R2Kast - People in Food and Farming/All In

Latest Episodes:

R2Kast 293 - Jonny Hanson on Rewilding, Conservation, and Living with Lynx Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

Today’s guest is Dr Jonny Hanson, who joins us to explore the fascinating yet contentious topic of rewilding—a subject that’s been making headlines just last week. 🌿

Jonny shares his journey growing up in Northern Ireland and Malawi, experiences that shaped his passion for the environment and agriculture. His academic journey includes a PhD focused on community forestry in Nepal, highlighting his commitment to global conservation efforts. 🌍

We dive into the complexities of rewilding, with me asking questions from both sides of the debate—representing the perspective of sheep farmers and the rewilding advocates. Jonny’s balanced and insightful responses shed light on the challenges and opportunities for coexistence. 🐑🦌

This episode also highlights Jonny’s newly released book, Living with Lynx, which explores coexistence between humans and large carnivores. Packed with insights from his travels and research, it’s a must-read for anyone curious about the future of rewilding and its role in the natural world. 📖

We also touch on his Nuffield journey, where he explored innovative ways to integrate conservation and agriculture, further enriching his perspectives. His work perfectly balances the needs of people and the planet.

If you’re interested in conservation, rewilding, or learning from a fresh perspective, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Enjoy!

Thank you to Howden Rural for the continued support.

#R2Kast #JonnyHanson #Rewilding #LivingWithLynx #Conservation #AgricultureAndEnvironment #SustainableFarming #HowdenRural #Coexistence #Biodiversity #FutureOfFarming #EnvironmentalLeadership #WildlifeReintroduction #RuralDebate #HotTopicsInFarming #FarmingCommunity #FarmAndConservation #InnovativeFarming #LynxRewilding #RewildingDebate

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

R2Kast 292 - Fraser Searle on Sandwiches, Social Media, and Sharing the Journey Jan 24, 2025

Show notes

Today, we welcome Fraser Searle onto the R2Kast podcast. Fraser is a fascinating mix of social media star, sandwich enthusiast, and all-around creative. Having grown a massive following online, Fraser shares his journey from his early days in content creation to becoming a full-fledged social media sensation. 🌟

Fraser’s rise to fame began with a passion for making incredible sandwiches. What started as a fun way to flex his creative muscles quickly evolved into a platform that inspired others to try their hand at making unique sandwiches. With millions of views across platforms, Fraser has turned sandwiches into both art and entertainment. 🥪

In this episode, we typically focus more on farming, but today we take a deeper dive into the food side. We talk about the unseen side of social media fame—the pressures, challenges, and not-so-glamorous aspects that come with a large online presence. Fraser opens up about the mental load and balancing creativity with the demands of social media, showing that it's not always as easy as it seems. 📲

We also reflect on how our friendship began through Howden, and how many of the great relationships I’ve built started with Fraser. His creativity and positivity have been a huge inspiration in connecting with others. 🌱

Thank you to Howden Rural for the continued support.

Enjoy!

#R2Kast #FoodAndFarming #SocialMedia #SandwichArt #FraserSearle #ContentCreation #HowdenRural #FarmingCommunity #ViralContent #Inspiration #Creativity #Foodie #DigitalMarketing #RuralLife #CommunitySupport #TikTokStar #InstagramStar #PodcastEpisode #UKAgriculture #FoodIndustry #OnlineCreators #Trending

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

R2Kast 291 - Laura James on Biodiversity, Bees, and Bridging Gaps Jan 20, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of R2Kast – People in Food and Farming! This time, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Laura James, a dynamic advocate for sustainable farming and biodiversity. Laura's journey from a childhood dream of saving the whales to becoming a bee scientist and champion for farming communities is nothing short of inspiring. 🌿

We explored her career, starting with her accidental love affair with agriculture during her placement at the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust. Her passion for biodiversity and her time spent as a researcher led her to delve deeply into the crucial roles of bees in ecosystems and agriculture. 🐝

Currently with AHDB, Laura bridges the gap between research and practical on-farm solutions. I love the way Laura sees the merits in both food production and the sustainability around it in equal measure, showcasing a balanced perspective that’s so vital in modern agriculture. 🌾

Laura also shared her exciting plans for her Nuffield travels, focusing on exploring how different countries approach biodiversity and integrate sustainability into their agricultural systems. From Europe to Africa and beyond, her goal is to gather insights and bring back innovative solutions that could benefit the UK farming sector. 🌍

Enjoy!

