NFU: Shed Talks

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksIn this week’s episode, hosts Bizza Walters and Luke Cox are joined by David Wheatley, founder of Petit Peonies, and Cambridgeshire potato grower Luke Abblitt from Farmer Luke Potatoes to explore how social media and direct-to-consumer sales are helping farmers reconnect with customers and take greater control of their businesses.David shares how the disruption of Covid, combined with a devastating farm fire, forced him to rethink his business model, ultimately leading to the creation of a thriving direct-to-consumer peony business now selling around 100,000 stems every year.Inspired by David’s success, Luke explains how he adopted a similar approach with potatoes, building a loyal customer base through postal deliveries and local sales while reducing reliance on volatile wholesale markets.The conversation explores whether direct sales are becoming more than just a niche opportunity, and what this shift could mean for the long-term resilience and future of UK farming businesses.Looking beyond the UK, the episode also features Helena Lawi, Gender Specialist at Farm Africa, who discusses the organisation’s work supporting women farmers in Tanzania. Helena explains how improving access to finance, training and agricultural inputs is helping women move from subsistence farming into the cash economy through crops such as sunflower and sorghum.She also highlights why meaningful empowerment depends on involving men and wider communities in the conversation, helping to shift attitudes, support women into leadership roles and create lasting change at farm level.In the Westminster section, Neeve McGinty and Ruairi Hodges reflect on the fallout from the local elections and what the political changes could mean for rural communities and farming policy. They also break down Parliament’s prorogation ahead of the King’s Speech, the rush to pass legislation before the session ended, and two significant NFU lobbying wins linked to the Devolution Bill and the Crime and Policing Bill.Members can save up to 50% on tickets to Farm-Fest – NFUonline - log in required: https://www.nfuonline.com/account/login?returnUrl=https%3a%2f%2fwww.nfuonline.com%2fnews%2ffarm-fest-2026%2fFor more information on today’s episode, head to the links below:To stay up to date with all things NFU, please head to https://www.nfuonline.com/Petit Peonies website: https://www.petitepeonys.co.uk/Petit Peonies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petitepeonys/Farmer Luke Potatoes: https://farmerluke.co.uk/Farmer Luke Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmerluke.co.uk/Farm Africa: https://www.farmafrica.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksWith Great British Beef Week just around the corner, Shed Talks takes a look beyond the farm gate and into the less visible parts of the supply chain that underpin the beef sector.Hosts Josh Redford and Naomi Williams-Roberts sit down with Dave Stringer, the Butchery Apprenticeship Trainer at Dovecote Park, which provides British beef, veal, and venison to Waitrose nationwide. Dave talks about Dovecote Park’s fully funded and bespoke training programme, designed to tackle the challenge of sourcing and retaining skilled labour in specialist areas such as butchery. He also discusses how strong uptake from women is helping to broaden participation in a part of the industry that has historically been male-dominated.The hosts also speak with Rob Lewis, a beef and sheep farmer in Wales who bought his local pub, the Triangle Inn, in 2022. Rob explains how he uses the pub as a direct route to the beef market, from rearing cattle and working with trusted local abattoirs and butchers, to serving the finished product in his pub, giving customers a clear line of sight from field to plate.Josh then connects to Sweden to speak with Jörgen Eriksson, a dairy farmer taking part in an event called Kosläpp, or ‘cow release’, in May. After videos of cows being let outside for the first time in spring went viral on social media in recent years, farmers in Sweden have started hosting events where visitors can watch their cows being released onto pasture in person, with the largest events welcoming around 10,000 people. Jörgen explains how a Kosläpp event works and why people enjoy them so much. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Shed TalksIn this episode of Shed Talks, hosts Jacks Weaver and Mike Greenwood‑Wilkins open with re‑elected NFU President Tom Bradshaw. Tom reflects on the election process, how the new officeholder team is settling in, and why he wants the NFU to take a proactive rather than reactive approach in the months ahead. He sets out his priorities for the new term, highlighting the need for resilient food systems at a time when global conflict continues to expose supply chain vulnerabilities. Tom also touches on international developments such as the USDA loan scheme, the value of the NFU’s BAB office in shaping decisions in Brussels, and offers listeners a brief insight into life beyond the role as he shares more about himself as a person.The Westminster team then look at a shifting political landscape. They discuss the Gorton and Denton by‑election and what the Green Party gain may signal for votersentiment. They share insights from the recent NFU Fellowship visit to Arla, where members explored innovation, processing capacity and future supply chainpressures. The section closes with an update on planning reforms as the NPPF consultation closed on 10 March.To round off the episode, Jacks and Mike speak with Joshua Robinson, Assistant Director and Head of Contract Sales at NFU Energy, for a brief look at how rising tensions in the Middle East are influencing global energy markets. Joshua outlines the immediate knock‑on effects for UK farmers, the recent swings in prices, and why some volatility is