NFU: Shed Talks

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Welcome to Shed Talks Shed Talks takes you behind the scenes of British food and farming with honest and practical conversations, about the issues shaping the future of our industry. Each episode brings together farmers, growers, NFU experts and industry voices to share experiences, ideas and perspectives.    From national lobbying to regional priorities, and the day-to-day realities of farming life, Shed Talks looks at the challenges and opportunities that matter most to the farming industry, and how the NFU is working to make a difference.  To find out more about NFU, head to https://www.nfuonline.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. Should I stay or should I go?

    FEB 3

    Should I stay or should I go?

    Welcome to Shed Talks In this episode, hosts Josh Redford and Naomi Williams‑Roberts explore one of the biggest questions facing young people in farming today: is it better to stay on the farm after leaving school, or head away to gain new skills before returning? To unpack the realities behind the decision, they speak to two young farmers who took very different routes. John Fairlie left his family farm in Angus to work in finance before returning with new skills and a fresh perspective. Maria Warne Elston, a fifth‑generation farmer from Cornwall, stayed closely involved in her family’s beef, sheep and arable farm, briefly working as a veterinary nurse before returning full‑time and sharing her farming life online. Together, they discuss the benefits and drawbacks of staying or leaving, the pressures young farmers face when making the choice, and how to work out what’s right for you and your business. In Westminster, the team provide an update on the key political moments shaping the months ahead, including preparations for the upcoming NFU Conference, speculations about the King’s Speech, and the implications of the Spring Forecast for farm businesses. To close the episode, the hosts turn to Mind Your Head Week (9–13 February) and highlight NFU member Sam Stables, who is preparing to walk 142 miles in five days to raise awareness of mental health in farming. Starting at Ross‑on‑Wye market and finishing at the Farmers Club in London, Sam’s route will take him through Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire, staying with farmers along the way. Sam founded the charity We Are Farming Minds with his wife Emily after their own mental health struggles. The charity now supports farmers across the UK and has the Prince of Wales as its patron, building on the Mental Health Strategy launched by the Duchy of Cornwall in 2023. Sam shares why this walk matters, what he hopes to highlight during Mind Your Head Week, and why supporting the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs is more important than ever. To follow Sam's journey or to find out how to get involved, head to - https://www.peoplesfundraising.com/fundraising/sam-stables-mission This episode comes with a trigger warning as it discusses some sensitive topics, if you are struggling and need additional support, please reach out: Yellow Wellies - https://www.yellowwellies.org/ We Are Farming Minds - https://www.wearefarmingminds.co.uk/ Key themes and takeaways There is no single “right” path — staying or leaving depends on each farm’s circumstancesLeaving the farm can bring valuable skills, confidence and perspectiveStaying on the farm can build deep experience, continuity and family resilienceYoung farmers face financial, emotional and practical pressures when making career decisionsSocial media is reshaping how young farmers share their stories and influence the industryMental health support remains vital across rural communitiesSam Stables’ 142‑mile walk highlights the importance of Mind Your HeadWeek and the work of We Are Farming MindsNFYFC plays a crucial role in supporting, developing and connecting young people in agricultureWestminster is gearing up for a pivotal period, with NFU Conference, the King’s Speech and the Spring Forecast all shaping the policy landscape Listen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    52 min
  2. The Calm Before The Lambs...

    JAN 20

    The Calm Before The Lambs...

    Welcome to Shed Talks In this episode of Shed Talks, hosts Luke Cox and Bizza Walters look ahead to one of the most intense periods in the farming calendar as the industry enters what many call the calm before the lambs. With early lambing already under way in parts of the country and preparations ramping up elsewhere, the episode focuses on how sheep farmers are planning, adapting and staying resilient as winter edges towards spring. The hosts also speak with Northumberland sheep farmer Rich Oglesby, who has steadily built a thriving enterprise from scratch alongside his wife, Jen. Working under a contract farming agreement, Rich manages around 1,440 Lleyn ewes and 800 ewe lambs, and brings a business‑minded approach to every part of his system. Rich reflects on what is going through farmers’ minds as lambing approaches, how he handles the practical pressures of managing a large flock in tough northern weather, and the value of business training and peer networks in shaping his decisions. He also shares advice for young entrants starting out with limited resources. In Westminster, the team provide the final round‑up of the NFU’s family farm tax campaign. They discuss the latest developments from the Liaison Committee, what had been planned for the Finance Bill, and look ahead to what challenges we may face in 2026. To close the episode, we head to Scotland for a Global Ag View with Ben Best of Dalscone Farm, who has been caring for Fiona, the ewe once known as Britain’s loneliest sheep. After being rescued from the base of a cliff near Inverness following a public campaign that drew more than 55,000 signatures, Fiona has spent the past two years recovering, socialising and settling into life among Dalscone’s 400 breeding sheep. Ben shares how Fiona adapted after her rescue, how the farm handled the huge wave of public attention, and why her story has resonated so strongly on social media. With Fiona now expecting twins in February, he talks about preparations for lambing, the work that went into restoring her health, and what her journey has meant for the farm and its followers. Listen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    49 min
  3. A Punjabi Farm Innit: Stories, Strawberries and Shaping Futures

