R2Kast - People in Food and Farming/All In

In the final episode of the series, we explore how the island's farmers have diversified their businesses to adapt to changing markets and build resilience for the future. Along the way, we'll discover how these new enterprises are creating benefits that extend far beyond the farm gate, supporting local jobs, producing essential goods and services, creating educational opportunities, and helping people reconnect with the land and the food they eat. Episode guestsAlisa CurrieAilsa Currie set up and runs the visitor and education programme at Bellevue Farm, a family-run beef, sheep and arable farm located near Blackwaterfoot.The farm welcomes tourists, families and students to learn about farming, experience local food and build a deeper connection with Arran's landscape and natural environment.Bellevue also hosts a regular farmer's market in partnership with other local food producers.Kenny BoneKenny Bone is a mixed farmer at Glenkiln Farm who also runs a livery business, indoor riding arena, holiday lets, a hydroelectric energy scheme, and is the co-owner of The Drift Inn in Lamlash - alongside several other enterprises!Kenny is interested in caring for Arran's environment and is involved with many local organisations, including Arran Economic Group, Arran Development Trust and the local Forestry Commission panel as well as hosting the Arran Farmers Show.He was awarded Diversified Farm of the Year and the Champion of Champions award at the Scottish Agriculture Awards in 2024.Colin MackenzieColin Mackenzie successfully transitioned his family farm business away from dairy and now runs Mackenzie Logs - supplying seasoned firewood across the island. He also has a small herd of beef breeding cattle and store lambs.Alistair DobsonAlongside his role of Managing Director at Arran Dairies which he runs with his son Matthew, Alistair Dobson is Managing Director of Taste of Arran, a collaborative business that promotes, sells, and distributes food and drink from 10 SME producers on Arran to markets in the UK and abroad.Alistair is also the founding Chairman of VisitArran and a founding member of the Arran Economic Group focused on fostering community development and preserving Arran’s cultural and natural heritage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Field to Front Door – Episode 11 on regenerative farming, harvest decisions and learning from failureToday we’re back with Field to Front Door 🎙️David, Martin and Wallace catching up on everything from harvest preparations and regenerative farming to football, Yorkshire Show and what’s happening on their farms right now. Field to Front Door 11.pdfA big part of this episode was a deep dive into regenerative farming. We got into soil biology, Johnson Sue compost, seed treatments, crop rotations and why changing farming systems isn’t about finding one magic answer but learning through trial and error. There was a really honest discussion around the fear of trying something different and accepting that not everything will work first time.We also chatted about harvest, with oilseed rape, wheat and linseed all coming into focus, how weather can completely change decisions in the field, and why growing crops is only half the challenge if you’re trying to add value and sell them differently.One of the most interesting conversations was around how farming has changed over generations. We talked about machinery, soil disturbance, biodiversity and how modern knowledge can be combined with older farming principles rather than simply trying to go backwards.As always there were plenty of laughs along the way, from Yorkshire versus Scotland, combine breakdowns and hats, through to planning next season before this one has even finished.We’re going to keep this going fortnightly for now and see where it takes us. If you’ve got ideas on what we should cover or who we should bring in, send them our way.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I had Sally-Ann on the R2Kast 🎙️ What a conversation this was. Sally-Ann wears more hats than almost anyone I’ve had on the podcast, working across agriculture, entomology, ecology, palaeontology and education, while somehow also becoming part of the winning Hawstone Farmers Choir on Britain’s Got Talent. 🌾We started with the choir journey, from answering a social media advert looking for farmers who could hold a tune, through to filming adverts, building friendships and eventually standing on the Britain’s Got Talent stage. Sally-Ann shared what it felt like to go from an ordinary farming and science background to performing live in front of millions of people and ultimately winning the competition. 🍎  A big part of the conversation focused on dung beetles and why they matter so much. We discussed the role they play in soil health, nutrient cycling, biodiversity, pasture management and wider ecosystem function. It was a fascinating insight into a part of farming that most people never think about, despite its huge importance to both agriculture and nature. 🌍  We also spoke about curiosity, learning, Land Rovers, expeditions, mental health, finding your tribe and making the most of opportunities when they appear. It was one of those chats that could have gone on for hours because there was always another story waiting around the corner.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on series two of Tales of a Nuffield Scholar supported by NFU Mutual we continue looking ahead to the 2026 Nuffield Farming Scholarships Conference in Leeds 🎙️ Across this series we’re hearing from scholars who will feature within the conference presentation groups, giving a flavour of the conversations, ideas and experiences set to shape the event 🌍This episode focuses on the presentation group “Strengthening the People Who Shape Our Sector” with Andrew Richardson, Lucia Slack, Natasha Edwards, Peter Green and Sharon May 🌱While many of the previous episodes have focused on crops, livestock, land use and natural resources, this conversation put people firmly at the centre. Across five very different scholarship topics, the common thread was understanding how we support the individuals, families and communities that underpin food, farming and aquaculture every single day 🚜We spoke about mental health, suicide prevention, family wellbeing, succession, identity, leadership and the importance of