Farms Advice Podcast

Hosted by Farms Advice

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299

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Jul 2026

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About the show

Farms Advice Podcast is the biggest farmer led podcast in Australia. Hosted by Jack Cresswell who wanted to get the answers for his family farm and thought others might be wanting the same answers too. Focusing on the paddock, office and off-farm income. Get the insights or listen to how others do it to become profitable, sustainable and happier in the end. We use old techniques and new technology to help us get there. Learn on the go with the host who is also farming in Central West, NSW. Farms Advice Podcast is a raw take of how producers are getting the most out of themselves and their farms. Make sure you've subscribe to yourself and this podcast. If you're interested in being a guest on the show, e-mail hello@farmsadvice.com.au to get on the waitlist. Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast is general in nature and for education purposes only. It is not to be taken as advice for accounting, agronomy, consulting, financials, or livestock advice. No one should act on the information without appropriate specific advice for your particular circumstances. Keep on farming and pass on the #FarmsAdvice Follow on Instagram @farmsadvice Subscribe to the YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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60 recent

July 18, 202640 min

Advocating for Agriculture: Insights from Farmers, Influencers, and Policy Shapers

Welcome to the Farms Advice Podcast with your host Jack Cresswell. In this episode, we explore the power of social media advocacy, the importance of education in farming, and the evolving landscape of agriculture in the US and Australia. Listen to how influential farmers and advocates are shaping perceptions, policy, and the future of farming globally. Subscribe to yourself and this newsletter: https://farmsadvice.beehiiv.com/ Key Topics: Michelle shares her journey from fashion to farming and becoming a leading ag advocate. The impact and potential of social media for farm advocacy and product marketing. How misconceptions about farming practices can be debunked through education. Differences in farming scales and policy challenges between Australia and the US. The role of celebrities, influencers, and media in shaping agricultural narratives. Strategies to enhance farm visibility and attract next-generation talent. The cowboy culture and the influence of popular media like Yellowstone on farm perceptions. How policy patchwork and water rights issues affect farmers across US states. The importance and impact of precise, science-backed messaging in agricultural communication. Success stories of farm advocacy, including impactful campaigns like Burger King’s retracted ad. Future goals of elevating agricultural voices in mainstream media and policy arenas. The significance of humility, confidence, and unapologetic storytelling in farming. Timestamps: 00:00 - Michelle’s background from fashion industry mogul to farm advocate 00:37 - The influence of social media in farm marketing and advocacy 01:07 - Advice for farmers: Never underestimate your voice 01:44 - Building awareness about farming practices through media 02:23 - Connecting with farm followers via social platforms 03:08 - Michelle’s international advocacy journey and journey from city to farm 03:44 - Australian farmers' feedback mechanisms and consumer insights 04:01 - Walking a day in farmers' shoes to bridge understanding 04:38 - Challenges of policy and chemical use in farming 05:44 - Organic vs conventional farming misconceptions 06:09 - Educating consumers on the realities of agriculture 07:03 - The importance of early education in agriculture 07:26 - The role of social media influencers and celebrities in farm education 08:55 - The disparity in advocacy budgets between mainstream industry and activist groups 09:16 - The significance of engaging youth programs like FFA 10:23 - Harnessing entertainment media, like Yellowstone, for farm education 11:54 - Reflecting on lessons learned over a decade in agriculture advocacy 12:26 - Impact of social media campaigns like Burger King ad reversal 13:52 - The influence of influential farmers and social media in policy change 14:49 - The importance of building relationships and trust for advocacy 15:45 - Addressing misconceptions around farm size and profitability 16:07 - Internal growth and scale strategies for family farms 17:47 - Embracing confidence and promoting farm success stories 20:42 - The future of American farming and advocacy goals 23:04 - Labels, misinformation, and the importance of science-based food choices 26:16 - How to measure success in advocacy efforts 30:16 - Lessons from COVID-19 on supply chains and consumer behavior 33:42 - The global perspective: learning from farmers across continents 36:07 - Making farming attractive and rebranding it as a modern, cool industry 38:15 - Breaking down industry stereotypes and embracing authenticity 39:11 - The importance of storytelling, transparency, and social media presence 40:03 - Closing remarks on advocating for the next generation of farmers Resources & Links: Michelle - Farm Babe | Instagram | thefarmbabe.com Burger King's Cow's Menu Ad (search for the ad to view) Scientific American Podcast FFA - Future Farmers of America Make America Healthy Again Keep on farming! Leave us feedback at hello@farmsadvice.com Follow to keep the conversation flowing Follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 29, 202627 min

