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Today on the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series I had the pleasure of chatting with Trevor Alcorn
While farmer distrust of AI remains a key adoption barrier, will farm businesses that are being set up for an AI future have a competitive advantage?Paul Windemuller is a pioneering first-generation farmer and Nuffield Scholar from Coopersville, Michigan (USA). Along with his wife Brittany, Paul built his farm from the ground up with limited capital, relying on ingenuity, automation, and data-driven decision-making to grow Dream Winds Dairy into a highly tech-enabled operation.In this episode, Paul shares his unconventional journey into dairy farming from digging parlor pits by hand and retrofitting sheds on a shoestring budget, to becoming an early adopter of robotics, wearable sensors, and AI-enabled tools. Paul didn't grow up on a farm, so technology became a way to compensate for what he calls a lack of “cow sense,” helping him make faster decisions around health, breeding, and herd performance.As AI accelerates, Paul argues that adoption is less about buying another gadget and more about building the underlying foundations: connectivity, clean data, and a culture of curiosity within farming teams.Sarah and Paul discuss:How a lack of traditional farming experience became a catalyst for data-driven innovation.Why AI should be viewed as a utility, like electricity, rather than a single technology purchase.The practical steps farmers can take today to become “AI ready.” Why governance models that keep value with farmers and rural communities could determine whether AI delivers long-term benefits.Why farmer-owned data infrastructure and interoperability may be the next big innovation in agriculture.Useful Links:Leading the Herd: AI, Insight, and the Next Agricultural Revolution, (Paul's Nuffield report)Getting Into the weeds: the AI data dilemmaArtificial Intelligence and the Future of Work in AgricultureYield maps killed agtech software, can AI fix it? (report)For more information and resources, visit our website. The information in this post is not investment advice or a recommendation to invest. It is general information only and does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making an investment decision you should seek financial advice from a professional financial adviser. Whilst we believe the information is correct, we provide no warranty of accuracy, reliability or completeness.
Today on the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series I had the pleasure of chatting with Ben Taylor Davies
The AG Show is going global this week, kicking things off with an absolutely wild story from a 2,000‑mile harvest adventure across the U.S.Eleanor Gilbert - you might know her as Berkshire Farm Girl - jumps on the mic with Hannah and Charlotte to share what it was really like travelling the Great Plains for six months. We're talking eight states, 1,000 hours in a combine and helping to bring in a massive 130,000 acres of crops. And guess what? She's already got her sights set on Australia next.We're also hearing from Hattie McFadzean, an AHDB‑backed Nuffield Scholar, about her whirlwind study tour through five different countries… plus plenty more along the way.SOME USEFUL BITSBerkshire Farm Girl – Follow Me on my Journey educating the world on diverse farming practicesNuffield Farming Scholarships Trust | AHDBAgri Market Outlook | AHDBDairy market outlook | AHDBGET IN TOUCHCharlotte and Hannah would love to hear what you think! Got feedback, stories, or ideas for future episodes? Drop them a message at agshow@ahdb.org.uk.Sign up to the AHDB Preference Centre so that you can:Easily update your preferences and contact informationGet information on the latest AHDB events, webinars, market insights and moreReceive important updates such as disease alerts
Today on the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series I had the pleasure of chatting with Jim Chapman
Was steckt wirklich hinter dem Nuffield-Stipendium? In diesem Podcast der Jungen DLG geben zwei Nuffield-Stipendiaten exklusive Einblicke in eines der internationalen Förderprogramme für junge Führungspersönlichkeiten in der Landwirtschaft. August von Borcke, Host der Jungen DLG, geht der Frage auf den Grund, wie das Nuffield-Stipendium aufgebaut ist, welche Schritte es umfasst – von der Auswahl über die Global Focus Tour bis zur individuellen Forschungsreise – und welche Erfahrungen, Herausforderungen und Chancen auf die Teilnehmenden warten. Dabei geht es nicht nur um Reisen in ferne Länder, sondern auch um persönliche Entwicklung, fachliche Tiefe und globale Zusammenhänge. Der Podcast zeigt, wie das Nuffield-Netzwerk weltweit junge Persönlichkeiten der Agrarbranche verbindet – und welchen enormen Mehrwert dieses internationale Netzwerk bietet. Ob du selbst über eine Bewerbung nachdenkst, dich für globale Landwirtschaftsthemen interessierst oder einfach hören willst, wie junge Menschen Wandel mitgestalten – dieser Podcast liefert Perspektiven, Impulse und echte Geschichten direkt aus dem Nuffield-Kosmos. Mehr Informationen: Infos zur Jungen DLG Infos zum Nuffield Stipendium Hier geht's zum DLG-MediaCenter mit Podcasts aus den Bereichen Agrar & Food, Videos und vielfältigen Publikationen!
