AgriCulture Live

Hosted by Rebekah

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Latest episode

Sep 2025

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About the show

Agriculture Live, is your gateway to the pulse of the agriculture sector. Join us as we delve into the heart of agriculture, bringing conversations with industry leaders, innovators and pioneers who are reshaping the future of farming and agriculture. Agriculture Live discusses new issues and topics within the agricultural and farming industry, from cutting-edge innovations and sustainable practices to the pressing issues facing our agriculture and farming. Hosted by Rebekah Shields, Managing Director of Agricultural Recruitment Specialists, who is a passionate advocate for the farming community, Agriculture Live offers a unique insight into the trends, challenges and opportunities that are defining the industry. Each episode, we invite experts and thought leaders to share their perspectives, experiences and visions for the future of agriculture. Whether you're a farmer, agribusiness professional or just someone fascinated by the field of agriculture, Agriculture Live is your gateway to understanding the complex world of farming and its impact on our planet and society. Tune in to Agriculture Live to stay informed, inspired and engaged with the latest innovations and discussions in the world of agriculture. Let's cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation for the sector that is the backbone to the world’s food supply.

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23 recent

September 24, 2025Episode 2330 min

From Brexit to Global Trade: How New Trade Agreements Are Transforming UK Agriculture

The global agricultural landscape is shifting dramatically, and British farmers face a critical crossroads. Trade expert John Giles takes us on a revealing journey through the post-Brexit transformation of UK agriculture, exploring how new trade agreements are reshaping opportunities and challenges for British producers. With three decades of international experience across 60 countries, Giles offers unparalleled insight into how Brexit has fundamentally altered our trading relationships. While Europe remains our largest market with 450 million consumers, the UK has successfully negotiated 40 new trade deals worldwide, including agreements with Australia, New Zealand, and 12 Asian nations through the CPTPP. Promising negotiations with India and the United States could soon open even larger markets. However, these opportunities come with significant challenges. As Giles explains, "The whole point of trade deals is that they're meant to be a two-way benefit." British producers must prepare for increased competition at home from Australian dairy, American beef, and other global agricultural powerhouses. Success will depend on leveraging the UK's reputation for quality, strong environmental credentials, and sustainability practices. For companies considering international expansion, Giles recommends a strategic approach beginning with nearby European markets before tackling complex markets like China or India. "Having market access is one thing, but you need market knowledge," he emphasizes, highlighting the importance of understanding consumer behaviors, cultural considerations, and competitive landscapes. Beyond trade deals, several factors will shape UK agriculture's future: climate change impacts, agricultural technology advancements, domestic policies on inheritance tax, and potential trade disruptions from changing US-China relations. Despite these uncertainties, Giles remains optimistic about British agriculture's global potential. Subscribe to Agriculture Live for more expert insights on the future of farming and food production. Connect with us on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts, or visit www.agrirs.com to suggest topics for future episodes.

April 24, 2025Episode 2233 min

Agricultural Education is Creating Tomorrow's Farmers Today

Have you ever wondered if you could thrive in agriculture without growing up on a farm? Paul Flynn's journey proves it's not only possible but potentially transformative for the industry. As Director of Agriculture at East Durham College, Paul entered farming without any agricultural connections, driven purely by his passion for biology and food production. East Durham College's 476-acre mixed farm serves as a living classroom where students—regardless of background—gain hands-on experience with everything from traditional livestock management to cutting-edge agricultural technology. "We're split quite nicely between arable and grassland, so a student coming here will see all of the enterprises," Paul explains, highlighting how this comprehensive approach prepares students for diverse career opportunities. What's striking is that approximately half of the college's students come from non-farming backgrounds. This diversity isn't just welcomed—it's essential for the future of farming. As Paul notes, "Of the 10 best farmers I've met... a fresh pair of eyes, someone with a different point of view, with a sort of business sense" can transform agricultural operations. The college bridges this gap by offering multiple entry points, from beginner courses to advanced programs, with free transport to ensure accessibility. The agricultural industry faces significant challenges—an aging workforce, technological transformation, and economic pressures. Yet these challenges create opportunities for newcomers who bring fresh perspectives. Modern farming increasingly revolves around data and technology, with tractors featuring digital interfaces that might appeal to tech-savvy young people. "You're not just driving a tractor anymore, you are a real technologist," Paul emphasizes. Whether you're curious about agricultural careers or looking to shift industries, there are multiple pathways into farming. Connect with your local agricultural college, reach out to Young Farmers, or explore your existing network for farming connections. With employment rates at virtually 100% for agricultural graduates, there's never been a better time to consider how your unique perspective might contribute to the future of food production.