    12/09/2025

    A Punjabi Farm Innit: Stories, Strawberries and Shaping Futures

    Welcome to Shed Talks In this episode of Shed Talks, hosts Jacks Weaver and Mike Greenwood-Wilkins sit down with Bal Padda, a first-generation Punjabi farmer from Worcestershire whose self-funded documentary ‘A Punjabi Farm Innit – A story of strawberries, faith and farming’ has captured imaginations far beyond his own community. You can watch the trailer for the documentary here Bal reflects on his father’s journey from the Punjab, often described as India’s breadbasket, to the Vale of Evesham. He explains how their family’s strawberry business became the backdrop for a film that challenges assumptions, celebrates diversity, and shows the power of farmers telling their own stories. Inspired by the workers on his farm, Bal shares how the filmmaking process reshaped his understanding of identity, representation, and modern British farming. In Westminster, Scott Pepe and Neeve McGinty provide a briefing on two major developments. The Budget vote, where Labour MPs voiced opposition to the family farm tax. The discussion outlines what is next for the #StopTheFamilyFarmTax campaign and why the coming months will be critical for farm business resilience. For more information please head to https://www.nfuonline.com/hot-topics/stop-the-family-farm-tax/ They also cover the livestock worrying bill that has now had its Third Reading in the House of Lords and would give police stronger powers to tackle irresponsible dog owners whose pets attack livestock. For more information please head to: https://www.nfuonline.com/updates-and-information/private-members-bill-on-livestock-worrying/ Finally, Joshua Payne (NFU Chief Education Manager) takes us inside NFU Education’s Festive Farming Quest, the biggest Christmas project yet, which has connected more than 82,000 children across 800 schools with British farming. From a live tour of the world’s oldest Christmas pudding factory to lessons on sprouts, camels, sheep, and farm vets. To watch the Sprout Dance and Festive Farming Quest mentioned in the episode please head to the below links: Sprout Dance: https://www.youtube.com/live/yPF2bXUeoSQ?si=RnzaLUsrtqUgziwv&t=3673 Festive Farming Quest: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tw5D5Mz4Lvg&t=5s Key themes and takeaways: Personal storytelling can challenge stereotypes and celebrate diversity in British farmingThe Punjab to Evesham journey highlights global roots and local resilienceLivestock worrying legislation is close to becoming law, strengthening rural securityBudget decisions will shape the future of family farm taxation and viabilityNFU Education’s Festive Farming Quest demonstrates the power of scale, technology, and diverse role models in connecting children with food and farming Listen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    55 min
  4. Tackling Rural Threats and Chasing the Harvest Run

    11/25/2025

    Tackling Rural Threats and Chasing the Harvest Run

    Welcome to Shed Talks In this episode of Shed Talks, hosts Naomi Williams-Roberts and Josh Redford shine a spotlight on rural crime and the resilience of farming families. Naomi speaks with Surrey farmer Sally, who has faced repeated incidents of fly tipping, gates being cut, and even an attempted burglary on her farm. Sally shares the emotional toll of confronting offenders, including one frightening moment with her young daughter in the car. In Westminster, Olivia Phoenix and Ruairi Hodges provide an update on rural crime policy and the countdown to the Budget. They examine the NFU’s long‑running lobbying on livestock worrying, expected to become law later this year, and outline the priorities on the #StopTheFamilyFarmTax campaign. With activity from Police and Crime Commissioners and the Home Office, the segment highlights how political engagement is shaping the future of rural security and farm business resilience. We also catch up with Berkshire Farm Girl, Eleanor Gilbert, who is documenting her first US harvest run. Travelling 2,200 miles across multiple states with Paplow Harvesting & Trucking, Eleanor offers an unfiltered look at life on the road: early starts, long convoys of combines, relentless heat, and the sheer scale of American grain production. She reflects on the shocks, challenges and lessons learnt from operating in a high‑pressure, large‑scale system, and what she hopes to bring back to her career in UK agriculture. Key themes and takeaways: Rural crime has financial, emotional and welfare impacts on farming familiesSecurity measures and local networks are vital for resilienceNFU lobbying is pushing livestock worrying legislation towards lawBudget decisions will be critical for family farm taxation and viabilityLarge‑scale US harvest runs reveal the extremes of global agricultureInternational experience gives young farmers new skills and perspectives Listen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    51 min
  5. Take 5 To Stay Alive: The Mindset That Saves Lives

