Meet the Farmers
Meet the Farmers profiles farmers, offering insights into food, farming, and the people behind it. The companion series, Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate, covers farming news, current affairs, and discussions on the major issues affecting rural communities in Britain and worldwide. The podcast aims to give listeners a deeper understanding of agricultural life and the challenges faced by those who work the land.
Episodes
![After the Drought: What Needs to Change on UK Farms? [Big Debate ep22]](https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/f058e9b4-6df6-4e75-83f6-776360dc4a58/0b40623d-4a75-4e9e-8f65-e8f4847f0f5b/3000x3000/cropped_1789125643699.jpg?aid=rss_feed)
After the Drought: What Needs to Change on UK Farms? [Big Debate ep22]
The rain has returned, but after two incredibly challenging summers, can farming afford to simply move on?
In our latest episode of The Big Debate, Ally and Sophie discuss what the drought could mean for the decisions they make on their own farms - from forage and future cropping choices to water security, land availability and reducing their reliance on the weather. And there's plenty more in the
Reasons to Be Confident About the Future of Farming
Big Debate hosts Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory are joined by Virgin Money's UK Head of Agriculture Brian Richardson and Head of Agriculture in Scotland Stephen Buchan to take a broad look at UK agriculture over the past few months. 🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @MTF_podcastMeet the Farmers: The Big Debate is produced by Ru
What Would You Do With £1 Million on Your Farm? Big Debate ep21.
If someone handed you £1 million to invest in your farm, what would you spend it on? That's the question Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory tackle in this week's Big Debate. From buying land and securing the future of the business to investing in water storage and diversification, they explore whether £1 million is really enough to transform a modern farm – and whether they're investing for them
The Reality of Farming in Britain's Drought. Big Debate ep20
Join Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory for the first-ever in-person episode of The Big Debate. They discuss the UK's worsening drought, the spread of bluetongue, harvest pressures, life on their own farms, and the challenge of juggling farming with family life during the school holidays. They also explore how British farms are adapting through diversification and changing farming practices as t
Ben shares some news
Ben shares some news in this short episode.
🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @mtf_podcast for more content. Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural podcast production agency. Please note that this podcast does not constitute advice. Our podcast disclaimer can be found at https://www.ruralpodmedia.co.uk/
EMERGENCY EPISODE - Wild Fires, Grazing, Rewilding and the Conversation We're Not Having Enough
Summer wildfires are happening all over the UK, France, Spain, Europe and the rest of the world. Can anything be done to prevent or manage them? In this emergency podcast episode Ben is joined by Alex Crawley (Director, Grazing Management Ltd), Michael Priestley (Policy Manager, National Sheep Association), Craig Hope (National Resilience Wildfire Capability Advisor for the National Fire Chiefs Co
Harvest 2026 and Reviewing the Road to Farm Profitability - how do we get there? Big Debate ep19
In this episode of Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate Ally and Sophie are joined by Ben Briggs to discuss politics, the new Burnham government, the Farming Roadmap and the response to the Farm Profitability Review. Ally also gives his thoughts on his harvest experience so far and they discuss the weather and Farm Safety Week 2026. Hosted as always by farmers Sophie Gregory and Ally Hunter Blair.
Lin
Derek vs Derek The Film - meet the Dereks
In this episode Ben speaks to Derek Banbury and Derek Gow - two Devon farmers who star in a new documentary film called Derek v Derek, made by James Dawson. Each Derek takes a different approach to managing their land - Derek Banbury is a dairy farmer and Derek Gow a rewilding and species reintroduction advocate. However as we see in this interview there is more that brings them together than may
Answers to YOUR Questions on Farm Diversification and Viticulture
In this episode, host farmers Sophie Gregory and Ally Hunter Blair put some listener questions about farm diversification and viticulture, to Annabelle Rout, a lawyer from Birketts LLP. Annabelle is also Birkett's Head of Viticulture.
🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @MTF_podcast
Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate is produced by RuralPod
Are Cover Crops Worth Planting?
