Humans of Agriculture

Hosted by Humans of Agriculture

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384

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Aug 2026

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EN-AU

About the show

Humans of Agriculture brings you inside the conversations, careers and stories shaping agriculture. Hosted by Oli Le Lievre, the podcast gives listeners access to the people, ideas and experiences you might not otherwise get close to.

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August 10, 2026Episode 16838 min

"I couldn't have it all in my head"...so Tom Lahey went digital (AgriWebb Partner episode)

Third-generation cattle producer Tom Lahey always knew he wanted to return home to the family farm near Goondiwindi. But after working across Western Australia and travelling through the United States to visit some of the world's leading regenerative ranches, he came back with a different perspective on what the future of Australian grazing could look like.Rather than chasing quick wins, Tom has focused on building a more resilient business by improving soil health, measuring grazing performance and making better decisions with data. Over the past five years, AgriWebb has become a central part of that journey, helping the family move from relying on notebooks and memory to having real-time information that supports day-to-day management and long-term planning.In this episode, Tom shares how travel reshaped his thinking, why healthy soil and healthy people go hand in hand, and how technology is helping his family make more confident decisions while creating a stronger future for the next generation.Key insights from the conversation:Growing up on a family cattle property near GoondiwindiHow travelling through the US changed his approach to grazing and soil healthBringing new ideas back into a multi-generational family businessWhy AgriWebb became the foundation for better decision-makingUsing grazing data to navigate dry seasons with confidenceHow technology supports carbon projects and tells the story behind farming practicesThe importance of measuring progress instead of relying on memoryWhy the future of farming will rely on connected technology and better dataBuilding a legacy focused on healthy soils, healthy businesses and healthy peopleChapters:00:00 Introduction to Tom Lahey and his farm journey00:28 Tom's background and family farm in Wyaga02:08 Growing up on the family farm and passion for farming04:56 Adopting a progressive mindset in agriculture06:53 Experience in Western Australia and genetic improvements07:35 Trip to the US and insights into regenerative ranching09:42 Soil health, environment, and profitability11:30 Implementing grazing techniques post-US trip13:20 Using AgriWebb for farm management and decision making17:52 Integrating data and technology in farm operations20:26 Evolution of farm management tools over five years22:38 Future plans for technology and farm legacy

August 3, 2026Episode 1671 hr 7 min

The Livestock Industry Was Running on Paper. AgriWebb Bet Everything That Would Change - John Fargher, Co-Founder (AgriWebb Partner episode)

John Fargher grew up on a sheep and cattle station in South Australia's Flinders Ranges, where innovation wasn't a buzzword. It was a necessity.From School of the Air and life on a remote station to practising law in London, John's path looked a long way from building one of agriculture's most recognised technology companies. But a conversation in a London pub changed everything.Together with fellow co-founders Kevin Baum and Justin Webb, John left his legal career behind to tackle one of agriculture's biggest challenges: helping livestock producers move beyond paper records and make better decisions using data.More than a decade later, AgriWebb supports producers across Australia, the UK, North America, South America and beyond, helping digitise livestock businesses while connecting farmers more closely with supply chains and the future of food production.In this episode, John reflects on the journey from startup garage to global ag-tech business, the realities of building a company in one of the world's least digitised industries, and why earning farmers' trust has always mattered more than building software.The conversation also explores AgriWebb's recent acquisition by URUS, the future of livestock data, and why John believes agriculture still has enormous untapped opportunities for innovation.Key insights from the conversation:Growing up on a remote station in the Flinders RangesLeaving a legal career in London to co-found AgriWebbWhy agriculture was still running on paper when AgriWebb beganBuilding a startup before ag tech was an established industryThe lessons from growing a global software businessExpanding into the UK, North America and BrazilWhy digitising agriculture remains one of the industry's biggest opportunitiesThe role of trust, partnerships and culture in scaling a businessHow AI, data and genetics could shape the future of livestock productionWhat's next for AgriWebb following its acquisition by URUSChapters:00:00 Introduction to AgriWebb and its origins00:33 John Farger's background and childhood in the Flinders Ranges01:01 The early days of AgriWebb and its mission02:24 Recent milestones and the URUS acquisition06:40 John’s childhood and the influence of farming life09:39 The start of the AgriWebb story in London12:00 The founding of AgriWebb in Melbourne13:40 The state of Australian agtech a decade ago16:08 The initial problem in livestock digitization20:51 Pivot from hardware to software focus23:41 Technological evolution and early challenges27:55 Business model evolution and market education30:49 Competitive landscape and category creation33:11 International expansion and market entry strategies37:26 Building a global business with a unified culture41:24 Company culture and employee engagement45:46 Lessons from market fluctuations and industry challenges49:00 Managing noise and trends in ag tech51:46 Future opportunities in agriculture and advice for entrepreneurs55:33 Vision for the next decade and impact goals58:57 Connecting farm data to global supply chains01:03:50 The role of sustainability and corporate responsibility01:06:01 Reflections on the journey and future outlook