    11/11/2025

    Take 5 To Stay Alive: The Mindset That Saves Lives

    Welcome to Shed Talks In this episode, Bizza Walters and Luke Cox tackle one of the most important topics in British agriculture, farm safety. It is a subject often overlooked until something goes wrong, but as this episode shows, the smallest actions can have life-saving consequences. The main feature focuses on real experiences from farmers who know how quickly everyday situations can turn serious. Callum Lindsay, a hill farmer from the Isle of Arran, shares how a quad bike accident in 2023 left him with severe injuries and a long recovery, and why he is now calling for a culture change around ATV safety. Ed Caudwell, an Oxfordshire farmer, reflects on the workshop accident that nearly cost him his life while working in New Zealand and the vital lessons it taught him about training, preparation and risk awareness. In the Westminster segment, the External Affairs team bring listeners up to speed on what has been happening in Parliament and on farm. They explain what departmental oral questions are, why they matter and how the NFU works with MPs in the lead-up to them. The team also reflect on the Farming Minister’s recent visit to Derbyshire and how visits like this help ministers see the realities of farming first-hand. With just a month to go until the Budget, they share the latest on NFU lobbying and what they are pushing for to support farm businesses across the country. To close, the Global Ag View takes us to Hanover in Germany, where the world’s largest agricultural machinery show, Agritechnica, is in full swing. Matt Tilt, editor of Farm Contractor and Large Scale Farmer magazine, joins us from the event to share his insights into the latest machinery trends, innovations and technologies set to influence UK farming. Key themes and takeaways: Farm safety is everyone’s responsibility, the smallest actions can save livesTake 5 To Stay Alive, simple habits can prevent serious accidentsReal-life stories from Callum Lindsay and Ed Caudwell show how quickly situations can changeBuilding a safety-first culture is vital for the future of farmingThe NFU continues to influence policy through parliamentary engagement, ministerial visits and Budget lobbyingAgritechnica showcases how global innovation is shaping the next generation of farm machineryBehind-the-scenes insights from the world’s biggest agricultural machinery show Listen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    47 min
  6. Tenant Farming in Focus: Opportunities For Growth

    10/28/2025

    Tenant Farming in Focus: Opportunities For Growth

    Welcome to Shed Talks In the third episode of the NFU’s podcast Shed Talks, the final pair of our presenting trio, Mike Greenwood-Wilkins and Jacks Weaver, take a deep dive into tenant farming, exploring opportunities for growth, policy insights, and global food security. Fun fact - Mike previously appeared on The Great British Bake Off, proving he can handle both the kitchen and the farm! Our main feature was recorded fresh from the NFU’s Tenant Farmers’ Conference panel, where the theme was Room to Grow: Opportunities for Growth in Tenant Farming. The episode features conversations with tenant farmers about how they are adapting, diversifying, and finding opportunities to grow their businesses, alongside discussions about tenancy agreements, landlord relationships, and the practical realities of farming under tenancy. In the Westminster segment, there are two highlights. First, Ruairi Hodges speaks with Alan Laidlaw, the first-ever UK Commissioner for Tenant Farming, addressing questions submitted by NFU members on key issues affecting tenant farmers. Then, Neeve McGinty and Ruairi explore the Farming and Food Fellowship (FaFF): why it was created, its impact on building cross-party understanding of rural issues, and plans for the next cohort of fellows. To get in touch regarding The episode closes with a World Ag perspective (WAG): Mike and Jacks speak with Miika Ilomäki, Chief Preparedness Specialist at Finland’s National Emergency Supply Agency, about how Finland has built one of the world’s most resilient food systems. From high levels of self-sufficiency and strategic reserves to strong public-private cooperation, Finland’s approach demonstrates the value of planning for food security at every level. Key themes and takeaways: Tenant farmers are central to food production, landscape management, and sustainable agricultureMain feature recorded fresh from the NFU’s Tenant Farmers’ Conference panelFarmers share experiences on business diversification, tenancy agreements, and opportunities for growthAlan Laidlaw is the first UK Commissioner for Tenant Farming and responds to NFU members’ submitted questionsThe Farming and Food Fellowship strengthens MPs’ understanding of rural and tenant farming issuesFinland’s approach highlights the importance of preparedness, strategic reserves, and collaborationStrong planning and cooperation across government, industry, and households builds resilience Listen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    49 min
  7. Grass Half Full: Feeding Livestock and Fuelling the Future