March 10, 2025Episode 2133 min

The Business of Farming Goes Beyond Adding Value to Creating Lasting Wealth

The endless hamster wheel of modern farming leaves many UK producers feeling exhausted and financially drained despite sitting on valuable land assets. In this revealing episode, farm business consultant James from Siggs & Co. shares hard-won wisdom from his three decades of international agricultural experience to show how farmers can transform their operations from merely adding value to genuinely creating wealth. "Turnover is vanity, profit is sanity, cash flow is reality," James reminds us, cutting through the noise to focus on what truly matters - sustainable, positive cash flow that builds genuine prosperity. While UK farmers might appear wealthy on paper through appreciating land values, many struggle with tight margins and negative cash flow across most agricultural sectors. By examining global farming models from Brazilian soybean operations to Eastern European mega-farms, we uncover the competitive pressures facing British agriculture and the strategic shifts needed to thrive. The wealth-creation journey begins with a fundamental reassessment of farm resources - land, sunlight, water, carbon, and human ingenuity. Rather than defaulting to high-input conventional approaches, forward-thinking farmers first ask what their land can produce naturally with minimal external inputs. This regenerative mindset, focused on soil biology and diversity, breaks the dependency cycle on expensive fertilizers and chemicals while building resilience against market volatility and climate disruption. From supporting part-time farmers as legitimate industry participants to embracing diversification that aligns with personal strengths, this episode offers practical pathways toward agricultural prosperity. Whatever your farm size or enterprise mix, you'll discover how to escape the production treadmill and build a business that generates wealth, not just appreciating assets. Listen now to transform your farming future from survival to thriving prosperity.

February 28, 2025Episode 2029 min

Why Disabilities Shouldn’t Hold You Back From a Career in Agriculture & Farming

Discover the transformative journey of Mike Duxbury, one of the UK’s few blind farmers, in this insightful episode that challenges the stereotypes surrounding disability in agriculture. Join us as Mike shares his incredible experiences and lessons learned while navigating a career in farming, defying preconceived notions about what someone with a disability can achieve. Throughout our discussion, Mike recounts his early passion for agriculture and how he overcame significant obstacles, including the discouragement he faced from teachers when he expressed his dreams of working in farming. His story reveals not only his relentless determination but also highlights the pressing issue of unemployment among disabled individuals, emphasising the need for systemic change within industries, including agriculture. As the conversation unfolds, we delve into the importance of inclusivity in agricultural practices. Mike speaks about his venture with Inclusive Farm, where he works to ensure opportunities for individuals with disabilities, creating an environment that promotes equality and access. Listeners will gain insights into the simple adaptations that can make farming more accessible, ultimately enhancing workplace culture and efficiency. We also explore the benefits of embracing diversity in agriculture—from fostering innovative thinking to addressing workforce shortages. Mike’s visions for the future provide a compelling call to action, encouraging agricultural leaders to rethink their hiring practices and create diverse teams that reflect the society we live in. This episode serves as both a source of inspiration and a roadmap for fostering an inclusive agricultural environment. Tune in and discover how we can collectively make a difference. Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts on creating a more inclusive future for agriculture!

February 12, 2025Episode 1736 min

The Future of UK Farming with Nuffield Scholar Dan Smith - 'Generation Regeneration' and Engaging Youth in Agriculture

What happens when a passionate farmer and a forward-thinking scholar meet? Today, Dan Smith from the Wye Valley joins us to explore the future of agriculture in the UK. As a current Nuffield Scholar, Dan takes us through his unique journey into farming, the sense of community it brings, and the rewarding task of producing quality food and public goods. Learn how the Nuffield Scholarship fosters global research and networking, and dive deep into Dan's focus topic, "Generation Regeneration," which underscores the urgent need for youth and diversity in farming. Is there a growing disconnect between children and agriculture? Our conversation uncovers the challenges of incorporating farming education into schools and making the industry appealing to the younger generation. Modern advancements in agriculture are often overshadowed by outdated perceptions, but Dan stresses the importance of showcasing these innovations to ignite interest. From improving health and safety standards to bettering the earnings and opportunities in farming, we discuss strategies to bridge the generational gap in farming knowledge and make agriculture a compelling career choice. Technology's role in agriculture is expanding rapidly, but how can we ensure it benefits farmers and attracts new talent? We discuss precision farming, tech innovations, and the critical role of social media in inspiring the next generation of farmers. With insights on government policies, apprenticeships and the impact of popular media like "Clarkson's Farm," Dan outlines the complex, yet necessary, efforts needed to reframe the agricultural industry. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to offer a comprehensive look at the future of farming and the multifaceted approaches required to sustain it.

December 12, 2024Episode 1926 min

Why Veterans & Their Military Skills can be Perfect for Jobs in Agriculture & Farming

Explore the transformative intersection of military service and agriculture with Dawn Turner, the inspiring CEO and founder of Stepway. Dawn's journey from personal loss and familial challenges to establishing a universal rehabilitation program for veterans is both touching and enlightening. She passionately tackles misconceptions about veterans, revealing their hidden potential and valuable skills for the agricultural sector. Through Stepway’s innovative Seven Steps Civilian Skills Programme, Dawn offers mental health and employability support, proving that veterans are not only capable but exceptional contributors to civilian life and industries like farming. Transitioning from military to civilian life isn't easy, and Dawn sheds light on the unique challenges veterans face, particularly in the workplace. We discuss how employers can create welcoming environments by recognizing veterans' strengths and providing essential support systems. From flexible job ads to accommodating mental health needs, there are numerous ways to make workplaces more inclusive to attract the fantastic ex-military talent that is available for a range of jobs.

October 7, 2024Episode 1828 min

The Importance of Embracing Diversity and Inclusion for the Future of Agriculture & Farming

Discover how the future of agriculture is being reshaped with Kaye Hope, the trailblazing COO and co-founder of Farmable. We tackle the critical challenge of diversity in UK agriculture, where representation for women and LGBTQ+ individuals remains alarmingly low. This conversation sheds light on the urgent need for inclusivity and the role it plays in creating a more vibrant and sustainable agricultural landscape. Join us as we explore the vital importance of diversity within family-owned farms and the agtech industry. With insights backed by research, we highlight how diverse teams drive business success and enrich the agricultural sector. Through personal anecdotes and professional expertise, Kaye underscores the necessity of early education and strategic recruitment to embrace diverse talents. We also delve into the intersection of agriculture, technology and the power of diversity in fostering innovation. Stay connected and informed by following Agriculture Live on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts for more thought-provoking discussions.

July 25, 2024Episode 1627 min

Red Tractor, Food Assurance, the UK Food Industry and Careers

Unlock the secrets of the UK's food industry with insights from Steven Shields, Technical and Sustainability Director at Huntapac Produce, and Sam Trevey, Fresh Produce Technical Manager at Red Tractor. Discover what Red Tractor's assurance really means for food safety and traceability, and learn how these industry veterans have navigated their impressive careers. From Steven's extensive 36-year journey to Sam's 20 years of hands-on experience, we promise this episode will offer invaluable perspectives on maintaining high standards and the dynamic nature of the food sector, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Curious about the future of food production in the face of climate change and rising costs? Hear firsthand about the declining home-grown vegetable sector and the critical need for new talent in horticulture. Steven and Sam also explore how modern technologies can invigorate the industry and attract younger generations. Plus, gain actionable strategies on how consumer education can improve farmer margins, ensuring a sustainable future for all. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the field, this episode is packed with expert advice and forward-thinking solutions that you won't want to miss.

July 4, 2024Episode 1537 min

The Pig Farming Industry in the UK and Career Opportunities Available

What drives a seasoned farmer to shift from beef and sheep farming to the dynamic world of pig farming? Our guest, Mark Jagger from BQP, shares his compelling journey that spans over three decades in the heart of the UK's pig industry. From his early beginnings influenced by childhood passion and overcoming academic hurdles to his transition driven by job availability, Mark offers a window into the life of a dedicated pig farmer. Tune in to understand how Mark's unwavering commitment to animal welfare and his company’s values have shaped his fulfilling career. Discover the ambitious strides being made to expand pig farming opportunities in the UK, especially in the wake of financial challenges post-COVID. We dive into the nitty-gritty of converting unused farm buildings into pig facilities, aiming to boost self-sufficiency from 40-45% to much higher levels. Learn about the financial benefits such as steady cash flows and improved soil health from farmyard manure. Mark also illuminates the industry's relentless pursuit of high welfare standards and sustainability through strategic partnerships with major retailers like Waitrose and the Co-op. Mark also opens up about the multifaceted life of a pig farmer, from the mental health benefits of regular interactions with industry professionals to the physical challenges faced during adverse weather conditions. We highlight the diverse career opportunities within the pig industry, from entry-level jobs to specialised roles, emphasizing the need for continuous self-education and the influence of modern tools like social media. As the industry seeks to attract younger generations, we discuss the importance of adapting to their expectations, flexible working hours, and the role of social media in shaping perceptions. Join us for an insightful conversation that paints a vivid picture of the evolving landscape of pig farming in the UK.

June 13, 2024Episode 1439 min

Sir Mark Spencer of the Conservative Party - "Election Policies of the Conservatives for Agriculture & Farming"

Find out about the Conservatives plans for agriculture and farming before the next General Election, with our special guest, Sir Mark Spencer, the Minister of State in the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs. Hear firsthand how Mark's upbringing on a dairy farm shaped his journey into politics and led to his recent recognition as a Knight Bachelor. This episode promises to take you through Mark's unique political philosophy, where he contrasts the practicalities of socialism with the aspirational goals of conservatism, and offers an insider look at the evolving landscape of UK agriculture. Discover how the Conservative Party's policies are reshaping the agricultural sector post-Brexit. From navigating the challenges and opportunities of Brexit to advancing innovation through the gene editing bill, Mark sheds light on the transformative shift from the Common Agricultural Policy to the more sustainable and efficient Sustainable Farming Initiative. Learn about the new grant systems and reduced bureaucracy that aim to position agriculture as a key player in addressing global environmental challenges. In the final segment, we tackle the pressing issues facing the agricultural industry today. Explore the necessity of budget adjustments in line with inflation, the potential of genetic improvement, and the investments in technology that promise to revolutionize farming. Mark emphasizes the importance of ensuring fairness in the supply chain and the diverse career opportunities within the sector. This episode is packed with insights into reconnecting consumers with food production and fostering career development through education and apprenticeships, making it a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of UK agriculture, who wants to understand about political policies for the future.