PODCAST · business
From The Soil Up Podcast
by Conan Moynihan
From the Soil Up is a podcast about performance in farming, food systems, business, and life. Hosted by Conan Moynihan, it explores what it really takes to build resilient, high-performing systems by getting the fundamentals right from soil health and farm profitability to leadership, mindset, and human health. No trends or dogma. Just honest conversations with farmers, scientists, advisors, and thinkers about what actually works. Because real performance isn’t built on shortcuts. It’s built from the soil up.
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Ep 56 - Phyllis Tichinin: Why Farmers Are the Real Health Professionals
What's the real cost of modern farming and who's paying for it? Phyllis Tichinin of True Health Limited joins the podcast to connect the dots between declining soil health and the chronic disease epidemic facing humans and livestock alike. From the collapse of soil microbiology under synthetic fertilizers, to the hidden nutritional power of grass-fed animal fats, Phyllis offers a compelling case for why regenerative agriculture isn't just good for the land, it's essential for human health. They explore nutrient density, the consequences of routine antibiotic use, and practical on-farm strategies for rebuilding soil biology and producing food that truly nourishes. If you've ever wondered why farming practices matter beyond the farm gate, this episode is for you. http://www.truehealth.co.nz/
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Ep 55 - The Science of Pasture Diversity: Insights from Danny Donaghy & Eru Tait-Jamieson
Pasture diversity is gaining traction in New Zealand farming circles but what does the science actually say? In this episode, Conan sits down with Danny Donaghy and Eru Tait-Jamieson from Massey University to unpack the research behind diverse pasture systems. From species selection and functional traits to grazing management, soil health, and carbon sequestration, this conversation cuts through the hype and gets practical. https://www.massey.ac.nz/about/colleges-schools-and-institutes/college-of-sciences/our-research/themes-and-research-strengths/whenua-haumanu/#Researchsites
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Ep 54 - Joel Crump: Rethinking Fertiliser Systems on Farm with Tow & Fert
In this episode, Conan interviews Joel Crump from Tow & Fert to explore the benefits of foliar feeding, the technology behind Tow & Fert machines, and how farmers can optimize fertilizer use for better soil health and productivity. https://www.towandfert.co.nz/
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Ep 53 - Lynn Hoover on Ocean Minerals: A Smarter Way to Build Fertility and Profit
In this episode, Lynn Hoover from Ocean Blue Agronomics shares insights on the role of ocean minerals in sustainable farming, soil health, and livestock productivity. Discover how natural mineral sources can unlock soil biological functions, improve crop yields, and enhance farm profitability. https://www.oceanblueagronomics.com/about-us
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Ep 52 - Do the Numbers Stack Up? Organic and Regenerative Farming with Kenneth & Rachel Short and Mark & Laura Koopmans
In this special episode, Conan shares his panel from the 2026 Underground Festival, joined by two farming families who've put their money where their values are. Kenneth and Rachel Short are organic dairy farmers from Taranaki, and Mark and Laura Koopmans run a sheep and beef operation out of Kaikoura. From the drivers behind their decisions to the honesty conversations around financials, the challenges, and the opportunities ahead, this is an honest, on-the-ground conversation about what regenerative and organic farming looks like in practice. Please note: this episode was recorded live at the Underground Festival with audience Q&A, so there may be moments where crowd questions are difficult to hear. https://www.undergroundfestival.co.nz/
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Ep 51 - Liam Gavin: Inside the Manuka Honey Industry. Challenges, Quality, and the Future of Natural Health
What does it really take to produce one of the world's most sought-after natural health products? Conan sits down with Liam Gavin from Gavin's Honey to pull back the curtain on the Manuka honey industry. From the realities of beekeeping to quality certification, export markets, and the growing demand for natural health products. With over 2000 recognised properties, Manuka honey sits at the intersection of sustainable farming and global commerce. But as Liam puts it, "the industry is still finding its feet." In this episode: The key challenges facing Manuka honey producers How UMF and MGO certification shapes market value Local vs. export market dynamics What the future holds for this iconic NZ industry https://www.linkedin.com/in/liam-gavin-1824a3286/ https://www.instagram.com/gavinshoney_/
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Ep 50 - Beyond Carbon: The Real Opportunity in Ecosystem Markets - Underground 26
In this episode, I share my panel from the 2026 Underground Festival on Ecosystem Payments. I bring together leading voices in New Zealand’s emerging ecosystem markets to unpack what ecosystem payments really mean for farmers and landowners both today and into the future. I'm joined by Sean Weaver (Ekos), Tim Booth (Tamata Hauhā), and Renee Raroa (East Coast Exchange / Toha), this panel dives deep into the opportunities, challenges, and realities of getting paid for ecosystem outcomes. Please note there are plenty of crowd questions in this session so there may be questions that are hard to hear at times. https://www.undergroundfestival.co.nz/
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Ep 49 - Creating the Next Wave of Agricultural Entrepreneurs: Lincoln Uni Ag Innovation Challenge
In this episode of From the Soil Up Podcast, I speak with Hamish Gow and three of the students involved in the Ag Innovation Challenge about their ideas to solve issues currently facing the agricultural industry. The Challenge is put together by Lincoln University and Ballance Agri Nutrients with support from the Ministry for Primary Industries' Future Ready Farms programme, and is open to first-year students enrolled in the university’s undergraduate Primary Industry Systems course. This is a fantastic opportunity to foster the next generation of Ag entrepreneurs so I'm excited to share their ideas and plans for the future.
