Share

cover art for R2Kast 271 - Rachel Phillips on Education, Regenerative Farming, and Mental Health

R2Kast - People in Food and Farming/All In

R2Kast 271 - Rachel Phillips on Education, Regenerative Farming, and Mental Health

Season 4, Ep. 106

Today we welcome Rachel Phillips onto the R2Kast. Rachel, who works with the Apricot Centre, shares her journey in the world of regenerative farming and her dedication to sustainable practices. Her insights into soil health, biodiversity, and conservation offer a deep dive into how regenerative agriculture can positively impact the land and communities that depend on it. 🌱


Rachel also discusses her passion for education within the agricultural sector. As a strong advocate for knowledge sharing, she explains the importance of teaching sustainable farming practices to the next generation and the ways education can drive meaningful change in the industry. 📚


In addition to her focus on farming and education, Rachel opens up about the importance of mental health in agriculture. She reflects on her own experiences and shares how her involvement in mental health advocacy has helped create awareness and support for others in the farming community. 🧠


Finally, Rachel highlights the role of community and collaboration in her work, emphasising the need for farmers to connect, support one another, and foster a resilient agricultural sector. Her story is one of resilience, purpose, and a commitment to both personal and environmental well-being. 🌍


Enjoy!


Thanks to Howden Rural for the support.


#RachelPhillips #RegenerativeFarming #SustainableAgriculture #ApricotCentre #R2Kast #HowdenRural #SoilHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #AgriculturalEducation #FarmToFork #CommunityInAgriculture #FarmingResilience #KnowledgeSharing #SustainablePractices #FarmLife #Biodiversity #EnvironmentalStewardship #AgriculturalCommunity #FutureOfFarming

More episodes

View all episodes

  • 105. R2Kast 270 - Stuart Oates on Organic Farming, Environmental Stewardship, and TV & Radio Adventures

    01:17:01||Season 4, Ep. 105
    Today we welcome Stuart Oates onto the R2Kast. Stuart shares his experiences as an organic farmer, discussing the journey of transitioning to organic farming and the challenges that come with it. He talks about the importance of environmental stewardship and how organic practices have positively impacted the health of his land and livestock. 🌱Stuart dives into his passion for promoting agriculture to a wider audience through various media channels. From appearing on TV shows to sharing his insights on the radio, he has used these platforms to advocate for sustainable farming and educate the public about the benefits and realities of organic agriculture. 📻He explains how building a brand around organic farming has helped connect with consumers who care about sustainability. Stuart discusses the methods he uses to engage with his audience and emphasises the value of transparency in building trust between farmers and the public. 🥦Stuart also shares stories from his media appearances, highlighting the opportunities and surprises that come with being a public advocate for organic farming. He reflects on memorable moments and the impact of spreading awareness about the importance of environmentally friendly agricultural practices. 🌍Enjoy!Thanks to Howden Rural for the support.#OrganicFarming #EnvironmentalStewardship #StuartOates #R2Kast #HowdenRural #SustainableAgriculture #FarmToFork #TVAndRadio #AgriAdvocacy #OrganicPractices #AgricultureEducation #MediaOutreach #FarmingChallenges #ConsumerEngagement #BuildingTrust #HealthySoil #OrganicLivestock #Sustainability #FarmLife #AgriculturalCommunity
  • 104. R2Kast 269 - Tales of a Nuffield Scholar with Tom Rawson on Dairy Farming, Global Learning, and Nuffield Leadership

