Humans of Agriculture

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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.

  1. 4d ago

    Hiring | Ornata: Building the Future of Autonomous Farming with Josh Tepper & Michael Webb

    In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, Oli Le Lievre sits down with Josh Tepper, CEO, and Michael Webb, COO and co-founders of Ornata Technologies, to explore how they're transforming farm operations through autonomous machinery and why now is an exciting time to join their growing team. Following their appearance at evokeAG, Josh and Michael share how Ornata has evolved from launching its first commercial customers to building strong momentum across Victoria. They discuss their unique approach to autonomy, where experienced remote operators work alongside autonomous machinery to deliver the benefits of automation without adding complexity for farmers or requiring them to replace the equipment they already own. The conversation also provides an inside look at the newly created Area Sales Manager role across Victoria and Southern New South Wales. Josh and Michael explain why this is much more than a sales position. It is an opportunity to build trusted relationships with farmers, understand their operations, demonstrate the technology in the field, and help producers solve one of agriculture's biggest challenges, finding skilled labour. Whether you're passionate about agriculture, technology or helping farmers adopt new innovations, this episode offers a genuine insight into life inside one of Australia's most exciting agtech startups. Josh and Michael explain what success looks like, why trust sits at the centre of every customer relationship, and how joining Ornata today offers the chance to grow alongside a business shaping the future of Australian agriculture. To learn more about Ornata Technologies and the Area Sales Manager opportunity, visit the Humans of Agriculture careers page. The role is live now, and we'd love to hear from people who are ready to help bring the next generation of autonomous farming technology to Australian agriculture. Key insights from the conversation: How Ornata has progressed from its first commercial deployments to a growing customer base.Why Ornata's remote operations platform makes autonomous farming practical for today's producers.How the business helps farmers address labour shortages while using the machinery they already own.Why building trust with farmers is the foundation of every customer relationship.What the Area Sales Manager role looks like day to day.Why understanding farming systems matters more than having deep technical knowledge.How customer referrals are driving growth across regional farming communities.What it is like working in a fast-growing Australian agtech startup.Why joining early creates opportunities to grow with the business.What success looks like after the first 12 months in the role.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Ornata Technologies and the new role02:34 Six months of progress and milestones05:31 The importance of local customer relationships12:00 Why Victoria and New South Wales are key markets15:10 What success looks like in the territory manager role22:45 Customer profiles and farm types26:54 Onboarding and what to expect in the role36:51 The future of autonomous farming technology

    Hiring | Ornata: Building the Future of Autonomous Farming with Josh Tepper & Michael Webb

  2. 6d ago

    "Trust the Tech. Trust the People." We’re in QLD talking all things cow collars (SQNNSW Innovation Hub Partnered Ep)

    In the first of a two-part panel series with the Southern Queensland and Northern New South Wales Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub, Oli brings together Alex Archer from Webster Grain & Grazing at Lundavra and Ewen Beaton, Aminya Pastoral Pty Ltd, Manager at Kioma, west of Goondiwindi, to explore how two producers have approached the adoption of virtual fencing within their own grazing businesses. While each operation uses a different virtual fencing platform, this conversation is not about comparing technology. It is about the decision-making process behind adopting innovation, identifying opportunities within a farming business and understanding how new tools can support more productive, resilient grazing systems. Alex shares how virtual fencing has unlocked more than 160 hectares of previously underutilised country within a predominantly cropping enterprise, while Ewen reflects on how the technology is changing the way his team thinks about pasture utilisation, forage management and livestock movement. Together, they discuss the practical realities of implementation, the importance of good systems and the lessons they've learned along the way. From business decisions and grazing management to resilience and continuous improvement, this is a conversation about using innovation to solve real problems on farm. The Southern Queensland and Northern New South Wales Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub is supported by funding from the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund. Learn more at www.unisq.edu.au/sqnnswhub. Key insights from the conversation: Why both businesses started looking for new grazing solutions and what drove their investment decisions.How virtual fencing is helping improve pasture utilisation and unlock previously underutilised country.The importance of matching technology adoption with business goals and economic outcomes.What successful implementation looks like beyond the technology itself.The role of management systems, people and processes in making innovation work.How virtual fencing is changing the way producers think about grazing intensity, livestock movement and pasture management.The practical challenges, limitations and lessons learned during adoption.Why curiosity, continuous learning and asking questions are essential when adopting new technology.How innovation can help farming businesses become more productive, adaptable and drought resilient. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Virtual Fencing and Guests 02:02 Why Virtual Fencing is a Game Changer 03:05 Alex Archer's Farm and Grazing Innovation 05:01 Ewan Beaton's Experience with Halter 05:48 Adoption Timeline and Decision Factors 09:04 Economic Drivers and Farm Benefits 11:55 Training Cattle and Managing Boundaries 16:03 Animal Behaviour and Welfare Insights 19:58 Seasonal Grazing and Pasture Management 28:05 Challenges, Connectivity, and Lessons Learned 32:08 Future Potential and Next Steps in AgTech