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Ep 48 - Emily House: Unlocking the Power of Plant Nutrition for Livestock Performance
In this episode of the From the Soil Up Podcast, Conan chats to Emily House about her expertise on plant nutrition, soil health, and their direct impact on livestock performance. Discover how mineral balance, pasture diversity, and soil testing can optimize farm productivity and animal health. https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-house-59980149/
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Ep 47 - Tony Evans: Unlocking Soil Potential with Compost and Systems Thinking
In this episode, Tony Evans from Camperdown Compost shares insights on regenerative farming, composting, and systems thinking for soil health and farm productivity. Learn how to integrate compost, manage wet conditions, and optimize nutrient cycling for sustainable agriculture. https://camperdowncompost.com.au/
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EP 46 - Paul Daly: Working With Biology: Soil Health, EM & Farm Resilience
In this episode of the From the Soil Up podcast, Conan speaks with Paul Daly from EMNZ about the critical role of soil biology in agriculture. They discuss the importance of microbial diversity, the evolution of EM technology, and the challenges faced in promoting biological solutions in farming. Paul shares insights on how EM can enhance soil health, improve nutrient access for plants, and its applications in waste management and effluent treatment. https://www.emnz.com/
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Ep 45 - Kane Brisco: Farming Under Pressure: Mental Fitness, Resilience, and Perspective
In this episode of the From the Soil Up podcast, Conan Moynihan is joined by Kane Brisco, author of The Tools for the Top Paddock and founder of Farm Fit, to unpack the mental pressures of modern dairy farming. They explore why today’s challenges are more mental than physical, how stepping back creates clarity under pressure, and why simple tools like writing things down can transform decision-making. Kane also shares his personal journey through hardship, highlighting the power of vulnerability, resilience, and community in farming. https://www.facebook.com/FarmFitNZ/ https://farmfitnzshop.com/ https://www.instagram.com/farmfit_nz/?hl=en A grounded, honest conversation about mental fitness and performance in agriculture.
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Ep 44: From Force of Nature to From the Soil Up: The Story Behind the Shift
This episode marks a new chapter for the podcast. The Force of Nature Podcast is now From the Soil Up Podcast. In this solo episode, Conan shares why the name has changed not because the message has shifted, but because the conversation has expanded. What began as a focus on soil health and farming systems has grown into something broader: conversations about the entire food system, from soil and production to human health, business, leadership, and long-term performance. The values remain the same. The lens is wider. The conversations are deeper. Because real performance doesn’t come from chasing the latest idea . It comes from doing the fundamentals properly. And that starts in the soil.
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Ep 43 - Dylan Graves: Understanding the power of Biochar in farming
Summary In this episode, Conan Moynihan interviews Dylan Graves, a passionate permie, about biochar and its applications in farming. They discuss what biochar is, how it is made, and its numerous benefits for soil health, water retention, and nutrient cycling. Dylan shares his personal journey into permaculture and the importance of raising awareness about biochar among farmers. The conversation also touches on the barriers to adoption, the potential for scaling the biochar industry in New Zealand, and the future of biochar in agriculture. https://biochar.net.nz/ https://passionatepermies.wordpress.com/
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Ep 42 - Dave Pratt: Succession, Strategy, and Sustainable Farm Businesses
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan speaks with former owner at Ranch Management Consultants and Ranching for Profit, Dave Pratt about the critical issues surrounding succession planning in farming. They discuss the importance of communication, understanding expectations, and the need for a paradigm shift in how ranchers view their businesses. Dave shares his journey from a struggling rancher to a successful educator, emphasizing the need to work on the business rather than just in it. The conversation also touches on the role of nature in agriculture, the significance of fun in farming, and the distinction between economics and finance in making sound business decisions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about building resilient, profitable, and future-ready farming businesses.
