Wilson & Ashley

Put your thoughts into the mixIn Part 2 of our Foot and Mouth series, we move beyond the initial outbreak and into the harsh reality of what it took to bring it under control — and the lasting impact it had far beyond the farm gate.This is the side of the story that is rarely spoken about.We hear from a slaughterman working at the very front line of the response — confronting the scale, intensity, and emotional weight of the job day after day. Alongside this, we explore how the outbreak rippled through the wider rural economy, from farming families outside infected zones to local businesses, communities, and industries brought to a standstill.Foot and Mouth didn’t just affect those who lost livestock — it reshaped entire rural landscapes, both economically and emotionally.Like Part 1, this episode gives space to those who experienced it first-hand, in their own words — because these are stories that deserve to be heard in full.Disclaimer: This episode contains discussion of the 2001 Foot and Mouth outbreak, including references to animal culling and suicide. Some listeners may find this distressing.If you’ve been following this series, thank you — and if you haven’t yet, we recommend listening to Part 1 first for the full context.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixIn this first part of our two-part series, we step back into 2001 — to the beginning of the Foot and Mouth outbreak. An outbreak that would change British farming forever.What started as a single confirmed case quickly escalated into a national crisis. But behind the headlines and statistics were real people, real farms, and real lives being turned upside down.In this episode, we hear directly from those on the front line. A farmer from an affected area shares what it was like to live through the uncertainty, fear, and reality of the disease arriving at the farm gate. We’re also joined by a vet who was working on the ground during the outbreak — an experience so profound it ultimately led him into politics.Together, their stories paint a picture not just of how the disease spread, but of how it felt — the decisions, the pressure, and the moments that have stayed with them ever since.This episode runs in a slightly different format to usual, allowing space for these stories to be told properly — because the human impact of Foot and Mouth was far-reaching, and is still felt today.Disclaimer: This episode contains discussion of the 2001 Foot and Mouth outbreak, including references to animal culling and suicide. Some listeners may find this distressing.Thank you to our contributors. Sources:https://www.woah.org/en/reflections-on-the-foot-and-mouth-disease-epidemic-of-2001-a-united-kingdom-perspective/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-12483017https://www.gov.uk/guidance/foot-and-mouth-disease https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hand-foot-mouth-disease/ https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2001/mar/21/footandmouth.angeliquechrisafis https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/7075072.brigadier-tells-chaos-epidemic-fight/ https://www.farminguk.com/news/uk-not-prepared-for-foot-and-mouth-outbreak-vets-warn_68307.html Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixWhat really happens when you put rewilding, farming, and real-life rural voices in the same conversation?In this unfiltered and often hilarious episode, we dive deep into one of the most controversial debates in modern agriculture:👉 Should land be rewilded—or should it feed people?From sleep-deprived lambing nights and muddy farm realities to the growing pressure of government schemes, rising costs, and public opinion, this episode pulls back the curtain on what farming actually looks like in 2026.We unpack:🌱 The truth behind the rewilding movement—and why it divides farmers🚜 The financial realities of farming (and why ideology doesn’t pay the bills)🐑 The impact of predators, policy, and “perfect” environmental narratives💸 Subsidies, carbon credits, and whether sustainability is being driven by money or morals🌍 Why food security might be closer to crisis than we think👩‍🌾 The social side of farming life—from relationships to rural identityExpect strong opinions, candid storytelling, and a no-nonsense look at the balance between nature, food production, and survival.Because behind every headline about rewilding…there are real farmers, real families, and real consequences.🎧 If you care about food, the countryside, or the future of farming—this one’s for you.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixIn this episode of the Wilson and Ashley Podcast, off the back of a great reel from Schöffel Country and The Country Food Trust, we talk about how game meat is being used to tackle food poverty in the UK. When you actually look at the numbers, food poverty is hard to ignore - millions of people in the UK are struggling to access enough food, there are now more food banks than McDonald's restaurants, and demand for emergency food is still rising. At the same time, we’ve got a growing deer population, not enough being culled, and huge amounts of nutritious, sustainable meat that could be used far better. When a relatively small number of deer can produce hundreds of thousands of meals, it feels like utilising this meat for those in need is a no brainer. We also touch on food waste and our own experience trying to get fresh produce into food banks, and how complicated it actually was. It all feeds into a bigger conversation around access to proper, nutritious food to fuel the body and the mind. In the second half, we talk about declining mental health and why we need to back our farmers as part of the solution. There’s a clear trend showing younger generations are struggling more, and while there’s no single cause, diet keeps coming up as part of the conversation — especially the rise in ultra-processed foods, even in products people think are healthy.It all links back to farming. If we’re producing less real, whole food in this country, what replaces it? And what does that mean not just for food security, but for long-term health?When you join it all up — food banks, malnutrition, game meat, ultra-processed diets and mental health — it keeps coming back to the same point. Good food is vital for the health of people and farmers are uniquely placed to provide it.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixIn this episode of the Wilson & Ashley Podcast we’re looking at two topics that have been making plenty of noise both online and in real life: the controversy surrounding multi-million follower account, Ballerina Farm, and the ongoing debate around taking children out of school during term time.If you spend any time on the rustic American farming side of social media, you’ve probably come across Ballerina Farm. Run by former ballerina Hannah Neeleman and her husband Daniel in Utah, the account has built a huge following by sharing a vision of traditional family life, home-produced food and farming with their eight children. But recently the farm found itself at the centre of a debate after it stopped selling raw milk following reports of high coliform bacteria levels in some testing. While the business says the decision was a commercial one and that the milk passed the required state tests while it was being sold, the story quickly grew online and raised wider questions about food safety, influencer responsibility and the way farming is portrayed on social media. We talk about what raw milk actually is, how it’s regulated in both the US and the UK, and whether the conversation would even exist if this were just an ordinary dairy farm without millions of followers watching.We also discuss the bigger issue of how farming and food production are presented online, and whether there’s a growing gap between the romanticised version of rural life people see on social media and the realities of producing food safely and responsibly.In the second half of the episode we turn to a topic that had a big response from our followers on social media: the rules around school attendance. Nearly half a million fines were issued last year for children being taken out of school during term time, as the Department for Education continues to tighten enforcement in an effort to improve attendance rates. Fines start at £80 per parent per child and can escalate quickly, with the possibility of court action for repeat offences. But what happens when your job simply doesn’t fit neatly into the school holiday calendar? For farming families in particular, there are times of year when work is completely dictated by the season and taking time off during school holidays just isn’t always possible.We talk about whether the current system fairly reflects the realities of rural life, whether farming families should ever be considered an exceptional circumstance, and where the line sits between protecting children’s education and recognising that some professions operate on a very different timetable.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixThis week we're asking should farmers be wearing SPF like it’s PPE? From influencer 50-step skincare routines and £100 moisturisers to the harsh reality of UV exposure in agriculture, we dig into why so many farmers skip sunscreen — and whether that says something bigger about how the industry approaches wellbeing in general.  With 17,500 new melanoma cases in the UK each year and outdoor workers at significantly higher risk, is it time farmers started taking sun protection seriously? We've had a lot of responses from our followers on social media and the results make for a great conversation!Then we turn to the controversy around DEFRA awarding a contract (worth up to £650,000) to the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust’s Allerton Project to deliver agricultural training for civil servants. Is this a smart move to improve farming policy? A waste of taxpayer money? Or proof that government is too disconnected from rural life?We break down what the training could involve, why it’s caused backlash on X, and whether better-informed policymakers could mean better outcomes for British farmers.