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What can 50 years of experience in soil fertility, fertiliser and water quality teach us about the future of New Zealand farming? In this episode of From the Soil Up, Conan Moynihan talks with Bert Quin about soil fertility, water quality, phosphorus, nitrogen and the evolution of sustainable farming in New Zealand. With more than 50 years working in soil and fertiliser science, Bert offers a unique perspective on how our understanding of soil health, plant nutrition and water quality has changed — and what we may have got wrong along the way. We explore the history of water quality issues in New Zealand, the role of phosphorus in our soils, changes in fertiliser manufacturing, and the potential for smarter management of water-soluble nutrients to reduce environmental losses while maintaining farm productivity. Bert also introduces the Regenza concept and shares his thinking on what future farming systems could look like when soil health, water quality, farm resilience and economic performance are considered as part of the same system. This is a wide-ranging conversation about the science, history and future of New Zealand agriculture, and what farmers, industry and consumers might need to think differently about as we look towards the next decade. In this episode: Bert's 50+ years of experience in soil and fertiliser science The history of water quality concerns in New Zealand Phosphorus and nitrogen management How fertiliser manufacturing has changed Water-soluble fertilisers and nutrient losses The role of organic matter in soil resilience Soil fertility and plant nutrition The Regenza concept Regenerative agriculture and where the industry is heading Future farm models focused on resilience Bert's one key change for New Zealand farming over the next decade If you're interested in New Zealand agriculture, soil health, fertiliser, water quality, regenerative farming and building more resilient farm systems, this conversation is well worth a listen. ⁠https://quinfert.co.nz/⁠

What do farmers really need to understand about animal nutrition? We often talk about protein, energy, fibre, minerals and feed quality as individual pieces of the puzzle. But according to animal nutritionist Dr Lucy Waldron, nutrition is much more about the relationships and ratios between them. In this episode of the From The Soil Up Podcast, Lucy draws on more than 30 years of experience in animal nutrition to unpack what ruminants actually need to thrive and where farmers can sometimes get nutrition wrong. We explore the fascinating world inside the rumen, why fibre and the rumen microbiome are so important, how cows turn pasture into energy, and what happens when diets become too high in protein. We also dig into the connections between nutrition, animal health, methane emissions, nitrate losses and farm productivity. Lucy shares practical insights for farmers operating pasture-based systems, including the importance of observing animals, monitoring body condition, understanding feed quality, and using better feed-testing tools to make informed decisions. In this episode, we cover: Why nutrition is all about ratios and balance The role of fibre and rumen microbes in ruminant digestion How cows convert pasture into energy The relationship between high-protein diets, methane and nitrate losses Why body condition and animal observation are powerful nutritional tools Advances in feed testing and NIR technology The challenges of nutrition in pasture-based farming systems What farmers should understand about water, energy, protein, vitamins and minerals Why foundational fibre and microbiome health matter Practical ways farmers can improve their understanding of animal nutrition If you’re involved in dairy farming, sheep and beef, pasture management or animal nutrition, this episode will give you plenty to think about. ⁠https://www.animalnutrition.co.nz/⁠

What does it actually mean to build a resilient farm system? In this episode, Conan sits down with Dr. Alison Dewes from Tipu Whenua to unpack what resilience really looks like on-farm and why it isn’t simply about producing less or avoiding change. Instead, it’s about building systems that can flex, adapt and remain profitable when climate, markets and regulations change. Alison shares lessons from her work across New Zealand and Australia, exploring why understanding your land use is fundamental to farm profitability, how farmers can use KPIs to measure progress towards their goals, and why a whole-systems approach is essential for making better decisions. They also discuss the role of catchment groups, lighthouse farmers, technology and farmer-led innovation in creating wider change, as well as the importance of getting the fundamentals right before chasing the next big innovation. If you’re interested in building a farm business that is more robust, adaptable and profitable, this episode is packed with practical ideas to help you think differently about your farm system. Key takeaways: Why resilience is about flexibility and having more options Understanding whether your land is being used in the right way Using farm KPIs to measure progress and build resilience The importance of knowing your numbers How diversification can create greater robustness The role of catchment groups and lighthouse farmers When regulation helps and when farmer-led solutions can be more effective Why technology should support good farm management, not replace it Preparing farm systems for climate extremes and drought Starting with a clear baseline, vision and strategic plan https://www.tipuwhenua.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-dewes-9307b235/