A Riverland wine grape grower says the state and federal government's extension of the SA Wine Recovery Program until 2027 will not meaningfully help growers and a new report has found record high cocoa prices and a volatile supply has made some chocolate companies explore alternative, cheaper ways to get that cocoa taste like growing it in a lab.
Today on the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series I had the pleasure of chatting with Tom Bradshaw
UK researcher and Nuffield scholar Sharon May is bridging the gap between farm life and mental health care, helping ensure that when farmers reach out for support, they're truly heard.
- From Derrymore, O'Callaghans Mills but primarily nowadays a Tulla man qualified as a vet in 2018 and recently is being nominated as a Nuffield scholar. https://nuffield.ie/scholar/john-donlon/ Originally broadcast as part of Saturday Chronicle 6th December 2025 hosted by Patricia Anne Moore and Tom Hanley. Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com
We know how important it is to be inspired by both big businesses and individuals, which is why we are excited to present Talking Leaders, a monthly initiative from the AHDB which will see a series of inspirational speakers share their life experiences and deliver impactful stories to the AgriLeader community.In the December episode of Talking Leaders, we were delighted to be joined by Hattie McFadzean, Senior Consultant at Promar International and recent Nuffield Farming Scholar. With weather patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, how can UK dairy farmers build resilience and adapt for the future? Hattie joins us to discuss the findings of her Nuffield study, “Enhancing the Resilience of the UK Dairy Sector: How Do We Practically Adapt to Increasingly Volatile Weather Conditions?”Drawing on insights from her travels and research, Hattie explores how dairy businesses around the world are responding to climate variability and what practical steps UK producers can take to “weather-proof” their own operations.Hear Hattie's reflections on leadership, innovation, and collaboration across the dairy sector – and how embracing change today can help secure a more sustainable future for tomorrow's farmers.
This end-of-year RaboTalk Growing our Future episode features Blake Holgate and Katie Rodwell reflecting on a year that has challenged our food and fibre sector to adapt. They share insights from conversations they've held with farmers and industry leaders and discuss key themes which have ranged from farmer resilience, the value of open dialogue, the power of working with family and how sustainability conversations have matured.This episode wraps up the year with optimism for the future as they discuss opportunities ahead, especially with on farm efficiencies and agri tech.Like what you've heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:In this special end-of-year episode, Blake and Katie look back on a busy 2024 for food and fibre, discuss the key themes that emerged from conversations with farmers and industry leaders, and share what they're looking forward to in 2025. From farmer resilience and market shifts to the role of teamwork in good business, this episode wraps up the year with honest reflections and optimism for the future.A Year of Rapid Change in Food and FibreBlake and Katie open by acknowledging how turbulent the past year has been across the rural sector. Policy shifts, fluctuating markets and a challenging operating environment have shaped decision-making on farm and prompted farmers to rethink aspects of their business. Despite that volatility, both hosts heard strong examples of farmers adapting, up-skilling and staying focused on what they can control.Leadership and Learning Through ConversationOne of the standout themes for Blake this year has been the value of conversation. Through interviewing a range of guests, he's noticed that many of the most effective operators share a commitment to listening, asking questions and continually learning. Katie agrees, reflecting on how different perspectives from across the value chain have broadened her thinking and highlighted the importance of open dialogue during change.The Power of Diverse VoicesKatie's highlight has been the number of younger and emerging leaders stepping forward. Whether through Future Farmers NZ, Nuffield scholars or on-farm innovators, she's encouraged by the energy and purpose coming from the next generation. Both hosts note that having a mix of ages, backgrounds and roles at the table leads to better decisions and a more resilient sector.Taking a Team ApproachAnother recurring insight is the strength that comes from teamwork. Guests repeatedly emphasised the importance of bringing partners, staff, advisers and family along for the journey. Blake notes that the most successful farm businesses are not solo efforts; they're built on clear communication, shared goals and backing each other through the tough periods.Opportunities on the HorizonLooking ahead, Blake is optimistic about the opportunities in front of New Zealand farmers. Market signals continue to evolve, and while pressure remains, he believes the sector is well-positioned to capture value through efficiency, quality and strong relationships with consumers and processors. Katie adds that she's excited to keep telling stories of innovation and progress, especially as agri-tech solutions become more accessible and farmers look for tools that support better decision-making.Appreciating the Rural CommunityBoth hosts close by acknowledging the privilege of sitting down with so many farmers and sector leaders throughout the year. The generosity, honesty and passion of the rural community continue to inspire them. They express their thanks to listeners for tuning in, sharing feedback and helping shape the direction of the podcast.Key TakeawayDespite a challenging year, there is...