Ben is joined by Sophie Gregory and Tom Gregory, Dorset farmers alongside Alex Pearson from DLF Seeds to discuss cover crops and the trials that Tom and Sophie are undertaking on their farm.
This episode was sponsored by DLF Seeds. #AD
🎧 If you enjoyed this episode and want us to make more, please subscribe to the show and follow us on socials @MTF_podcast.
Meet the Farmers is produced by Rural
Is ORGANIC FARMING the Answer? Big Debate ep18 LIVE from Groundswell
In this LIVE version of The Big Debate Sophie and Ally are joined by Suffolk based organic farmer John Pawsey to discuss the future of organic farming. How does John see the future of his farm?
Hosted as always by farmers Sophie Gregory and Ally Hunter Blair.
With thanks to the Sustainable Food Trust for hosting the podcast tent at Groundswell where this was filmed. It was made possible by Groun
The Thirteenth Generation Farmer on a Mission to Get Britain Growing More Nuts
In this special Live at Groundswell special episode Ben Eagle speaks with Tom McVeigh, a 13th generation farm who farms at Kenton Hall in Suffolk. Tom describes his journey coming back to the family farm, and also his ambitions to grow hazelnuts. With thanks to the Sustainable Food Trust, Groundswell and the Rothschild Foundation for enabling the Podcast tent at Groundswell.
🎧 If you enjoyed this
Starmer RESIGNS, Record Heat Hits Britain and Environment Agency Inspections set to Increase - Big Debate ep17
Lots to cover in this week's Big Debate episode from record breaking heat to political upheaval, the publication of the Farming Roadmap and government response to Minette Batters' Farm Profitability Review, farm safety and an interview with Nicola Appleton, Deputy Director for Agriculture and Land at the Environment Agency covering the relationship between the Environment Agency and farmers. Hoste
Baroness Minette Batters - What was being NFU President REALLY Like and What's the future for British Farming?
Baroness Minette Batters DL is arguably one of the most influential voices in British agriculture in a generation. In 6 years as President of the NFU she worked with four Prime Ministers and six Secretaries of State at Defra. She faced Brexit, Covid, the War in Ukraine and many other challenges. But what was it really like to lead the NFU, especially as the first woman to be President? What does l
Smarter Farming: What is it and what's the future?
Farming has never been more complex. More decisions, more data and less time. Ally Hunter Blair headed to Cereals 2026 to ask farmers a simple question: what does smarter farming actually mean for you?
This episode explores the vision, the reality and the opportunity. How can tech and data help farmers hit their goals, reduce the load and free up time for what matters most?
With thanks to featur
1 million young people not in Employment, Education or Training - could farming be the answer? - Big Debate ep16
In the latest Big Debate episode with Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory, they discuss tech, farm safety, regen ag, World Milk Day and NEETS (young people not in employment, education or training) and how agriculture can help – that’s in the light of the publication of the interim report from Alan Milburn about young people and work. Could farming be part of the answer?
Also featuring special gu
Farming Profitability, Contracting and a Forward Thinking Arable Business - with Tom Hawthorne
Today Ben is in the Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Leicestershire borderlands meeting Tom Hawthorne who is farm manager for Flawborough Farms, farming 3200 hectares of cereals, forage maize and whole crop silage both for the home farm and contracting for 13 other landowners. The Hawthorne family have been farming at Flawborough since 1956 when Tom’s grandfather Charles inherited the farm from his
Open Farm Sunday, Mustard, Sugar and more with Michael Sly
Today on Meet the Farmers host Ben Eagle is joined by Michael Sly who heads up the Park Farm team which farms 2000 hectares in north Cambridgeshire and south Lincolnshire. They grow wheat, peas, sugar and mustard. Michael was awarded an MBE in 2022. Michael has served as the chairman of English Mustard Growers and the NFU Sugar board. Michael has also welcomed tens of thousands of people through t
Drought, Fuel Costs and Tractor Ted: What's Next for UK Farming?