community. Lucia shared insights from her work as a mental health nurse and her research into suicide within agriculture, while Sharon explored how best to support farming families and the wider networks around them. Both highlighted the importance of trust, connection and tackling the stigma that still prevents many people from seeking support 🌾Andrew brought a completely different perspective from the aquaculture sector, looking at how young people are encouraged into food production industries and what agriculture can teach other sectors about building identity, belonging and strong peer networks. Peter explored the characteristics and behaviours that help farmers successfully navigate change, while Natasha examined how certification schemes can support farmers through transition and create opportunities for more sustainable and profitable systems 🌍One of the strongest themes throughout the conversation was that people matter just as much as policy, technology or production systems. Whether it was strengthening communities, supporting wellbeing, encouraging young people into the sector or helping businesses adapt to change, the discussion repeatedly returned to the importance of relationships and human connection.Without giving away everything that will be shared on stage in Leeds, this episode offered a powerful reminder that the future of farming is ultimately shaped by people, and supporting those people well is essential for the future success of the sector.Thank you to NFU Mutual for their support of this project.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you thrive on challenge? Or perhaps you’re looking for someone who can help bring clarity to the whirlwind of running a business and a busy life? 🌱Today on the TwoCan Mentor podcast I was joined by Becci Berry and Andrew Ferguson 🎙️Becci came into farming from a completely different background in marketing and sponsorship, taking on the family farm following the loss of her husband and learning the industry from the ground up. Andrew’s journey saw him unexpectedly return home to take on the family farm after losing his father, building a diverse rural business with everything from commercial units and a brewery to a café and indoor cricket centre.  We spoke about the value of having someone independent to challenge your thinking, offer perspective and provide reassurance when running a business can feel overwhelming. Despite coming from different backgrounds, both found common ground in resilience, community and creating opportunities from difficult circumstances. 🌍  A big theme throughout the conversation was confidence. Not necessarily changing what you’re doing, but having someone help you step back, reflect on what you’ve already achieved and trust your own judgement. 💭  We also discussed the flexibility of the mentoring relationship and how some of the biggest benefits come not from technical advice, but from having honest conversations with someone who understands the challenges of building a business, leading people and navigating life’s twists and turns. 🌱  Enjoy! ☺️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we meet four inspiring guests who are championing small-scale horticulture, alternative food systems and pollinator conservation on Arran. We learn how market gardens, community growing projects and foraging initiatives are helping to celebrate local produce, reconnect people with the land and strengthen social wellbeing. We also explore the important role that bees and honey production play in supporting biodiversity and food production across the island. Episode guestsSimon Ross-GillSimon is the Director and Project Coordinator of The Arran Pioneer Project CIC, a project working to regenerate Scotland’s wild and natural landscapes in a way that incorporates rural communities while securing jobs and livelihoods for young people. The Pioneer Project runs several community gardens around Arran.Simon also works as a graphic designer specialising in books, handbooks, flyers and interpretive materials focussed on landscape, environment and community. He is passionate about working with local people to build a more sustainable and self-sufficient food system.Robin GrayRobin is a chef, grower and owner of Robin Gray’s Island Gourmet, a take-away food business in Whiting Bay demonstrating how sustainably produced, seasonal ingredients can be used to celebrate the unique flavours of Arran.Zoë HughesZoë is a Wild Food Educator who runs Wild Food Arran and has been teaching foraging and wild food identification for over 4 years. She is a member of the Association of Foragers and completely obsessed with mushrooms!Andy WalkerAndy has been keeping bees on Arran for more than 20 years. He moved to the island with his family in 1999 to work for the Forestry Commission and, although now retired, continues to work part-time in timber production. Alongside producing a range of award-winning honeys, Andy also uses beeswax from his hives to create a variety of natural products sold across the island under the label of Arran Bee Products.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re back with Field to Front Door 🎙️This one was recorded live from Groundswell, with David, Martin and Wallace all together in person for the first time after months of recording remotely.  We covered plenty in this episode, from the atmosphere at Groundswell and why it’s become such an important event for farmers, through to regenerative farming, cover crops, soil biology and how different approaches are changing the way people think about growing food.There was a fascinating discussion around compost, seed treatments and building healthier soils, with Martin explaining the practical side of regenerative farming while David shared what he’s learning as he starts changing parts of his own system.We also chatted about trying new ideas, learning from other farmers, the value of collaboration and why events like Groundswell give people the confidence to take something home and have a go for themselves.As always there were plenty of laughs along the way, from photography disasters and hats to tractors, peonies and the usual conversations that seem to appear whenever the three of us get together.We’re going to keep this going fortnightly for now and see where it takes us. If you’ve got ideas on what we should cover or who we should bring in, send them our way.