In this episode of Ideas That Grow, Farmers Weekly managing editor Bryan Gibson speaks with Lisa Rogers, outgoing CEO of Rural Leaders.Lisa reflects on her nine-year tenure, the evolution of Rural Leaders, and the enduring impact of flagship programmes like Kellogg and Nuffield.She explores how leadership development, collaboration, and a strong alumni network have helped shape confident, capable leaders across New Zealand's food and fibre sector.
In this episode of the Rural Roots Canada Podcast, Craig Lester sits down with fellow 2023 Nuffield Scholar Claire Taylor, a Scottish agricultural journalist now based in Australia. Fresh off a global Nuffield journey that took her to 16 countries, Claire shares her insights on agricultural policy, food security, curiosity-driven learning, and why the pressures facing farmers today demand better leadership, stronger mental health support, and more global connection. The pair reflect on their first meetings at the Nuffield Contemporary Scholars Conference, overcoming imposter syndrome, learning from farmers around the world, and the value of listening deeply. Claire also shares the origin story of Unstoppable World, her new global initiative focused on mental wellness, leadership, and immersive international learning experiences. It's a rich, candid conversation about resilience, perspective, and the shared challenges that connect agriculture across continents.
On today's REX Daily Podcast, Dom talks with Jenna Smith, CEO of Pouarua Farms and board member for BEL Group and Dairy Women's Network, about her recent trip to China for the China International Import Expo, what she learned and her Nuffield scholarship... He talks with Angela Clifford, Eat NZ CEO, about the prospect of Michelin stars being introduced to NZ, working with the Foundation for Arable Research to come up with the official NZ Grain Mark and her new book, 'The Food Farm'... And he talks with kayaker and endurance racer James Scott about wearing the new Norsewear Endurance socks in the recent Gore Whiskey Creek Challenge, his quest to make the NZ Olympic kayaking team for LA 2028 and his long association with surf lifesaving. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.
Dom talks with Jenna Smith, CEO of Pouarua Farms and board member for BEL Group and Dairy Women's Network, about her recent trip to China for the China International Import Expo, what she learned and her Nuffield scholarship. Tune in daily for the latest and greatest REX rural content on your favourite streaming platform, visit rexonline.co.nz and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for more.
Well today we welcome me again, this time to look back over the last two years and what they've really been like
Clear and compelling communication has never been more important in agriculture. In this episode, host Katie Rodwell talks with Claire Taylor, agricultural communicator, journalist, and Nuffield farming scholar, to discuss how storytelling can help bridge the growing disconnect between farmers, consumers, and policymakers. They discuss ways farmers can share their stories with confidence, why understanding audiences matters, and what New Zealand can learn from international examples of agri-communication done well.Tune in to learn how New Zealand farmers can strengthen trust, understanding and pride in the sector by sharing authentic, values-driven stories to ensure the industry's future is not only productive, but also well-understood and respected.Like what you've heard? Follow our podcast for more great content.Show Notes:Clear and compelling communication has never been more important in agriculture. In this episode, host Katie Rodwell sits down with Claire Taylor, agricultural communicator, journalist, and Nuffield farming scholar, to discuss how storytelling can help bridge the growing disconnect between farmers, consumers, and policymakers. Together they explore how farmers can share their stories with confidence, why understanding audiences matters, and what New Zealand can learn from international examples of agri-communication done well.The Power of Connection Through CommunicationClaire explains that communication isn't just about conveying facts — it's about connection. She believes that the future of farming depends on the sector's ability to build understanding and trust beyond the farm gate. Farmers, she says, already have powerful stories to tell about stewardship, care for animals, and innovation; they just need to find the language and channels that resonate with their audiences.From Journalist to Advocate: Claire's Journey in Agri-CommunicationDrawing on her background as a journalist and communicator, Claire shares how her passion for agriculture has shaped her career - from writing about farming issues to helping the sector find its collective voice. Her Nuffield scholarship took her around the world, where she studied how other countries connect their rural and urban communities through storytelling and public engagement.What New Zealand Can Learn From Global VoicesThrough her travels, Claire found that farmers overseas often face similar challenges - balancing productivity with perception. But she also discovered inspiring examples where strong communication strategies have built pride and public support for agriculture. She highlights how coordinated, authentic messaging can make a real difference in how food producers are valued and understood.Practical Tips for Farmers to Share Their StoryClaire encourages farmers to start small - whether that's a social media post, a farm open day, or simply talking with local school groups. She notes that the most impactful stories are those grounded in honesty and everyday experience. By focusing on shared values like care for animals, the environment, and community, farmers can help build a more informed and supportive public conversation about food and farming.Key TakeawayCommunication is a powerful tool for shaping agriculture's future. As Claire puts it, “If we don't tell our own story, someone else will tell it for us.” By sharing authentic, values-driven stories, New Zealand farmers can strengthen trust, understanding, and pride in the sector - ensuring the industry's future is not only productive, but also well-understood and respected.