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixThis episode is brought to you in partnership with with our Headline Sponsor, BKT and Kirkby Tyres. Is solar grazing a genuine triple-win or just clever greenwashing? This episode talks about two big topics in farming at the moment - land use and milk price - and who ultimately pays the price for cheap energy and cheap food.We open with the rise of solar grazing, sparked by a Guardian article questioning whether putting sheep under solar panels really delivers benefits for farmers, renewables and society, or whether it’s simply a PR tool to make large-scale solar developments more palatable. With solar predicted to cover close to 100,000 hectares of UK land by 2030, we explore why the industry argues this is still a tiny fraction of national land use, and why many farmers see a very different picture when productive ground is taken out of food production. From reduced spraying and mowing costs to claims of improved soil health, animal welfare and biodiversity, we unpack the genuine opportunities solar grazing might offer — especially for new entrants — while also questioning broken promises, overgrazing risks, food security, and growing resistance from rural communities.In the second half, we shift to the brutal reality of Britain’s milk price collapse. With dairy farmers being paid well below the cost of production, some losing thousands of pounds a day, we break down how global oversupply, rising US production, steady volumes from New Zealand and weaker Chinese demand have combined to hammer farmgate prices. We look at why cheap milk remains a supermarket weapon, why many farmers have little power over who collects their milk or what they’re paid, and how dumping milk has become a symptom of a system under strain. With nearly 20% of UK dairy farmers already gone in recent years, we ask whether the free market is fit for purpose, whether tools like quotas or a modern version of the Milk Marketing Board should return, and why farmers so often end up absorbing the cost of feeding the nation. Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixThis episode is brought to you in partnership with with our Headline Sponsor, BKT and Kirkby Tyres. In this episode of the Wilson and Ashley Podcast, we take on two big questions shaping the future of food, work and farming.We begin by looking at the significant changes happening on our supermarket shelves... changes which are perhaps going under the radar. From chocolate bars that are no longer legally allowed to be called chocolate, to ingredient substitutions hidden behind familiar packaging, we ask whether consumers are being misled and whether this marks the beginning of the end for recognisable, real food. We explore why rising cocoa prices and climate pressures are pushing manufacturers towards cheaper alternatives, what is lost nutritionally when real ingredients are replaced, and the environmental consequences of substitutes such as palm oil.The conversation then turns to artificial intelligence and the growing idea that manual, land-based jobs may be among the last to withstand automation. Inspired by a Telegraph article suggesting farming could be one of the most AI-resistant careers, we discuss why increasing numbers of young people are looking towards agriculture, whether farming can truly escape the reach of AI, and what this could mean for the future of the sector. We also reflect on recent warnings from 'The Godfather of AI'. Do consumers deserve better transparency when it comes to food labelling? Is farming under threat or part of the solution to an increasingly automated world? And how worried should we really be about the pace and direction of artificial intelligence?Sources: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DS7OU6JjfZA/?igsh=Y3Nhc2N3N2d3Nzgz, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/08/28/to-escape-the-ai-threat-train-to-be-a-farmer-or-a-roofer/ Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixWe're starting this week's episode with animal welfare and the UK Government’s new Animal Welfare Strategy for England, which aims to cover farmed animals, pets and wildlife under one policy framework. With proposed changes ranging from livestock production systems to dog breeding and wildlife management, we ask whether one strategy can realistically work for such different animals — and whether farming continues to carry a disproportionate share of the welfare spotlight.We discuss the role of the supply chain, the risk of UK farmers being undercut by imports produced to lower standards, and whether higher welfare actually leads to better profitability, or if price still dominates consumer choice. In the second half, we turn to life online and what it really means to “go offline”. For farmers and rural businesses, social media has become a diary, a marketing tool and a community for support and knowledge transfer — but stepping back could mean both relief and financial risk. We talk about mental wellbeing and whether going offline is even realistic for businesses that rely on digital platforms to survive.Before we go, we’re delighted to announce BKT and Kirkby Tyres as headline sponsors for our next series, and we’re excited to see the partnership grow.