1:00:10 Ben's message for the public1:01:10 Ben's message for farmers1:02:10 Ben's recommendation for a podcast - John Kempf1:03:26 Ben Eagle rounds up. 

Dominic is joined by Gage Mcweeny, who is Professor of English at Williams College, Massachusetts. Gage is an alumni of both Columbia and Princeton, with a specialism in nineteenth-century literature; sociology; and culture. His book The Comfort of Strangers: Social Life and Literary Form  (OUP) examines that Victorian phenomenon of new people emerging everywhere in the Great Cities as Industrialisation takes its hold in the 19th Century and how authors such as George Eliot, Oscar Wilde, Henry James and of course  Dickens respond to it. He also wrote the introduction to the Longman edition of Hard Times. Reading extracts from Hard Times is the actor Ben Eagle and The Bookshop Band also appear in the episode with their song The Tumbling Girl ... Support the showIf you like to make a donation to support the costs of producing this series you can buy 'coffees' right here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dominicgerrardHost: Dominic GerrardSeries Artwork: Léna GibertOriginal Music: Dominic GerrardThank you for listening!

EP130: Dairy Discussions & Climate Commitments at COP27 On this week's episode, Chris Walkland is on hand to provide a milk market update and host Ben Eagle is joined by Sarah Simpson; Director at Simpson Farms Ltd and Brian Lyndsay; Sustainability Lead at Global Dairy Platform. They discussed the level of Agricultural representation at COP27, the dairy discussions taking place at the event and the climate commitments made along with the sometimes misaligned policy at local level. They also discuss the work of the Global Dairy Platform including the recently agreed Carbon Sequestration methodology, GWP* and its possible unintended consequences along with the challenges of implementing climate agreements at farm level. Another must listen episode!

After the usual milk market report from Chris Walkland, Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Will Jackson, Divisional Director for Engagement and Strategy at the AHDB and Ed Towers, dairy farmer from Brades Farm to discuss the future direction of ADHB. After a period of reflection and consultation with levy payers, Will outlines the main changes that have come about, the ‘3 pillars' they will be focusing on in the future, as well as the areas they will look to scale back or streamline. Ed outlines his feedback on these changes as a levy payer and how he sees value is added to his business. They discuss the challenges and opportunities for AHDB, especially in terms of a collaborative approach with other organisations and where they are still able to fill the gaps to add value for the dairy and wider food industry.

After scooping the John Beckett memorial cup plus two other Cream Awards last night, Cornish farmer Anthony Wills of Willsbro Holstein joins host Ben Eagle to tell us a bit about his business, the cows, the family and what makes his business resilient. John and Becki comment on the calibre of entries for the Kite sponsored Young Farmer category and discuss the qualities required to thrive in the sector and how the finalists demonstrated these. Plus a small mention for another important award winner. Chris Walkland gives us a detailed milk market update before they all discuss the key themes from yesterday's Dairy Resilience 2030 Conference, including sustainability, genetics, and people.

On this week's podcast, hosts Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Jim Chapman MBE, Trustee of the Farm Safety Foundation, along with Kite Partner, Ainsley Baker, to discuss the very important topic of Farm Safety. Jim shares the details of his own on-farm accident, how it affected him physically and mentally and how he has since made it his mission to raise awareness of the topic. He and Ainsley discuss the most recent farm safety figures and their thoughts on if, and how, farmer attitudes and farm practices have changed over the years along with sharing their thoughts and tips on accident prevention on farm. Chris Walkland, as usual gives us the latest news and views on the dairy markets.

With farmers protesting against green reforms in the Netherlands and Western Europe, and milk volumes down in the UK, Europe and across the globe, hosts Ben Eagle and Will Evans welcome back Erik Elgersma; Founder and Director of Strategic Analysis Services BV alongside John Allen and Chris Walkland for an in-depth discussion on the milk market and pricing mechanisms. They also discuss the detail of the Dutch farmer protests, the outlook for both UK & EU farmers and the impact of currency. We get the usual milk market update from Chris who, later in the podcast boldly states that milk prices shouldn't go up much further and explains his reasoning for this.

Rural Business Focus is a new podcast for rural businesses and people who want to start a rural business. Presented by rural podcaster Ben Eagle, RBF launches on Tuesday 5th July.