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I had Lauren on the R2Kast 🎙️ A food content creator, recipe developer and social media personality who has built a huge audience around cooking, local produce and great ingredients. 🌾We spoke about growing up in Scotland, working in hospitality and then spending more than a decade with Scottish Water before eventually taking the leap into content creation full time. It was a really honest discussion about balancing a career, family life and building something from scratch online while figuring out what actually mattered to her. 🍎  A big part of the conversation focused on food. Why quality ingredients matter, supporting local producers, understanding where food comes from and the role social media can play in connecting consumers with farming. Lauren shared how her content has evolved from restaurant recommendations into something much more focused on provenance, local sourcing and telling the stories behind the food on people’s plates. 🌍We also chatted about the realities of working in social media, the pressure of creating content, dealing with criticism online and the importance of staying authentic. It was a really interesting look at how someone outside agriculture can become such a strong advocate for British food and farming simply through a genuine passion for good food.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on series two of Tales of a Nuffield Scholar supported by NFU Mutual we continue looking ahead to the 2026 Nuffield Farming Scholarships Conference in Leeds 🎙️ Across this series we’re hearing from scholars who will feature within the conference presentation groups, giving a flavour of the conversations, ideas and experiences set to shape the event 🌍This episode focuses on the presentation group “Innovation in Modern Horticulture” with Polly Hilton and Lucy George 🌱While the Leeds presentation group will also include Ali Warren-Walker, a change in presentation groups meant Ali had already featured in the opening episode of this series as part of “New Pathways for Land, Rivers, Carbon and Nature”, so this conversation focused on Polly and Lucy.We spoke about two very different journeys within horticulture, from premium cider production and traditional orchards through to tea growing in Wales. What linked both conversations was a willingness to challenge convention, create value from specialist crops and build businesses around products that many people would not immediately associate with British agriculture 🚜Polly shared how Fine Love Cider works with traditional orchards in the Wye Valley, helping to protect and restore these valuable landscapes while producing premium ciders. Through her travels she explored cider cultures across Europe, looking at everything from education and government support to the role local producers play in maintaining regional identity and rural economies 🌳Lucy spoke about pioneering commercial tea production in Wales after a background in soft fruit growing. Her Nuffield journey has explored how innovation from across horticulture can be adapted into the tea sector, while also questioning how we define value within food production. From consumer understanding and sustainability through to community engagement and wellbeing, her work highlighted the wider role that horticulture can play beyond simply producing a crop 🍃One of the strongest themes running throughout the episode was the importance of education and connection. Whether it was helping consumers understand where their tea comes from or encouraging support for locally grown apples and cider, both scholars highlighted the value of reconnecting people with the origins of what they eat and drink 🌾Without giving away everything that will be shared on stage in Leeds, this episode offered another fascinating glimpse into the future of horticulture, rural enterprise and innovative crop production.Thank you to NFU Mutual for their support of this project.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you feel you have expertise and experience to pass on? Or perhaps you’re looking for someone who can help you learn, grow and navigate the challenges ahead? 🌱Today on the TwoCan Mentor podcast I was joined by Ian Brown and Muhammad Umar 🎙️Ian is a third generation farmer, entrepreneur and business adviser who has spent his career building businesses across food, renewable energy and innovation. Muhammad grew up on a small livestock farm in Pakistan before studying overseas, completing a PhD focused on food systems resilience and food security in the UK. We spoke about how they were matched through the mentoring programme despite coming from very different backgrounds. What followed was a relationship built around sharing experiences, exploring opportunities and helping each other navigate key stages of their careers. 🌍 For Muhammad, the timing could not have been better. He was finishing his PhD, applying for jobs and trying to make the transition from academia into industry. Ian provided support, perspective and connections, helping him build confidence through what can be a challenging and uncertain period. At the same time, both highlighted how mentoring is never a one way process, with each learning from the other’s experiences and outlook. 💭 A big theme throughout the conversation was resilience. From business ventures and job applications to academic challenges and career setbacks, both shared the importance of learning from failure, staying curious and continuing to move forward. 