Farming Futures opening doors with Audrey McPherson

Discover the inspiring story of Audrey, a young woman passionate about agriculture, who shares her experiences navigating university, farming, and community engagement. This episode explores the opportunities, challenges, and innovations shaping today's agricultural industry, especially for the next generation. In this episode: Audrey’s journey from Hunter Valley to Armadale and her decision to study at UNE The importance of connecting students with agriculture through initiatives like Farming Futures How university and industry events foster career opportunities and community engagement The rising role of social media in promoting agriculture careers and building personal brands The significance of mental health, grief, and mental resilience in farming communities The future of Australian agriculture focusing on technology, sustainability, and diversification Practical advice for young people considering careers in agriculture: say yes, be optimistic, and leverage networks Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Audrey's background and involvement with Farming Futures 02:00 - How university experiences shape agricultural careers 04:00 - Connecting students to opportunities through industry events 06:00 - The power of social media in farming and branding 08:00 - Challenges faced by rural youth, including mental health and grief 10:00 - The evolution of Australia's agricultural industry—technology and sustainability focus 12:00 - Key lessons on resilience, purpose, and community engagement 14:00 - How to get involved with agricultural organizations and events 16:00 - The importance of mentorship and continuous learning 18:00 - Future career aspirations: teaching, innovation, and leadership in agriculture 20:00 - Final advice: embracing change, saying yes, and building networks Stay connected, share your story, and continue to support and grow the future of agriculture! Follow to keep the conversation flowing Follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 22, 202633 min

Shaping the future of the sheep industry at LambEx 2026

Welcome to episode 287 of the Farms Advice Podcast with Jack Cresswell. Shaping the Future of Sheep Production at LambEx 2026 with Mark Ferguson. Join us as Ferg shares cutting-edge innovations, industry trends, and the mindset shifts transforming sheep farming that will be at LambEx 26. This episode highlights how technology, collaboration, and continuous learning are paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous industry. Key topics: The role of AI and automation in sheep farming Industry collaboration and peer-to-peer learning at LambEx Genetic advancements and data-driven decision making Monitoring technologies like virtual fencing and carcass data integration Building resilience and efficiency for future generations In this episode: The significance of LambEx as a hub for innovation and networking (0:00) How the sheep industry is benefitting from current high prices and market confidence (1:27) Market outlook: demand vs supply, and the long-term price outlook (2:22) The impact of genetic tools and data in improving flock productivity (4:51) The importance of peer learning and networking to drive industry change (6:36) Innovations in carcass evaluation and objective data collection (9:41) The future of automation, monitoring, and AI in sheep production (17:50) How technology such as virtual fencing and GPS will evolve (18:13) The integration of AI, augmented reality, and real-time data feeds (20:38) Maintaining success through profitability, efficiency, and continuous improvement (24:23) The cultural shift needed for industry-wide adoption of new tools (26:08) Buy tickets to LambEx 2026 Join us to explore how innovation and collaboration at events like LambEx are shaping the sheep industry's future. Whether you're on farm or behind the scenes, these insights can help you stay ahead in this vibrant sector. Follow to keep the conversation flowing Follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 15, 202646 min

The Surprising Truth About Farm Trusts and New Tax Laws You Need to Know

Welcome to the Farms Advice Podcast. As most farmers are overwhelmed, underwhelmed and everything in between by the recent tax reforms and uncertain future legislation. But what if the key to safeguarding your farm and growing wealth is understanding the upcoming changes—and knowing when to act? This episode dives into the complex world of new trust and CGT laws, revealing how they could impact your family farm's structure, succession plans, and asset protection strategies. Join us as we break down the proposed 30% trust taxation minimum, the potential for increased capital gains taxes, and the implications for trust structures used in agriculture. Brian Wray, a seasoned tax advisor at Boyce Brian Ray, shares concrete insights into how these reforms could reshape your financial and estate planning. You'll discover how primary production income might be carved out versus other income streams, and what that means for your assets and legacy. We explore practical strategies, including the timing of restructuring, the best structures for asset protection, and the importance of aligning your goals with evolving legislation. Whether you're contemplating purchase decisions, succession planning, or asset transfers, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make informed, confident choices before new laws take effect—potentially as early as 2027. Why does this matter? Because acting too soon or too late could cost you dearly, especially given the uncertain political landscape and the possibility of policy reversals. Get ahead of the curve with expert insights that help you navigate structural risks, maximize your tax benefits, and secure your farm’s future. Perfect for farmers, landowners, and agricultural families looking to safeguard their legacy amid shifting legislation—this episode is your essential guide to future-proofing your farm business. Stay informed, stay strategic, and keep your farm thriving. Brian Wray is head of tax advisory at Boyce Brian Ray, with over 15 years of experience helping farmers navigate complex tax and succession issues, making him a trusted voice in agricultural finance. Head to Boyce for more information about your scenario or your own accountant/advisors. https://www.boyceca.com/ Follow to keep the conversation flowing Follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 10, 20261 hr 6 min