    59:50||Season 4, Ep. 104
    Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Tom Rawson. At the time of this episode’s release, Tom is stepping into the role of Chair of Nuffield UK—a testament to his dedication and leadership within the agricultural community. 🌟Tom shares his journey as a dairy farmer and the valuable insights he has gained through his Nuffield Scholarship. With a focus on global agricultural practices, he highlights how his travels have influenced his approach to farming back home. 🐄Tom delves into his commitment to sustainable dairy farming, discussing the innovations he has implemented to improve animal welfare and farm efficiency. His dedication to adopting best practices from around the world has been instrumental in shaping his progressive approach to dairy management. 🌍He also shares his experiences in leadership within the Nuffield community, explaining how the scholarship has allowed him to build connections with other agricultural leaders. Tom reflects on the importance of knowledge exchange and the impact it has had on his professional growth and perspective on farming. 🤝Finally, Tom talks about the challenges and rewards of balancing the demands of dairy farming with the ongoing pursuit of learning. His story is one of resilience, curiosity, and a passion for making a meaningful impact in agriculture. 🌾Enjoy!Thank you to Howden Rural for their support of this project.The views in this podcast are that of those involved and not that of the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust.#NuffieldScholar #DairyFarming #TomRawson #R2Kast #HowdenRural #SustainableAgriculture #AnimalWelfare #GlobalFarming #LeadershipInAgriculture #KnowledgeExchange #FarmingInnovation #AgricultureCommunity #ProgressiveFarming #DairyManagement #FarmingChallenges #ResilientAgriculture #NuffieldUKChair
  • 103. R2Kast 268 - Charlotte Cole on Poultry Veterinary Work, Overcoming Challenges, and Nuffield Ambitions

    52:06||Season 4, Ep. 103
    Today we welcome Charlotte Cole onto the R2Kast. Charlotte shares her journey as a poultry vet, a career that has taken her across the UK, working with various farms and producers to ensure the health and welfare of poultry flocks. She discusses the unique challenges faced in the poultry industry, from disease prevention to biosecurity measures, and how her work has evolved over the years. 🐓Charlotte reflects on the rewarding yet demanding aspects of veterinary work, emphasising the importance of building relationships with farmers and understanding the intricacies of poultry farming. Her dedication to improving flock health and productivity showcases the vital role vets play in the agricultural supply chain. 🏥She also opens up about some of the personal and professional challenges she has faced, sharing how perseverance and a supportive network have helped her grow in her career. Charlotte’s story is one of resilience, driven by a passion for animal health and agriculture. 🌱Looking ahead, Charlotte shares her excitement about embarking on her Nuffield Scholarship. She outlines her aspirations to explore innovative practices and research that can benefit the poultry sector, both in the UK and globally. Her enthusiasm for continuous learning and development shines through as she prepares for this next chapter. 🌍Enjoy!Thanks to Howden Rural for the support.#PoultryVet #AnimalWelfare #CharlotteCole #R2Kast #HowdenRural #VeterinaryMedicine #FlockHealth #Biosecurity #PoultryFarming #Agriculture #NuffieldScholar #FarmingChallenges #DiseasePrevention #AnimalHealth #UKFarming #SustainableAgriculture #VeterinaryCareer #FarmingSupport #AgriculturalInnovation #PoultryIndustry #NuffieldAmbitions
  • 102. R2Kast 267 - Dr Awal Fuseini on Halal Practices, Animal Welfare, and Bridging Cultural Gaps in Agriculture

    44:08||Season 4, Ep. 102
    Today we welcome Awal Fuseini onto the R2Kast. Awal, a recognised expert on Halal practices and animal welfare, sheds light on the often misunderstood aspects of Halal food production. He provides a comprehensive overview of what Halal truly entails, dispelling common myths and explaining how ethical animal treatment is central to the process. 🐑I openly admit that I have previously criticised Halal practices without having spoken to an expert. This episode serves as an eye-opener, and I encourage anyone who consumes lamb, beef, or chicken to listen and gain an informed perspective. Awal’s insights help bridge cultural gaps and promote a better understanding of Halal’s significance in the agricultural sector. 🌍Awal delves into the rigorous standards and welfare considerations involved in Halal slaughter. He discusses the importance of religious guidelines in ensuring animal welfare, the challenges of public misconceptions, and the efforts made to align Halal practices with industry-wide welfare standards. His expertise offers a unique view into how religious and cultural practices intersect with modern agriculture. 🌱He also shares his work with farmers and processors to improve transparency and welfare practices in the supply chain. Awal emphasises the value of open dialogue between communities, aiming to promote respect and collaboration across the agricultural industry. In an exciting development, Awal is about to embark on his Nuffield Scholarship, where he will continue to explore ways to improve understanding and practices in the industry. 🤝Enjoy!Thanks to Howden Rural for the support.#HalalPractices #AnimalWelfare #AwalFuseini #R2Kast #HowdenRural #CulturalUnderstanding #FarmingCommunity #SustainableAgriculture #HalalFood #EthicalFarming #ReligiousPractices #BeefProduction #LambProduction #ChickenConsumers #AnimalEthics #FarmingTransparency #AgriculturalEducation #BridgingGaps #FoodProduction #CulturalDialogue #NuffieldScholarship #ResponsibleFarming
  • 101. R2Kast 266 - Rosie Jack on Balcaskie Estate, Pitch Up, and Rural Enterprise

    01:00:58||Season 4, Ep. 101
    Today we welcome Rosie Jack onto the R2Kast. Rosie discusses her work at Balcaskie Estate, a forward-thinking estate in Fife known for its commitment to regenerative farming and sustainable land management. She shares how the estate has become a model for balancing traditional farming practices with innovative approaches to land stewardship. 🌱Rosie explains her role in managing and promoting Pitch Up, an initiative at Balcaskie Estate that encourages community events, farm-to-fork dining experiences, and outdoor activities. The goal is to engage both locals and visitors, showcasing the estate's dedication to local food production and sustainable tourism. 🌾Before her work in agriculture, Rosie had a vibrant career in textiles, which she fondly remembers as a fun and creative chapter of her life. Her experiences in the textile industry not only honed her eye for detail but also contributed to her ability to bring innovative and engaging ideas to the rural community projects she now leads. 🧵She highlights the importance of connecting people to where their food comes from and how initiatives like Pitch Up help bridge the gap between consumers and producers. By offering unique experiences, the estate not only promotes local food but also supports the rural economy and fosters a sense of community. 🍽️Rosie also shares her personal journey, including her passion for supporting rural enterprise and the challenges of managing events in a rural setting. She reflects on the joy of seeing people connect with the land, the food, and each other, creating lasting memories that inspire a deeper appreciation for sustainable living. 🌍Enjoy!Thanks to Howden Rural for the support.#BalcaskieEstate #PitchUp #RegenerativeFarming #SustainableTourism #RosieJack #R2Kast #HowdenRural #CommunityEvents #FarmToFork #LocalFood #RuralEnterprise #SustainableLiving #FifeScotland #LandStewardship #TextileIndustry #FoodProduction #RuralCommunity #Agriculture #FarmingInnovation #LocalEconomy #ConnectingPeopleToLand
  • 100. R2Kast 265 - James Herrick 2.0 on Beef Farming, Family Life, and Sustainable Practices

    01:26:14||Season 4, Ep. 100
    Today we welcome James Herrick onto the R2Kast. James shares his experiences as a beef farmer, managing the daily challenges and joys of running a farm while balancing family life. He discusses the importance of involving his children in farm activities, teaching them the value of hard work and responsibility, and how the family’s bond is strengthened through shared agricultural experiences. 🐄James delves into the strategies he employs to make his farm more sustainable. From rotational grazing to improving soil health, he explains how small changes have led to significant long-term benefits for his livestock and the environment. His commitment to sustainability is driven by a desire to leave the farm in better shape for future generations. 🌱He also talks about the evolving role of technology in farming. James provides insight into how modern advancements, such as GPS mapping and data analysis, have transformed the efficiency and productivity of his farm. Yet, he remains grounded in traditional methods, combining new techniques with time-tested practices. 📊In addition to his impressive farming methods, James was nominated for two awards at the British Farming Awards, where he proudly took home the title of Beef Farmer of the Year. He reflects on the recognition and what it means for him and his family. 🏆Lastly, James shares some heartwarming stories from his years on the farm, including the lessons learned from unpredictable weather, memorable experiences with livestock, and the enduring support of his local rural community. His reflections offer a genuine look at the resilience and adaptability required in farming today. 🌾Enjoy!Thanks to Howden Rural for the support.#BeefFarming #SustainableAgriculture #FamilyFarm #JamesHerrick #R2Kast #HowdenRural #FarmLife #AgriculturalCommunity #SoilHealth #RotationalGrazing #FarmTechnology #LivestockManagement #CommunitySupport #ModernFarming #RuralLiving #TraditionAndInnovation #FarmStories #FarmingFuture #ResilientAgriculture #BritishFarmingAwards #BeefFarmerOfTheYear
  • 99. R2Kast 264 - Tales of a Nuffield Scholar with Dudley Smith and Tom Pearson on Global Farming Experiences, Agricultural Innovation, and Community Support