🌱 We finished by discussing the value of networks, relationships and simply having someone outside your immediate circle to challenge your thinking and support your development. Their message was clear: there is very little downside to mentoring and a huge amount to gain.Enjoy! ☺️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore arable farming on Arran, tracing the journey of locally grown grain from field to fork and glass.We begin at Bellevue Farm, where farmer Donald Currie grows malting barley on Arran’s fertile soils. From there, we follow the grain north to Lochranza Distillery, where Brand Ambassador Fred Baumgärtner explains how locally grown barley is transformed into the island’s world-renowned whisky. We finish our journey at Blackwater Bakehouse, where baker George Grassie shares his passion for artisan breadmaking, heritage grains, sustainability, health and nutrient-dense food.The phrase “follow the grain” is often used to describe the process of working with the natural direction of a material, or within the constraints of your environment, rather than forcing a direction that leads to resistance and damage.We learn how this ethos is reflected in the agroecological approach embraced across Arran. From the field to the distillery and bakery, we hear how farmers, bakers and distillers work with the opportunities and constraints of the island’s climate, soils and landscapes, allowing the local environment to shape their practices rather than trying to overcome it.Episode guestsDonald CurrieDonald Currie is an arable and beef farmer who produces barley for malting at Bellevue Farm and other sites around the island.Fred BaumgärtnerFred Baumgärtner is the Brand Home Ambassador for the Isle of Arran Distillers, the company responsible for producing award-winning whisky at both Lagg Distillery and Lochranza Distillery.Born and bred on Arran, Fred now leads whisky tasting tours and experiences at the distillery for hundreds of visitors each year, and travels the world showcasing the island’s products.George GrassieGeorge Grassie is an artisan baker who has been running Blackwater Bakehouse for the past five years. Born and raised on Arran, George spent several years living on the mainland and abroad before returning to the island with his young family. Today, the Bakehouse produces fresh artisan bread using high-quality Scottish-grown organic flour and heritage grains, and has recently expanded into a new site in Brodick. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re back with Field to Front Door 🎙️David, Martin and Wallace catching up after a busy few weeks of events, farm work and plenty of challenges along the way.  A big focus of this episode was peony season and the reality of trying to get thousands of stems picked, packed and delivered at exactly the right stage. We got into subscription boxes, customer expectations, delivery headaches and the challenge of managing fresh produce when timing is everything.We also spoke about Cereals, what stood out from the event, regenerative farming, agronomists showing interest in lower input systems and some of the conversations happening around soil health and biological approaches to crop production.There was plenty of discussion around direct selling too, from heritage apples and specialist grains through to why farmers often receive such a small share of the final value of what they produce. The conversation kept coming back to understanding your market, building relationships with customers and finding ways to keep more value on farm.Alongside all of that we chatted about Britain’s Fittest Farmer, tractor runs, Highland Show, Groundswell and why sometimes the biggest opportunities come from simply putting yourself out there and trying something different.We’re going to keep this going fortnightly for now and see where it takes us. If you’ve got ideas on what we should cover or who we should bring in, send them our way.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I had Kate on the R2Kast 🎙️ Kate is Marketing Director at Cultura Connect and works at the heart of agricultural recruitment, helping connect businesses with the people they need while championing careers across the sector. 🌾We spoke about growing up on a dairy farm, studying Agricultural Economics at Reading and how her career took her through PR, events, retail and marketing before eventually leading into recruitment. It was a really interesting conversation about how varied agricultural careers can be and how often the path you end up on isn’t the one you originally planned. 🍎  A big part of the discussion focused on recruitment and the importance of understanding people rather than simply matching CVs to job descriptions. We talked about transferable skills, employer reputation, attracting talent into agriculture and why the industry needs to stay open to people coming in from different backgrounds and sectors. 🌍We also chatted about running a farm alongside a business, rearing Wagyu cattle, setting up a farm shop and butchery, building a company with her husband Hugh and how marketing continues to evolve as new platforms and technologies emerge.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on series two of Tales of a Nuffield Scholar supported by NFU Mutual we continue looking ahead to the 2026 Nuffield Farming Scholarships Conference in Leeds 🎙️ Across this series we’re hearing from scholars who will feature within the conference presentation groups, giving a flavour of the conversations, ideas and experiences set to shape the event 🌍This episode focuses on the presentation group “Growing New Possibilities: Seaweed to Sustainable Timber” with Molly Gupta, Peter Rowe and Tom McVeigh 🌱We spoke about three very different journeys into land use and natural resource management, from seaweed farming and food systems through to commercial forestry and agroforestry. What was fascinating was how all three scholars arrived at similar questions around sustainability, resilience and how we make better use of the resources around us 🚜Molly shared her journey from an urban upbringing in West London into the world of food systems and seaweed farming, exploring how seaweed could play a bigger role in food, feed and environmental solutions. Peter spoke about commercial forestry and the opportunities that exist to diversify timber production in the UK, while Tom discussed his search for profitable future crops, focusing on the potential for hazelnuts and tree crops within British farming systems 🌍Across the conversation there were some brilliant discussions around innovation, resource efficiency and learning from other countries. Whether it was seaweed farming in Tanzania and Madagascar, forestry systems in South America and Europe, or nut production across North America and the continent, all three highlighted the value of stepping outside the UK to see how others are tackling similar challenges 🌾One of the strongest themes running through the episode was curiosity. Each scholar started with a question, but all found their topics evolving as they travelled, met people and uncovered opportunities they had never originally planned to explore. It was a great reminder that some of the best discoveries happen when you leave room for the unexpected Without giving away everything that will be shared on stage in Leeds, this episode offered another fascinating glimpse into the future opportunities emerging across farming, forestry and food systems.Thank you to NFU Mutual for their support of this project.