How will the next generation of New Zealand farmers get into farm ownership? In this episode of the From The Soil Up Podcast, Conan sits down with Seb Chapman from Seedling Investment to explore the changing landscape of farm ownership and the challenges facing young farmers wanting to build a future in agriculture. Seb shares his journey through dairy farming and explains why traditional pathways into farm ownership are becoming increasingly difficult. They explore alternative approaches including share farming, small land blocks, investment models and the potential role of KiwiSaver. The conversation also dives into farm succession, land values, family agreements and the structural challenges facing New Zealand agriculture, as well as how sustainability and soil health can contribute to long-term farm value. Seb shares the thinking behind Seedling Investment, its vision for the future and why creating more accessible pathways into farm ownership could be critical for the future of New Zealand farming. In this episode: The changing landscape of farm ownership in NZ Alternative pathways for young farmers Farm succession and family agreements Investing in agricultural land and building equity The potential role of KiwiSaver Sustainability, soil health and long-term farm value The Seedling Investment model and its vision for NZ agriculture Why taking action is often better than waiting for the perfect opportunity If you're a young farmer, part of a farming family thinking about succession, or interested in the future of New Zealand agriculture and land ownership, this is a conversation worth listening to.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastian-chapman-fruitminder/ https://seedling-investments.com/

What if one of the greatest opportunities to build more resilient farms is simply to embrace more diversity? In this episode of the Force of Nature Podcast, Conan sits down with Karen Fisher to explore how diversity in nature, farming and people can create more resilient and adaptable farm systems. Karen shares her perspective on system-led resilience, regenerative agriculture and why we need to look beyond the symptoms of problems and understand their root causes. We explore what weeds can tell us about soil and ecological health, how economic and ecological diversity can strengthen farm businesses, and why observation is such an important skill for farmers. The conversation also takes a fascinating turn into neurodiversity in agriculture. Karen discusses how different ways of thinking, personality types and individual strengths can contribute to innovation and better decision-making on farms. We also unpack the influence of environmental policies and subsidies, the importance of farmer-to-farmer learning, how to approach regenerative farming progressively, and how farmers can balance ecological health with profitability. Towards the end of the conversation, Karen shares some simple ideas around slowing down, connecting with nature and regulating the nervous system that can support both farmer wellbeing and better observation of the landscape. If you're interested in regenerative agriculture, soil health, farm profitability, resilience, agroecology, neurodiversity or systems thinking, this episode offers plenty to think about. In this episode we discuss: Why diversity is nature's insurance policy What weeds can tell us about soil and ecosystem health Building system-led resilience into farm businesses Balancing ecological diversity with economic diversity Neurodiversity and the strengths it can bring to agriculture Personality types and team dynamics on farms The impact of policy and subsidies on farming decisions Why peer learning and farmer networks matter Practical ways to start adopting regenerative practices The importance of observation and slowing down Supporting farmer wellbeing and nervous system regulation Finding the root causes rather than treating symptoms Connect with Karen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-fisher-43a51718/ https://www.instagram.com/harvesting.potential/

Chef Ben Bayly on building a New Zealand food identity, storytelling, provenance, and why our farmers and producers deserve better recognition. What does it actually take to put New Zealand on the map as a world-class food destination? In this episode, we sit down with chef and food advocate Ben Bayly of Ahi Restaurant, recently awarded a Michelin Star, to unpack why storytelling, not just quality, is the missing ingredient in how we market our food. Ben shares his journey from young chef to Michelin-starred restaurateur, and why he believes New Zealand's culinary identity has been undersold internationally. We dig into the parallels with the wine industry's rise to global prestige, why lamb and dairy are often invisible on the world stage despite exceptional quality, and how direct relationships between chefs, farmers, and producers can change that story. We also get into some topics you might not expect from a food conversation: wild game and pest species as an underused, biodynamic food resource, the regulatory hurdles stopping farmers from diversifying their income, and what it really takes to build a resilient, values-driven hospitality team. In this episode: Why New Zealand lacks a deep culinary "legacy" The power of provenance: connecting diners back to the farm and the farmer Wild harvesting, pest management, and sustainable food sourcing Lessons from the NZ wine industry's global branding success Farm diversification, agritourism, and new income streams for producers Building a restaurant culture around confidence, competence, character, and care Mentoring the next generation of chefs and hospitality talent Whether you're a farmer, chef, food producer, or just someone who cares about where your dinner comes from, this conversation offers a compelling case for why New Zealand's food story deserves to be told, and told well. Connect with Ben: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/benbaylynz/?hl=en⁠ Ahi Restaurant: ⁠https://ahirestaurant.co.nz/⁠

