Ag in Conversation

135 | Emily sat down with Kate Cullwick, one half of Foxtrot Home, about how a side hustle between sisters became a thriving homewares business rooted in rural New Zealand. Kate shares the early decisions that shaped the brand, from choosing an online model and visual products for Instagram to prioritising natural fibres, sustainability, and giving back. We also dig into the process of how Kate and her husband have brought wool from their family farm into the business and manufacture beautiful blankets entirely in New Zealand. She also talks about balancing farming, family life, and business ownership.Check out their beautiful collections here - https://foxtrothome.co.nz/Big thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HEREHOSTS | @‌emilywalker @‌myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Slipstream - Tell Your Story with Music | 1 million+ Songs & Sound EffectsFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr 001 by The Rhinestone Cowgirls | Slipstream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EP 133 |  How Rural Communities Stay Strong When Everything Is Changing : Kathryn WrightThe advice people give rural communities about mental health is often built for the wrong world. Kathryn reveals why New Zealand’s rural struggles are different, why young men are not always facing the stressors you expect, and why land-use change can feel less like economics and more like grief.If you live rural, work with rural people, or love someone who does, this conversation will change how you think about help-seeking, connection, and what really holds a community together. Kathryn shares the research behind her nearly finished 89,000-word PhD, along with the real-world counselling work that keeps her on the ground with farmers, shed hands, and families every week.You’ll discover:Why the biggest barrier for rural men is often not shame, but not knowing where to go for helpThe surprising main stressor behind rural male distress in New ZealandHow forestry conversions, carbon farming, and dairy change the social fabric of whole regionsWhy rural women carry so much invisible emotional labour, and why it mattersWhat social infrastructure actually looks like in a thriving rural townPractical pathways to support, including brief intervention therapy, ACC sensitive claims, Rural Support Trust, and moreKathryn also breaks down the hidden power of connection, the role of female friendship, the reality of succession stress, and why asking for help is not weakness, but one of the smartest things a rural person can do. Her perspective is both deeply personal and backed by years of research, making this essential listening if you want a clearer, kinder, more accurate picture of rural mental health in Aotearoa.If you need a conversation that is honest, useful, and immediately relatable, this is the one to hit play on. And if you know someone who keeps saying "I'm fine," send this episode to them too.Follow Kathryn on instagram:Kathryn Wright rural mental health NZ (@ag_mental_health_nz) See below for more information and help and advice that may have been prompted from these conversationsACC sensitive claims service:Support if you’ve experienced sexual abuse or assaultacc.co.nzBrief Intervention Serviceswellsouth.nzWINZ funded counselling: Counsellingworkandincome.govt.nzRural Support Trust funded counselling:Igniterural-support.org.nzBig thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HEREHOSTS | @‌emilywalker @‌myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Slipstream - Tell Your Story with Music | 1 million+ Songs & Sound EffectsFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr 001 by The Rhinestone Cowgirls | Slipstream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