This week Ally and Sophie cover several different stories from fuel prices to trade deals, drought in the US, golden eagles to chicken campaigns and agricultural shows to Tractor Ted.
Hosted as always by dairy farmer Sophie Gregory and arable farmer Ally Hunter Blair.
Link to newsletter sign up - Sign-up to our newsletter – RuralPod Media
🎧 Please subscribe to the show and follow us on social me
Carrots, Beef and the future for a Mixed Farming Business - with Joe Howard
Today we’re in Nottinghamshire and Ben is meeting 5th generation farmer Joe Howard – his family have been farming their current farm since 1888. The Howards operation is diverse and consists of growing carrots, parsnips and cereals on a mix of owned, rented and contracted land alongside finishing 1,600 dairy-bred Aberdeen Angus and Hereford-cross cattle. The family also runs a hill farm near Amble
Reasons to Be Confident About the Future of Farming
Big Debate hosts Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory are joined by Virgin Money's UK Head of Agriculture Brian Richardson and Head of Agriculture in Scotland Stephen Buchan to take a broad look at UK agriculture over the past few months.
🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @MTF_podcast
Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate is produced by Rural
Dairy in New Zealand and Young Farmer of the Year - with George Dodson
Today we’re in New Zealand meeting self styled Canterbury Cowboy George Dodson who in 2024 was crowned FMG Young Farmer of the Year, which for anyone who doesn’t know, is an extremely prestigious competition. He’s the Founder of the Canterbury Young Dairy Farmers Leaders Network and to give you an idea of his passion and drive for the dairy sector he was already managing a farm by the age of 20.
Does Farming in Wales have a Bright Future? - Big Debate ep14
This week Ally and Sophie are asking whether farming in Wales has a bright future? They are joined by two Welsh farmers Abi Reader and James Powell. Also on the agenda is a discussion on wool prices, a stolen egg stand, the farmer choir on Britain's Got Talent and of course news from Ally's and Sophie's farms.
Hosted as always by dairy farmer Sophie Gregory and arable farmer Ally Hunter Blair.
L
What's the future for the Common Agricultural Policy?
Host Ben Eagle is joined by Brussels based agri-food journalist Natasha Foote to discuss how the Common Agricultural Policy may change in 2027 and what farmers across Europe should be aware of.
🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @RuralPodMedia for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the
Founding, Growing and Exiting a Business in Agriculture - with Jez Pile
Ben Eagle is joined by Jez Pile from Telus Agriculture & Consumer Goods to discuss his entrepreneurial journey of founding, growing and exiting from his start up business Muddy Boots.
With thanks to our sponsor TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods.
Explore smarter farming tools from TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods: telus.com/FarmSmarter
Image credit: Jez Pile
🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wher
Public Engagement on Farms: Essential or Too much Time? - Big Debate ep13
This Big Debate episode covers a wide range of topics from eggs and poultry to Great British Beef Week, Sophie's recent trip to the Netherlands, the London Marathon, Essex greenhouses and much more. The debate this week turns to public engagement and on farm education. Hosted as always by dairy farmer Sophie Gregory and arable farmer Ally Hunter Blair.
Link to newsletter sign up - Sign-up to our
The Farmers on Britain's Got Talent - with Ben Brooke
Ben Brooke farms in Cambridgeshire as well as running a number of other businesses. He is a member of the Hawkstone Farmers Choir that recently got Amanda Holden's 'Golden Buzzer' on Britain's Got Talent.
With thanks to our episode sponsor TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods.
Explore smarter farming tools from TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods: telus.com/FarmSmarter
Image credit: Ruth Downing
🎧 S
From Doctor to Farmer - Dr Johnny Wake's story
In this episode host Ben Eagle is joined by Dr Johnny Wake - a doctor turned farmer, who is Managing Partner of Courteenhall Farms in Northamptonshire. Before taking over the family agriculture business full-time, Johnny was a doctor working in the Department of Health, his local hospital and a GP practice. Under his stewardship since 2013, Courteenhall Farms has doubled in size to over 4,000 acre
Dairy v Arable Spring Update with Ally and Sophie
In today's episode Ally and Sophie give their Spring update from their farms. They also discuss the food on the Artemis 2 Moon mission, rewilding, organic trade with Japan and much more.