July 29, 2026Episode 16636 min

“The First AgTech We've Got To Adopt Is...” with Ben Barlow RLF AgTech (Business Spotlight)

This business spotlight explores how RLF AgTech is turning decades of agricultural research into practical products that help farmers improve productivity and profitability.Chairman Ben Barlow shares his journey from building and exiting New Edge Microbials to leading RLF AgTech, explaining why commercialisation is often the missing link between great science and widespread adoption. He discusses what attracted him to the business, how RLF has built on more than 20 years of research and field trials, and why the future of Australian agriculture depends on making innovation practical at the farm gate.This episode explains how RLF AgTech's approach to plant nutrition, biologicals and local manufacturing is helping strengthen farm businesses while positioning Australian innovation for global growth. For anyone interested in ag tech, agricultural productivity or the future of farming, this is a practical and insightful conversation.RLF AgTech is an Australian agricultural technology company developing plant nutrition and biological solutions that improve crop performance. The business combines decades of research, extensive field trials and local manufacturing to deliver products that integrate into existing farming systems while supporting more productive and resilient agriculture.Key insights from the conversation:How RLF AgTech is commercialising decades of agricultural researchWhy adoption depends on trust, education and on-farm resultsThe role of local manufacturing in strengthening Australian agricultureWhy improving farm profitability is the foundation for future ag tech adoptionBen's outlook on the future of Australian agriculture and agricultural innovationChapters:00:00 Introduction and Ben Barlow's background01:34 Ben's journey since last conversation02:30 Focus on plant, animal, and soil health03:57 Deep science and commercial potential of biologicals05:55 Involvement with RLF AgTech07:52 Opportunities in biologicals and crop yields10:54 Australian agriculture's adoption challenges14:13 Market opportunities and niche products17:06 Global markets and export potential20:02 Local manufacturing and supply chain resilience23:11 Future of agritech and investment challenges26:08 Leadership, risk, and strategic growth30:00 Opportunities and pathways for Australian agriculture32:50 Skills for the next generation of farmers33:56 Closing remarks and key takeaways

July 27, 2026Episode 16552 min

From Frozen Yoghurt to Global AgTech Leader with Campbell Mauchan (AgriWebb Partner episode)