    "Trust the Tech. Trust the People." We’re in QLD talking all things cow collars (SQNNSW Innovation Hub Partnered Ep)

  3. Aug 10

    "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 people Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Tom Lahey and his farm journey 00:28 Tom's background and family farm in Wyaga 02:08 Growing up on the family farm and passion for farming 04:56 Adopting a progressive mindset in agriculture 06:53 Experience in Western Australia and genetic improvements 07:35 Trip to the US and insights into regenerative ranching 09:42 Soil health, environment, and profitability 11:30 Implementing grazing techniques post-US trip 13:20 Using AgriWebb for farm management and decision making 17:52 Integrating data and technology in farm operations 20:26 Evolution of farm management tools over five years 22:38 Future plans for technology and farm legacy This episode of Humans of Agriculture is proudly brought to you by Rabobank, Australia's Most Recommended Agribusiness Bank for three consecutive years running.* Exciting news - Applications for the Rabobank Rural Community Hub Program are now open, Rabobank is awarding 10 grants of $10,000 to help improve rural community hubs and halls across regional Australia. These important community spaces play a vital role in bringing people together, strengthening connections, and supporting the wellbeing of regional communities. If your local hall or community hub could benefit from funding, now is the time to apply. Applications close on 30 August 2026. To learn more and apply, visit rabobank.com.au. *RFI Global Australian Banking & Finance Awards

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

  4. Aug 3

    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 URUS Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to AgriWebb and its origins 00:33 John Farger's background and childhood in the Flinders Ranges 01:01 The early days of AgriWebb and its mission 02:24 Recent milestones and the URUS acquisition 06:40 John’s childhood and the influence of farming life 09:39 The start of the AgriWebb story in London 12:00 The founding of AgriWebb in Melbourne 13:40 The state of Australian agtech a decade ago 16:08 The initial problem in livestock digitization 20:51 Pivot from hardware to software focus 23:41 Technological evolution and early challenges 27:55 Business model evolution and market education 30:49 Competitive landscape and category creation 33:11 International expansion and market entry strategies 37:26 Building a global business with a unified culture 41:24 Company culture and employee engagement 45:46 Lessons from market fluctuations and industry challenges 49:00 Managing noise and trends in ag tech 51:46 Future opportunities in agriculture and advice for entrepreneurs 55:33 Vision for the next decade and impact goals 58:57 Connecting farm data to global supply chains 01:03:50 The role of sustainability and corporate responsibility 01:06:01 Reflections on the journey and future outlook This episode of Humans of Agriculture is proudly brought to you by Rabobank, Australia's Most Recommended Agribusiness Bank for three consecutive years running.* Exciting news - Applications for the Rabobank Rural Community Hub Program are now open, Rabobank is awarding 10 grants of $10,000 to help improve rural community hubs and halls across regional Australia. These important community spaces play a vital role in bringing people together, strengthening connections, and supporting the wellbeing of regional communities. If your local hall or community hub could benefit from funding, now is the time to apply. Applications close on 30 August 2026. To learn more and apply, visit rabobank.com.au. *RFI Global Australian Banking & Finance Awards