Thank you to Howden Rural for the continued support.

#sustainablefarming #biodiversity #beescientist #agricultureandconservation #AHDB #farmlife #sustainabilitymatters #pollinators #naturelovers #researchtosolutions #organicfarming #balancingnatureandfood #ecosystemservices #beesofinstagram #farmerssupportingfarmers #globalinitiatives #foodproduction #scienceoutreach #phdlife #r2kastpeople

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

R2Kast 290 - Andrew Richardson on Aquaculture, Innovation, and Feeding the Future Jan 17, 2025

Show notes

Today’s guest is Andrew Richardson, a leading figure in aquaculture who is making waves in sustainable food production. From his extensive experience in the seafood industry to his innovative outlook, Andrew shares his journey into this vital and ever-growing sector. 🌊

We dive into Andrew’s work in aquaculture, including his involvement with Salmon Scotland, where he champions the role of salmon farming in providing sustainable and nutritious food. As the founder of the Young Aquaculture Society (YAS), Andrew is passionate about creating a network for young people in aquaculture, bridging innovation and collaboration in this rapidly evolving industry. 🐟

Andrew also shares his exciting plans for his Nuffield Scholarship, which will focus on exploring global aquaculture practices, improving sustainability, and addressing challenges like ecosystem impact and consumer perceptions. His drive to enhance the industry’s role in feeding the world is truly inspiring. ✈️

If you’re curious about the future of seafood, the role of aquaculture in food systems, and how it connects with wider agriculture, this episode is a must-listen.

Enjoy!

Thank you to Howden Rural for the continued support.

#AndrewRichardson #R2Kast #Aquaculture #SalmonScotland #SustainableFood #SeafoodIndustry #FutureOfFarming #HowdenRural #FishFarming #SustainableFarming #FoodSecurity #InnovationInAgriculture #BlueRevolution #YoungAquacultureSociety #NuffieldScholar #AquacultureInnovation #EcosystemBalance #FoodProduction #AgricultureLeadership #ModernFarming

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

R2Kast 289 - Tales of a Nuffield Scholar with Hannah Batty, Hannah Fraser, and Tom Pearson Jan 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the "Tales of a Nuffield Scholar" series, we chat to Hannah Batty, Hannah Fraser, and Tom Pearson, who share their unique insights and experiences from their Nuffield journeys. 🌍

Hannah Batty

A vet and Clinical Director, Hannah’s Nuffield study focuses on creating better team management on UK dairy farms to enhance animal welfare and profitability. 🐄

Hannah Fraser

A medical doctor and organic farmer, Hannah explores how farmers can promote nutrient-dense food production to tackle chronic disease. 🌾

Tom Pearson

An arable farmer and public health advocate, Tom’s study focuses on how farmers can positively impact community health through nutrition and education. 🌱

Together, they discuss their global Nuffield experiences, the Contemporary Scholars Conference, and how being in the same cohort highlights the social and support benefits of the Nuffield journey. If you’re considering a Nuffield, this episode showcases how it can foster incredible connections alongside personal and professional growth. ✈️

Enjoy!

Thank you to Howden Rural for their support of this project.

The views in this podcast are those of the participants and not the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust.

