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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
Yumeng Chen is one of the 2026 Nuffield Scholars who has been sponsored by Hort Innovation.Her project will explore how virtual modelling can optimise production systems and decision-making in vegetable growing. As she describes it the project will look at ways of using a virtual model of part of a farm, or part of an operation's supply chain, combined with historical sales and production data, to forecast what will be needed in the year ahead.Yumeng is a Senior Account Manager with Fragapane Farms, which grows lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, celery and other green vegetable crops near Werribee in Victoria.She's responsible for the domestic retailers and the export markets, but is also involved in projects related to supply planning, demand forecasting and data analytics. Vegalogue is the podcast from AUSVEG, the peak body for Australia's vegetable, potato, and onion industries, where we examine the pressing issues and latest developments in our sector. Thanks for listening! You can find out more about AUSVEG and the Australian vegetable industry at ausveg.com.au. Subscribe to our newsletter, or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, or Tik Tok.
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
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.
In this special Recap & New Year episode of the AgCulture Podcast, I reflect on 2025 and the major shifts shaping U.S. and global agriculture. Drawing from my work in dairy, agribusiness, and innovation, I share insights on labor challenges, policy changes, farm data, and the growing importance of trust in technology. I also discuss lessons from rural communities and leadership trends that stood out this year. Listen now on all major platforms to hear what these changes could mean for agriculture in 2026 and beyond!Meet the guest: Paul Windemuller is an agripreneur, 2024 Nuffield Scholar, and host of the ‘AgCulture Podcast'. With over a decade of experience in dairy and agribusiness, he's the founder of Open Sky Agribusiness and Dream Winds Dairy, where he drives innovation through automation and technology. Paul holds a degree in Agricultural Business from Michigan State University and dairy expertise from Lincoln University.What you will learn: (00:00) Introduction(02:08) Labor challenges(03:16) Policy priorities(04:48) Trade uncertainty(06:15) Farm data(07:07) Trust issues(21:25) Closing thoughtsDiscover the world of agriculture with the "Ag Culture Podcast". This podcast will be a gateway for those passionate about agriculture to explore its global perspectives and innovative practices.Join Paul as he shares his experiences in the agricultural industry, his travels and encounters with important figures around the world.Available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Subscribe at http://www.agculturepodcast.com and keep an eye out for future episodes, bringing insights and stories from the vibrant world of agriculture.
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.
In this episode of the AgCulture Podcast, I share key takeaways from my recent trip to Chile for the International Dairy Federation's World Dairy Summit. From automation in dairy farms to the rise of hazelnut and wine industries, I discuss what makes Chile an emerging player in global agriculture. Learn how technology and innovation are shaping its dairy and crop sectors. Listen now on all major platforms! Meet the guest: Paul Windemuller is an agripreneur, 2024 Nuffield Scholar, and host of the ‘AgCulture Podcast'. With over a decade of experience in dairy and agribusiness, he's the founder of Open Sky Agribusiness and Dream Winds Dairy, where he drives innovation through automation and technology. Paul holds a degree in Agricultural Business from Michigan State University and dairy expertise from Lincoln University.What you will learn: (00:00) Introduction(01:10) Chile dairy overview(08:59) Agricultural diversity(11:03) Automation trends(13:32) AI in dairy(14:20) Global innovation(15:12) Closing thoughtsDiscover the world of agriculture with the "Ag Culture Podcast". This podcast will be a gateway for those passionate about agriculture to explore its global perspectives and innovative practices.Join Paul as he shares his experiences in the agricultural industry, his travels and encounters with important figures around the world.Available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Subscribe at http://www.agculturepodcast.com and keep an eye out for future episodes, bringing insights and stories from the vibrant world of agriculture.