131 | Get a comprehensive look at the latest trends and innovations shaping modern farming, from autonomous machinery to farm data management. Whether you're a farmer, industry professional, or just curious about the future of agriculture, this episode offers valuable insights.Main Topics:The impact of autonomous farm machinery and robotic technologyInnovations in farm data collection and utilisation for sustainabilityShifts toward aligned, sustainable farming systems over intensityIn this episode:Discussion of Clarkson's Farm new ag tech, including autonomous tractors and seed plantersInsights into New Zealand's approach to wildlife management and pest control through hunter-led bodiesThe importance of farm data sovereignty and its role in premium product integrity and environmental verificationNew Zealand's upcoming open farm days showcasing innovative farming practices and technologyThe evolving mindset from farming intensity to sustainable and aligned systemsPractical examples of farm management improvements driven by data and technologyThe future potential of autonomous machinery to enhance safety and efficiency on farmsThe value of public engagement with farm practices through open days and educational initiativesResources & Links:Clarkson's Farm on Amazon (search for series)Agbot T2 Series by AgXeedFarm Data Sovereignty and Verification InsightsLandcorp Open DaysLeaner Dairy Principles - LeanFarmBig thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HEREHOSTS | @‌emilywalker @‌myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Slipstream - Tell Your Story with Music | 1 million+ Songs & Sound EffectsFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr 001 by The Rhinestone Cowgirls | Slipstream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EP129 | The only constant is change - methane, desert farming and capitalThis week we cover a wide-ranging mix of farming, policy, and industry updates, with a strong focus on what’s changing across agriculture in New Zealand and beyond.We wrap up with a chat about the REDA internship through Zentra - have a look!! https://www.zenterawool.com/careers/2027-zentera-reda-internshipBig thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HEREHOSTS | @‌emilywalker @‌myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Slipstream - Tell Your Story with Music | 1 million+ Songs & Sound EffectsFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr 001 by The Rhinestone Cowgirls | Slipstream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EP | 127 How New Zealand’s Indigenous Values Lead the World in Rights of Nature This week on the podcast, we’re covering everything from sleep-deprived parenting and freezing winter mornings to big industry headlines and a surprisingly fascinating deep dive into why nature might need legal rights of its own.We kick things off with the latest from the Primary Industries New Zealand Awards, celebrating the people making a real difference across the sector — from rising stars and rural broadcasters to standout journalists and industry leaders. Then we unpack the Federated Farmers AGM and the leadership change that made headlines, separating the facts from the clickbait.We also look at the brutal European heatwave and what it means for livestock, crops, water, and global food systems — plus what New Zealand can learn from all of it. And in our deep dive, we explore the growing idea of “rights of nature,” from the Whanganui River to Te Arawera, and why this concept is already reshaping the way we think about land, water, and stewardship.Add in a nod to Farmers Weekly, a bit of sports chat, and plenty of laughs along the way, and you’ve got a lively episode with big ideas, real-world relevance, and just enough fun to keep it all moving.Tune in for a smart, warm, and very human conversation about the issues shaping farming, the environment, and rural life right now.Big thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HEREHOSTS | @‌emilywalker @‌myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Slipstream - Tell Your Story with Music | 1 million+ Songs & Sound EffectsFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr 001 by The Rhinestone Cowgirls | Slipstream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep | 125 Trigger warning for fans of Babe!Join us as we delve into the latest updates from Field Days, explore animal welfare issues in meat production, and discuss rural community initiatives. This episode offers insights into agricultural innovations, animal welfare debates, and rural support efforts, all vital for understanding the current landscape of rural New Zealand.Big thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HEREHOSTS | @‌emilywalker @‌myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Slipstream - Tell Your Story with Music | 1 million+ Songs & Sound EffectsFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr 001 by The Rhinestone Cowgirls | Slipstream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EP 123 | Rugby chat with a side order of budget!This week on Ag in Conversation, we kick things off with a chat about rugby, the Crusaders, and the excitement surrounding Christchurch's new stadium before turning our attention to the issues shaping rural New Zealand. We unpack what the 2026 Budget means for farmers, explore the latest dairy payout forecasts, and discuss why many arable growers are facing a particularly challenging season. We also head to the United States to examine an innovative new initiative designed to improve access to protein for vulnerable communities and what it could mean for agriculture's future. Plenty of insight, perspective, and good conversation from New Zealand and beyond.Big thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HEREHOSTS | @‌emilywalker @‌myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Slipstream - Tell Your Story with Music | 1 million+ Songs & Sound EffectsFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr 001 by The Rhinestone Cowgirls | Slipstream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EP 121 | This episode covers recent news in New Zealand, including a taste test of supermarket butter, the glyphosate legal challenge, the winding down of the Agri-Women's Development Trust, and an in-depth discussion on local government amalgamation and efficiency. The hosts share insights on science-based decisions, community impact, and the future of local governance.Big thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HEREHOSTS | @‌emilywalker @‌myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Slipstream - Tell Your Story with Music | 1 million+ Songs & Sound EffectsFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr 001 by The Rhinestone Cowgirls | Slipstream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

119 & 032 | This week we kick of our Rural Women's Mental Health Series, we’re shining a spotlight on an important and often overlooked topic - rural women’s mental health. We delve into the unique challenges rural women face and explore how mental wellness plays a crucial role in their everyday lives.From the struggles of moving to the country and adjusting to life away from familiar surroundings, to balancing careers, raising children, and starting businesses in rural settings - these experiences are often accompanied by feelings of isolation, guilt, and the pressure of constantly serving others.But alongside these challenges, we also celebrate the resilience of rural women, the strength of their communities, and the deep connections that form in these environments. Our podcast episodes this month featured stories of hope and practical strategies to help refind and maintain a strong sense of self amidst it all.The content discussed in this podcast maybe triggering and relate to mental health challenges such as depression, anixety and suicide. Its intended for informational and educational purposes only. We are not mental health professionals, and the discussions shared here are based on personal experiences.If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for help.In New Zealand, you can contact Lifeline at 0800 543 354 or text 4357 for free, 24/7 support. You can also reach out to the Rural Support Trust at 0800 787 254 for confidential assistance. For those outside New Zealand, we encourage you to seek local resources or speak to a healthcare professional. Remember, you don't have to go through this alone—help is available.Big thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HERE and get your ticket to the Ladies Long Lunch at Riverstone in Oamaru, HEREHOSTS | @emilywalker @myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Royalty-free music for creators. All free | Slip.streamFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr - Royalty-free Music | Slip.streamMusic provided by Royalty-free music for creators. All free | Slip.streamFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr - Royalty-free Music | Slip.stream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

117 and 028 | We are joined by Philippa Cameron from Whats for Smoko (her amazing instagram page), she is also a multiple, best selling author and amazing wife and mother hailing from Otematata. Pip joins us for a chat about the myth or truth of the rural urban divide, we debunk it based on some research completed in 2023 by Massey University as part of the Our Land and Water National Science Challenge - https://www.massey.ac.nz/about/news/the-urbanrural-divide-debunked-aotearoa-new-zealand-values-our-farming-sector/This week in the news we go into what's happening in Ireland with Straw (Country Wide Podcast Episode), quad bike safety and the excellent scheme SaferFarm's have run, and finally BX Foods are unfortunately laying on approximately 1/3 of their staff.Find Philippa on Instagram or her website - https://whatsforsmoko.com/‌HOSTS | @emilywalker @myfanwyalexander‌Intro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Royalty-free music for creators. All free | Slip.streamFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr - Royalty-free Music | Slip.stream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

115 & 017 | We are joined by the one and only Steph Borowski, maybe the funniest farmers wife on the internet. We traverse all things from homeschooling wild and free farm kids, regen ag, the wellness properties of red meat, to the good, bad and ugly of a modern day rural community. There isn't much that isn't talked about this week. So light the fire (it's that time of year), grab a cuppa and a bikkie (you've earnt a wee treat) and join us for a good ol' yarn.We highly recommend you check out Motherland Australia's podcast, Mother's groups/Villages and all other things they have to offer - https://motherlandaustralia.com.au/Make sure you are following @steph.borowski and check out her podcast she co-hosts with Husband Josh, Mans Land on Spotify.‌HOSTS | @emilywalker @myfanwyalexander‌Intro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Royalty-free music for creators. All free | Slip.streamFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr - Royalty-free Music | Slip.stream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EP 113 | Supermarkets on notice, Canada cutting our lunch and deer poo.In this episode, hosts Myfi and Emily share personal updates, industry news, and insights into their upcoming travel plans. They discuss topics ranging from New Zealand's dairy policies and supermarket regulations to their own experiences balancing work and family life.Big thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HEREHOSTS | @‌emilywalker @‌myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Slipstream - Tell Your Story with Music | 650,000+ Songs & Sound EffectsFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr by The Rhinestone Cowgirls | Slipstream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EP 111 | Protein BoomThis week Emily and Myfanwy dive into the hottest topics in Ag this week, they cover imported Butter, reduced sheep numbers in the UK, wellness trends in China a boon for Deer industry and the deep dive this week is into the animal protein boom we are seeing globally, finding out whats behind this trend and what this means for NZ AG. Big thanks to our partners Cinta Insights and Ag Assist for supporting our podcast.Sign up to our newsletter HEREHOSTS | @‌emilywalker @‌myfanwyalexanderIntro/outro copyright infoTrack: "Sunrise Instr"Music provided by Slipstream - Tell Your Story with Music | 650,000+ Songs & Sound EffectsFree Download / Stream: Sunrise Instr by The Rhinestone Cowgirls | Slipstream Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.