Nuffield scholar, Jock Gibson has studied eatabilty of beef around the world and has some strong views on how we could apply some of the overseas grading principles to the beef industry in UK in this interesting insight. We have a fascinating discussion about transparency of different types of beef labeled on the consumer shelves. Jock then goes on to talk about his own Pasture for Life-certified farm in Moray as well as the family butcher's business which give him a good vehicle to put his grassfed beef through its paces. All this is prior to him giving his paper at the forthcoming Nuffield Conference.
The Country Hour broadcasts live from the Nuffield Australia National Conference in Adelaide, and the state and federal governments announce a further $30million in drought funding.
Today we welcome Sharon May to the R2Kast!
Today we welcome Peter Craven onto the R2Kast!
Today as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Jo Franklin and Rob Hodgkins — sheep farmers, Nuffield Scholars, and the founders of Cabrito in Hertfordshire.
Today as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Gavin Lane — a soon-to-be CLA President, passionate property investor, and longstanding advocate for British agriculture.
Today as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome David Miller—pioneer of regenerative direct drilling and a respected voice in the future of sustainable arable farming.
Can large carnivores become an asset rather than a liability for livestock farmers? Could there be a net benefit for farmers sharing their landscapes? ...And were wolves really single-handedly responsible for changing the shape of the rivers in Yellowstone National Park? ffinlo Costain meets Jonny Hanson, Nuffield Scholar, and author of Living with Lynx, Sharing landscapes with big cats, wolves and bears.They discuss the pros and cons of large carnivore reintroductions - and the choices, opportunities and costs for society as a whole.Make sure you listen to the end, because the last question is the killer.Read Jonny Hanson's Nuffield report - https://www.nuffieldscholar.org/scholars/2023/jonny-hansonBuy the book, Living with Lynx, by Jonny Hanson
In an increasingly noisy world, how can ag speak with a unified, consistent voice?The changing dynamics of agricultural advocacy in Australia has caught our attention, and we're keen to explore whether industry representation is still 'fit for purpose' in a rapidly shifting political and social landscape. With around 270 farm advocacy bodies in Australia with a combined annual spend of $400-600 million, there's no shortage of voices sticking up for ag. But how effective are they in delivering genuine policy solutions to Government?To open up this conversation, Oli is joined by Katie McRobert, Executive Director at the Australian Farm Institute, and Tyson Cattle, a rural journalist-turned-Nuffield Scholar, currently exploring how ag advocacy is done around the world and what Australia could be doing better.TakeawaysAdvocacy in agriculture is fragmented and there's a disconnect between what's being said and what's being heardEffective advocacy requires a clear purpose, two-way conversations and cultivating long-term relationships to drive policy changeFinding common ground with decision-makers is essential for achieving policy outcomesRespect and credibility is often overlooked in advocacy structuresFarmers are good as telling stories, but ag needs to get better at sharing storiesCurrent advocacy structures in Australia are often conservative and 'locked in' to a traditional structure, but new approaches such as social media influencers are having an impact Leadership in advocacy often requires taking unpopular stancesLinksLearn more about Tyson's Nuffield topic, and LinkedInKatie McRobert LinkedInYou can hear more episodes of Humans of Agriculture here.If you enjoyed this episode, share with a friend and let us know your thoughts at hello@humansofagriculture.com. Don't forget to rate, subscribe, and leave a review!
Today as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Neil McGowan of Incheoch Farm— a stalwart of Highland livestock farming and a voice of reason in the future of rural leadership. From Perthshire glens to global insights, Neil's journey is steeped in tradition, challenge, and thoughtful evolution.
Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series, we welcome James Peck, a forward-thinking Cambridgeshire farmer whose story spans generations, industries, and continents. From humble beginnings and a family steeped in transport and medicine, James carved a unique path into large-scale arable farming and agribusiness diversification.
Today as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni we welcome Tony Pexton and James Pick.
Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Neville and Di Stangroom!
Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Liz Bowles and Jim Baird.
