From The Soil Up Podcast

Ep 36 - Shaun Balemi: The Science of Consistency in Cow Nutrition

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan Moynihan speaks with Shaun Balemi from AgVance Nutrition and the MyCow App about the intricacies of cow nutrition and its impact on dairy farming. They discuss common mistakes in cow feeding, the importance of consistency, and how data technology can enhance decision-making on farms. Shaun emphasizes the role of nutrition in reproductive health and the significance of transitioning cows effectively. The conversation also touches on the environmental implications of proper feeding and the future of agriculture through collaboration and innovation.
 
https://mycow.nz/ 
https://agvance.co.nz/

EP 35: Dr Lucy Williamson - The Hidden Connection Between Gut Health and Soil Health

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Dr. Lucy Williamson discusses the intricate connections between gut health and soil health. With a background in veterinary medicine and nutrition, she emphasizes the importance of the gut microbiome in overall health and its relationship with food systems. The conversation explores the role of farmers, the significance of education in nutrition, and the need for community engagement in understanding food sources. Dr. Williamson also shares insights on plant-based diets, the benefits of raw milk, and practical tips for improving gut health.
 
https://lwnutrition.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/lucywilliamsonnutrition/?hl=en

Ep 34 - Angela Clifford: Reimagining Food Systems in New Zealand

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan chats with Angela Clifford of Eat New Zealand and the Food Farm, to discuss the current state of food systems in New Zealand. They explore the importance of investing in local food systems, the challenges of food security, and the need for a cultural shift towards supporting small farms and local producers. Angela emphasizes the vulnerabilities in New Zealand's grain market and the necessity for community-driven initiatives to create a resilient food system. The conversation highlights the potential for a decentralized food system that prioritizes local food production and access, ultimately aiming for a sustainable future for New Zealand's food landscape.
 
https://eatnewzealand.nz/
https://www.thefoodfarm.nz/

EP 33 - Louise Gibson: Navigating the World of Share Milking

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan interviews Louise Gibson, managing director of The Sharefarming Consultants. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in share milking and contract milking, the need for specialized consulting in this area, and the current state of legislation affecting these practices. Louise shares insights from a recent survey on the experiences of contract milkers, highlighting issues of abuse and mental health in the industry. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication, understanding contracts, and the pathways to farm ownership, while also exploring future opportunities in agriculture.
 
https://www.thesharefarmingconsultants.com/

Ep 32 - Olivier de Schaetzen: Emerging Opportunities and Systemic Change

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan Moynihan interviews Olivier de Schaetzen, a coach focused on regenerative agriculture in Estonia and Finland. Olivier shares his journey from architecture to agriculture, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and nutrient cycling. He discusses the challenges farmers face, the regulatory pressures from the industry, and innovative project aimed at creating a local food system. The conversation also touches on the significance of coaching and personal development in fostering systemic change within agriculture.
www.gens.eu ⁠

Ep 31 - Daniel Eb: Re-Imagining the Future of Food and Farming

In this episode of The Force of Nature Podcast, Conan sits down with Daniel Eb, the founder of Dirt Road Comms, Nuffield New Zealand Scholar, writer for Farmers Weekly, and a passionate advocate for reshaping the way we think about food and farming.
 
Daniel’s story blends urban and rural worlds, giving him a unique perspective on New Zealand’s agricultural future. From launching Dirt Road Comms to his Nuffield Scholarship journey, Daniel shares insights on how global events ripple through local agriculture, why food systems are inseparable from public health, and how localised, resilient food networks could transform communities.
 
We explore why New Zealand is uniquely positioned to lead the agricultural transition, the role of Millennials in driving change, and why food should be treated as a public good just like healthcare. Daniel also makes a powerful case for a national food strategy, local procurement programs, and the moral imperative to address food insecurity in a resource rich nation.
 
This conversation is packed with stories, strategies, and bold ideas for building thriving rural communities, reimagining the future of food, and harnessing people as a powerful force of nature for systemic change.
 
https://www.dirtroadcomms.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-eb/?originalSubdomain=nz

Ep 30 Dom Walker: Trust, Succession & Systems Thinking in Ag

In this episode of the Force of Nature podcast, Conan speaks with Dom Walker, a coach with Resource Consulting Services (RCS) in Australia. They explore Dom's journey from a city kid to an agricultural coach, discussing his experiences in Guatemala, the importance of connecting farmers to consumers, and the role of resilience in agriculture. The conversation delves into the significance of coaching versus consulting, the challenges of succession in family farms, and the need for effective communication and trust within agricultural businesses. Dom shares insights on holistic approaches to farm management, systems thinking, and the importance of mentorship and personal growth. They also discuss innovative financing solutions in agriculture and the future trends shaping the industry, emphasizing the role of youth and the need for a cultural shift in agriculture towards curiosity and connection with nature.
 
https://www.rcsaustralia.com.au/

Ep 29 - Helen Beattie: A Good Life for All

In this episode of the Force of Nature Podcast, Conan sits down with Helen Beattie, veterinarian, advocate and founder of Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Aotearoa (VAWA).
With a rich background spanning mixed animal practice, animal welfare inspection, and national-level policy work, Helen brings a bold and compassionate lens to one of agriculture’s most complex topics: animal welfare. 
Helen doesn’t hold back as she unpacks the reality behind farming systems, the importance of systems thinking, and why "a good life for all" means animals, people, and the environment must thrive together.
 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-beattie-vawa/?originalSubdomain=nz