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you feel you have expertise and experience to pass on? Or perhaps you’re looking for someone who can help you learn, grow and navigate the challenges ahead? 🌱Today on the TwoCan Mentor podcast I was joined by Nicky Gumery and Chris Bielby 🎙️Nicky has spent her career working in leadership and people development, while Chris comes from a background in ecology and nature conservation. Through the TwoCan Mentor programme they were paired together despite having very different experiences, and quickly discovered just how valuable those differences could be.  We spoke about what mentoring means in practice and why it is much more than simply passing knowledge from one person to another. Both shared how the relationship became a genuine two way conversation, with mentor and mentee learning just as much from each other along the way. 🌍  Chris joined hoping to gain insight into progressing his career and becoming more effective as a leader. What he found instead was a chance to reconnect with the values that first led him into ecology and to rethink what success really looks like. At the same time, Nicky found herself reflecting on her own career journey and realising she was already exactly where she wanted to be. 💭  A big theme throughout the episode was keeping an open mind. Neither expected the mentoring relationship to develop as it did, but both agreed that some of the biggest breakthroughs came from conversations they never planned to have. They also shared how their connection will continue long after the formal programme has ended. 🌱  We finished by discussing their advice for anyone considering becoming a mentor or mentee. Be open, be curious and allow the journey to take you somewhere unexpected.Enjoy! ☺️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The episode features farmers, artisan food producers, and the distributers working to connect the two and create a thriving hyper-local milk market. We learn how collaboration and adding value is key to keeping dairy at the heart of the community.Milk production on Arran has a somewhat turbulent history, with external pressures such as pasteurisation legislation pushing the industry to the brink of collapse at the end of the twentieth century.  However, thanks to the determination and creativity of a small number of islanders, the last remaining dairy herd on Arran survives to this day, and the industry is going from strength to strength.Episode guests:Matthew DobsonMatthew Dobson is the Production Manager at Arran Ice Cream. He has worked in the family business for over 13 years, during which time he has played a vital role in the growth and development of the brand. Having grown up on the island, Matthew is passionate about creating a high-quality product that really shows off the taste of Arran’s milk, supports local farmers, and creates memorable experiences for visitors and residents alike.Calum ChaplinCalum Chaplin is an artisan cheese maker producing award-winning Arran Blue, Arran Mist (Brie) and Camembert cheeses for Arran Cheese Shop at their factory in Blackwaterfoot.The cheese is made using milk from the island, and sold in shops, markets, delis, and restaurants both on Arran and around Scotland.John MurchieJohn Murchie is a farmer who cares for the island’s last remaining dairy herd at Tigheanfraoch Farm. Tigheanfraoch Farm has been part of the Murchie family since 1953 and is now home to 59 cows, with 47 milked twice a day, 365 days a year.The cows enjoy a natural, seasonal lifestyle, grazing on Arran’s rich pastures in summer and fed on homegrown silage in the colder months. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re back with Field to Front Door 🎙️David, Martin and Wallace catching up right in the middle of what can only be described as peak peony madness.  A big part of this episode focused on the realities of direct selling during the busiest part of the season. We got into subscription boxes, picking peonies at exactly the right stage, managing labour, and the challenge of trying to get a product from field to customer as fresh as possible.There was also a fascinating discussion around logistics and delivery. David shared the story of dealing with thousands of parcels during peony season, the impact of bank holidays, working with DPD and the reality that one delay can suddenly create hundreds of customer messages, emails and problems to solve.We also spoke about tractor runs, community events and how those sorts of gatherings help connect farming with the wider public. Alongside that there was plenty of chat around direct selling, customer loyalty and why looking after existing customers is often more important than constantly chasing new ones.One of the strongest themes throughout was value. Not just the value of a product, but understanding what it is actually worth, building trust with customers and creating systems that allow farmers to keep more of the value from what they produce.We’re going to keep this going fortnightly for now and see where it takes us. If you’ve got ideas on what we should cover or who we should bring in, send them our way.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the early days of crofting and subsistence farming to the present day, animal protein has provided an essential and highly valuable source of nutrients for Arran’s population. While sheep and beef production have always been central to Arran’s farming economy, venison is now also being embraced as a sustainable protein source that can help to combat the growing threat that the wild deer population poses to island ecosystems.In this first episode of our new series Agroecology Around Arran, we explore how the production of meat on Arran embraces the ethos of agroecology, how farmers are working together to reduce carbon emissions from livestock farming, and what we can learn from their example.GuestsAlistair CurrieAlistair talks to us about his livestock farm based in the Shiskine Valley. He maintains a herd of around around 30 native-breed beef cattle which are fed on pasture and home-grown silage.Colin CurrieColin