Humans of Agriculture

HOA Media
HOA Media
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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. 5d ago

    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

    Warakirri Cropping: A Career-Making Opportunity with Tony Murfit

  2. Jul 13

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

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

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

  3. Jul 6

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

    Agriculture is built on more than land, livestock, and capital. It’s built on people, capability, and the strength of the communities that support them. In this episode, Danny Shepherd shares the thinking behind RaboElevate, Rabobank’s capability-building platform designed to support farmers and agribusiness leaders through every stage of their career. Drawing on a background in education and leadership development, Danny explains why building knowledge, networks, and self-awareness is just as important as access to finance. From emerging farm managers through to business owners and strategic leaders, RaboElevate aims to help people navigate the "sticky points" that come with growing a business, leading people, and making better decisions. Danny also shares his personal story of discovering his farming roots later in life after meeting his father for the first time in his late thirties, and how that experience unexpectedly brought together his passions for education and agriculture. From leadership development and financial literacy to international study tours, strategic thinking, and the role of AI in agriculture, this conversation explores what it takes to build resilient businesses and thriving rural communities for the long term. This conversation highlights why investing in people and capability may be one of the most important investments agriculture can make. Key insights from the conversation: The story behind RaboElevate and why Rabobank invests in capability, knowledge, and networksHow farmers move through different seasons of leadership across their careersThe importance of self-awareness, curiosity, and critical thinking in businessNavigating the "sticky points" of farm ownership, growth, succession, and leadershipHow practical education programs help bridge the gap between operational and strategic thinkingThe value of peer networks, study tours, and learning from farmers around the worldWhy AI should enhance decision-making, not replace critical thinkingHow stronger leaders contribute to stronger businesses, communities, and future generations of agriculture Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:56 Danny Shepherd's Journey to Agriculture 07:29 Understanding RaboElevate 12:22 Career Development in Agriculture 17:26 Sticky Points in Agricultural Careers 21:39 Comparing Agricultural and General Business Challenges 28:44 RaboElevate Programs and Offerings 29:03 Community Involvement and Accessibility of Programs 31:32 The Next Generation and AI in Agriculture 36:01 Conclusion and Reflections

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

  4. Jun 29

    SproutAg: Building the Future of Agribusiness Finance with Oscar McLean

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

    SproutAg: Building the Future of Agribusiness Finance with Oscar McLean

  5. Jun 22

    How Halter Is Replacing Fences on Aussie Farms with Hamish Irvine

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

    How Halter Is Replacing Fences on Aussie Farms with Hamish Irvine

  6. Jun 15

    They Said She’d Have to Marry a Farmer… She Became One Instead with Danna Boulton (RIC Partner episode)

    In this episode of Humans of Agriculture, Oli heads to the windswept coastline of Seaspray in Gippsland to sit down with first-generation farmer Danna Boulton. Growing up just down the road on her family’s dairy farm, Danna always dreamed of farming - but like many young Australians, the pathway to ownership wasn’t straightforward. After building a career as a teacher, making sacrifices, studying the land market for years, and leaning on the right support networks, she found her opportunity. Today, Danna is three years into running her own beef operation on “the island” at the Honeysuckles - a unique coastal property she now calls home. With support from her family, a rural financial counsellor, her bank, and a RIC AgriStarter Loan, she’s been able to take that leap into ownership and build a business from the ground up. This episode explores patience, persistence, and the reality of doing it on your own - while also highlighting the importance of community, financial support, and backing yourself when the opportunity finally comes.  RIC is the Australian Government’s farm business lender providing low-interest loans to help farmers establish a first farm business and support with succession arrangements. Key insights from the conversation: Non-linear pathways into farming and first-generation ownershipThe power of patience and studying the market over timeMaking sacrifices to build a deposit and create opportunityThe role of support networks - family, advisors, and communityUsing finance to reduce pressure and enable sustainable growthLearning to ask for help and manage risk on your own Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Farming Life 02:23 Growing Up on a Dairy Farm 05:11 Transitioning from Teaching to Farming 08:09 Navigating Financial Challenges in Farming 10:51 Acquiring Land and Starting a Farm 13:59 Support Systems in Farming 16:37 Challenges of Solo Farming 19:34 Advice for Aspiring Farmers