    10/14/2025

    Grass Half Full: Feeding Livestock and Fuelling the Future

    Welcome to Shed Talks In this episode hosts Naomi Williams-Roberts and Josh Redford explore how farmers are managing livestock nutrition after a dry summer, what support is available, and how the NFU is helping members plan for the season ahead. Naomi shares what it’s like to open her on-farm pumpkin patch for the season, while Josh reflects on preparing for the NFU’s upcoming annual general meetings. They are joined by James Daniel from Precision Grazing and NFU Livestock Board Chair David Barton, who offer practical tips on making the most of limited forage, the value of early planning, and how to stay flexible in a changing climate. Read more on the NFU's sustainable protein action plan: https://www.nfuonline.com/updates-and-information/sustainable-protein-action-plan/ In our Westminster segment, Olivia Phoenix is joined by Scott Pepe to look ahead to a busy autumn of political lobbying. They discuss the NFU’s strong presence at this year’s party conferences, where the team engaged with over 600 politicians and hosted key discussions on the future of food and farming. Finally, we hear from Professor Nigel Mason at the University of Kent about his team’s remarkable work growing tea in simulated moon soil — and how this space science might have lessons for agriculture back on Earth. Key themes and takeaways: Drought has long-term impacts on grazing and winter feedEarly planning and advice are vital for livestock resilienceMob grazing and rotational grazing can help maximise grass useThe NFU provides ongoing support for members through seasonal challengesPolitical engagement is essential for shaping farming policyStrong representation at party conferences keeps farming on the national agendaSpace science can offer new ideas for managing poor soilsResearch into lunar agriculture has lessons for food security on Earth Listen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    52 min
  8. Wolves, Wellbeing and Westminster: Building True Farming Resilience

    09/30/2025

    Wolves, Wellbeing and Westminster: Building True Farming Resilience

    Welcome to Shed Talks In this first episode of the NFU’s new podcast Shed Talks, hosts Bizza Walters and Luke Cox explore what resilience really looks like in British farming today – from daily pressures to long-term planning, mental health, and the challenges farmers face both at home and abroad. They are joined by two farmers: Hannah Jackson, known to many as The Red Shepherdess, who farms sheep and cattle in the Yorkshire Dales, and Oliver Collingham, who works on a mixed arable and livestock farm in Lincolnshire. Together, they share honest reflections on the realities of farming life, how they stay resilient, and why support networks and open conversations matter. Also in this episode, our Westminster segment features NFU External Affairs team members Olivia Phoenix and Ruairi Hodges, who discuss the new Defra top team and explain why it is vital for the NFU to maintain a presence at party political conferences every year. The episode ends with a powerful story from Mary Rickert, a cattle rancher in California whose community has been left devastated by attacks from wild wolves and mountain lions. Hear how ACDC music has helped! Listener warning: This interview includes graphic descriptions of livestock attacks and may be distressing for some listeners. Key themes and takeaways:A positive mindset can set the tone for the dayImposter syndrome is more common than you thinkSuccession planning is essential for future resilienceDiversifying income streams supports long-term stabilityOpen conversations around mental health make a differenceWild predator reintroductions have serious consequences for farmersThe NFU plays a vital role in giving farmers a voice in politicsCommunity, connection and shared experience help build resilience To find out more about your hosts and todays guests head to the below links: Bizza Walters - @bizza.walters Hannah Jackson - @redshepherdess To find out more about NFU, head to www.nfuonline.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    46 min

  9. TRAILER

    NFU: Shed Talks - The Trailer

    Welcome to Shed Talks. This is the new podcast opening the door to British food and farming. From muddy fields to Westminster, join farmers, growers, NFU experts and industry voices for honest conversations about the challenges, priorities and future of farming. Real stories. Real people. Real farming. By farmers, for farmers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 min

Trailer

About

Welcome to Shed Talks Shed Talks takes you behind the scenes of British food and farming with honest and practical conversations, about the issues shaping the future of our industry. Each episode brings together farmers, growers, NFU experts and industry voices to share experiences, ideas and perspectives.    From national lobbying to regional priorities, and the day-to-day realities of farming life, Shed Talks looks at the challenges and opportunities that matter most to the farming industry, and how the NFU is working to make a difference.  To find out more about NFU, head to https://www.nfuonline.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    NFU
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © NFU
  • Show Website
    NFU: Shed Talks

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