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

  5. Jul 29

    “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 innovation Chapters: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 This episode of Humans of Agriculture is proudly brought to you by Rabobank, Australia's Most Recommended Agribusiness Bank for three consecutive years running.* Exciting news - Applications for the Rabobank Rural Community Hub Program are now open, Rabobank is awarding 10 grants of $10,000 to help improve rural community hubs and halls across regional Australia. These important community spaces play a vital role in bringing people together, strengthening connections, and supporting the wellbeing of regional communities. If your local hall or community hub could benefit from funding, now is the time to apply. Applications close on 30 August 2026. To learn more and apply, visit rabobank.com.au. *RFI Global Australian Banking & Finance Awards

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

  6. Jul 27

    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 backgrounds Chapters: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 This episode of Humans of Agriculture is proudly brought to you by Rabobank, Australia's Most Recommended Agribusiness Bank for three consecutive years running.* Exciting news - Applications for the Rabobank Rural Community Hub Program are now open, Rabobank is awarding 10 grants of $10,000 to help improve rural community hubs and halls across regional Australia. These important community spaces play a vital role in bringing people together, strengthening connections, and supporting the wellbeing of regional communities. If your local hall or community hub could benefit from funding, now is the time to apply. Applications close on 30 August 2026. To learn more and apply, visit rabobank.com.au. *RFI Global Australian Banking & Finance Awards

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

  7. Jul 22

    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 This episode of Humans of Agriculture is proudly brought to you by Rabobank, Australia's Most Recommended Agribusiness Bank for three consecutive years running.* Exciting news - Applications for the Rabobank Rural Community Hub Program are now open, Rabobank is awarding 10 grants of $10,000 to help improve rural community hubs and halls across regional Australia. These important community spaces play a vital role in bringing people together, strengthening connections, and supporting the wellbeing of regional communities. If your local hall or community hub could benefit from funding, now is the time to apply. Applications close on 30 August 2026. To learn more and apply, visit rabobank.com.au. *RFI Global Australian Banking & Finance Awards

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

  8. Jul 16

    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-x191 Or connect with Zoe Burgess for a confidential conversation about the role available with Warakirri Cropping. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and recent farm visit to WA 00:29 Interview with Tony Murfit on WA grain industry 01:31 The evolution of soil management and crop yields in WA 03:29 The importance of Mawarra farm to Warakirri Cropping 04:52 Farm expansion and cropping intensity growth 05:35 Major advancements in farm management since 2011 07:07 Role and team structure of the farm operations manager 08:25 Approach to stepping into the farm operations role 09:06 Current challenges and capacity planning 10:36 Managing farm operations across large distances 11:53 The importance of timeliness and adaptability 12:18 Success indicators after 12 months in the role 14:25 Team culture and peer learning at WA farms 16:03 Leadership style and team trust 19:16 Opportunities for women and diverse leadership in agriculture 22:36 Encouraging relocation and career growth in WA farming 25:37 Final thoughts and closing remarks This episode of Humans of Agriculture is proudly brought to you by Rabobank, Australia's Most Recommended Agribusiness Bank for three consecutive years running.* Exciting news - Applications for the Rabobank Rural Community Hub Program are now open, Rabobank is awarding 10 grants of $10,000 to help improve rural community hubs and halls across regional Australia. These important community spaces play a vital role in bringing people together, strengthening connections, and supporting the wellbeing of regional communities. If your local hall or community hub could benefit from funding, now is the time to apply. Applications close on 30 August 2026. To learn more and apply, visit rabobank.com.au. *RFI Global Australian Banking & Finance Awards

    Warakirri Cropping: A Career-Making Opportunity with Tony Murfit
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About

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.

Information

  • Channel
    HOA Media
  • Creator
    Humans of Agriculture
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    386
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Humans of Agriculture 2025
  • Show Website
    Humans of Agriculture

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