When Campbell Mauchan moved from Canada to Australia in 2016, agriculture wasn't part of the plan.He'd been running frozen yoghurt stores back home when his partner accepted a six-month opportunity in Melbourne. Looking for work, he landed an interview with a small ag-tech startup called AgriWebb, despite having no farming background, no sales experience and none of the qualifications listed in the job description.That decision changed everything.Nearly a decade later, Campbell has helped grow AgriWebb from a team of fewer than ten people into one of agriculture's leading technology businesses, building his career across Australia, the UK, Europe and North America along the way.In this episode, Campbell shares what it's been like to grow alongside the business, why curiosity became his greatest strength, and how working with farmers and ranchers around the world has shaped both his career and perspective.The conversation explores why you don't need to grow up on a farm to build a meaningful career in agriculture, what great leadership looks like inside a fast-growing business, and why trust will always matter more than technology alone.Key insights from the conversation:Following an unexpected opportunity into agricultureJoining AgriWebb in its earliest startup daysWhy asking questions became a career advantageBuilding a global career by putting your hand upWhat farmers across Australia, the UK and North America have in commonThe role trust plays in agriculture and ag-techLessons from working in startups across multiple countriesHow AI and technology could support better decisions on farmWhy agriculture offers incredible opportunities for people from all backgroundsChapters:00:00 Introduction to Campbell Mauchan and AgriWebb00:33 Campbell’s journey from Melbourne to Toronto02:09 Reflecting on a decade of growth at AgriWebb04:01 Backstory: From frozen yogurt to ag tech08:51 Why AgriWebb backed Campbell10:58 The early days of AgriWebb and initial challenges13:26 Approach to management and decision-making16:57 The importance of farm visits and farmer engagement19:56 Solving real problems with technology22:18 The evolution of farm mapping technology23:50 Building trust with farmers and ranchers27:26 Data ownership, privacy, and value for farmers30:14 Career growth through global opportunities34:46 Balancing confidence and curiosity in leadership38:34 The impact of changing locations on career development42:57 Commonalities among farmers worldwide45:43 Cultural differences in agriculture and technology adoption48:19 The future of ag tech and AI advancements50:56 Closing remarks and advice for aspiring ag tech professionals

July 22, 2026Episode 16412 min

Rewarding Pathways to Net Zero in Agriculture with ZNE Ag CEO Richard Heath

Australian agriculture is chasing lower emissions, but what does that actually look like on farm?In this short episode of Humans of Agriculture, Oli Le Lievre catches up with Richard Heath, CEO of the Zero Net Emissions Agriculture CRC, ahead of the 2026 ZNE Ag CRC Conference in Perth.Richard shares what has changed since the CRC's inaugural conference, the promising research already emerging around productivity and emissions, and why there is no single silver bullet. They also unpack this year's conference theme, Rewarding Pathways to Zero, exploring how farmers can reduce emissions while building more productive and profitable businesses.From 18 to 20 August in Perth, Western Australia this is where real conversationswill happen, bringing together the people, ideas, and innovations shaping the futureof agriculture.Whether you're in the paddock, in research, or across the supply chain, this is yourchance to be part of it.Head to zneagcrc.com.au to explore the program and get your ticket today.Key insights from the conversation:Zero Net Emissions CRC's role and projectsResearch on plants, animals, and farm systemsReward pathways for emissions reductionInnovations in methane and nitrous oxide reductionConference in Perth and stakeholder engagementChapters:00:00 Introduction to the conference and its significance01:01 Richard Heath's overview of CRC's work and goals02:00 Recap of last year's Brisbane conference and progress03:01 Focus on reward pathways and economic incentives04:06 Research on plants and animals to reduce emissions05:01 The importance of incremental improvements in agriculture07:07 Understanding the theme: rewards pathways to zero net emissions08:11 Potential financial and environmental rewards for farmers08:51 Significance of Western Australia in the conference10:02 Target audience and benefits of attending the conference10:49 Final thoughts and how to learn more about the event

