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Farms Advice Podcast

Sophie Bell: Farming Ireland

Season 6, Ep. 245

In this conversation, Jack and Sophie discuss various aspects of farming in Ireland, including Sophie's personal journey in agriculture, the challenges faced by young farmers, the role of technology in farming, and the importance of mental health and support systems. Sophie shares her experiences with social media advocacy for agriculture and her aspirations for the future, emphasizing the need for mentorship and community in the industry.


Links:

Sophie's Instagram

Sophie's YouTube


Episode takeaways

  • Sophie grew up on a small farm in Cavern, Ireland.
  • She transitioned from a non-productive farm to rearing dairy heifers.
  • Education in agriculture can provide valuable insights and opportunities.
  • Technology like GPS and grass measuring tools are essential in modern farming.
  • Social media can create valuable connections and opportunities in agriculture.
  • Mental health and sleep are crucial for high performance in farming.
  • Young farmers need mentorship and support to enter the industry.
  • The price of land is a significant barrier for young farmers.
  • Sophie aims to create a balanced work-life dynamic in her future.
  • Advocacy for agriculture through social media can lead to unexpected opportunities.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

05:04 Sophie’s Farming Journey

09:53 Education and Insights from University

14:56 Technology in Farming

20:10 Challenges in Agriculture

24:53 Social Media and Advocacy in Agriculture

30:05 Future Aspirations and Advice for Young Farmers

34:51 High Performance in Farming


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