#R2Kast #NuffieldScholar #AgricultureInnovation #DairyFarming #NutrientDensity #RegenerativeAgriculture #PublicHealth #FarmingCommunity #HowdenRural #GlobalAgriculture #SustainableFarming #FoodProduction #HealthAndAgriculture #NuffieldFarming #ScholarshipJourney #FarmManagement #OrganicFarming #CommunityHealth #EquitableAccess #NutritiousFood #AgriLeadership

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

R2Kast 288 - Ben Lowe on Farming, Nuffield, and Closing the Loop Jan 13, 2025

Show notes

Ben Lowe’s journey into agriculture is nothing short of inspiring. From having no farming background to managing a diverse enterprise in Aberdeenshire, Ben has proved that determination and innovation can lead to incredible success. 🌱

Starting with a passion for farming fostered by visits to his grandad, Ben’s early career saw him working on farms, building a sheep flock, and even gaining equity in a farm shop. But it was his time at Edinburgh’s SRUC, studying agriculture, that laid the groundwork for his innovative approach to farming. 🐑

Now, Ben is managing a successful joint-venture farm in Aberdeenshire, selling approximately 300 pigs a week directly to the processor. The farm is a mix of pigs, arable crops, and environmental schemes. His focus on sustainability and creating a self-sufficient system exemplifies his forward-thinking ethos. He’s even coined the term “Five-Mile Pig” for his ambition to produce pork using resources sourced entirely within five miles of his farm. 🐖

As Ben embarks on his Nuffield Scholarship, his project—“Closing the Loop in Pig Production”—aims to integrate energy efficiency, alternative protein sources, and waste management. His plans include exploring global practices in countries like Japan, New Zealand, and the USA to ensure the long-term sustainability of his farm. 🌎

Enjoy!

Thanks to Howden Rural for their support.

#R2Kast #BenLowe #FiveMilePig #SustainableFarming #NuffieldScholar #FutureOfFarming #PigProduction #CircularEconomy #EnvironmentalFarming #AberdeenshireFarming #HowdenRural #FarmingInnovation #ArableFarming #RegenerativeAgriculture #YoungFarmers #FarmSustainability #GlobalAgriculture #FarmingJourney #FoodProduction #AgricultureLeadership

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

R2Kast 287 - Sioned Davies on Home Farm, Nuffield, and Barrister Life Jan 10, 2025

Show notes

Today’s guest is Sioned Davies, a true powerhouse balancing her role on the family farm, her career as a barrister, and her involvement with Nuffield. 🌍

Sioned shares her journey growing up on a mixed livestock and arable farm in Mid Wales, where she developed a deep connection to the land. Alongside her family, she’s involved in diverse farm enterprises, including a broiler chicken unit and a beef finishing operation. 🚜

As a barrister specialising in planning and environmental law, Sioned’s expertise uniquely intersects with agriculture, allowing her to tackle issues like farm diversification and environmental policy. Her insights reveal how these worlds often overlap in surprising and impactful ways. ⚖️

Sioned’s Nuffield Scholarship focuses on the role of insects in sustainable agriculture. She explores their potential as a protein source and their impact on reducing waste streams and improving soil health. Her research takes her around the world, learning from innovators who are harnessing insects to address key challenges in farming. 🦗

Enjoy!

Thanks to Howden Rural for the support.

#R2Kast #SionedDavies #HomeFarm #BarristerLife #NuffieldScholar #InsectFarming #SustainableAgriculture #FarmDiversification #EnvironmentalLaw #FamilyFarm #YoungFarmers #RuralLeadership #HowdenRural #WelshFarming #FarmInnovations #WomenInFarming #PlanningLaw #AgricultureJourney #FarmLife #FutureOfFarming

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

R2Kast 286 - Peter Green on Farming, Innovation, and Space Science Jan 06, 2025

Show notes

Today’s guest is Peter Green, a Cornish farmer, finance expert, and space science enthusiast. This is the second episode of Series 5 and the first food and farming episode of the season! 🌱

Peter shares his incredible journey, from growing up on a sixth-generation farm in Cornwall to earning a Master’s in Space Science and eventually returning to the family farm after tragedy struck. His passion for sustainable farming and innovation shines through as he talks about transforming the farm into a thriving diversified business. 🚜

We also dive into Peter’s fascinating take on satellite technology in agriculture and how advancements in other industries can influence farming practices. His unique combination of farming heritage and modern finance skills has allowed him to create a sustainable, forward-thinking farm. 🌍

Peter’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and a drive to ensure the longevity of his family’s farming legacy. From solar panels to stabiliser cattle, he’s a prime example of adapting to change while keeping tradition alive.