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Ep 41 - Nic Thompson: From Control to Trust. The Evolution of Purpose-Driven Leadership
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Nic Thompson discusses the evolution of leadership and management practices, emphasizing the importance of self-management, decentralization, and emotional intelligence in organizations. He shares personal experiences that shaped his views on leadership and highlights the need for a purpose-driven approach in business. The conversation explores the Teal management framework, the significance of transparency, and the role of authenticity in fostering a positive organizational culture. Thompson provides actionable insights for leaders looking to navigate change and empower their teams effectively. https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasgilesthomson/?originalSubdomain=au https://itsiceberg.com/
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Ep 40 – Thomas Holmes: Rethinking the Future of the Arable Sector
In this episode, I’m joined by Thomas James Holmes to unpack the challenges currently facing the arable sector and what they reveal about the wider agricultural system. We discuss how agriculture often focuses on the positives in good times, while sectors under pressure are overlooked. Thomas shares why flexibility, adaptability, and stronger support systems are critical for navigating economic uncertainty, and why collaboration across sectors is essential for long-term resilience. This conversation is a timely reminder that no part of agriculture operates in isolation and that sustainable solutions require awareness, change, and collective effort. https://ruralleaders.co.nz/opportunities-and-challenges-for-the-future-of-arable-farming-in-canterbury/
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Ep 39 - Fran Bailey & Chanelle O'Sullivan: Connecting Through Soil and Community
In this episode I sit down with two of the founders from the Underground Festival in New Zealand, Fran Bailey and Chanelle O'Sullivan. UNDERGROUND is a two day festival celebrating soil, food and farming featuring international & local soil legends, talks, workshops, field experiences, local kai and music. In this episode we chat about how they came to create the festival, whose it for and how to get the most out of attending it plus a whole lot more. https://www.undergroundfestival.co.nz/ https://www.instagram.com/franbaileypr/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/chanelle.osullivan/?hl=en
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Ep 38 - Jack Heinemann: Navigating the Risks of Genetic Modification
In this episode, Professor Jack Heinemann breaks down the often-overlooked risks of genome editing in agriculture. As New Zealand considers deregulation, he explains how genetic tool, while promising, can unintentionally disrupt vital ecosystem services, compromise farm productivity, and create long-term environmental consequences, even without intent to cause harm. This conversation highlights why thoughtful regulation and a clear understanding of the risks are essential for protecting the future of New Zealand’s agricultural landscapes. https://profiles.canterbury.ac.nz/Jack-Heinemann
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Ep 37 - Daniel Judd: The Soil’s Gap. Rethinking Fertiliser and Farm Science
Conan sits down with dairy farmer and Kellogg Scholar Daniel Judd to unpack his report “The Soil’s Gap.” Together they explore why New Zealand’s agricultural science has focused on fertiliser over soil biology, what that means for productivity and resilience, and how mindset, not just management shapes the future of farming. From fertiliser efficiency and lost nutrients to bridging the divide between conventional and regenerative systems, this is a deep, honest look at where the next evolution of farming begins: in the soil. https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-judd-b5a89a2ba/?originalSubdomain=nz https://ruralleaders.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Daniel-Judd_K53_Final-Report.pdf
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Ep 36 - Shaun Balemi: The Science of Consistency in Cow Nutrition
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan Moynihan speaks with Shaun Balemi from AgVance Nutrition and the MyCow App about the intricacies of cow nutrition and its impact on dairy farming. They discuss common mistakes in cow feeding, the importance of consistency, and how data technology can enhance decision-making on farms. Shaun emphasizes the role of nutrition in reproductive health and the significance of transitioning cows effectively. The conversation also touches on the environmental implications of proper feeding and the future of agriculture through collaboration and innovation. https://mycow.nz/ https://agvance.co.nz/
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EP 35: Dr Lucy Williamson - The Hidden Connection Between Gut Health and Soil Health
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Dr. Lucy Williamson discusses the intricate connections between gut health and soil health. With a background in veterinary medicine and nutrition, she emphasizes the importance of the gut microbiome in overall health and its relationship with food systems. The conversation explores the role of farmers, the significance of education in nutrition, and the need for community engagement in understanding food sources. Dr. Williamson also shares insights on plant-based diets, the benefits of raw milk, and practical tips for improving gut health. https://lwnutrition.co.uk/ https://www.instagram.com/lucywilliamsonnutrition/?hl=en
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Ep 34 - Angela Clifford: Reimagining Food Systems in New Zealand