Dusty Pascoe is a Farmer and Nuffield Scholar whose passion for ag education has taken him all over the world from his farm in North Central Victoria. In this episode, Dusty shares how to apply for a Nuffield scholarship and what international study through the organisation has taught him. He discusses his experience in farming, including the benefits of grazing crops in varying climates, the impacts of international subsidies on agricultural innovation, and his strategies for decision-making and long-term planning on his farm. Resources and links: Nuffield Australia website Send us your story: Do you know someone (or are you someone) who’d make a great potential guest on a future episode of Beyond the Farm Gate? Drop us a line at beyondthefarmgate@bendigobank.com.au. Connect: Bendigo Bank Agribusiness website Bendigo Bank on Facebook Bendigo Bank on X Bendigo Bank on LinkedIn Bendigo Bank on YouTube In this podcast any opinions, estimates and projections are for informational purposes only and any advice provided is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the AgCulture Podcast, I share stories and takeaways from a recent trip through the Pacific Northwest and beyond, visiting some of the country's most distinctive farming regions. From the rolling wheat fields of Washington's Palouse to Idaho's onion valleys and the vast apple orchards of Washington, I look at the history, infrastructure, and water systems that helped these industries grow. Tune in for the connections between crops, culture, and innovation that continue to shape U.S. agriculture. Available now on all major platforms!Meet the host: Paul Windemuller is an agripreneur, 2024 Nuffield Scholar, and host of the ‘AgCulture Podcast'. With over a decade of experience in dairy and agribusiness, he's the founder of Open Sky Agribusiness and Dream Winds Dairy, where he drives innovation through automation and technology. Paul holds a degree in Agricultural Business from Michigan State University and dairy expertise from Lincoln University.What you will learn: (00:00) Introduction(03:18) Hop production(07:48) Hazelnut valley(09:30) Onion industry(13:25) Trip takeaways(18:59) Water and irrigation(24:16) Closing thoughtsDiscover the world of agriculture with the "Ag Culture Podcast". This podcast will be a gateway for those passionate about agriculture to explore its global perspectives and innovative practices.Join Paul as he shares his experiences in the agricultural industry, his travels and encounters with important figures around the world.Available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Subscribe at http://www.agculturepodcast.com and keep an eye out for future episodes, bringing insights and stories from the vibrant world of agriculture.
In this episode of the AgCulture Podcast, Lisa Portas, a 2025 Nuffield Scholar and agribusiness director from New Zealand, explores the shifting economics of strong wool. She unpacks why synthetic fibers disrupted the market, what makes value-added wool promising again, and how infrastructure and accreditation could transform the sector. Discover how global travel is shaping her thinking on regenerative farming and supply chain reinvention. Listen now on all major platforms!Meet the guest: Lisa Portas is a director, former farm operator, and a 2025 Nuffield Scholar based in New Zealand's Wairarapa region. With over a decade of leadership in agribusiness diversification, she focuses on value chains, wool innovation, and export development. Her current research explores how strong wool producers can regain profitability through direct supply chains, farm-level practices, and global accreditation strategies.What you will learn: (00:00) Introduction(04:48) Strong wool economics(07:00) Infrastructure decline(10:12) Wool market innovation(14:09) Government policy shifts(18:20) Merino vs. strong wool(24:04) Closing thoughtsDiscover the world of agriculture with the "Ag Culture Podcast". This podcast will be a gateway for those passionate about agriculture to explore its global perspectives and innovative practices.Join Paul as he shares his experiences in the agricultural industry, his travels and encounters with important figures around the world.Available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Subscribe at http://www.agculturepodcast.com and keep an eye out for future episodes, bringing insights and stories from the vibrant world of agriculture.
Today as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Rob Ward — entrepreneur, innovator, and agri-tech visionary.Rob's story begins on a tenanted family farm in Shropshire where early lessons in strawberries and supermarket selling taught him resilience and strategy. From handing out pick-your-own baskets to selling tech globally, Rob's journey is a masterclass in reinvention.
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.