What to do for the TELUS giveaway [THIS IS AN AD] (deadline: 23:59 on 9th May 2026):
1) Subscribe to the show wherever you are listening
2) Comment below (wherever you are listening) with 'TELUS GIVEAWAY'
3) S
Going Against the Grain - Henry Astor from Bruern Farms
Today we’re heading to the Cotswolds to meet Henry Astor who runs Bruern Farms. Henry took on the reigns of the family farm from his father in 2017 and decided that creating diversity on the farm was the way to meet the challenges of the post Brexit farming landscape. The farm’s arable enterprise was joined by a herd of English long horns, saddleback pigs, chickens, and a host of building diversif
The Story of Petite Peonies - Cambridgeshire farmer David Wheatley
Today host Ben Eagle is joined by Cambridgeshire tenant farmer David Wheatley who has recently taken social media by storm with his Petite Peonies account. They discuss David's farming journey, arable farming, diversification, Christmas trees, peonies and how to make the most of social media as a farmer.
With thanks to our sponsor TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods.
Explore smarter farming tools
What's the future for the British Pig Sector? - Big Debate Episode 11
Big Debate hosts Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory turn their attention to the pig sector this week and are joined by mixed farmer Fred Allen, who farms near Newark, and Mark Haighton who is Pork Sector Director for AHDB. They ask about the current state of the sector and what its future might look like?
Also on the agenda for this week are news stories including growing underground, cattle rus
Accelerating Regenerative Agriculture in the Cotswolds
In this special bonus episode we learn about the Regenerative Agriculture Accelerator Programme which is based in the Cotswolds. RAAP is an innovative initiative for farmers and advisors who want to deepen their understanding of regenerative and agroecological principles – and learn how to apply them in practice to produce nutritious food, improve soil health, boost biodiversity, and build farm re
Artificial Intelligence and Agriculture - What's the future?
Artificial intelligence in agriculture - what's the potential for the future?
Ben Eagle is joined by Ben Hatton from Telus Agriculture and Consumer Goods and Matt Dobbs from Agsenze to discuss the potential.
With thanks to our sponsor Telus Agriculture and Consumer Goods.
Explore smarter farming tools from TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods: telus.com/FarmSmarter
🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers w
Emergent Generation: Young Voices in Farming and Food PART 2
RuralPod Media and Meet the Farmers have collaborated with Emergent Generation to create a two-part podcast documentary about the future of food and farming to show anything is possible when young people are involved.
Emergent Generation: Young Voices in Farming and Food details how group members think and feel about the future, how they imagine it can be and what they are doing to realise their v
Emergent Generation: Young Voices in Farming and Food PART 1
RuralPod Media and Meet the Farmers have collaborated with Emergent Generation to create a two-part podcast documentary about the future of food and farming to show anything is possible when young people are involved.
Emergent Generation: Young Voices in Farming and Food details how group members think and feel about the future, how they imagine it can be and what they are doing to realise their v
Questions about Seasonal Workers - Big Debate Bonus
In this episode, Sophie Gregory and Ally Hunter Blair explore the complexities of seasonal farm employment in the UK, featuring insights from Sacha Wooldridge, an immigration lawyer at Birketts LLP. They discuss licensing, visa caps, the employer pays principle, and any potential upcoming legal changes affecting seasonal and casual employment.
🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your
Emergent Generation - Young Voices in Farming and Food TRAILER
RuralPod Media and Meet the Farmers have collaborated with Emergent Generation to create a two-part podcast documentary about the future of food and farming to show anything is possible when young people are involved.