July 16, 2026Episode 16327 min

Warakirri Cropping: A Career-Making Opportunity with Tony Murfit

In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, Oli Le Lievre sits down with Tony Murfit, Regional Manager for Western Australia at Warakirri Cropping, to explore the Farm Operations Manager opportunity at Mawarra and what makes it such an important role within the business.Having managed Mawarra himself before Warakirri purchased the property in 2011, Tony shares how the farm has evolved into one of Western Australia's leading broadacre cropping operations. He reflects on the transformation of the business, the innovation happening across the WA grains industry, and why he believes Mawarra continues to offer enormous potential.The conversation also provides an inside look at the Farm Operations Manager role. Tony explains what success looks like, the importance of planning, logistics and leading a team across more than 24,000 hectares, and why trust, communication and the ability to adapt are just as important as technical farming knowledge.Whether you're already working in broadacre cropping or looking to take the next step in your career, Tony shares why this role is an opportunity to learn, grow and build a long-term future with Warakirri Cropping. With the support of an experienced team and clear pathways for progression, he explains why the right mindset matters more than having all the answers on day one.This episode is designed to give candidates and listeners a genuine insight into the business, the people, the opportunity and Tony's vision for building high-performing farming teams.Key insights from the conversation:How Mawarra became Warakirri Cropping’s first property in Western AustraliaHow soil improvement and changing farming practices have transformed the farmWhat it takes to operate across more than 24,000 hectaresWhy planning, logistics and timeliness are critical at MawarraWhat the Farm Operations Manager will focus on day to dayWhy trust and communication are central to building a strong teamWhy candidates do not need to know everything before stepping into the roleThe importance of leading from the front and working alongside the teamWhat success could look like after the first 12 monthsThe lifestyle and community available around MerredinHow the role could create a pathway towards becoming a Farm Manager within WarakirriInterested in learning more? We have a full job description and additional information available on our Careers page: https://humansofagriculture.com/careers/job-board/farm-operations-manager-x191Or connect with Zoe Burgess for a confidential conversation about the role available with Warakirri Cropping.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and recent farm visit to WA00:29 Interview with Tony Murfit on WA grain industry01:31 The evolution of soil management and crop yields in WA03:29 The importance of Mawarra farm to Warakirri Cropping04:52 Farm expansion and cropping intensity growth05:35 Major advancements in farm management since 201107:07 Role and team structure of the farm operations manager08:25 Approach to stepping into the farm operations role09:06 Current challenges and capacity planning10:36 Managing farm operations across large distances11:53 The importance of timeliness and adaptability12:18 Success indicators after 12 months in the role14:25 Team culture and peer learning at WA farms16:03 Leadership style and team trust19:16 Opportunities for women and diverse leadership in agriculture22:36 Encouraging relocation and career growth in WA farming25:37 Final thoughts and closing remarks

July 13, 2026Episode 16224 min

Tom & Mick: Risk, Timing and Opportunity in the Cattle Market with Jeremy Cummins

The Tom & Mick Show is back, and so is repeat guest Jeremy Cummins.Two years after first joining the show, Jeremy returns to share how his cattle feeding business has grown from around 4,000 head on feed to more than 22,000 across multiple locations.The conversation also dives into the current cattle market, seasonal conditions, feedlot demand and how Jeremy is positioning his business as the industry navigates another changing cycle.In this episode:Growing the businessWhat's changed since Jeremy's first appearance on the showRebuilding and expanding the Mirambee FeedlotGrowing from 4,000 to more than 22,000 head on feedBuilding a team and bringing experienced people into the businessThe role mentors and advisors continue to playFeedlot strategyWhy Jeremy operates across multiple feedlot locationsDiversifying supply, customers and seasonal riskHow different feeding programs fit different marketsWhy flexibility is becoming a competitive advantageReading today's cattle marketJeremy's outlook on current cattle pricesThe impact of seasonal conditions across AustraliaWhy supply and demand still drive his decision makingHow international markets influence, but don't dictate, his businessManaging riskWhy Jeremy focuses on margins instead of trying to predict the marketMatching purchases to forward salesLessons learned from previous market correctionsWhy understanding your costs matters more than guessing where prices are headingGrowth mindsetWhy Jeremy never planned to grow as quickly as he hasBacking opportunities when they make senseScaling a business without chasing growth for growth's sakeHis philosophy: know your numbers, back yourself and don't be afraid to do moreLooking aheadJeremy's thoughts on the future of feedlottingThe potential of covered feedlotsWhy Wagyu isn't part of his current strategyWhat the next decade could look like for the businessKey takeawaysBusiness growth often comes from recognising opportunities rather than following a rigid plan.Knowing your costs and protecting your margins is more important than trying to pick the market.Diversification across locations, customers and feeding programs helps manage risk.Seasonal conditions will continue to play a major role in shaping Australia's cattle market.The best opportunities often come to those prepared to act with confidence when the numbers stack up.Whether you're involved in cattle production, feedlotting, livestock trading or simply interested in how successful agribusinesses make decisions, this episode offers practical insights into growth, risk management and navigating today's cattle market.