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixWelcome back to Episode 19 of the Wilson & Ashley Podcast — our final episode before Christmas! Somehow, despite an entire year to prepare, we’ve managed to finish on Episode 19 instead of 20 (sorry to those of you who like your round numbers!) A festive combination of poor planning, questionable maths, and general disorganisation. Should we record a bonus episode to fix it? Maybe. Probably. (Almost definitely not.)Before we fully embrace the Christmas spirit, we tackle a serious and increasingly important issue following an Irish Farmers Journal undercover investigation: the use of antibiotics in livestock production in Brazil, how it links directly to the Mercosur trade deal, and why it matters for the UK and global food systems. We explore what this could mean for animal welfare standards, farming competitiveness, food safety, and antimicrobial resistance against the backdrop of international trade agreements and substandard agricultural imports.It’s a a serious conversation, but one we felt needed discussion as tensions around the Mercosur trade deal continue and concerns grow about how imported food is produced compared to UK farming standards.As ever, the episode doesn’t stay entirely on track. Along the way we reflect on how we’ve somehow become serious adults, momentarily forget who Fleetwood Mac are (a low point), debate whether our microphones were actually worth the money, and discover that not everyone knows who Mr Beast is — despite him having hundreds of millions of YouTube subscribers.The episode wraps up with a Christmas-themed second half, as we touch on the potential of a turkey shortage before the big day and how one journalist decided to take matters into her own hands...Join us for episode 19 before we attempt to redeem ourselves in the new year… when we may have a big surprise waiting.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixIn this episode, we’re tackling the controversy around the recent Budget Day farmer protest in London — what was meant to be a well-planned, low-disruption demonstration against the proposed “family farm tax” turned chaotic after the Met Police reversed permissions less than 24 hours before farmers arrived. Tractors were banned from Whitehall, some still made it into central London, a few were seized, and several farmers were arrested simply for bringing their vehicles. We chat through why this happened, the questions Victoria Atkins has now put to the Met, and whether farmers are right to feel they’re experiencing “two-tier policing.” We then switch gears to the biodegrading wool video that’s gone viral on social media. One comment really stuck with us: “Every polyester shirt ever produced is still here.” With Charlotte’s background in wool processing, we talk through why we shear sheep, UK wool quality, and the realities of the wool market — including our own worked example of just how little profit a 200-ewe flock can make once shearing and labour are accounted for.We also highlight the real strengths of wool: its ability to absorb moisture, its low environmental footprint, and the fact it naturally locks away carbon — a stark contrast to synthetics.We also share insights from the British Wool event at St Martins University in London, covering farmer-to-fashion storytelling, consumer perceptions, and the high standards of British sheep farming.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixIn this episode of Wilson & Ashley, we unpack two big, and sometimes controversial, topics shaping the future of food and farming: Cambridge University’s move towards a 100% plant-based menu and the fast-growing interest in regenerative agriculture across the UK.We begin with Cambridge University’s 2023 vote supporting fully plant-based catering across its services — a decision driven by sustainability arguments and student-led climate activism. But has the plan actually become reality? And what would large-scale plant-based menus mean for British livestock farmers, nutrition, food culture and student choice? We look at the latest updates, and why food can become politicised. Then we turn to regenerative farming: the buzzword everyone’s using, but which is also drawing criticism for its potential to be polarising. We break down some of the principles of regenerative agriculture and explain why regen systems are being championed particularly in the supply chain by companies including Waitrose, Arla, McCain, Nestlé and more. We also explore the realities for farmers: yield dips during transition, changing skillsets, expectations, and the debate around regen premiums.This episode really digs into the future of how food is grown, sold and served.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixIn this episode of the Wilson and Ashley Podcast, we explore two major stories shaping farming and rural life. First, it's the rise of female ranchers in the US, sparked by a recent US Guardian article. We're lucky enough to hear in detail from a real life cowgirl, Faith from Little Jennie Ranch. With women now making up more than 36% of agricultural producers in America—compared to just 16% of principal farmers in England—we discuss why this shift is happening, how ranching culture is changing, and what life is really like for these working women. From the influence of Yellowstone and country music to the realities of mental health, community, and the stereotypes still facing women in agriculture, we unpack the gap between the romantic image of ranching and the hard graft behind it.We then turn to a story which has been bubbling in UK headlines for a year: inheritance tax. Many listeners will have seen the viral Countryfile clip of farmer Tom Rees talking about the emotional impact of the proposed IHT changes. We break down what the reforms actually mean—from the new £1 million cap on full agricultural and business property relief to why so many farms, being asset rich and cash poor, will struggle to pay. With government claiming small family farms will be protected and farming bodies warning that thousands could be exposed every year, we look at the reality behind the headlines. We also discuss the human cost, the threat to family farms and food security, and what listeners can do to support the industry and stay informed.A powerful episode covering women in agriculture, ranching culture, inheritance tax, and the future of family farms.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixFirst up, we’re heading to Australia to ask: do they do it better when it comes to farm employment and training? From government-backed gap year schemes like AgCareerStart to hands-on training farms for short-term workers, we explore how the Aussies attract and upskill new people into agriculture — and whether the UK could learn a thing or two.  But is the cost really worth it and we can't help but touch on the weather in Aus versus the UK!Then we turn to your social media feeds. How many of the people you follow buy engagement and followers or pay for promotions. What's the real value of viral videos and is it ever worth faking it online, or does authenticity always win in the end?This episode was inspired by content from Gabby and Charlie Travels  and The Social FarmhouseJoin our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixIs there any hope for farmers when it comes to political decision-making? We're fresh back from the Conservative Party Conference, invited by Victoria Atkins, Conservative MP and Shadow Environment Secretary, where it really did feel like farming took centre stage.In this episode, we talk more about Victoria's declaration of the "food and farming emergency” that we're facing and what this really means for farmers, family businesses, and consumers. From scrapping the Family Farm Tax to putting food production back at the heart of policy, are we seeing genuine support for rural communities, or just political posturing?Then, we turn to The Guardian’s recent piece on changes to Skilled Worker Visas threatening the future of UK farm labour. With many farms unable to recruit locally, could tightening visa rules cripple production — or is it time to rethink training, pay, and working conditions?Featuring insights from Amy (@thedairydaughter), and your listener questions on how Westminster misunderstands farming, this episode brings politics and real farming life together in typical Wilson & Ashley style.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixSchooling. It’s something we’ve both talked about a lot beyond the podcast—mainly because our own experiences couldn’t have been more different. In this episode, we tackle the big question of: to school or not to school?Prompted by a viral Stacey Dooley reel and plenty of conversations in our own new Podcast Community on Facebook, we explore the rise of home schooling in the UK, the realities of state vs. private education, and how farming children fit into the picture.From resilience and life skills, to whether schools prepare kids for the real world—or whether that’s down to parents—we share our thoughts, your comments, and some surprising stats. We also get into whether rural kids are at a disadvantage, and why having farming families in school can shape more than just the rural community.So whether you’re a parent weighing up the options, a farmer who’s been there, or just curious about how education fits into life on and off the farm, this episode’s for you.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixThis week, we're talking about the first ever and compeltely unique Borderline Challenge, being undertaken by Cumbrian brother-and-sister duo Hugh and Alex Addision. It's all in aid of the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution and with a £10,000 fundraising target already smashed, their incredible journey not only pushes physical limits but also shines a spotlight on the growing mental health crisis in farming communities.https://www.justgiving.com/page/the-borderline-challengeRABI - https://rabi.org.uk/ or call 0800 188 4444 24 hours a dayWe also tackle the wildfire raging across Langdale Moor in the North York Moors — 2,000 acres destroyed, critical habitats lost, and questions over why these fires are becoming more frequent. From controlled burning to the role of farmers on the frontlines, and from politics to public support, we ask: what does this mean for our countryside and for the people who live and work in it?Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixThis week on the podcast, we’re tackling two big talking points in farming — one heated debate, and one devastating disease.First up: children on farms. After Farmers Weekly ran a piece comparing farm kids to Victorian chimney sweeps, the backlash was fierce. We're asking are the clickbait headlines distracting from farming’s real health and safety issues? Do farm kids grow up safer and more risk-aware, or should children be kept away from farm work altogether? And is comparing supervised help to slave labour just a step too far?Then, in part two: bovine TB hits Clarkson’s Farm. It’s an old story for farmers, but the Clarkson name has thrust TB into the mainstream. We break down what TB actually is, why farms go into ‘lockdown’, and the devastating financial and emotional toll it takes — with average costs topping £20,000 per farm and some losing hundreds of thousands.We look at the testing system (and its failings), the need for better science, and the ongoing battle over badger culling. With more than 13,000 cattle slaughtered in 2024 — the highest on record — TB remains farming’s most painful, costly and controversial challenge.Two topics, plenty of opinions, and the usual Wilson & Ashley honesty.Thank you to our contributors on this week's episode:Abi CoombesAndrew MeredithCharles GoadbySteve EvansGareth Wyn JonesMaria WarneSophie BellHannah Jacksonhttps://www.fwi.co.uk/business/farm-safety-stars-free-e-learning-course-helps-protect-children-on-farms?fw_source=home_businessJoin our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixThis week, we’re de-briefing you on a couple of hectic weeks with a fair bit of time adventuring around the country! We're moving from the heart of Wales to the #Farm24, the UK’s biggest digital celebration of British farming.We kick things off at the Royal Welsh Show, and trust us when we say it's seriously Welsh! There's definitely two sides to the show... From the iconic sight of Welsh cobs in the main ring to nights at Penmenau, plus Charlotte gives us the real insight on that pronunication! Amongst the proud tradition and full on party we chat about why we were actually there as part of a panel exploring the future of farming.In typical fashion, the conversation takes a few side tracks and unexpected turns before we stop at The Game Fair... Schöffel, G&Ts and spaniels galore! We unpack the purpose of events like this, the surprising range of people they attract, and the big role field sports play in shaping rural life and landscapes. Then, it’s all eyes on #Farm24 — the UK’s biggest digital event celebrating British farming, in partnership with Farmers Guardian and Morrisons. You'll hear from Emily at Farmers Guardian before we hand the mic to a few of this year’s brilliant ambassadors:Amy Wilkinson shares a farming myth that drives her madFrank from Leegate Farm talks about the deeper meaning beyond the hashtagsNigel Owens imagines farming as a sport (and reveals what would totally wipe him out)Coco Jalloh shares the daily rituals that get her through a busy farming dayWe’d love you to get involved too — join in on Thursday 7th August by sharing your farming story using #Farm24. Tag us @wilsonandashley so we can cheer you on and spread your posts far and wide.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixThis week, we're talking about the real cost of food – and the true reality of many of the products that are on supermarket shelves. Inspired by a video from B FRANK Health, we unpack the rise of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), how they’ve warped our perception of value, and why real, nutritious food can feel “too expensive” – despite the fact it shouldn’t be.Government policy, food affordability, and the staggering profits of retailers compared to plummeting farm incomes form part of the conversation – as we ask: are we valuing food (and farmers) properly?In part two, we react to Will Evans’ tongue-in-cheek take on farming influencers. Are we all ego-driven disruptors, Only Fans shepherdesses, or sponsored content machines? Or is there room for something more authentic, honest, and impactful in the world of farming content creation?From UPFs to perceptions, pricing to policy – it’s another episode of real talk from Wilson and Ashley... all with a few meanders off topic too!Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixThis week on the Wilson and Ashley Podcast, we’re tackling the conversation around Glastonbury... but we're looking beyond the music. Held on a 1,000-acre working dairy farm, we ask: are vegan festivalgoers being hypocrites? If ticket sales support farming, can you really separate the two?We unpack the festival’s environmental impact, from solar panels on cattle sheds to a ban on body glitter, and debate whether farming can be part of the festival's sustainability solutions. We also get into the latest free speech controversy on the Glastonbury stage - has free speech gone too far?We've been keeping an eye on Australian Tiktok creator, Indy Clinton, who recently hired a PI to track her trolls. As farmers who post our everyday lives on social media (with trolls to match sometimes) we're looking at this and asking what happened to 'be kind'. Interesting insights (hopefully!) and the usual Wilson & Ashley chaos!Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixDisclaimer: This episode covers a sensitive and delicate subject, including practices around religious slaughter. We approach the topic with respect and aim to present balanced, factual information.In this episode, we attempt to unpack the complex and often controversial world of Halal and Kosher slaughter in the UK. Triggered by a 100,000-strong petition calling non-stun slaughter “barbaric,” a recent Westminster Hall debate has reignited public and political scrutiny — but how much do people really understand?We explore the reality behind Halal practices, with most Halal meat in the UK actually pre-stunned, and only a small minority falling under non-stun methods. Drawing on expert research from AHDB and the University of Huddersfield, we  highlight the real economic value of the Halal sector.We draw on the views of the British Veterinary Association which calls for tighter regulation, labelling, and a permit system for non-stun slaughter and ask can we get the right balance between animal welfare, religious rights, and consumer transparency.From the importance of the Demonstration of Life protocol to labelling reforms, international bans on non-stun methods, and the juggle between faith and welfare, we navigate this sensitive topic with facts, fairness, and the plain-speaking honesty you've come to expect from the duo.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixWe’re back — and fresh from our very first outing with the Wilson and Ashley podcast trailer! We still can't believe that people came looking for us to have a chat after listening to our episodes! Sitting in our trailer, it really did bring home how we want the episodes to be like a chat between friends! One question kept cropping up… “How did you two even meet?” Well, in this episode, we get into the story!Charlotte reveals why she initially hated Rebecca (yes, really!), how we went from this to a full on collaboration and why we’re so passionate about women backing women and saying YES to opportunities — even when they’re a bit scary.In the second half, we're keen to get talking about the right to roam. We talk cattle, countryside code, and the chaos that can come with footpaths running through farms. We share our own footpath stories alongside as always some brilliant insights from our farming and townie listeners!Expect honest conversations on:Safety around livestockDogs on leads (or not?)Public access vs. private landAnd why a bit of common sense goes a long wayJoin our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixIn this episode of the Wilson and Ashley Podcast, we’re talking about the weather. Yes, we know that farmers are always complaining about it being too wet, too windy, too cold...but why does it matter?With dry, cracked fields and brown fields becoming the norm across the UK, we want to explore the reality of farming through the extremes. Inspired by a recent post from the Funky Farmer, and the flood of comments that followed, we reflect on what drought actually means on our farms — not just in terms of grass growth and yields, but also the emotional toll.Some parts of the country might have been blessed with some recent showers, but we ask: is it too little, too late? We hear from some of our farming listeners who share their honest thoughts on the topic. But do consumers understand any of this? Does drought, and everything that comes with it, make any real difference to what ends up in people’s shopping baskets — or is it business as usual in the eyes of the public?That question leads us straight into the world of plant-based branding, and a new marketing campaign for oat milk.We talk about Olly Harrison’s recent collaboration with Alpro, where he speaks as a British farmer about the sustainability of UK-grown oats. It's caused a bit of a stir online, with some people confusing Alpro’s campaign with the more controversial tone of Oatly. We look at the facts — including the only advert the ASA has pulled recently (and why it wasn’t one of the aggressive anti-farming ones) — and we ask what this shift in messaging means for the future of food and farming.Charlotte gives her gut reaction as a dairy farmer to oat milk: can we embrace plant-based products, and is there such a thing as a "good news" story for UK farming in the alternative dairy space?We explore Alpro’s claims about sustainability, crop rotations, and regenerative farming, and weigh up the pros, cons, and consumer confusion around what it really means to “support local.”Hold tight because this one is a jam packed episode! Part weather report, part industry analysis, and part marketing masterclass — all with that classic straight talking Wilson and Ashley.Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixWe’ve absolutely loved hearing from our listeners in previous episodes—so this week, we’re handing over the mic (sort of) and sharing your takes on the biggest myths you’ve heard about farming. From dinner table debates to downright daft questions, it’s all in here. But should we be judging consumers for not knowing, or should we, as farmers, take more responsibility for bridging the knowledge gap?In this myth-busting episode, Wilson and Ashley wade into the world of food and farming misconceptions. From the rumour that brown cows produce chocolate milk, to the real facts behind milking cows—not because they're forced to, but because they want to—we’re setting the record straight.We also chat about the vegan narrative, tractor girls and Only Fans and why some animals have horns. Whether you’re a curious consumer or a fellow farmer, this episode is packed with laughs, logic, and a few eye-roll moments.We've done our research and we're clearing the air with facts, humour and a fair few opinions!Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixEpisode 2: Chlorinated Chicken, Trade Deals, Charlotte & Rebecca Take London, Does the Women in Agriculture Movement Really Matter and is There a North-South Divide?Unfiltered. Unexpected. Unapologetically honest….some might say blunt. Again.We're back — this time fresh from a trip to the capital for the National Women in Agriculture Awards, with one of our hosts bringing back the Influencer of the Year crown! Don't get us started on the word 'influencer' though, that needs its own episode! Of course there was a sense of power, pride, and passion in a room full of many incredible women shaping the future of farming... but has the women in agriculture movement gone too far? This is a topic our listeners definitely had some opinions on!Now we don't have time in less than an hour to fully dissect the UK-US trade deals going on at the moment but we do dive into the chlorinated chicken debate. With mainstream media frothing over the trade talks and what this means for consumers and farmers, we’re asking what’s really at stake? Because spoiler alert: it’s not just about chlorine and chicken. It’s about food standards, consumer trust, and the slippery slope that starts with one deal and ends with a broken food system.At the moment, it seems like policy is made in Westminster but the consequences land squarely in our farmyards - who actually benefits from importing cheap food? And who’s left picking up the pieces when trust in British farming takes another knock?Yet again, we're reminded why podcasts like ours matter - real farming voices are essential. We tell the stories from the farm and beyond, as they happen, combining opinion and fact. Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice. 

Put your thoughts into the mixEpisode 1: The Rural Town Divide, Social Media, Charlotte’s screen time, farming life & the next generationUnfiltered. Unexpected. Unapologetically honest….some might say blunt. Welcome to the very first episode of The Wilson & Ashley Podcast hosted by Charlotte Ashley and Rebecca Wilson. We’d like to think that we are strong, no-nonsense farming women with deep roots in the countryside and a passion for tackling big issues.  Recording from our unique mobile podcast studio, we are also on YouTube so if you fancy watching the whole thing unfold, jump on over and witness the carnage.In this debut we dive straight into the growing rural-urban divide, using a thought provoking video by shepherdess Emma Grey from the Isle of Bute as our starting point. We feel it demonstrates perfectly the reason for us starting a podcast.We explore how social media portrays farming life, the misconceptions it can create, and how digital culture is reshaping even the most remote communities. Prompted by Rebecca watching the super hit Netflix show, Adolescence, the conversation turns to children, mobile phones, and the internet. Are we losing the real-world connection that children once had? Is Charlotte just a terrible parent and a huge hypocrite? Let us know your thoughts on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Join our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.