Currie is an upland hill farmer who has been farming sheep and beef at Bridge Farm with his wife Laura since the 1970s. Bridge Farm is situated within a SSSI-designated site that is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Colin uses his innate knowledge of the land to create a low-input livestock system that has allowed him to reduce reliance on external markets, maximise animal welfare, and work in harmony with the surrounding ecosystem.Zoë HughesZoë Hughes runs Wild Isle Venison with her partner Chris. Their work aims to honour the deer that are harvested alongside protecting the natural landscape on Arran and strengthening the local food chain. Zoë is passionate about sustainable, affordable meat that has a positive impact on the environment. Wild Isle Venison works to reconnect producers and consumers, processing venison in small batches and selling to local residents, chefs and businesses across the island.Alec PirieAlec Pirie is a Senior Consultant and Area Manager for SAC Consulting. Alec works with over 120 clients across Scotland and has a particular interest in carbon, climate and conservation. He has also recently completed a Master's degree in Wildlife, Conservation and Management. Alec started the Net Zero Arran group in 2019. This aim of this group of farmers is to quantify the island's agricultural carbon footprint and take collective action to improve it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on series two of Tales of a Nuffield Scholar supported by NFU Mutual we continue looking ahead to the 2026 Nuffield Farming Scholarships Conference in Leeds 🎙️ Across this series we’re hearing from scholars who will feature within the conference presentation groups, giving a flavour of the conversations, ideas and experiences set to shape the event 🌍This episode focuses on the presentation group “Livestock Systems Built for the Future” with Awal Fuseini, Alex Crawley and Laura Eden 🌱We spoke about three very different journeys into agriculture and Nuffield, from veterinary science and halal meat systems through to conservation grazing, military service, diplomacy and livestock health. It was fascinating hearing how each of them has approached the future of livestock systems from completely different angles, while still landing on many of the same themes around resilience, sustainability and animal welfare 🚜Across the conversation we explored everything from extensive grazing systems and flood prevention through to goat dairies, meat processing, animal health, biosecurity and the role livestock can play in supporting landscapes and ecosystems. One of the standout themes was how much can be learned from stepping outside your own system and looking at how other countries approach the same challenges 🌍There were also some brilliant discussions around the human side of farming and livestock production, whether that was supporting farmers through better veterinary communication, learning from traditional systems in Africa and Asia, or recognising the wider value livestock can bring beyond simply producing meat or milk 🌾The episode also gave a great insight into the Nuffield journey itself, from the intensity of the CSC in New Zealand through to the global connections and opportunities that come from travelling, asking questions and challenging your own assumptions. Without giving away everything that will be shared on stage in Leeds, this was another brilliant glimpse into the ideas shaping the future of agriculture  Thank you to NFU Mutual for their support of this project.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I had Cora on the R2Kast 🎙️ A first generation farmer who, alongside her husband David, now runs a large hill sheep enterprise in East Ayrshire while also becoming a leading voice around sustainability, biodiversity and women in agriculture. 🌾We spoke about her route into farming from a background in law, PR and events with absolutely no agricultural connection before meeting David and gradually becoming part of the business. It was a really honest discussion about learning on the job, questioning everything and finding her own place within the farm rather than simply fitting into what was already there. 🍎  A big part of the conversation focused on hill sheep farming and the role it can play in nature recovery. We discussed adaptive grazing, peatland restoration, biodiversity and why food production and environmental improvement should not be treated as opposing ideas. Cora explained how their system works with the landscape rather than against it and why she feels hill farming is often misunderstood in wider conversations around sustainability. 🌍We also spoke about Women in Agriculture Scotland, mentoring, confidence building and creating better connections across the sector, alongside winning both Farmers Weekly Sheep Farmer of the Year and the National Women in Agriculture Awards Sustainability Champion title.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I had Iain on the R2Kast 🎙️ A really interesting chat with someone whose career has taken him from agricultural college through to farming, consultancy, environmental regulation and now working across farming in protected landscapes. 🌾We spoke about his route into agriculture through Seale Hayne Agricultural College before heading off around the world working harvests and farms across Australia, New Zealand and the USA. From huge arable operations in Montana to cattle work in Queensland, it was a brilliant insight into how travel and hands on experience can shape your understanding of farming systems. 🍎  A big part of the conversation focused on his work with the Environment Agency and now within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, helping support farmers through environmental regulation, landscape management and changing policy. We got into the balance between food production and environmental responsibility, how farming has changed over the last two decades, and why communication and trust matter so much when working with the industry. 🌍We also spoke about mentoring, football coaching and helping younger people into the sector, and how passing knowledge on is becoming more important as experience gradually leaves the industry.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re back with Field to Front Door 🎙️David, Martin and Wallace this time chatting right in the middle of peony season pressure, with everything starting to speed up very quickly on farm.  