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan chats with Angela Clifford of Eat New Zealand and the Food Farm, to discuss the current state of food systems in New Zealand. They explore the importance of investing in local food systems, the challenges of food security, and the need for a cultural shift towards supporting small farms and local producers. Angela emphasizes the vulnerabilities in New Zealand's grain market and the necessity for community-driven initiatives to create a resilient food system. The conversation highlights the potential for a decentralized food system that prioritizes local food production and access, ultimately aiming for a sustainable future for New Zealand's food landscape. https://eatnewzealand.nz/ https://www.thefoodfarm.nz/
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EP 33 - Louise Gibson: Navigating the World of Share Milking
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan interviews Louise Gibson, managing director of The Sharefarming Consultants. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in share milking and contract milking, the need for specialized consulting in this area, and the current state of legislation affecting these practices. Louise shares insights from a recent survey on the experiences of contract milkers, highlighting issues of abuse and mental health in the industry. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication, understanding contracts, and the pathways to farm ownership, while also exploring future opportunities in agriculture. https://www.thesharefarmingconsultants.com/
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Ep 32 - Olivier de Schaetzen: Emerging Opportunities and Systemic Change
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan Moynihan interviews Olivier de Schaetzen, a coach focused on regenerative agriculture in Estonia and Finland. Olivier shares his journey from architecture to agriculture, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and nutrient cycling. He discusses the challenges farmers face, the regulatory pressures from the industry, and innovative project aimed at creating a local food system. The conversation also touches on the significance of coaching and personal development in fostering systemic change within agriculture. www.gens.eu
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Ep 31 - Daniel Eb: Re-Imagining the Future of Food and Farming
In this episode of The Force of Nature Podcast, Conan sits down with Daniel Eb, the founder of Dirt Road Comms, Nuffield New Zealand Scholar, writer for Farmers Weekly, and a passionate advocate for reshaping the way we think about food and farming. Daniel’s story blends urban and rural worlds, giving him a unique perspective on New Zealand’s agricultural future. From launching Dirt Road Comms to his Nuffield Scholarship journey, Daniel shares insights on how global events ripple through local agriculture, why food systems are inseparable from public health, and how localised, resilient food networks could transform communities. We explore why New Zealand is uniquely positioned to lead the agricultural transition, the role of Millennials in driving change, and why food should be treated as a public good just like healthcare. Daniel also makes a powerful case for a national food strategy, local procurement programs, and the moral imperative to address food insecurity in a resource rich nation. This conversation is packed with stories, strategies, and bold ideas for building thriving rural communities, reimagining the future of food, and harnessing people as a powerful force of nature for systemic change. https://www.dirtroadcomms.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-eb/?originalSubdomain=nz
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Ep 30 Dom Walker: Trust, Succession & Systems Thinking in Ag
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan speaks with Dom Walker, a coach with Resource Consulting Services (RCS) in Australia. They explore Dom's journey from a city kid to an agricultural coach, discussing his experiences in Guatemala, the importance of connecting farmers to consumers, and the role of resilience in agriculture. The conversation delves into the significance of coaching versus consulting, the challenges of succession in family farms, and the need for effective communication and trust within agricultural businesses. Dom shares insights on holistic approaches to farm management, systems thinking, and the importance of mentorship and personal growth. They also discuss innovative financing solutions in agriculture and the future trends shaping the industry, emphasizing the role of youth and the need for a cultural shift in agriculture towards curiosity and connection with nature. https://www.rcsaustralia.com.au/
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Ep 29 - Helen Beattie: A Good Life for All
In this episode of the Force of Nature Podcast, Conan sits down with Helen Beattie, veterinarian, advocate and founder of Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Aotearoa (VAWA). With a rich background spanning mixed animal practice, animal welfare inspection, and national-level policy work, Helen brings a bold and compassionate lens to one of agriculture’s most complex topics: animal welfare. Helen doesn’t hold back as she unpacks the reality behind farming systems, the importance of systems thinking, and why "a good life for all" means animals, people, and the environment must thrive together. https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-beattie-vawa/?originalSubdomain=nz
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Ep 28 - Dan Smith: Building Community Through Agriculture
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Dan Smith shares his journey from conventional farming to establishing a consultancy and charity farm in the UK. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the impact of the Nuffield Scholarship, and the need for diversity and inclusion in agriculture. We also cover the significance of purpose in farming, the challenges faced in New Zealand agriculture, and the role of technology in enhancing farming practices while maintaining for integrity and sustainability in farming practices in NZ. Dan's Linkedin https://www.instagram.com/roots_in_/
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Ep 27: Matt Haggarty: The Natural Intelligence of Farming
In this episode of the Force the Nation podcast, host Conan Moynihan speaks with Matt Haggerty, a young farmer from Western Australia, about his experiences in agriculture, particularly focusing on regenerative practices and natural intelligence farming. Matt shares insights from his upbringing under his parents Di and Ian Haggerty on a mixed arable farm, what Natural Intelligence Farming is, and the challenges faced in Australian farming, including rainfall and land management. Matt emphasizes the importance of education, advocacy, and building a personal brand in agriculture to connect with consumers and the significance of health and nutrition in relation to farming practices. https://naturalintelligencefarming.com/ https://www.instagram.com/matthaggerz/?hl=en
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Ep 26 - Nicole Masters: The Human Element in Agricultural Transformation
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, host Conan Moynihan speaks with Nicole Masters, an agroecologist and founder of Integrity Soils. They discuss the importance of human dynamics in agriculture, the global trends in agricultural transformation, and the catalysts for change in farming practices. Nicole shares insights from her experiences in Montana, highlighting community innovation and the CREATE program, which focuses on experiential learning and personal development in agriculture. We also explore the themes of uniqueness, coaching, curiosity, community, and the future of agriculture in New Zealand. They discuss the importance of embracing one's individuality, the transformative power of coaching over traditional consulting, and the role of curiosity in driving change. Links to Integrity Soils events and Create below CREATE Australia 3 day workshops in NZ & Australia
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Ep 25 - Melinda Turner: Bridging the Gap Between Soil & Animal Health
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Melinda Turner, an independent farm advisor, shares her expertise in animal nutrition and soil health. Melinda challenges common misconceptions about ruminant nutrition in New Zealand, stressing the importance of balanced diets, effective grazing management, and informed nutritional advice to improve animal health and meat quality. We also speak about industry corruption that obstructs progress and emphasizes the need for greater understanding of livestock nutritional needs. https://www.facebook.com/FarmNutrientsNZ/
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Ep 24 - Challenges and Opportunities in Uruguayan Agriculture with Magdalena Iturria
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, host Conan Moynihan speaks with Magdalena Iturria, a soil health expert from Uruguay. We discuss her journey from chemical engineering to agriculture, the unique challenges faced by Uruguayan farmers, and the importance of soil health in sustainable farming practices. Magdalena shares insights on the establishment of her company, Sosei, and the growing interest in regenerative agriculture in Uruguay. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding profitability and sustainability in farming, the role of women in agriculture, and the transformative experience of the CREATE program. https://soseibioag.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sosei.uy/
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Ep 23 - Building Community Through Food with Cole Mannix
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, host Conan Moynihan speaks with Cole Mannix, founder of Old Salt Co-op, about his journey in the meat industry, the challenges faced by ranchers, and the innovative business model of Old Salt Co-op. Cole shares insights on the importance of community engagement, the need for a more resilient food system, and the existential necessity of decommodifying agriculture. The conversation highlights the connection between ecological stewardship and food production, emphasizing the role of local farmers in creating sustainable food systems. https://www.oldsaltco-op.com/
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Ep22 - - Community: The Heart of Agriculture with Sadie Collins
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Sadie Collins from Highland Harmony Farm shares her journey as a farmer in Montana, discussing the challenges of farming in their climate, the transition to regenerative practices, and the importance of education in agriculture. We also discuss the evolution of wheat and its nutritional decline, the importance of connecting with consumers through farmers' markets, and the value of community and human interaction. https://www.highlandharmonyfarm.com/
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Ep 21 - Understanding nutrient density with Dan Kittredge