July 6, 2026Episode 16138 min

RaboElevate: Why Capability Matters More Than Capital with Danny Shepherd (Partnered Ep)

Agriculture is built on more than land, livestock, and capital. It’s built on people, capability, and the strength of the communities that support them.In this episode, Danny Shepherd shares the thinking behind RaboElevate, Rabobank’s capability-building platform designed to support farmers and agribusiness leaders through every stage of their career.Drawing on a background in education and leadership development, Danny explains why building knowledge, networks, and self-awareness is just as important as access to finance. From emerging farm managers through to business owners and strategic leaders, RaboElevate aims to help people navigate the "sticky points" that come with growing a business, leading people, and making better decisions.Danny also shares his personal story of discovering his farming roots later in life after meeting his father for the first time in his late thirties, and how that experience unexpectedly brought together his passions for education and agriculture.From leadership development and financial literacy to international study tours, strategic thinking, and the role of AI in agriculture, this conversation explores what it takes to build resilient businesses and thriving rural communities for the long term.This conversation highlights why investing in people and capability may be one of the most important investments agriculture can make.Key insights from the conversation:The story behind RaboElevate and why Rabobank invests in capability, knowledge, and networksHow farmers move through different seasons of leadership across their careersThe importance of self-awareness, curiosity, and critical thinking in businessNavigating the "sticky points" of farm ownership, growth, succession, and leadershipHow practical education programs help bridge the gap between operational and strategic thinkingThe value of peer networks, study tours, and learning from farmers around the worldWhy AI should enhance decision-making, not replace critical thinkingHow stronger leaders contribute to stronger businesses, communities, and future generations of agricultureChapters:00:00 Introduction02:56 Danny Shepherd's Journey to Agriculture07:29 Understanding RaboElevate12:22 Career Development in Agriculture17:26 Sticky Points in Agricultural Careers21:39 Comparing Agricultural and General Business Challenges28:44 RaboElevate Programs and Offerings29:03 Community Involvement and Accessibility of Programs31:32 The Next Generation and AI in Agriculture36:01 Conclusion and Reflections