From Anxiety to Authority: The Key Skill That Transforms Agricultural Negotiations with Georgia Stormont

Welcome to the Farms Advice Podcast. Sales shows up everywhere in agriculture and even on farm. That's why we got Georgia on to see how it's done. Understanding the Power of Sales in Agriculture with Georgia Stormont. Discover how sales principles can transform your farm business and industry relationships in this insightful episode featuring Georgia Stormont, sales coach and agri-industry expert. Whether you’re in the paddock or the boardroom, learn practical tips on connection, understanding customer needs, and evolving your sales approach to enhance profitability and trust. In this episode: The importance of sales across all farm activities, from livestock to grain presentation Georgia’s background: from city suburbs to agriculture and her journey into farming sales The common struggles farmers face with sales, including the fear of rejection and the need for relationship building How understanding your own sales flow and personality can increase confidence The significance of connecting with customers’ emotional drivers and end goals Strategies for effective follow-up, including CRM use and personal touches like notes Building trust through consistent presence at industry events and farm visits Key mental models like curiosity, vulnerability, and self-awareness, to enhance sales and relationships The role of intentional daily routines and setting boundaries to avoid burnout The value of investing in team skills, including AI and ongoing training Practical tips for farm-to-farm sales: asking open-ended questions, understanding personalities, and making it a reciprocal relationship Dispel common sales myths, emphasizing that product knowledge alone doesn’t create great salespeople The importance of showing up, authentic engagement, and continuous relationship nurturing Resources & Links: Selling in the Paddock Book Georgia Stormont on LinkedIn Connect with Georgia Stormont: LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:01 - Sales’s vital role on farm and industry relationships 01:30 - Georgia Stormont’s background and journey into agriculture sales 06:25 - Common fears in agricultural sales and how to overcome them 10:11 - The importance of self-awareness and understanding your sales flow 14:03 - Connecting with customer needs through personality profiling 19:57 - Building trust and rapport during farm visits and industry events 23:44 - Asking effective questions to uncover customer values and needs 28:23 - Following up diligently to nurture ongoing relationships 34:29 - Setting the right tone in communications with the right language 39:59 - Strategies for farm-to-farm sales and the importance of relationship over transaction 49:06 - The core value of being people-first in sales and life 52:56 - Key takeaways: Confidence, vulnerability, and continuous learning 55:47 - The power of simple gestures: notes and personal touches 60:14 - Celebrating sales as a way to motivate and build team culture Follow to keep the conversation flowing Follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 11, 20261 hr 24 min

Olympic Athlete to Farmer: Now Leading Farms Through Succession with Richard Hamilton

Building a Legacy: Insights on Family Farm Succession with Richard Hamilton In this episode, Richard Hamilton shares his extensive experience from elite sports to farming, emphasising the importance of early conversations, leadership, and a mindset shift in successfully passing on family farms. Whether you're in the thick of succession planning or just starting to think about it, Richard's insights will challenge you to rethink how you prepare for the future. Key Topics: The parallels between sports leadership and farm management Why starting succession conversations early is critical Building trust through transparent communication The importance of leadership and mentorship in agriculture Strategies for managing debt and financial planning in succession Cultivating a culture of empowerment and growth within farm teams How to balance lifestyle goals with farm responsibilities The role of technology and innovation in modern farming transitions Practical steps for emotional and financial preparedness The long-term value of planning for multiple generations Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Why succession planning needs a new perspective 02:17 - From Olympic athlete to successful farmer: a mindset of resilience 05:00 - Building trust through early and honest conversations 07:22 - The importance of leadership and mentorship in farm teams 10:00 - Managing debt and financial considerations in succession 12:45 - Cultivating a culture of responsibility and innovation 15:00 - Strategies for engaging upcoming generations 17:30 - Using sport as a blueprint for farm transition success 20:00 - The significance of ongoing communication and confidence 22:50 - Addressing emotional barriers and family dynamics 25:00 - The impact of external factors like policy and market risks 27:30 - Practical tips for starting the succession conversation today 30:00 - Creating a shared vision for the farm’s future 32:45 - Teaching leadership skills through everyday practices 35:30 - The role of humility and kindness in leadership 38:00 - Embracing technology and change for future-proofing farms 41:00 - The importance of timing and a proactive approach 43:15 - Final thoughts: building a legacy beyond just a business Resources & Links: Richard Hamilton - LinkedIn Align Generations - New business initiative for early succession planning The Book: Don't Die With The Music In Me by Wayne Bennett Remember, successful farm succession is an ongoing journey, not a one-off event. Start the conversation early, involve trusted advisors, and focus on building leadership and trust within your family and team. The future of your farm depends on it. Pass on the #FarmsAdvice to your friends and family. Follow to keep the conversation flowing Follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