Emergent Generation: Young Voices in Farming and Food details how group members think and feel about the future, how they imagine it can be and what they are doing to realise their v
What impact will conflict in the Middle East have on agriculture? And thoughts on the future of AHDB - Big Debate ep10
As conflict continues across the Middle East Sophie and Ally ask what it means for agriculture, especially as fuel prices rise? Aside from the humanitarian impact of the conflict there has been significant impact to the flow of materials. From oil to raw materials for fertiliser the agricultural supply chain has been significantly disrupted which will have consequences for farmers.
Also in this ep
A Story of Resilience - Full Circle Farms and The Garden Army
In this episode, Tom Morphew shares his inspiring journey from a young gardener to the founder of Full Circle Farms and the Garden Army CIC. He discusses his unique approach to regenerative farming, the challenges he faced in his entrepreneurial journey, and his commitment to creating a sustainable and community-focused farming model. Tom emphasizes the importance of mental health and community en
Meet Farmer Phil - Dairy Beef, Farm Shops and Farming in Ireland
This week Ben heads to county Longford in Ireland to meet Phil Stewart aka Farmer Phil on youtube. Phil’s farm has been in his family for over 80 years. Farming 633 acres and rearing dairy beef calves the business is wide ranging and includes agri-contracting and a Farm Shop.
Image credit: Liv Stewart.
🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media
Farmers Reflect on the NFU Conference and Is the Cereals Sector Fit for the Future? - Big Debate ep9
Following a discussion on this week's NFU Conference Big Debate hosts Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory are joined by three farmers to ask : ‘Is the Cereals Sector Fit for the Future?'
Guests include:
Chris Baylis – Director of Farming at Sir Richard Sutton Limited which has farms in Lincolnshire and Berkshire.
Andrew Court – Arable and beef farmer on 110 hectares (274 acres) in Staffordshire,
From Dairy Farming to YouTube: Josh Misselbrook's Story
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Josh Misselbrook, who has worked on various dairy farms across Devon and is a farming YouTuber. Josh shares his journey from early experiences of farming to his current role. He discusses his educational path, including an apprenticeship in agriculture and his time working at Rothamsted Research. Josh expresses his passion for dairy f
Reasons to be Confident about the future of farming
Big Debate hosts Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory are joined by Virgin Money's UK Head of Agriculture Brian Richardson and Head of Agriculture in Scotland Stephen Buchan to take a broad look at UK agriculture today. 🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @MTF_podcast Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate is produced by RuralPod Media. Please no
Should we be taking food security more seriously in the UK? - Big Debate ep8
This week Big Debate hosts Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory are asking : ‘Should we be taking food security more seriously in the UK and is investing in farming the answer?’ This is following the publication of a report by the UK government last month titled ‘Global biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse and national security: A national security assessment’. Their guests include ffinlo Costain
The Salty Shepherd - Steve Penberthy in Cornwall
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Steve Penberthy, a sheep farmer from West Cornwall, who shares his journey into farming, the challenges he faces, and the importance of public perception in agriculture. Steve discusses his farm's unique characteristics, the impact of weather on farming, and his experiences with lambing. He also highlights the diversification of his b
Big Debate bonus - 'Ask the Legal Expert' - Inheritance Tax, Succession and Land Sales
In this bonus of Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate, host Ally Hunter Blair puts listeners' questions to legal experts Chris Coupland and Annabelle Rout from Birketts LLP to discuss critical topics surrounding inheritance tax, succession planning, and land sales. The conversation emphasizes the importance of wills, lasting powers of attorney, and trusts, while also addressing the complexities of fai
Big Debate Farmers Compare their Farm Businesses - What does the future hold? - Big Debate Episode 7
In this episode Big Debate hosts Ally and Sophie discuss various topics related to farming, including their personal journeys in agriculture. They also share insights from their recent trip to Scotland and engage with listener feedback, highlighting the importance of community in the agricultural sector. They discuss various aspects of farming, including the challenges and opportunities faced by y
Growing a Regenerative Farm On Exmoor National Park - with Sarah and Georgia Weatherlake
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Sarah and Georgia Weatherlake, who manage a 500-acre farm in Exmoor National Park. 🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @RuralPodMedia for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural podcast production agency.
The Radmore Farm Journey - with Ben Aveling
Ben Aveling, known as Radmore Farm on social media, reveals all about his farming and diversification journey over the past few years, as well as his entry into social media. 🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @RuralPodMedia for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist rural
The Farm Profitability Review with Baroness Minette Batters - what's next? - Big Debate Episode 6
In this episode Baroness Minette Batters comes on the show to discuss her Farm Profitability Review and consider what might be next for the report? She also reflects on the elements of Secretary of State for the Environment Emma Reynolds' Oxford Farming Conference speech that nodded to the review. Ally and Sophie also discuss farming conferences and events including Oxford Farming Conference, Oxfo
ORFC 2026 - seed saving, community, sustainability and futures
With thanks to our guests: Charlotte Allender (Head of UK Vegetable Genebank at the University of Warwick); Elaine Bradley (Exec Director of the Irish Seed Savers Association) and Catrina Fenton (Head of Garden Organic's Heritage Seed Library). Photo credit: Hugh Warwick🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @RuralPodMedia for updates and behi
A Tale of Two Tenant Farmers
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle engages with Kayleigh Robb and Tim Scott, two tenant farmers who share the same landlord - the Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT). They share their unique journeys in agriculture, discussing the challenges and opportunities they face in modern farming. The conversation delves into the importance of wildlife-friendly practices, the dynamics of l
An Audio Diary from Downlands Estate with James Gilboy
Downlands was purchased by the Gilboy family in the summer of 2023. In this episode we take a look behind the scenes at their farming journey so far. With thanks to Becca Smith for guest producing this episode. 🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @RuralPodMedia for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Meet the Farmers is produced by Rural
Big Farming Quiz of the Year: Reflecting on 2025
In this episode of the Meet the Farmers podcast, host Ben Eagle leads a lively quiz featuring a panel of guests reflecting on the year 2025 in farming. Huge thanks to Ben Briggs, Bronagh Dempster, Sophie Gregory and Ally Hunter Blair for taking part. The conversation covers the challenges faced by farmers, the impact of market trends and political decisions, and the resilience of the agricultural
Are marts still the heart of commerce and community? - Big Debate ep5
For this week's Big Debate Ally and Sophie explore the future of traditional livestock markets in the UK, featuring insights from Dan Luff, co-founder of Sell My Livestock, and Scott Donaldson, a seasoned auctioneer and Group Director of H&H Group. The discussion covers the evolution of livestock trading, the impact of online platforms, the social aspects of markets, and predictions for the future
Farmers React to the Farm Profitability review - BIG DEBATE Emergency episode
The UK government has published the Farm Profitability Review which was authored by Baroness Minette Batters. In this 'emergency podcast episode' Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory are joined by Ben Briggs to give an initial reaction to the document.
To view the whole report visit - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/farming-profitability-review-2025-an-independent-review
🎧 Subscribe t
The Story Behind Trevor and The Sheep Show - with Trevor Wayborn
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Trevor Wayborn, the owner of The Sheep Show, a mobile show promoting British sheep and wool. Trevor shares his journey from a paramedic to a farmer, discussing his family history in agriculture, the challenges he faced in his career, and how he transitioned to running The Sheep Show. The conversation highlights the importance of menta
Big Debate Agri-Economic Report December 2025 - with Virgin Money's Brian Richardson
Brian Richardson is Head of Agriculture at Virgin Money. As part of Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate, once a season Brian will be giving an 'agri-economic report', assessing the agricultural sector as a whole from his perspective in terms of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and risks for agricultural businesses.
In this report he is joined by Ben Eagle.
Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate i
Do Scottish Farmers Have a Bright Future? - Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate ep4 - with Cammy Wilson
Sophie and Ally are on holiday this week so Cammy Wilson from Fed by Farmers joins the Big Debate team this week for an episode with a Scottish focus. They also discuss the long awaited Farm Profitability review, dogs on leads and Christmas cheese. For the Big Debate Cammy and Sophie are joined by John Sleigh, editor of The Scottish Farmer, and Sally Williams, a dairy farmer from Berwickshire. The
Sheepdogs and Taking on the Farm after school - with Erin McNaught
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Erin McNaught, a fourth-generation farmer in North Wales. Erin shares her journey of taking over the family farm at a young age, the challenges of farming in a rugged landscape, and the balance between education and agricultural responsibilities. She highlights the importance of family legacy and the support from her grandfather in re
Farmers React to the Budget - The Big Debate ep3
In this third episode of Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate hosts Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory give their reaction to the recent Budget. They are joined by Yorkshire farmer Paul Temple and Editor of Farmers Guardian Olivia Midgley. Chris Coupland from Birketts also offers his initial appraisal of the budget.
They also talk about Open Farm Sunday and some news stories from the past fortnight
From Livestock Farming to the Radio - with Sam Walton
In this episode Ben speaks with Sam Walton, the Livestock Manager at Cotswold Farm Park. Sam shares his journey from growing up on a family farm in Cheshire to his current role, emphasizing the importance of public engagement and education in farming. He discusses his experiences in New Zealand, insights on agritourism, and the significance of mental health awareness in the agricultural sector. Sa
Do farmers need a new fitness culture?
We talk fitness on the show today. Does farming need a new fitness culture? Ben is joined by Paul Norton who has driven farm machinery across the world and is on a mission to get farmers fit. 🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @RuralPodMedia for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only
Meet Rich the Funky Farmer - Pioneering Farming Youtuber
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Richard Cornock, known as The Funky Farmer, about his experience in dairy farming and his journey as a pioneering YouTuber. They discuss the challenges faced by farmers, including inheritance tax, the volatility of the dairy market, and the importance of community among farmers. Rich shares insights from his 40 years in the industry,
The UK's share of global emissions is 1% - should UK farmers still aim for net zero? - Big Debate Episode 2
In this second episode of Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate hosts Ally Hunter Blair and Sophie Gregory turn to the topic of climate as COP30 kicks off in Brazil. They are joined by Brazilian agricultural journalist Marianna Grilli and Professor Tim Benton to explore the subject. They also discuss cheese awards, Christmas trees and why Sophie is recording in an ironing cupboard in Denmark. 🎧 Subscri
Ben travels to Kenya - IFAJ CONGRESS 2025 - PART 2
In this second episode Ben reveals more of his trip to Kenya. He interviews the Congress Director Aghan Daniel to set the scene for the congress in Nairobi. He also dives into issues such as women in farming in Kenya and takes listeners behind the scenes at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO). Make sure you listen to episode 1 to make the most of this episode. 🎧 Subs
Ben travels to Kenya - IFAJ CONGRESS 2025 - PART 1
Ben travels to Kenya in this episode as part of the Alltech Young Leader Programme and the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists annual congress, which takes place in a different country each year. In this episode he speaks to his fellow young leaders to discover more about agriculture in their respective countries. 🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and
Farming in Iceland - with Jack Bradley
In this episode, host Ben Eagle speaks with Jack Bradley, a first-generation dairy farmer in Iceland. Jack shares his unique journey from the UK to Iceland, detailing his experiences in the military, a pivotal holiday in Kavos that indirectly sparked his interest in farming, and his time working in New Zealand. He discusses the cultural differences between the UK and Iceland, the challenges of her
The Big Debate Ep1 - Avian Flu, Pumpkins, Snails and Sustainability
Join new co-hosts of The Big Debate series Sophie Gregory and Ally Hunter Blair in the very first episode of "Meet the Farmers: The Big Debate." Dive into discussions on sustainability, the impact of climate change on farming, and the quirky issue of 'snail farming' in Westminster. Sophie and Ally reflect on how the farming community is adapting to new challenges and opportunities, with insights i
Charlotte Ashley on Farming and the Influencer label
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben sits down with Charlotte Ashley, a farmer, podcaster, and prominent countryside content creator, who shares her journey into farming, farming life today, and the power of social media to bridge the gap between rural and urban communities. We’ll also dive into Charlotte’s role as a content creator and her thoughts on the “influencer” label, as well as her po
Meet the Farmers - a brand new series and new hosts announcement!