Your health and the health of the land beneath your feet are inseparable. In this episode, Conan sits down with Stacey Curcio of Cultivating Wellness to explore the deep connection between soil health, regenerative agriculture, and human wellness and why it's time to break down the silos between agriculture and nutrition. Stacey shares how farming practices directly shape nutrient density and biodiversity in our food, why the soil microbiome matters as much for human health as it does for crop health, and how food culture and intergenerational cooking knowledge have been quietly lost and can be reclaimed. You'll learn why context matters more than rigid nutrition rules, how to build foundational habits for wellbeing, and why nature itself is one of the most powerful (and underused) tools for health. In this episode: Why land health and human health can't be separated Breaking down silos between agriculture, nutrition, and public health How soil microbiome quality affects food quality Farming practices, nutrient density, and biodiversity Food culture, trust, and navigating nutrition information overload Intergenerational knowledge and the lost art of food preparation Building foundational habits and collective responsibility for our food system https://www.cultivatingwellness.com.au/about

Are wearables worth the investment on your farm? David March breaks down the real ROI of wearable technology in agriculture covering infrastructure needs, animal health monitoring, virtual fencing, and how to know if the data is actually worth paying for. In this episode, David shares insights from his Kellogg research project on wearable tech adoption in dairy farming, including practical guidance for farmers weighing up cost vs. benefit before they invest. 🎧 What you'll learn: The true ROI of wearable technology in farming Infrastructure requirements for successful tech adoption Practical applications and benefits of wearables in agriculture How behavioural monitoring and virtual fencing are changing farm management Why diminishing returns matter when stacking ag-tech investments Key quotes: "Investment in animal health is fundamental." "Value depends on farm-specific information." "Cost reduction in wearables is inevitable."   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Wearable Technology in Farming 01:41 Identifying Problems Before Investing in Technology 04:22 Infrastructure Investment vs. Wearable Technology 06:55 Understanding the Role of Wearables 09:35 The Importance of Data in Farming 12:25 Behavioral Monitoring and Virtual Fencing 14:44 Evaluating the Financial Impact of Wearables 17:21 Choosing the Right Wearable Technology 20:06 Labor Efficiency and Practical Constraints 26:46 Navigating Labor Challenges in Farming 28:48 The Impact of Technology on Staff Efficiency 30:00 Balancing Financial and Non-Financial Benefits 31:15 Understanding Mating and Technology's Role 34:39 Evaluating Wearables in Mating Results 36:59 Improving Mating Results Through Strategic Changes 40:29 Identifying Problems and Solutions in Farming 41:47 The Law of Diminishing Returns in Farming Investments 43:32 The Future of Wearable Technology in Agriculture 49:16 Personal Development and Leadership in Farming.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-march-08b16038/ https://ruralleaders.co.nz/report/collars-costs-and-returns-assessing-the-value-of-cow-wearables-in-nz-pasture-systems/

What happens when farmers ignore pain, injuries, and their own well-being for years on end? In this episode, Conan sits down with farming physio and sheep and beef farmer Storm Baynes-Ryan to discuss farmer health, physical resilience, injury prevention, strength training, nutrition, and mental well-being. Drawing on her experience working with farmers and living the farming lifestyle herself, Storm explains why so many farmers push through pain, the long-term consequences of untreated injuries, and how simple habits can dramatically improve performance, energy, and longevity. From osteoarthritis and inflammation to burnout and muscle loss, this conversation highlights why looking after your body is one of the best investments you can make for your farm, family, and future. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Why farmers often ignore pain and the hidden costs of doing so ✅ How injuries and inflammation impact long-term health and performance ✅ The importance of strength training for farmers of all ages ✅ Why muscle mass is critical for healthy aging and longevity ✅ Practical nutrition strategies, including the role of protein in recovery and resilience ✅ How to recognize the signs of burnout and protect your mental health ✅ Why your body should be treated as essential farm infrastructure Key Takeaways: Ignoring injuries today can create major health challenges later in life. Strength training isn't just for athletes—it's essential for farmers. Nutrition is the foundation of energy, recovery, and resilience. Farmer wellness directly impacts farm performance and business success. Connect with Storm: https://www.instagram.com/stormlbr_thatfarmingphysio_/ https://thatfarmingphysio.com/