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Dan Kittredge shares his journey from a small organic farm in Massachusetts to founding the Bionutrient Food Association. He discusses the importance of nutrient density in food, the significance of brix as a measure of plant health, and the connection between soil health and human health. We discuss the need for a shift in agricultural practices to focus on quality over quantity, and how this can lead to improved health outcomes for both people and the planet. For more of Dan's work: https://www.bionutrient.org/ Dan's Courses in NZ: https://www.quorumsense.org.nz/events/dankitteridge
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Ep20 - Connecting Land and Heritage with Josh Gilbert
In this episode, host Conan speaks with Josh Gilbert, a Worimi man from New South Wales, Australia. Josh shares his deep connection to the land and his family's agricultural history, spanning over 60,000 years. He discusses the importance of Indigenous agricultural practices, storytelling, and leadership in the agricultural sector. Josh emphasizes the potential for a future where Indigenous knowledge and practices are integrated into modern agriculture, creating a more sustainable and inclusive system. https://www.joshuagilbert.co/
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Ep19 - Intentional Growth: Shaping 2025 with Purpose
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan discusses his intentions for 2025, focusing on goal setting through intentionality. He emphasizes the importance of growth, collaboration, setting boundaries, authenticity, and health and wellness. Conan shares his personal experiences and insights on how these areas will shape his year and the impact they can have on his business and personal life.
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Ep 18 - The Economic Opportunity of Soil Health with Canaan Ahu
In this episode, Conan chats to Canaan Ahu the CEO of Agrownomics, a independent soil and fertility company based in Christchurch, New Zealand. They discuss various aspects of agriculture, focusing on the importance of understanding soil health, the role of foliar applications, challenges in agricultural research, and the significance of grazing management. Canaan is a big advocate for the need for a holistic approach to farming that includes understanding soil biology and structure, as well as the significance of education in empowering farmers to make informed decisions themselves. https://www.agrownomics.co.nz/
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Ep 17 - Wingman for Farmers: Mark Benns on Trust, Empathy, and Herd Improvement
In this episode of The Force of Nature Podcast, Conan chats to the legend that is Mark Benns from Wingman. Mark is a former dairy farmer turned to New Zealand's first independent herd improvement consultancy. We cover the importance of openness in the agricultural industry, his transition from farming to consulting, and the significance of empathy and trust in building relationships with farmers. Mark shares his journey of herd improvement and how he aims to help farmers enhance their operations through his business, Wingman. https://www.yourwingman.co.nz/
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Ep16 - Creating pride in New Zealand's food products is essential for market success with Melissa Baer
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan interviews Melissa Baer from Backstory Tech, who shares her journey from growing up on an organic farm in Canada to starting a tech company focused on building brand trust in the food industry. We discuss the importance of marketing in agriculture, the challenges of understanding consumer preferences and the need for collaboration within the industry. To connect with Melissa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissabaer/?originalSubdomain=nz https://www.backstorytech.com/about-us
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Ep15 - The Role of Pasture Species in Parasitism with John Niezen
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, host Conan interviews John Niezen, an expert in dairy farming and agricultural research. John shares his extensive background, including his experiences in various countries and the importance of understanding farmer insights in agricultural practices. The conversation delves into his research and the challenges of parasite management in sheep, the role of pasture species, and the significance of soil health. John also shares his extensive experience in dairy farming across various countries, discussing the challenges and innovations in the industry and offers insights into improving dairy nutrition and animal welfare. To connect with John: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-niezen-9736b753/ Email: [email protected]
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Ep14 - Curiosity and Coaching in Agriculture with Greg Mumm
In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan speaks with Greg Mumm, a first-generation farmer from Kangaroo Valley, Australia. Greg shares his journey from a professional rugby coaching to pursuing his dream of farming at the age of 40. He discusses the challenges and learning experiences of running a regenerative farm, the importance of community and family values, and the innovative approach he is taking with dairy beef. To follow Greg and his family's journey: https://www.facebook.com/RosewoodFarmKV/ https://www.rosewoodfarmstay.com.au/
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Ep13 - Farmers as Carbon Sequestration Superheroes with Siobhan Griffin
Siobhan Griffin has managed and owned farms for 30 years in New York State and Vermont where she delved into organic and holistic regenerative management of dairy cattle and finishing beef. With the goal of producing healthy food for families, she built a solar powered cheese plant on her farm and learned quickly that healthy cows on healthy, diverse grassland supported the best tasting cheese and meat. She relocated to New Zealand in 2017 and now lives at Ridgepark Farm with her partner and 4200 ewes on 400 hectares. She plans to spend the next chapter of her life keeping pastoral farmers on the land by helping them be more profitable and teaching them how to use their livestock to heal the land and build carbon in the soil as grazing coach. https://www.nextlevelgrazing.com/
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Ep12 - The Soil Carbon Opportunity for NZ Farmers with Verdi
In this episode I have the pleasure of speaking with two of the founders of Verdi, Nic Conland and Jason Cruise. Verdi provides New Zealand farmers the opportunity to improve soil health and earn income through soil carbon credits. We cover the importance of soil carbon, their verification process, the opportunity for NZ farmers and the country and a whole lot more. https://verdi.nz/
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Ep11 - Understanding NLP and Mindset in Farming with Andrew Savage
Andrew Savage is today's guest on the podcast who has created Savage Rural Consulting to help agribusinesses simplify and optimise their business and goals. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including farming experiences, agribusiness consulting, NLP, money mindset, and the challenges faced by farmers. We discussed the impact of values, beliefs, and biases on decision-making and the importance of recognizing and addressing these factors. https://savageruralbusiness.com/
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Ep 10 - The Power of Making Decisions (Solo Podcast)
For episode 10, I decided to celebrate my first year in business by recording a podcast sharing a bit of insight into what I have learnt or aim learning as a business owner and how that applies to agricultural businesses. I discuss the importance of making decisions, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, responding rather than reacting to situations, and investing in personal development.
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Ep 9 - Utilizing young dairy beef can create low-carbon, high-value beef market products with Daniel Carson
In this episode I talk to the creator of the Miti Beef Bar and founder of Alps to Ocean Foods, Daniel Carson. Daniel explains the concept behind Alps to Ocean Foods, which focuses on utilizing young dairy beef to create a low-carbon, high-value meat snack and protein bar. He highlights the opportunities for scale and innovation in the manufacturing beef market and the potential benefits for farmers and the environment and the potential for New Zealand to capture more value in the meat snacks market. Contact Daniel here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-carson-1670451aa/ https://miti.nz/
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Ep 8 - Empowering Farmers to Govern Their Data with Tim Gieseke
In episode 8 I speak with Tim Gieseke EcoCommerce company in Minnesota, USA. Tim discusses the concept of eco-commerce and the Natural Capital Unit (NCU) as a way to account for ecosystem services in agriculture. He emphasizes the need for a singular accounting system that allows farmers to govern their own data and integrate it with market demands. Giesicki proposes the NCU as a geospatial bushel basket for the 21st century, providing a standardized unit for measuring natural capital. He also highlights the importance of including all landscapes, including oceans and parking lots, in the accounting system. The biggest challenge in the agricultural industry is the lack of a coherent and accountable accounting system. The conversation explores the need for an accounting system that encompasses all aspects of the ecosystem, not just carbon. The Natural Capital Unit (NCU) is proposed as a solution to account for the value of different natural resources and ecosystem services. The NCU can be used to create markets that incentivize sustainable practices and reward farmers for their environmental stewardship. The conversation also touches on the importance of governance in implementing such a system and the potential for cryptocurrencies to play a role in the future of the agricultural industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothy-gieseke-215392239/
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Ep 7 - Innovative Farmers: Challenging Tradition and Finding Success with John King
In episode 7 I speak with John King from Succession. John is a certified Holistic Management® educator who travels throughout New Zealand to talk with and teach groups and individuals to manage holistically and tap into regenerative farming techniques. John has also written a book "Curiosity" about real experiences of farmers confronted and confused by outcomes of their actions and decisions and what they did to bring things back on track while challenging conventional beliefs about farming, business and resource management. https://succession.co.nz/?file=home-page Johns Book: https://www.facebook.com/people/Curiosity-Farmers-Discovering-What-Works/100090138104100/
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
From the Soil Up is a podcast about performance in farming, food systems, business, and life. Hosted by Conan Moynihan, it explores what it really takes to build resilient, high-performing systems by getting the fundamentals right from soil health and farm profitability to leadership, mindset, and human health. No trends or dogma. Just honest conversations with farmers, scientists, advisors, and thinkers about what actually works. Because real performance isn’t built on shortcuts. It’s built from the soil up.
HOSTED BY
Conan Moynihan
CATEGORIES
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