A big part of this episode was around direct selling and how different things become when you’re dealing with the customer yourself rather than supermarkets. We got into the reality of picking peonies at the right stage, managing subscriptions, handling labour pressure and trying to deliver quality at exactly the right moment.There was also a really interesting discussion around regenerative farming and soil biology, with Martin explaining everything from cover crops and reduced tillage through to microbes, seed treatments and why farming systems have changed so much over the last few decades.We also spoke a lot about social media and building value around what you produce. From apples and peonies through to grains and direct selling, the conversation kept coming back to the idea that farmers have more value in their products than they often realise if they can build trust and connect with people properly.Alongside all of that there were the usual stories and tangents, from Chelsea Flower Show and tourists stripping apple orchards bare through to agroecology on Arran and the challenge of keeping farming viable in very different parts of the country.We’re going to keep this going fortnightly for now and see where it takes us. If you’ve got ideas on what we should cover or who we should bring in, send them our way.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I had Robyn on the R2Kast 🎙️ She lives completely off grid in Scotland, raising her own livestock, growing her own food and documenting the whole journey online. 🌾We spoke about how she ended up there, from a background in animal care and the military into building her own off grid setup from scratch. Buying the land, converting a shipping container into a home, setting up solar, water systems and then gradually adding livestock and veg production around it. It was a proper look at what it actually takes to live like that day to day. 🍎  A big part of the conversation focused on producing your own food. Sheep, pigs, rabbits, chickens and growing veg, and what it’s like to go full cycle from raising animals to having food on your plate. We also got into public perception around things like rabbit meat, welfare and the reality of living closely with the animals you produce. 🌍We also spoke about the lifestyle itself. Costs, challenges, water, power, winter, and why it’s not as simple or romantic as people sometimes think, but still something she wouldn’t change.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on series two of Tales of a Nuffield Scholar supported by NFU Mutual we begin looking ahead to the 2026 Nuffield Farming Scholarships Conference in Leeds 🎙️ Across this series we’ll hear from scholars who will feature within the conference presentation groups, giving a flavour of the conversations, ideas and experiences set to shape the event 🌍This first episode focuses on the presentation group “New Pathways for Land, Rivers, Carbon and Nature” with Ali Warren Walker, Laura Underdown, Stu Oates and Ben Andrews 🌱We spoke about the journeys that brought each of them into agriculture and Nuffield, from commercial science and food systems through to regenerative farming, television, environmental research and flooding resilience. It was fascinating hearing how different backgrounds and industries can all arrive at similar questions around the future of land use and sustainability 🚜Across the episode we explored everything from fossil free farming and natural capital markets through to waste valorisation, flooding, biodiversity and the role of farming in protecting rivers and ecosystems. One of the most interesting parts was hearing how much their thinking has already changed through travel, conversations and seeing systems first hand around the world 🌍There were some brilliant discussions around collaboration too, particularly how farmers, researchers and businesses can work together rather than in isolation. While all four scholars have very different topics, there was a clear thread running through the conversation about resilience, curiosity and challenging the way things have always been done 🌾We also got a real insight into the Nuffield experience itself, how topics evolve during travel, how ideas get reshaped by the people you meet, and why being open minded is such an important part of the process. Without giving away everything that will be shared on stage in Leeds, this episode gives a really strong taste of what people can expect from the conference later this year  Thank you to NFU Mutual for their support of this project.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I had Jack on the R2Kast 🎙️ A farm consultant, new entrant farmer and someone heavily involved in giving young people a voice in the food and farming sector. 🌾We spoke about his route into agriculture, from a family connection through to studying at SRUC and building a career in consultancy. That led into working with livestock, including buffalo, before moving back into consultancy and now stepping into a new role helping lead a team while building his own farming business alongside it. 🍎  A big part of the conversation focused on what consultancy actually looks like. Working with farmers, problem solving, listening, and building trust rather than just telling people what to do. We also spoke about imposter syndrome, learning on the job and the importance of having a strong network around you. 🌍We also got into new entrant farming, building a business from scratch and his role in the UK Youth Food and Farming Forum, pushing for real youth voice in decision making across the industry.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I had Karen on the R2Kast 🎙️ She is Co-Dean in Agricultural Science and Practice at the Royal Agricultural University, working across teaching, research and international partnerships. 🌾We spoke about her journey from Venezuela to Spain and then into the UK, building a career in agronomy and agricultural systems before moving into academia and leadership. It was a really interesting look at how different agricultural systems around the world compare and what that brings into teaching. 