How can adaptive grazing management improve farm profitability, soil health, and pasture performance? In this episode , I sit down with New Zealand dairy farmers Brooke Lye and Russ Heald to explore the principles and practical application of adaptive grazing management. We dive into how grazing decisions influence soil health, pasture performance, animal wellbeing, and ultimately farm profitability. Brooke and Russ share their journey of implementing adaptive and regenerative farming practices, including the role of pasture diversity, deferred grazing, regrassing strategies, and understanding plant recovery and rest periods. Throughout the conversation, we discuss how healthy soils drive productive farming systems, why fibre is critical for dairy cow health and milk production, and how farmers can use simple indicators within their pastures to make better grazing decisions. We also explore the importance of adaptability, resilience, and long-term thinking when managing modern farming businesses. Whether you're a dairy farmer, livestock producer, farm consultant, or simply interested in regenerative agriculture, this episode is packed with practical insights that can help you improve both ecological and financial outcomes on your farm. In this episode, we cover: • Adaptive grazing management principles • Soil health and biological function • Deferred grazing and pasture recovery • Maintaining pasture diversity • Regrassing and crop management strategies • Animal nutrition and the importance of fibre • Measuring success in adaptive farming systems • Profitability versus production thinking • Building resilient farm systems for the future https://www.instagram.com/healdfarm/ https://www.instagram.com/brookelye66/

In this episode, Conan interviews Graham Pile from Fertigation Systems to explore the benefits, myths, and practicalities of fertigation in New Zealand agriculture. They discuss how fertigation can improve nutrient management, reduce costs, and increase crop yields across dairy, cropping, and pastoral systems.   https://fertigation.co.nz/

In this episode, Conan sits down with Teal Simmons, founder of Agrisol, to unpack one of regenerative agriculture's most overlooked truths: you can't build a thriving farm system if the economics don't stack up. As Teal puts it "You can't be green if you're in the red." Teal brings a grounded, systems-based lens to the regenerative transition, walking through his Roots Framework and the practical steps farmers can take to move toward healthier soils without blowing up their bottom line. In this episode, you'll learn: Why most farmers make the same costly mistakes when transitioning to regenerative practices How to manage risk while changing your farming system The central role of photosynthesis in building soil biology and long-term farm profitability How to use foliar nutrition, intercropping, and phosphorus management as practical levers for change How to budget for regenerative inputs — and know when to back off Whether you're knee-deep in a transition or just starting to ask the hard questions, this episode gives you a framework to think about regenerative farming as a whole-farm economic strategy not just a set of practices. https://agresol.com.au/

What's the real cost of modern farming and who's paying for it? Phyllis Tichinin of True Health Limited joins the podcast to connect the dots between declining soil health and the chronic disease epidemic facing humans and livestock alike. From the collapse of soil microbiology under synthetic fertilizers, to the hidden nutritional power of grass-fed animal fats, Phyllis offers a compelling case for why regenerative agriculture isn't just good for the land, it's essential for human health. They explore nutrient density, the consequences of routine antibiotic use, and practical on-farm strategies for rebuilding soil biology and producing food that truly nourishes. If you've ever wondered why farming practices matter beyond the farm gate, this episode is for you.   http://www.truehealth.co.nz/

Pasture diversity is gaining traction in New Zealand farming circles  but what does the science actually say? In this episode, Conan sits down with Danny Donaghy and Eru Tait-Jamieson from Massey University to unpack the research behind diverse pasture systems. From species selection and functional traits to grazing management, soil health, and carbon sequestration, this conversation cuts through the hype and gets practical. https://www.massey.ac.nz/about/colleges-schools-and-institutes/college-of-sciences/our-research/themes-and-research-strengths/whenua-haumanu/#Researchsites

In this episode, Conan interviews Joel Crump from Tow & Fert to explore the benefits of foliar feeding, the technology behind Tow & Fert machines, and how farmers can optimize fertilizer use for better soil health and productivity. https://www.towandfert.co.nz/