Farmers and agronomists have a lot on their plate just to produce a profitable crop every year. So what happens when their buyers start requesting they also change practices to move in a more regenerative direction? Today we hear Emily, an agronomist for a large farm in Alberta, Canada, and Syngenta's Tara McCaughey, about the quest to grow a more regenerative potato.“ It's very different from what we're used to. We have somebody who comes here, sells us a product, we see the results. It's instant ROI. With a lot of these practices, it's gonna cost you extra time and people, but you don't necessarily get that right back, that harvest. This is more of a long game. So trying to justify that when you're convincing people to make a change. I think that's an additional barrier is that you might not see your yield increase year one. And that's just a different mindset shift from what we're used to in ag I think.” - Emily, Agronomist in Alberta, CanadaEmily is an agronomist for a very large farming operation in Alberta, Canada. She's been doing that for about five years and has an additional 15 years as agronomist, mostly working for a large french fry manufacturer. Emily recently traveled the world as a Nuffield Scholar studying regenerative agriculture practices in potato production systems.Tara has been with Syngenta for a number of years in various capacities, but currently she is the Head of Technology Solutions in Sustainable Ag Function. So her team ensures that technology, including chemistry, biological crop input products, as well as digital ag solution technologies are market-ready and supported once they're in the market with farmer customers.This Week on Soil Sense:Meet Emily, an agronomist in Alberta, and Tara McCaughey, Head of Technology Solutions in Sustainable Ag at Syngenta Canada Discover what's working when it comes to implementing regenerative farming practices in potato cropping systemsConsider why building soil health is a long term investment instead of a product that can offer clear and instant return on investment (ROI)Listen to how agronomists like Emily work with other stakeholders to find prudent ways to implement changesThe Soil Sense podcast is for those that believe building healthier soils is not just a prescription, but rather a pursuit. On this show, we unpack the way farmers collaborate to build healthier soils and adapt systems to work on their farm for both sustainability and profitability.Listen to the full season here: https://www.syngenta.com/agriculture/sustainable-agriculture/soil-health/soil-sense-podcast Thank you to Syngenta for sponsoring this season of the Soil Sense podcast. If you are interested in what soil health looks like in practice and on the farm, please subscribe and follow this show on your favorite podcast app, and leave us a rating and review while you're there!
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.
In this episode of the AgCulture Podcast, I talk about what I learned while hosting a group of Nuffield Scholars in Western Michigan. We get into how local microclimates shape crop choices, how community values show up in the way farms run, and why sharing ideas across countries really matters in agriculture. I also touch on why it's so important to get young people involved in fairs and ag events. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform!Meet the guest: Paul Windemuller is an agripreneur, 2024 Nuffield Scholar, and host of the ‘AgCulture Podcast'. With over a decade of experience in dairy and agribusiness, he's the founder of Open Sky Agribusiness and Dream Winds Dairy, where he drives innovation through automation and technology. Paul holds a degree in Agricultural Business from Michigan State University and dairy expertise from Lincoln University.What you will learn: (00:00) Introduction(01:03) Microclimate impact(03:59) Crop and livestock diversity(04:29) Community-driven accountability(06:20) Shared values in farming(07:35) Benefits of hosting tours(12:25) Closing thoughtsDiscover the world of agriculture with the "Ag Culture Podcast". This podcast will be a gateway for those passionate about agriculture to explore its global perspectives and innovative practices.Join Paul as he shares his experiences in the agricultural industry, his travels and encounters with important figures around the world.Available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Subscribe at http://www.agculturepodcast.com and keep an eye out for future episodes, bringing insights and stories from the vibrant world of agriculture.
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.
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 podcast which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Heather Wildman — an unstoppable force in UK agriculture, leadership development, and communication training. From a Cumbrian hill farm to global influence, Heather's story is packed with grit, growth, and generosity.
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.
Today as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni we welcome Jenna Ross.
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.
In this episode of the AgCulture Podcast, Sophie Gregory, an organic dairy farmer, talks about the future of organic dairy farming. Drawing from her extensive travels across Europe, Asia, and the US, she highlights the challenges and opportunities facing the organic dairy sector. Sophie discusses how organic practices can be adapted to various climates and how the industry can succeed on a global scale. Tune in to hear her perspective on the evolution of organic farming and its potential. Listen now on all major platforms!Meet the guest: Sophie Gregory is a first-generation organic dairy farmer managing 1,400 acres in Dorset. After transitioning from accountancy to farming, she now focuses on sustainability and organic practices. Sophie is a Nuffield Scholar, researching the future of organic dairy farming and sharing her findings with global farmers. She is passionate about educating the public on agriculture and is an advocate for organic dairy's role in sustainable farming.Connect with our guest on Social Media:LinkedIn: Sophie GregoryInstagram: @farmer_in_training(00:00) Introduction(02:00) Global travel experiences(05:41) Knowledge exchange in dairy(11:12) Farming contrasts in Indonesia(21:10) Policy and sustainability(23:05) Organic farming innovations(31:05) Final Questions
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!
In this episode of the AgCulture Podcast, I share my personal experience with the H5N1 avian influenza outbreak in dairy cattle. I discuss its impact on my herd, including production losses, animal health challenges, and the toll it took on my mental well-being. I also touch on the struggles many farmers face during such events and highlight the importance of having a supportive network. Tune in for a real look at farming through a crisis. Listen now on all major platforms!Paul Windemuller is an agripreneur, 2024 Nuffield Scholar, and host of the AgCulture Podcast. He is the founder of Open Sky Agribusiness and Dream Winds Dairy LLC, where he manages a herd of 260 cows utilizing cutting-edge robotics and automation. Paul has a background in Agri-Business Management from Michigan State University and Dairy Husbandry from Lincoln University (NZ).Connect with the host on Social Media: LinkedIn(00:00) Introduction(02:30) H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle(04:10) Impact on milk production(06:00) Mental health challenges(08:00) Managing sick cows(10:10) Long-term effects (12:00) Closing thoughts
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.
In this special episode of the AgCulture Podcast, I'm wrapping up my recent travels across New Zealand as part of my Nuffield International Scholarship. I share key insights on innovations in dairy, arable farming, and horticulture, along with the economic and regulatory challenges shaping the country's agricultural landscape. From high-tech apple orchards to AI-powered virtual fencing, this episode takes you inside the changing world of New Zealand agriculture. Tune in now on all major platforms!What will you learn: Changes in NZ agriculture AI in dairy farming Challenges in NZ exports Tech adoption in farming Future of NZ dairyMeet the host:Paul Windemuller is an agripreneur, 2024 Nuffield Scholar, and host of the ‘AgCulture Podcast.' With over a decade of experience in dairy and agribusiness, he's the founder of Open Sky Agribusiness and Dream Winds Dairy, where he drives innovation through automation and technology. Paul holds a degree in Agricultural Business from Michigan State University and dairy expertise from Lincoln University.Connect with Paul on Social Media: LinkedIn (00:00) Introduction (01:20) Changes in NZ agriculture (02:52) AI in dairy farming (05:29) Challenges in NZ exports (08:45) Tech adoption in farming (10:38) Future of NZ dairy (15:55) Closing thoughts
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!
In this episode of the AgCulture Podcast, Ben Anderson—a New Zealand farmer with a background in risk management and sustainability—breaks down the economics of the deer industry, the role of forestry in land diversification, and the financial challenges farmers face today. He also shares his thoughts on the changing agricultural landscape in New Zealand and why adding value to raw commodities is more important than ever. Tune in to hear insights on sustainability, resilience, and new opportunities in farming. Available now on all major platforms!This episode was sponsored by: SDG Precision AgMeet the guest:Ben Anderson is a New Zealand farmer, Nuffield Scholar, and former Army Officer with a background in risk management. Growing up on a sheep and beef property, he now operates a diversified farm that includes deer, forestry, and dairy. His Nuffield research focused on the economic and environmental sustainability of the New Zealand deer industry. With a Master's in International Relations from Victoria University of Wellington, Ben brings a global perspective to local agricultural challenges.Connect with our guest on Social Media:LinkedIn(00:00) Introduction(02:40) Economic sustainability(05:44) Diversification strategies(10:12) Deer farming insights(14:40) Forestry opportunities(19:59) Climate change adaptation(26:18) Final Questions
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, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series, we chat to Emily Norton, a passionate advocate for climate-focused policy and the future of farming.
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.
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 we welcome Natasha Edwards onto the R2Kast. Hailing from the Isle of Wight, Natasha brings her wealth of experience as a Nuffield Scholar and garlic farmer to the table. She shares her unique journey, starting with a family farming business that has become a national brand. The Garlic Farm now welcomes over 200,000 visitors annually, showcasing innovation and sustainability in rural business.
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, 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.
Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Matthew Naylor. Matthew delves into his journey of running a successful flower farming business in South Lincolnshire. Starting with just 120 acres of mixed crops, he describes how he expanded into growing 700 acres of cut flowers, working with major retailers such as Tesco, Marks & Spencer, and the Co-op.
Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Guy Smith. Guy speaks about his experience farming on the Essex coast, which boasts the driest spot in the British Isles, with less than 20 inches of rain annually. He discusses the challenges of farming under such dry conditions and the unique weather patterns of the region. ☀️Guy also reflects on his time as deputy president of the NFU, where he worked with farmers across various landscapes, from rough grazing to arable farming. He describes the complexities of representing such diverse farming systems and how issues like black grass and evolving weather patterns have influenced the sector.