🍎  A big part of the conversation focused on education. What students are learning, how university farms are used for research and teaching, and why creating space to test ideas matters. We also spoke about international collaboration, particularly in China, and how bringing students and ideas together improves learning on both sides. 🌍We also touched on research, innovation and where agriculture is heading, especially around sustainability, food systems and resilience.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re back with Field to Front Door 🎙️David, Martin and Wallace this time getting really stuck into regenerative farming, soil health and what changing systems on farm actually looks like in practice.  A big focus of this episode was David starting to move parts of the farm towards lower input and regenerative approaches, with Martin explaining everything from soil biology and cover crops through to seed treatments, ploughing depth and why modern systems may have stripped so much life out of soils over time.We also got into the balance between wanting to farm differently and the reality that changing systems is scary when your business depends on it working. There was a really interesting discussion around biology, fertiliser dependency and whether farming can move back towards building healthier soils rather than constantly feeding crops directly.Alongside all of that there was still plenty of the usual mix of stories and tangents, from agroecology on Arran through to David somehow finding himself at leadership events, embassy receptions and talking about peonies with people from all over the world.We’re going to keep this going fortnightly for now and see where it takes us. If you’ve got ideas on what we should cover or who we should bring in, send them our way.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I had Liv on the R2Kast 🎙️ She works in commercial content across the agricultural media space, creating campaigns, events and storytelling that connect farming with a wider audience. 🌾We spoke about how she found her way into agriculture from outside the sector, starting with an English degree and teaching before moving into marketing and eventually into agricultural media. It was a really honest chat about trying different things, figuring out what works and what doesn’t, and how those decisions shape where you end up. 🍎A big part of the conversation focused on content and communication. How stories are told in agriculture, the importance of asking questions, and why people coming in without a farming background can bring a different and valuable perspective to the industry. 🌍We also chatted about confidence, networking and building a career without a set plan, and how sometimes just following what you enjoy can take you further than you expect.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series I had the pleasure of chatting with Kate Speke Adams 🎙️ Kate is Managing Director of the Herefordshire Rural Hub, a farm support organisation helping farmers and rural businesses navigate everything from regulation and resilience to succession and business change. She is also a 2015 Nuffield Scholar whose study looked at how farmers can be re engaged with their soils through fear, finances, regulation or education 🌾This episode also brings us to the end of series one of Tales of a Nuffield Scholar, eight episodes looking at those eligible for the Bullock Award. What a way to finish with the current holder of that award. The Bullock Award recognises the scholar who has made the most significant impact in the decade following their scholarship through leadership, innovation or contribution to the wider industry 🚜We spoke about Kate’s upbringing on a dairy farm in Herefordshire and how her career has sat right at the intersection between farming and the environment, from work with organisations like the Environment Agency and Rivers Trust through to leading the Herefordshire Rural Hub today. Her Nuffield study focused on how farmers engage with soil health and what really drives change, whether that is education, financial incentives or regulation. One of the biggest takeaways from her travels was the power of peer to peer learning, farmers learning from farmers, something she now builds into much of the work the hub delivers 🌍Kate shared some brilliant insight into the challenges farmers are facing in Herefordshire today, particularly around water quality, regulation and changing weather patterns. We also spoke about a huge landscape recovery project she has been leading that could reshape over 5,000 hectares of farmland along the River Wye, bringing farmers together to rethink how food production, environmental recovery and long term resilience can work side by side 🌱We finished by talking about the Bullock Award itself and what it meant to reflect on the ten years since her scholarship. Kate spoke about how Nuffield builds confidence, opens doors and creates a network that continues to shape careers long after the travel ends, something that really sums up the spirit of this whole series.We’ll see you for the next series with a new focus in two weeks.Thank you to NFU Mutual for their support of this project.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re back with Field to Front Door 🎙️David, Martin and Wallace picking things up again with a real mix of what’s happening on farm right now and where things might be heading next.  We covered everything from late frosts and irrigation to how that actually impacts crops on the ground, through to peony season kicking off and the pressure of getting everything picked, packed and delivered at the right time.A big part of this one was about selling direct and what that really looks like in practice. From pre selling crops a year in advance, to building customer trust, to the reality that you don’t need thousands of customers if you’ve got the right ones.There was also a really interesting chat around niche markets and adding value, from linseed for eye packs to specialist grains and how finding the right outlet can completely change the economics of a crop.We got into social media again as well, not just the numbers but how you actually use it to build something real, and why copying someone else isn’t the answer, it’s about finding your own thing and doing it properly.We’re going to keep this going fortnightly for now and see where it takes us. If you’ve got ideas on what we should cover or who we should bring in, send them our way.Enjoy! 🙂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.