Enjoy!

Thanks to Howden Rural for the support.

#R2Kast #PeterGreen #FarmingInnovation #CornishFarming #SustainableFarming #Diversification #FamilyFarms #SpaceScience #StabiliserCattle #FutureFarming #Agriculture #HowdenRural #UKFarming #FarmInnovation #SolarFarming #GrassFed #FarmResilience #ClimateSolutions #RuralBusiness #AgricultureJourney #FarmSustainability

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

R2Kast 285 - Mathilda Allison and Laura Sutton on Community, Behind the Barn Door, and Kicking Off Series 5! Jan 03, 2025

Show notes

Today we’re diving into the second episode of Series 5 of the R2Kast, but this is the first Food and Farming episode of the series! Mathilda Allison and Laura Sutton are here to get us started with a bang, sharing their passion for farming, building communities, and their podcast, Behind the Barn Door. 🌾

Mathilda’s got this incredible ability to connect with people and make farming feel relatable and fun. Laura’s right there alongside her, bringing creativity and energy into conversations about the future of food and farming. Together, they’ve built something special, using Behind the Barn Door to break down barriers and spark meaningful discussions. 🎙️

We didn’t just stick to farming, though—oh no. We managed to cover just about every topic under the sun, including a chat on the correct way to drink a Capri Sun. From the serious to the silly, and even potentially offensive at times, this episode’s got it all. 🌱

If you’re into farming, food, or just seeing people do amazing things together, this is one you don’t want to miss. Let’s get Series 5 rolling properly with these two incredible guests!

Enjoy!

Thanks to Howden Rural for the support.

#MathildaAllison #LauraSutton #R2Kast #Series5 #HowdenRural #CommunityBuilding #BehindTheBarnDoor #PodcastingInAgriculture #LocalFoodSystems #GrassrootsFarming #SustainableFarming #ConnectingCommunities #FutureOfFarming #BreakingBarriers #FarmToFork #FarmingTogether #AgricultureInnovation #FoodForThought #TeamworkInFarming #FarmingCommunity #SupportLocal #FoodAndFarming

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

R2Kast 284 - Tales of a Nuffield Scholar with Nic and George Snell Jan 01, 2025

Show notes

Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar series, we chat to Nic and George Snell, brothers who bring entrepreneurial spirit and innovation to farming. From their shared roots on the family farm to global insights gained through their Nuffield journeys, they’ve cultivated a wealth of knowledge in agriculture.

Nic and George take us through their experiences growing up on the family farm, navigating its transformations, and how their father’s entrepreneurial mindset influenced their ventures. With a focus on adding value, they share their journey in establishing the pioneering Certainly Wood brand, which brought kiln-dried firewood to the UK market.

Both Nic and George also reflect on their individual Nuffield Scholarship topics. Nic’s research centred on forestry and woodland, while George explored marketing opportunities in agriculture. Their global travels for Nuffield highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation in farming practices, which they’ve implemented back home.

Recently, they’ve been involved in sustainable initiatives, including forestry projects and alternative markets, showcasing how their dedication to progression continues to shape their vision for the future of farming.

Enjoy!

Thank you to Howden Rural for their support of this project.

The views in this podcast are those of the participants and not the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust.

#R2Kast #NuffieldScholar #AgricultureInnovation #CertainlyWood #KilnDriedFirewood #Forestry #SustainableFarming #FarmEntrepreneurship #AgriLeadership #FarmToForestry #NuffieldFarming #HowdenRural #GlobalAgriculture #FamilyFarming #AgriBusiness #FarmInnovation #Sustainability #AgriResearch #AgricultureFuture #AgriLife #FarmLeadership

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

R2Kast – People in Food and Farming/All In

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected