Humans of Agriculture

Humans of Agriculture

We're going behind the scenes to see and understand modern agriculture, because no matter whether you're in it or not, you probably don't know all the pieces to just how incredible, diverse and multi-layered agriculture is. We do this by uncovering the real stories, experiences and voices of modern agriculture.

  1. It's a lot more than shear luck for Richie Kirkland

    OCT 29

    It's a lot more than shear luck for Richie Kirkland

    In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, Richie Kirkland shares his love of popping off on the buggies, hunting rabbits, and enjoying the life afforded as a farm boy in South Australia. His father showed him how to shear and he quickly realized how wool spun into a nice chunk of change for his teen years. Life in the business has had its highs and lows and he’s realized the importance of a forward mindset in the industry. By focusing on sustainability, innovations, and engaging with the community, Richie believes storytelling and sharing thoughtful perspectives will lead to a more resilient wool sector. Takeaways: Understanding the shifts over the decades in the shearing business shows pivotal moments of what direction the industry has taken.Sustainability and Environmental Practices are important to ensure long-term productivity and environmental health.Technology and innovation in modern farming will help to meet industry demands and address challenges.Community, collaboration, and storytelling foster resilience within agricultural communities.Resilience and adaptation during tough seasons are essential for navigating the agriculture sector.Support and training for agricultural workers and those new to the industry is crucial in the future of the industry. LivestockSA Partnership:Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises. Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future. Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills. You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website www.livestocksa.org.au.

    37 min
  2. What it takes to level up the family farm with South Australian Farmer Alex McGorman

    OCT 25

    What it takes to level up the family farm with South Australian Farmer Alex McGorman

    In this episode of the Humans of Agriculture podcast, host Oli Le Lievre explores the multifaceted operations of a South Australian farm with Alex McGorman. The conversation delves into the history of the farm, the evolution of farming practices, the importance of relationships in agriculture, and the role of family boards and external support in business growth. Alex shares insights on transitioning from a traditional farming mindset to a more business-oriented approach, emphasizing the significance of consistency, adaptability, and good people in achieving success in the agricultural industry. Takeaways: The importance of relationships in agriculture cannot be overstated.Consistency in operations leads to long-term success.Transitioning to a business mindset is crucial for growth.Family boards can provide valuable external support.Good people are the backbone of any successful operation.Adaptability is key in the face of changing market conditions.Farming is a trust-based industry that relies on integrity.External advice can help navigate complex business challenges.Investing in branding and marketing is essential for growth.There are numerous opportunities in agriculture for those willing to innovate.LivestockSA Partnership:Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises. Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future. Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills. You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website www.livestocksa.org.au.

    52 min
  3. “Agriculture is a long game. You can’t have the good without the bad" with Jenny Stanton

    OCT 22

    “Agriculture is a long game. You can’t have the good without the bad" with Jenny Stanton

    Jenny Stanton wears multiple hats as a farmer, agronomist, netball coach, and community leader on Kangaroo Island (KI). She shares her story of resilience, having survived the devastating 2020 bushfires, which wiped out livestock and infrastructure, and how her family rebuilt both their farm and their lives. Jenny discusses the journey of running a family farm, including succession planning and the balancing act of managing daily operations, community roles, and personal well-being. We dive into topics such as: How her family navigated succession planning after the fires.The importance of community and their "Fat Farmers" initiative to improve physical and mental health.Jenny's passion for soil health, sustainable farming practices, and the challenges of finding natural solutions to pest problems.The role of Farm Owners Academy and the Australian Rural Leadership Program in shaping their business and personal growth.LivestockSA Partnership:Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises. Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future. Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills. You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website www.livestocksa.org.au.

    48 min
  4. ITK: Does your family farm business need a board?

    OCT 18

    ITK: Does your family farm business need a board?

    Chris Schied has been a business advisor for more than the last 25 years. Across his career he's learnt a few things about what it takes for family business and farming businesses to succeed. A few things we chat about: - Family boards are essential in agriculture for effective strategy, governance, risk management, and succession planning.- Family boards should meet at least twice a year, with an annual general meeting to review past performance and plan for the future.- Non-returning family members and external advisors should be involved in family board meetings.- Emotion should not be removed from decision-making in family businesses, as it plays a role in succession planning and understanding the purpose of the business. LivestockSA Partnership:Today's episode is part of our partnership with Livestock SA's AgRi-Silience program, designed to improve strategic planning and long-term resilience for forward-looking South Australian livestock and broadacre enterprises. Participants of the program get one-on-one coaching, tailored advice from a consultant and get the chance to meet a network of other farmers enabling long term strategic planning to sustain your business into the future. Funded by the Australian Government and the Government of South Australia as part of the Future Drought Fund’s Farm Business Resilience Program, AgRi-Silience has already helped over 1000 South Australian farmers build financial literacy, confidence in decision-making, and essential resilience skills. You can secure your place and take the next step towards a more resilient future by visiting the AgRi-Silience page on the Livestock SA website www.livestocksa.org.au.

    28 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

We're going behind the scenes to see and understand modern agriculture, because no matter whether you're in it or not, you probably don't know all the pieces to just how incredible, diverse and multi-layered agriculture is. We do this by uncovering the real stories, experiences and voices of modern agriculture.

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