June 29, 2026Episode 16126 min

SproutAg: Building the Future of Agribusiness Finance with Oscar McLean

In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, Oli Le Lievre is joined by SproutAg Senior Agribusiness Manager, Oscar McLean, alongside Humans of Agriculture Talent Specialist, Zoe Burgess, to explore the opportunities available as SproutAg continues its rapid growth across regional Australia.After starting his career in agtech before moving into agricultural banking, Oscar shares the journey that led him to SproutAg and why helping farmers navigate increasingly complex finance decisions has become such a rewarding career. He explains how the business works alongside farming enterprises to provide independent finance, debt advisory and business planning services that help clients achieve their long-term goals.The conversation also provides an inside look at what it's like to work at SproutAg. Oscar explains what an Agribusiness Manager does day-to-day, the type of people who thrive in the business, and why attitude, curiosity and a willingness to learn matter more than ticking every box on a job description.As SproutAg continues to expand across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and beyond, Oscar shares why now is an exciting time to join the business, the career pathways available, and how ambitious people can grow alongside one of Australia's fastest-growing agribusiness advisory firms.Whether you're already working in agricultural banking, finance or agribusiness, or you're looking for your next career move, this episode offers a genuine insight into the people, culture and opportunities behind SproutAg's continued growth.Key insights from the conversation:Oscar's career journey from Marcus Oldham to banking and into SproutAgWhy independent agribusiness finance and advisory is one of agriculture's fastest-growing sectorsWhat an Agribusiness Manager does day-to-dayThe type of people SproutAg is looking to recruitWhy attitude, curiosity and a willingness to learn matter more than having every technical skillCareer pathways and progression opportunities as SproutAg continues to expand across AustraliaWhy now is an exciting time to join the business, including its recent acquisition and ambitious growth plansWhat makes Tamworth and regional Australia great places to build a career and lifestyleInterested in learning more? We have a full job description and additional information available on our Careers page: https://humansofagriculture.com/careers/job-board/agribusiness-manager-70hqOr connect with Zoe Burgess for a confidential conversation about the opportunities available with SproutAg.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to SproutAg and Recruitment Opportunities02:13 Oscar McLean's Career Journey and Insights05:01 Understanding SproutAg's Business Model07:38 Role of Agribusiness Manager: Responsibilities and Expectations11:26 Growth and Expansion of SproutAg14:26 Career Pathways and Opportunities at SproutAg17:59 Selling Tamworth: A Regional Hub for Agriculture20:56 Encouragement for Potential Candidates

June 22, 2026Episode 16054 min

How Halter Is Replacing Fences on Aussie Farms with Hamish Irvine

In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, Oli sits down with Hamish Irvine, Head of Southern States at Halter Australia, to explore the technology, leadership and mindset driving one of agriculture’s fastest-growing companies.Growing up on a mixed farming operation in western New South Wales, Hamish always imagined a future on the land. But after drought forced a change in direction, his career took him through the meat industry, global supply chains and commercial leadership before landing at Halter, the virtual fencing and livestock management company now transforming grazing systems across Australia and New Zealand.This conversation goes beyond the technology itself. Hamish shares the lessons that shaped his career, what it takes to build high-performing teams, and why feedback, accountability and culture are critical in fast-growing businesses. He also unpacks how Halter is helping farmers rethink labour, pasture management and livestock performance through virtual fencing and real-time animal insights.From career progression and leadership to innovation and the future of livestock farming, this is a conversation about embracing change and creating impact.Key insights from the conversation:How growing up on a family farm and experiencing drought shaped Hamish’s career journeyWhy stepping outside traditional agriculture career pathways can create unexpected opportunitiesThe lessons learned from building a career across meat processing, sales and agribusiness leadershipWhat high-performance culture looks like in practice and why feedback is central to successHow Halter uses virtual fencing and animal insights to transform livestock managementThe three biggest drivers of value for farmers: pasture utilisation, labour efficiency, and animal healthWhy adopting new technology requires trust, clear outcomes and a willingness to changeHow innovation is reshaping the future of livestock farming and creating new opportunities across agricultureThe importance of leadership, ownership and accountability in building successful teamsWhy agriculture needs more people focused on solving industry challenges rather than following traditional career pathsChapters:00:00 Introduction to Halter and Hamish Irvine02:05 Career Path and Early Experiences04:37 The Importance of Diverse Experiences08:37 Reflections on Career Choices10:37 Leadership and Team Building at Halter12:17 Transitioning to Halter: Embracing Change20:13 High-Performance Culture at Halter26:56 The Art of Feedback and Communication30:18 The Birth of Halter: A Journey from Dairy Farming to Tech Innovation34:37 Expanding Horizons: Halter's Growth in Australia37:36 Understanding Farmer Needs: The Halter Approach39:59 Building Trust: Overcoming Skepticism in Agriculture43:45 Transformational Technology: The Future of Farming46:42 Bridging Agriculture and Technology: The Ideal Candidate48:07 The Future of Agriculture: Opportunities and Challenges