    01:18:49||Season 4, Ep. 99
    Today, as part of the Tales of a Nuffield Scholar podcast, which aims to share the stories of Nuffield UK Alumni, we welcome Dudley Smith and Tom Pearson. Dudley shares his diverse farming journey, from his early years in Australia and America, where he experienced life as a cowboy, to his time working in India and his extensive travels as part of his Nuffield Scholarship. 🌍Dudley reflects on the evolution of agriculture over the decades, highlighting the shift from small-scale local farming to larger cooperative systems. He discusses the challenges that British vegetable growers faced and the eventual migration of production to other regions like Lincolnshire. His personal experiences offer insights into the impact of changing markets and climate on farming practices. 🌱Tom Pearson, a recent Nuffield Scholar, shares his experiences of balancing his career in medicine with his passion for farming. He explains how his Nuffield research has focused on the intersection between health and agriculture, looking at how healthy diets and food systems can play a role in improving public health outcomes. Tom’s story illustrates the unique perspective that professionals outside of traditional agriculture can bring to the sector. 🏥The conversation touches on Dudley’s community efforts, such as his recent project to deliver generators to Ukraine to support civilians affected by the war. His dedication to helping communities and his reflective storytelling reveal the broader impact that Nuffield Scholars can have, both within and outside agriculture. 🗣️Enjoy!Thank you to Howden Rural for their support of this project.The views in this podcast are that of those involved and not that of the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust.#NuffieldScholar #AgriculturalInnovation #GlobalFarming #DudleySmith #TomPearson #R2Kast #HowdenRural #CommunitySupport #FarmingEvolution #HealthcareAndAgriculture #FarmingJourneys #AgricultureAndHealth #CowboyLife #BritishFarming #ClimateImpact #CommunityEngagement #TalesOfANuffieldScholar #SustainableAgriculture #FarmersOfTheWorld #FarmingLife #AgriculturalChange
  • 98. R2Kast 263 - Silas Hedley-Lawrence on Farming in New Zealand, Regenerative Agriculture, and Social Media

    01:16:48||Season 4, Ep. 98
    Today we welcome Silas Hedley-Lawrence onto the R2Kast. Silas shares his experiences of farming in New Zealand, highlighting his journey from the UK to the Southern Hemisphere and the lessons he has learned about different agricultural practices. With a passion for working with livestock and an eye on sustainability, Silas provides insights into the differences between farming systems in the UK and New Zealand. 🐑Silas delves into the importance of regenerative agriculture, discussing how it plays a key role in maintaining the health of the land and livestock. He explains the practical applications of regenerative practices, particularly in grazing management, and how they contribute to the long-term sustainability of farming operations. 🌱Social media has also been a big part of Silas’s work. Through his Instagram account, grassfed_farmer, he connects with other farmers, shares knowledge, and promotes the positive side of farming. Silas uses his platform to educate others on regenerative agriculture and its benefits, reaching a global audience of farmers and consumers alike. 📲Finally, Silas shares some personal stories about adapting to life in New Zealand, balancing farm work with family life, and his passion for making a difference in the agricultural community. His story is one of resilience, innovation, and dedication to improving farming practices. 🌍Enjoy!Thanks to Howden Rural for the support.#NewZealandFarming #RegenerativeAgriculture #SilasHedleyLawrence #GrassfedFarmer #R2Kast #HowdenRural #SustainableFarming #GrazingManagement #LivestockFarming #FarmLife #SocialMediaInAgriculture #FarmingInnovation #FarmToTable #AgriculturalCommunity #FarmEducation #EnvironmentalStewardship #GlobalFarming #FarmingChallenges #FarmerStories #FarmSustainability