    They Said She’d Have to Marry a Farmer… She Became One Instead with Danna Boulton (RIC Partner episode)

  7. Jun 10

    Business Spotlight: Regional Investment Corporation - helping finance Aussie Farmers with John Howard (RIC Partner episode)

    This business spotlight episode is a practical deep dive into the Regional Investment Corporation, how it works, why it exists, and how it’s helping farmers manage risk and build stronger businesses. CEO John Howard shares his journey across agriculture, food, and finance and breaks down how concessional loans can provide breathing room during tough seasons and create opportunities for long-term growth. This episode explains what RIC does, who it’s for, and how farmers can access loans to improve cash flow, rebuild after hardship, or enter the industry. For anyone in agriculture looking to better manage risk, understand finance options, or plan for the future, this is a practical and highly relevant conversation. RIC is the Australian Government’s farm business lender providing low-interest loans for farmers and farm-related small businesses to prepare for, manage through and recover from tough financial times. Key insights from the conversation: What the Regional Investment Corporation is (and isn’t)The role of concessional finance in agricultureManaging risk through drought, flood, and volatilityWhy timing and preparation matter when accessing financeThe reality of farm business resilience in Australia Chapters: 00:00 Spotlight on Regional Investment Corporation 01:30 Understanding RIC's Role in Agriculture 03:49 Navigating Hardship and Opportunities 06:57 Demand Trends in Australian Agriculture 10:49 Innovative Loan Products for Farmers 13:03 The RIC Team and Customer Experience 14:53 RIC vs Traditional Banks 15:34 Supporting the Next Generation of Farmers 18:11 Future of Agriculture and Succession Planning 19:34 Success Stories from RIC Customers 23:09 Practical Steps for Engaging with RIC

    Business Spotlight: Regional Investment Corporation - helping finance Aussie Farmers with John Howard (RIC Partner episode)

  8. Jun 8

    They Turned Drought Survival Into a Smarter Farming Business with Nick & Chris Blunt (RIC Partner episode)

    This week, Oli sits down with farmers Chris and Nick Blunt at their family farm near Orange, NSW.  The Blunts know the importance of water, and Chris can use his water divining skills to find it, but he needed the capital in order to support the business survive and ultimately rebound from the drought.  In this episode, Chris Blunt shares how a lifetime on the land has helped him build deep instincts and partnering that with his son Nick’s background in finance - they’re building a thriving future fit business.  The Blunt’s used a low-interest loan through the Regional Investment Corporation, to build water security for their business and help to secure its future direction.  RIC is the Australian Government’s farm business lender providing low-interest loans for farmers and farm-related small businesses to prepare for, manage through and recover from tough financial times. Key insights from the conversation: Multi-generational farming and succession in practiceDecision-making under pressure (drought context)The role of financial literacy in modern farmingBlending instinct with data and external adviceUsing finance to rebuild and grow Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Family Farming and Legacy 01:43 Chris’s Spiritual Connection to the Land 04:36 The Importance of Safety in Farming 07:05 Navigating Drought and Financial Challenges 12:57 Collaboration Between Generations 17:30 Decision Making During Crisis and Drought 21:20 Utilising a RIC Loan for Growth 25:43 The Benefit of having a career outside Farming  28:24 Water Security and Its Impact 30:12 Future Aspirations and Innovations in Farming

    They Turned Drought Survival Into a Smarter Farming Business with Nick & Chris Blunt (RIC Partner episode)
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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
    379
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Humans of Agriculture 2025
  • Show Website
    Humans of Agriculture

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