April 21, 202634 min

Building Modern Leadership and Recruitment on Farm with John Boote

In this episode, John Boote from Drover Ag as a partner of the podcast shares insights on transforming agricultural recruitment and leadership towards a more modern, human-centric approach. We discuss strategies to attract, retain, and develop quality farm employees amidst economic and climatic challenges, emphasising communication, culture, and mental wellbeing. Main Topics Covered: Shifting leadership models from hierarchical to flatter, mentorship-based structures The importance of communication, approachability, and vulnerability in farm teams How to develop and retain top talent using simple, effective practices The impact of culture, structure, and physical environment on recruitment and workplace satisfaction The role of AI and technology in streamlining recruitment processes Addressing burnout, mental health, and family dynamics in agriculture Strategies for encouraging continuous improvement and professional development on farms Practical steps to create a supportive and engaging farm workplace Resources & Links: Drover Ag Follow to keep the conversation flowing Follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

March 31, 20261 hr 3 min

How Small Decisions Today Can Double Farm Impact in the Next 5 Years with Tracy Blackburn

How Small Decisions Today Can Double Farm Profits in the Next 5 Years Welcome to the Farms Advice Podcast with host, Jack Cresswell. Discover the multifaceted world of contemporary agriculture through the lens of Tracy Blackburn, a lifelong farmer involved in NSW Farmers. This episode unpacks her diverse experiences, industry challenges, and the importance of collective action in shaping the future of farming. Let's shape our futures together, I firmly believe all farmers should be on their state/territory organisations. In this episode Tracy Blackburn shares her journey from growing up in Armidale to managing a large family farm in central NSW Insights into the daily routine of a modern farmer balancing on-farm and off-farm roles The significance of decision-making and the concept of "compounding" in farming operations Industry concerns including commodity prices, environmental pressures, and legislative challenges The value of community involvement, policy influence, and networking within NSW Farmers Opportunities and benefits of joining industry organizations for young farmers The impact of external factors such as global markets, trade disruptions, and overseas policies Practical tips for farm management, storage upgrades, and balancing resilience with flexibility Links: Join NSW Farmers Find out the benefits for a support, agribusiness and farmers. Let’s continue the conversation Farmers Only Facebook Group Follow to keep the conversation flowing Follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

March 29, 20261 hr 45 min

Want to master your farm's finances? Me too...

Welcome to the farmers podcast, Farms Advice with your host Jack Cresswell. This episode dives deep into agricultural finance, farm succession strategies, and market insights, featuring James from Bullagreen, a partner of the podcast. It offers valuable guidance for farmers aiming to optimise profitability, manage risks, and plan for future generations. Tell him Farms Advice sent you Bullagreen.au rural@bullagreen.au 0461 374 585 This episode does not know your individual circumstances and is to be taken as general advice only. Please reach out to your expertise to assist you or call James.I hope that you could take something away from this episode to think about and/or implement. Follow to keep the conversation flowing Follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

March 9, 202647 min

Tony Catt: Catapult Your Farm with a Family Advisory Board

Enhancing Farm Success: Leveraging Advisory Boards for Growth and Sustainability In this episode of Farms Advice Podcast with hot Jack Cresswell, Tony our good friend of the podcast from Catapult Wealth shares practical insights on establishing and utilizing advisory boards to strengthen farm management, succession planning, and decision-making processes. Whether you're a new or experienced farmer, understanding how to build effective advisory panels can transform your business. Key topics: The fundamental role of advisory boards in farm management and decision support How advisory boards do not diminish control but enhance strategic decision-making Overcoming psychological barriers, such as fear of losing control Structuring advisory board meetings for clarity, purpose, and accountability Selecting the right members: skills, diversity of thought, and ecosystem fit The importance of psychological safety and open communication Using advisory boards as a tool for succession planning and risk management Implementing process-driven habits over habit-driven routines Leveraging external Follow to keep the conversation flowing Follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cressy__/ and Twitter https://x.com/jcressw3 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@farmsadvice Follow Farms Advice - https://instagram.com/farmsadvice Join the Farmers Only Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmsadvice For more like this go to https://farmsadvice.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.