In this special episode of the podcast Ben announces the launch of a brand new ongoing current affairs series on the podcast, with two new hosts joining the Meet the Farmers team! 🎧 Subscribe to Meet the Farmers wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on social media @RuralPodMedia for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Meet the Farmers is produced by RuralPod Media, the only specialist
In memory of Eleanor - Michael Kavanagh shares his family's experience of losing their 2 year old
In this heartfelt episode, Michael Kavanagh shares his journey of grief following the tragic loss of his daughter Eleanor in January 2025. He discusses the challenges faced by his family, the importance of community support, and the promise he made to Eleanor to live a life well lived. On Sunday 26th January 2025, 2 year old, Eleanor and her big sister Fiona, went to bed like any other night. Thei
Cattle, Direct Sales and Youtube - Ian Pullen's farming journey
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Ian Pullen, a beef farmer from Wotton Under Edge, Gloucestershire. Ian shares his journey into farming, the challenges he faces with TB in cattle, and how he has successfully integrated YouTube into his farming business. He discusses the importance of diversification, the direct sales model for his beef, and the future of farming amid
Thomas Gent on Regenerative Farming, Innovation & the Future of Agriculture
In this episode, Ben Eagle visits Thomas Gent, a fourth-generation farmer from the Lincolnshire-Cambridgeshire border. Thomas, his father and grandfather have transitioned the family farm to regenerative agriculture methods since 2008. Thomas is also the founder of Gentle Farming. The conversation covers Thomas' personal journey into farming, the transition to regenerative practices, the role of i
Bronagh Dempster: Navigating Farming and the Dairy Industry as a New Entrant
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Bronagh Dempster, a passionate new entrant from Northern Ireland. Bronagh shares her journey into farming, her education at Queen's University Belfast, and her experiences working on a dairy farm. She discusses the challenges and opportunities facing the dairy industry, her involvement in the Nuffield Next Gen scholarship, and her asp
What was harvest 2025 like for farmers? Harvest 2025 Special
Ben is sent on farm harvest reviews from a number of UK farmers who are also former guests of the show. To say harvest 2025 was disappointing for many UK farmers is an understatement for many. We'd love to hear or read your experiences of harvest this year wherever you are in the world - please add your thoughts in the comments. Huge thanks to all our farmer contributors - Richard Heady, Rebecca W
Recruiting Professionals and Farm Managers in Farming and the Rural Sector - with Miranda Webster
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, host Ben Eagle speaks with Miranda Webster from Webster's Rural about the challenges and opportunities in recruitment within the professional and farm manager side of the agricultural and rural sectors. They discuss the evolving landscape post-Brexit and post-pandemic, the importance of attracting and retaining talent, and the skills that are currently in deman
Sheep farming in Australia - meet Tara from Tara Farms
In episode 307 of Meet the Farmers, Ben travels (virtually) to western Victoria, Australia to talk with Tara, a third-generation sheep and mixed crop farmer working alongside her family. Tara runs Australian White and Primeline sheep, and is passionate about balancing productivity with long-term sustainability. She shares how responsibilities are divided on the farm, the role of technology in thei
Getting started in farming - with James Warwick
In this episode of Meet the Farmers, Ben Eagle speaks with beef and sheep farmer James Warwick from north Cornwall about how he moved to Cornwall from Cambridgeshire to live with his grandparents and learn to farm. He now farms South Devon cattle and 350–400 ewes. James shares his passion for farming, financial challenges of farming and the mental strain it can sometimes bring. We talk about:The s
Recommended
Learning English from the News
Who We Are Now with Izzy & Richard Hammond
Uk Mix RadioShow
CAA on General Aviation
Pod Save The King
Pride and Prejudice (version 6, dramatic reading)
InsideAIR
Ancient Lives with Mary Beard
English Made Simple
RHISE: Real History in Simple English (B2-C1, British)
Swingers
Learn UK English By Podcast
