The Force of Nature Podcast

Ep 25 - Melinda Turner: Bridging the Gap Between Soil & Animal Health

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Melinda Turner, an independent farm advisor, shares her expertise in animal nutrition and soil health. Melinda challenges common misconceptions about ruminant nutrition in New Zealand, stressing the importance of balanced diets, effective grazing management, and informed nutritional advice to improve animal health and meat quality. We also speak about industry corruption that obstructs progress and emphasizes the need for greater understanding of livestock nutritional needs.
⁠https://www.facebook.com/FarmNutrientsNZ/⁠ 
 

Ep 24 - Challenges and Opportunities in Uruguayan Agriculture with Magdalena Iturria

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, host Conan Moynihan speaks with Magdalena Iturria, a soil health expert from Uruguay. We discuss her journey from chemical engineering to agriculture, the unique challenges faced by Uruguayan farmers, and the importance of soil health in sustainable farming practices. Magdalena shares insights on the establishment of her company, Sosei, and the growing interest in regenerative agriculture in Uruguay. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding profitability and sustainability in farming, the role of women in agriculture, and the transformative experience of the CREATE program.
⁠https://soseibioag.com/⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/sosei.uy/⁠

Ep 23 - Building Community Through Food with Cole Mannix

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, host Conan Moynihan speaks with Cole Mannix, founder of Old Salt Co-op, about his journey in the meat industry, the challenges faced by ranchers, and the innovative business model of Old Salt Co-op. Cole shares insights on the importance of community engagement, the need for a more resilient food system, and the existential necessity of decommodifying agriculture. The conversation highlights the connection between ecological stewardship and food production, emphasizing the role of local farmers in creating sustainable food systems. 
 
https://www.oldsaltco-op.com/ 

Ep22 - - Community: The Heart of Agriculture with Sadie Collins

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Sadie Collins from Highland Harmony Farm shares her journey as a farmer in Montana, discussing the challenges of farming in their climate, the transition to regenerative practices, and the importance of education in agriculture. We also discuss the evolution of wheat and its nutritional decline, the importance of connecting with consumers through farmers' markets, and the value of community and human interaction. 
https://www.highlandharmonyfarm.com/  

Ep 21 - Understanding nutrient density with Dan Kittredge

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Dan Kittredge shares his journey from a small organic farm in Massachusetts to founding the Bionutrient Food Association. He discusses the importance of nutrient density in food, the significance of brix as a measure of plant health, and the connection between soil health and human health. We discuss the need for a shift in agricultural practices to focus on quality over quantity, and how this can lead to improved health outcomes for both people and the planet.
 
For more of Dan's work:
https://www.bionutrient.org/ 
 
Dan's Courses in NZ:
https://www.quorumsense.org.nz/events/dankitteridge 

Ep20 - Connecting Land and Heritage with Josh Gilbert

In this episode, host Conan speaks with Josh Gilbert, a Worimi man from New South Wales, Australia. Josh shares his deep connection to the land and his family's agricultural history, spanning over 60,000 years. He discusses the importance of Indigenous agricultural practices, storytelling, and leadership in the agricultural sector. Josh emphasizes the potential for a future where Indigenous knowledge and practices are integrated into modern agriculture, creating a more sustainable and inclusive system.
https://www.joshuagilbert.co/ 

Ep19 - Intentional Growth: Shaping 2025 with Purpose

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan discusses his intentions for 2025, focusing on goal setting through intentionality. He emphasizes the importance of growth, collaboration, setting boundaries, authenticity, and health and wellness. Conan shares his personal experiences and insights on how these areas will shape his year and the impact they can have on his business and personal life.

Ep 18 - The Economic Opportunity of Soil Health with Canaan Ahu

In this episode, Conan chats to Canaan Ahu the CEO of Agrownomics, a independent soil and fertility company based in Christchurch, New Zealand. They discuss various aspects of agriculture, focusing on the importance of understanding soil health, the role of foliar applications, challenges in agricultural research, and the significance of grazing management. Canaan is a big advocate for  the need for a holistic approach to farming that includes understanding soil biology and structure, as well as the significance of education in empowering farmers to make informed decisions themselves. 
⁠https://www.agrownomics.co.nz/⁠