likely to continue. He gives clear, practical guidance on what farmers can do now, from reviewing contract options to keeping a close eye on on‑farm energy use, and touches on the wider impact on fertiliser supply chains. Joshua also explains the rise in standing charges and what businesses can do to limit the impact on their bills.To find out more, please head to the below links:NFU Energy Webinar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urecjVS4Yd0&t=379s NFU Energy: https://nfuenergy.co.uk/Key themes and takeawaysStrong leadership and clear priorities will be vital as farming navigates another uncertain yearPolitical shifts and planning reforms are shaping the policy environment for rural communitiesGlobal conflict is creating uncertainty across energy and fertiliser marketsPrice volatility is likely to continue, with further rises possible in the short termReviewing contracts and on‑farm energy use can help manage riskStanding charges are increasing due to wider system costs and infrastructure pressures Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Shed TalksIn this episode, hosts Josh Redford and Naomi Williams‑Roberts explore one of the biggest questions facing young people in farming today: is it better to stay on the farm after leaving school, or head away to gain new skills before returning?To unpack the realities behind the decision, they speak to two young farmers who took very different routes. John Fairlie left his family farm in Angus to work in finance before returning with new skills and a fresh perspective. Maria Warne Elston, a fifth‑generation farmer from Cornwall, stayed closely involved in her family’s beef, sheep and arable farm, briefly working as a veterinary nurse before returning full‑time and sharing her farming life online.Together, they discuss the benefits and drawbacks of staying or leaving, the pressures young farmers face when making the choice, and how to work out what’s right for you and your business.In Westminster, the team provide an update on the key political moments shaping the months ahead, including preparations for the upcoming NFU Conference, speculations about the King’s Speech, and the implications of the Spring Forecast for farm businesses.To close the episode, the hosts turn to Mind Your Head Week (9–13 February) and highlight NFU member Sam Stables, who is preparing to walk 142 miles in five days to raise awareness of mental health in farming. Starting at Ross‑on‑Wye market and finishing at the Farmers Club in London, Sam’s route will take him through Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire, staying with farmers along the way.Sam founded the charity We Are Farming Minds with his wife Emily after their own mental health struggles. The charity now supports farmers across the UK and has the Prince of Wales as its patron, building on the Mental Health Strategy launched by the Duchy of Cornwall in 2023. Sam shares why this walk matters, what he hopes to highlight during Mind Your Head Week, and why supporting the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs is more important than ever. To follow Sam's journey or to find out how to get involved, head to - https://www.peoplesfundraising.com/fundraising/sam-stables-missionThis episode comes with a trigger warning as it discusses some sensitive topics, if you are struggling and need additional support, please reach out:Yellow Wellies - https://www.yellowwellies.org/We Are Farming Minds - https://www.wearefarmingminds.co.uk/Key themes and takeawaysThere is no single “right” path — staying or leaving depends on each farm’s circumstancesLeaving the farm can bring valuable skills, confidence and perspectiveStaying on the farm can build deep experience, continuity and family resilienceYoung farmers face financial, emotional and practical pressures when making career decisionsSocial media is reshaping how young farmers share their stories and influence the industryMental health support remains vital across rural communitiesSam Stables’ 142‑mile walk highlights the importance of Mind Your HeadWeek and the work of We Are Farming MindsNFYFC plays a crucial role in supporting, developing and connecting young people in agricultureWestminster is gearing up for a pivotal period, with NFU Conference, the King’s Speech and the Spring Forecast all shaping the policy landscapeListen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Shed TalksIn this episode of Shed Talks, hosts Jacks Weaver and Mike Greenwood-Wilkins sit down with Bal Padda, a first-generation Punjabi farmer from Worcestershire whose self-funded documentary ‘A Punjabi Farm Innit – A story of strawberries, faith and farming’ has captured imaginations far beyond his own community.You can watch the trailer for the documentary hereBal reflects on his father’s journey from the Punjab, often described as India’s breadbasket, to the Vale of Evesham. He explains how their family’s strawberry business became the backdrop for a film that challenges assumptions, celebrates diversity, and shows the power of farmers telling their own stories. Inspired by the workers on his farm, Bal shares how the filmmaking process reshaped his understanding of identity, representation, and modern British farming.In Westminster, Scott Pepe and Neeve McGinty provide a briefing on two major developments. The Budget vote, where Labour MPs voiced opposition to the family farm tax. The discussion outlines what is next for the #StopTheFamilyFarmTax campaign and why the coming months will be critical for farm business resilience. For more information please head to https://www.nfuonline.com/hot-topics/stop-the-family-farm-tax/They also cover the livestock worrying bill that has now had its Third Reading in the House of Lords and would give police stronger powers to tackle irresponsible dog owners whose pets attack livestock. For more information please head to: https://www.nfuonline.com/updates-and-information/private-members-bill-on-livestock-worrying/Finally, Joshua Payne (NFU Chief Education Manager) takes us inside NFU Education’s Festive Farming Quest, the biggest Christmas project yet, which has connected more than 82,000 children across 800 schools with British farming. From a live tour of the world’s oldest Christmas pudding factory to lessons on sprouts, camels, sheep, and farm vets.To watch the Sprout Dance and Festive Farming Quest mentioned in the episode please head to the below links:Sprout Dance: https://www.youtube.com/live/yPF2bXUeoSQ?si=RnzaLUsrtqUgziwv&t=3673Festive Farming Quest: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tw5D5Mz4Lvg&t=5sKey themes and takeaways:Personal storytelling can challenge stereotypes and celebrate diversity in British farmingThe Punjab to Evesham journey highlights global roots and local resilienceLivestock worrying legislation is close to becoming law, strengthening rural securityBudget decisions will shape the future of family farm taxation and viabilityNFU Education’s Festive Farming Quest demonstrates the power of scale, technology, and diverse role models in connecting children with food and farmingListen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Shed TalksIn this episode, Bizza Walters and Luke Cox tackle one of the most important topics in British agriculture, farm safety. It is a subject often overlooked until something goes wrong, but as this episode shows, the smallest actions can have life-saving consequences.The main feature focuses on real experiences from farmers who know how quickly everyday situations can turn serious. Callum Lindsay, a hill farmer from the Isle of Arran, shares how a quad bike accident in 2023 left him with severe injuries and a long recovery, and why he is now calling for a culture change around ATV safety. Ed Caudwell, an Oxfordshire farmer, reflects on the workshop accident that nearly cost him his life while working in New Zealand and the vital lessons it taught him about training, preparation and risk awareness.In the Westminster segment, the External Affairs team bring listeners up to speed on what has been happening in Parliament and on farm. They explain what departmental oral questions are, why they matter and how the NFU works with MPs in the lead-up to them. The team also reflect on the Farming Minister’s recent visit to Derbyshire and how visits like this help ministers see the realities of farming first-hand. With just a month to go until the Budget, they share the latest on NFU lobbying and what they are pushing for to support farm businesses across the country.To close, the Global Ag View takes us to Hanover in Germany, where the world’s largest agricultural machinery show, Agritechnica, is in full swing. Matt Tilt, editor of Farm Contractor and Large Scale Farmer magazine, joins us from the event to share his insights into the latest machinery trends, innovations and technologies set to influence UK farming.Key themes and takeaways:Farm safety is everyone’s responsibility, the smallest actions can save livesTake 5 To Stay Alive, simple habits can prevent serious accidentsReal-life stories from Callum Lindsay and Ed Caudwell show how quickly situations can changeBuilding a safety-first culture is vital for the future of farmingThe NFU continues to influence policy through parliamentary engagement, ministerial visits and Budget lobbyingAgritechnica showcases how global innovation is shaping the next generation of farm machineryBehind-the-scenes insights from the world’s biggest agricultural machinery showListen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Shed TalksIn this episode hosts Naomi Williams-Roberts and Josh Redford explore how farmers are managing livestock nutrition after a dry summer, what support is available, and how the NFU is helping members plan for the season ahead. Naomi shares what it’s like to open her on-farm pumpkin patch for the season, while Josh reflects on preparing for the NFU’s upcoming annual general meetings.They are joined by James Daniel from Precision Grazing and NFU Livestock Board Chair David Barton, who offer practical tips on making the most of limited forage, the value of early planning, and how to stay flexible in a changing climate. Read more on the NFU's sustainable protein action plan: https://www.nfuonline.com/updates-and-information/sustainable-protein-action-plan/In our Westminster segment, Olivia Phoenix is joined by Scott Pepe to look ahead to a busy autumn of political lobbying. They discuss the NFU’s strong presence at this year’s party conferences, where the team engaged with over 600 politicians and hosted key discussions on the future of food and farming.Finally, we hear from Professor Nigel Mason at the University of Kent about his team’s remarkable work growing tea in simulated moon soil — and how this space science might have lessons for agriculture back on Earth.Key themes and takeaways:Drought has long-term impacts on grazing and winter feedEarly planning and advice are vital for livestock resilienceMob grazing and rotational grazing can help maximise grass useThe NFU provides ongoing support for members through seasonal challengesPolitical engagement is essential for shaping farming policyStrong representation at party conferences keeps farming on the national agendaSpace science can offer new ideas for managing poor soilsResearch into lunar agriculture has lessons for food security on EarthListen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Shed Talks. This is the new podcast opening the door to British food and farming.From muddy fields to Westminster, join farmers, growers, NFU experts and industry voices for honest conversations about the challenges, priorities and future of farming.Real stories. Real people. Real farming. By farmers, for farmers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.