This week, Ben Eagle is joined by Organic dairy farmer and ‘Down to Earth' event host Tim Downes alongside Kite Partner Ainsley Baker. Tim describes how he has adopted Regenerative agriculture principles on his farm and the results he has seen and shares the reasons he thinks farmers who want to know more about Regen should visit the Down to Earth event. Ainsley and Tim discuss the viability of incorporating Regen principles into their farming businesses, the challenges they are likely to encounter and the opportunities a move to a more mixed farming business my offer. After a positive GDT result this week Chris Walkland gives an upbeat milk market report.

In today's episode, I cross chains with local artist and graphic designer, Ben Eagle. Ben is absolutely awesome in just about every way, and I've been a fan of his work for the longest time - fortunately he also loves bikes (almost as much as me) so it was a great excuse to get him on the pod to talk about art, design and of course, bikes. Enjoy the episode! Ben Eagle Sponsors Local Grind Coffee Hamper Enduren --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cross-chaining/message

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For the first podcast of 2022, Ben Eagle is joined by Kite's Managing Partner John Allen and Chris Walkland to give their outlook for the year ahead and to revisit Project Reset. Before this though, they first pay respects to Dairy Journalist Barry Wilson, who sadly passed away on Christmas Day. Carrying on his milk market positivity from 2021, Chris delivers the first milk market of 2022 and goes on to discuss with John the milk market outlook and continuing (upward) shift in both the milk market and farm inputs. They discuss what has changed since the Project Reset report was published in October, where we are now in terms of prices and cost of production and where we could be heading this year. They outline how UK dairy can make the most of this window of opportunity, given we are not currently subject to some of the same regulations and limitations as EU producers. They also discuss how the shifting markets put power back with producers and how those who are able to learn the lessons of the past and make strategic decisions on the future of their business will remain resilient for the long term.

Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by 4th generation Derbyshire based dairy farmer, NFU dairy board appointee and multiple award winner; Jessica Langton alongside podcast Producer and Kite Consultant Becki Leach and of course, Chris Walkland for our last podcast and milk market report of 2021. Jessica gives some background on the farm business as well as the topics keeping the NFU Dairy Board busy and shares why she feels it is important to have the next generations voice represented. She also shares her enthusiasm for linking up agriculture with consumers. Jessica, Becki and Chris share the positives of 2021 and what they believe to be the key challenges and opportunities going forward over the next year.

This week cheese is on the menu, Christmas cheese to be exact and Ben Eagle is joined by Judith Bryans; Chief Executive of Dairy UK and Chris Walkland for the annual Chelsea Pensioners' Ceremony of the Christmas Cheeses. Judith and Chris celebrate the history of the Ceremony and the important role that dairy plays in supporting the nutrition of ex-service personnel in this long-standing tradition. UK Dairy should be extremely proud of not only producing fantastic cheeses, but the significant role it plays in these important Christmas traditions.

This week, hosts Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Simon Stevens - Executive Vice President of Arla and Head of Arla Foods International and Kite's Managing Partner, John Allen, talking about the broader, international Arla business as well as our usual Milk Market update from Chris Walkland. Simon and John discuss the business and commercial growth opportunities for Arla outside of Europe including the Middle East, Africa and Asia. They focus on how the rising demand in these territories is due to their increasing appetite for dairy and willingness to spend more of their income on health and nutrition. This, coupled with the capacity for growth in traditional dairy producing territories being curtailed by environmental constraints, will potentially result in a long-term shift in the value of dairy, as recently highlighted in Kite's Project Reset.

Not discouraged by some technical issues, our hosts Ben Eagle and Will Evans are joined this week by two Kite partners, Paul Macer and Tim Davies to talk about the topic on everyone's lips at the moment; the current fertiliser and feed prices. They discuss the significant price rises, their impact on profitability and the risks of knee jerk reactions or poor planning. Paul focuses on fertiliser – with some top tips and a market situation outlook. Tim discusses some of the alternative options to our shrinking choice of feed materials in the UK and possible unintended consequences of cutting feed rates. It's a stark listen made slightly more cheery by Chris Walkland's milk market report which is again very positive.

Fresh from the Question Time panel on Thursday evening, Minette Batters; NFU President, joins host Ben Eagle alongside John Allen and Chris Walkland on this weeks podcast. After some worrying comments from PM Boris Johnson earlier this week at the Conservative Party Conference, we ask Minette if she believes there is a political appetite for agriculture. Minette describes the government as having ‘our lives and our livelihoods in their hands' and discusses with John, the NFU request for a delay to BPS reduction to support farmers through this period of unprecedented change, as well as current issues with food security, farm labour and export opportunities. Not forgetting Chris who has double celebrations, firstly on becoming a grandfather but also the Milk Market is again extremely positive with some staggering numbers for spot milk trading this week.