Today we welcome Ben Andrews back onto the R2Kast!
Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series, we chat to Simon Beckett, a third-generation farmer from a family with a deep-rooted Nuffield legacy. His father, Alan Beckett, was a Nuffield Scholar in 1957, and Simon continued the tradition in 1987 with a study on motivation in middle management. Now, his son has taken over the family's diverse farming and retail business, making it three generations of Beckett scholars!
Today, we chat to Roisin Taylor, a passionate advocate for sustainable food systems and a 2023 Nuffield Scholar. Roisin's journey into agriculture is anything but conventional—growing up in rural County Durham, she spent a decade working on farms before diving into academia, where her interests in anthropology and social structures led her back to the land.
Today we welcome David Oates onto the R2Kast!
Today's guest is Dr Jonny Hanson, who joins us to explore the fascinating yet contentious topic of rewilding—a subject that's been making headlines just last week.
Welcome to another episode of R2Kast – People in Food and Farming! This time, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Laura James, a dynamic advocate for sustainable farming and biodiversity. Laura's journey from a childhood dream of saving the whales to becoming a bee scientist and champion for farming communities is nothing short of inspiring.
In this episode of the "Tales of a Nuffield Scholar" series, we chat to Hannah Batty, Hannah Fraser, and Tom Pearson, who share their unique insights and experiences from their Nuffield journeys.
Ben Lowe's journey into agriculture is nothing short of inspiring. From having no farming background to managing a diverse enterprise in Aberdeenshire, Ben has proved that determination and innovation can lead to incredible success.
Today's guest is Sioned Davies, a true powerhouse balancing her role on the family farm, her career as a barrister, and her involvement with Nuffield.
Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series, we chat to Nic and George Snell, brothers who bring entrepreneurial spirit and innovation to farming. From their shared roots on the family farm to global insights gained through their Nuffield journeys, they've cultivated a wealth of knowledge in agriculture.Nic and George take us through their experiences growing up on the family farm, navigating its transformations, and how their father's entrepreneurial mindset influenced their ventures. With a focus on adding value, they share their journey in establishing the pioneering Certainly Wood brand, which brought kiln-dried firewood to the UK market.Both Nic and George also reflect on their individual Nuffield Scholarship topics. Nic's research centred on forestry and woodland, while George explored marketing opportunities in agriculture. Their global travels for Nuffield highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation in farming practices, which they've implemented back home.Recently, they've been involved in sustainable initiatives, including forestry projects and alternative markets, showcasing how their dedication to progression continues to shape their vision for the future of farming.Enjoy!Thank you to Howden Rural for their support of this project.The views in this podcast are those of the participants and not the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust.#R2Kast #NuffieldScholar #AgricultureInnovation #CertainlyWood #KilnDriedFirewood #Forestry #SustainableFarming #FarmEntrepreneurship #AgriLeadership #FarmToForestry #NuffieldFarming #HowdenRural #GlobalAgriculture #FamilyFarming #AgriBusiness #FarmInnovation #Sustainability #AgriResearch #AgricultureFuture #AgriLife #FarmLeadership Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today's episode of the R2Kast is a bit of a twist! Ed takes over the host's chair for this Christmas Special, diving into a year in the life of Wallace Currie.
Today, we delve into the tales of two remarkable Nuffield scholars, Aled Davies and Lorna Davis. Both share their unique perspectives, shaped by years of farming experience and transformative Nuffield journeys.
Today we welcome Izak van Heerden onto the R2Kast. Izak, a true polyglot, impresses with his fluency in multiple languages, adding depth to his international work in agriculture. His ability to connect with people across linguistic boundaries has allowed him to build strong relationships and gain insights from diverse agricultural communities around the world.
Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Gary Spence and Lucy McLennan. Gary and Lucy share their unique experiences within the agriculture sector, highlighting their journeys and the impact of the Nuffield Scholarship on their professional growth.
Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Tom Rawson. At the time of this episode's release, Tom is stepping into the role of Chair of Nuffield UK—a testament to his dedication and leadership within the agricultural community.
Today we welcome Charlotte Cole onto the R2Kast. Charlotte shares her journey as a poultry vet, a career that has taken her across the UK, working with various farms and producers to ensure the health and welfare of poultry flocks. She discusses the unique challenges faced in the poultry industry, from disease prevention to biosecurity measures, and how her work has evolved over the years.
Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Dudley Smith and Tom Pearson. Dudley shares his diverse farming journey, from his early years in Australia and America, where he experienced life as a cowboy, to his time working in India and his extensive travels as part of his Nuffield Scholarship.